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Celebrating of the Birth Anniversaries of Three Luminous Figures of Wilayah

 

On 2 February 2025, the Islamic Centre of England hosted a celebratory event in honour of the birth anniversaries of three shining lights of Wilayah. The gathering brought together a diverse congregation of attendees from various nationalities and featured presentations in Arabic, English, and Persian. Alongside thought-provoking speeches, the programme included a Kahoot quiz and spirited recitations in praise of the Ahlul Bayt in both Arabic and Persian, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere.


Highlighting the Significance of Imam Hussain (a.s.)

The event opened with Sayyed Qasem Jalali delivering remarks in Arabic. Drawing on a direct statement from the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family), he noted how Imam Hussain (a.s.), the Prophet’s grandson, was described as “the ark of salvation” (safeenat al-najat). He explained that the Prophet had emphasised two defining qualities of Imam Hussain (a.s.):

  1. A Beacon of Guidance
    As a symbol of justice, support for the oppressed, defence of the truth, selflessness, and patience, Imam Hussain’s example brings benefit to all humanity.
  2. The Ark of Salvation
    As the spiritual vessel leading people away from error and misguidance, Imam Hussain (a.s.) serves as a source of hope and redemption for all.

Together, these qualities make Imam Hussain (a.s.) a standard-bearer of divine values, standing firmly against tyranny, resisting corruption, and championing the cause of truth in every era.


Insights from Imam Hasan al-Askari’s (a.s.) Supplication

In the English segment, Shaykh Mirza Abbas examined a special supplication by Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.) traditionally recited on the third of Sha‘ban, the birth anniversary of Imam Hussain (a.s.). Despite being composed around two centuries after Imam Hussain’s birth, this prayer contains profound mystical and metaphysical dimensions.

Drawing on the text of this supplication, he highlighted several unique virtues associated with Imam Hussain (a.s.)—from the tears shed by the heavens and earth at his birth, to the miraculous healing properties of his sacred soil (turbah). He also referenced accounts of Petrus Malek’s recovery from infancy, early announcements of Imam Hussain’s martyrdom before his birth, and the notion of raj‘ah (return), where later Imams from his lineage continue his mission. These themes underscore the deep spiritual truths and timeless significance of Imam Hussain’s life.


The Virtues of Sha‘ban and the Language of Devotion

Later, Shaykh Saeed Sobhani turned the focus to a narration from Imam Ali (a.s.) regarding Sha‘ban as a month in which divine bounties are bestowed upon humankind. He mentioned various titles for this month—Sha‘ban al-Mutahhar, Shafa‘at, and Shahr al-Jeeran—each with a unique meaning and rationale, reflecting the deep blessings of this sacred period.

He also clarified the difference between du‘a’ (supplication) and munajat (intimate conversation with God). While du‘a’ centres on expressing needs and requests, munajat highlights a more profound, heartfelt dialogue with the Almighty. Thus, Sha‘ban emerges as “the month of devotion,” a season of spiritual intimacy and love with God.


Conclusion and Prize Distribution

To conclude the festivities, the winners of the Kahoot quiz—an interactive feature of the celebration—were awarded prizes by Sayyed Hashem Moosavi, Imam of the Islamic Centre of England.

The evening’s blend of insightful talks, devotional recitations, and community engagement served to deepen participants’ appreciation for the luminous legacies of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and the spiritual grandeur of Sha‘ban. The Islamic Centre of England looks forward to continuing its tradition of welcoming people of all backgrounds to learn, reflect, and celebrate together.

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