He says Karbala teaches sacrifice for truth and justice; urges nation to reject hate and incitement
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. PHOTO: ARCHIVE
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Youm-e-Ashura served as a profound reminder of faith, patience, perseverance, sacrifice and commitment to truth, urging the nation to promote inter-sect harmony and counter hatred and incitement.
The month is observed as a month of mourning to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), in the 7th century, grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his family and companions in the Battle of Karbala.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Prime Minister Shehbaz, in his message on the occasion of Ashura (Muharram 10), stated that the day commemorated the support of God, the triumph of the faithful and the sacrifices made for the supremacy of truth.
He said that the great sacrifice made by Imam Hussain and his devout companions had given Youm-e-Ashura a unique and lasting significance in Islamic history.
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The Prime Minister said the Karbala tragedy conveyed the message that adherence to principles and values formed the basis of a dignified and civilized society.
“Through his conduct, Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) demonstrated that sacrificing oneself for truth, justice and the protection of human dignity was far superior to submitting to oppression, injustice and falsehood,” the prime minister was quoted as saying in the statement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the Karbala event represented a struggle for the reform of the Muslim community, revival of the traditions of the Prophet and promotion of virtue, while discouraging evil deeds.
He said these goals require individuals and society to promote justice, patience, tolerance and a sense of responsibility in both collective and personal life.
The Prime Minister stressed that strengthening mutual respect, tolerance and unity must remain a priority instead of allowing differences, hatred and division to prevail.
Prime Minister Shehbaz appealed to the entire nation, particularly religious scholars, spiritual leaders, speakers, the media and the younger generation, to highlight the true message of Ashura, promote inter-sect harmony and mutual respect, and prevent incitement and hatred.
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He also urged the nation to renew its commitment to truth and justice in light of the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and the martyrs of Karbala. He called for guaranteeing the protection of the rights of the weakest and most disadvantaged sectors of society and contributing to the construction of a strong, united and peaceful nation through individual behavior and actions.
The Prime Minister concluded his message by praying for peace and stability throughout the world and for unity, harmony and blessings for the entire Muslim community.
