Said that Karbala teaches sacrifice for truth and justice; urges nation to reject hatred and incitement
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. PHOTO: FILE
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Youm-e-Ashura was a profound reminder of faith, patience, perseverance, sacrifice and commitment to truth, urging the nation to promote interfaith harmony and fight against hatred and incitement.
This month is observed as a month of mourning to commemorate the 7th century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) – the 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 (10 Muharram), said that the day commemorates the support of God, the triumph of the faithful and the sacrifices made for the supremacy of truth.
He said the great sacrifice made by Imam Hussain and his devoted companions had given Youm-e-Ashura a unique and enduring significance in Islamic history.
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The Prime Minister said the Karbala tragedy conveyed the message that adherence to principles and values was the foundation of a dignified and civilized society.
“Through his conduct, Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) demonstrated that sacrificing for truth, justice and the protection of human dignity was far superior to submission to oppression, injustice and lies,” the Prime Minister said in the statement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the Karbala event represented a struggle for reformation of the Muslim community, revival of the traditions of the Prophet and promotion of virtue while discouraging wrongdoing.
He said these goals required individuals and society to promote justice, patience, tolerance and a sense of responsibility in collective and personal life.
The Prime Minister stressed that strengthening mutual respect, tolerance and unity should remain a priority instead of allowing differences, hatred and division to prevail.
Prime Minister Shehbaz called on the entire nation, especially religious scholars, spiritual leaders, speakers, 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 Hussein and the martyrs of Karbala. He called for ensuring the protection of the rights of the weakest and disadvantaged sections of society and contributing to the building of a strong, united and peaceful nation through individual conduct and actions.
The Prime Minister concluded his message by praying for peace and stability across the world and for unity, harmony and blessings for the entire Muslim Ummah.
