This article summarizes the opinions of several senior Iranian sources of emulation on how to hold the solemn Muharram and Safar mourning ceremonies of the months of Muharram and Safar during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak. The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei:
“The standard is what health experts say and my advice for everyone is to follow the rules set by them for mourning ceremonies because the issue is very important.”
Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem-Shirazi:
“On one hand, the mourning ceremonies of Muharram must be held with observance of health protocols, on the other hand, the spiritual and religious aspects of this month should not be neglected. Under no circumstances should Ashura mourning be prevented.”
Grand Ayatollah Hoseyn Vahid-Khorasani:
“The rituals of Ahl al-Bayt and especially the mourning ceremony of the Master of Martyrs [Imam al-Husayn] should not be closed but with observance of health issues and what the experts in this field. recommend.”
Grand Ayatollah Hoseyn Nouri-Hamadani:
“As Imam Khomeyni said, all we have is from Muharram and Safar... We will hold Muharram mourning ceremonies within the framework of health protocols such as wearing masks and social distancing, the believers should follow the advices of health professionals to maintain their health and also of others. We will also benefit from activities on cyberspace (social media).”
Grand Ayatollah Ja’far Sobhani-Tabrizi:
“The community health officials must plan in such a way that both mourning ceremony and the health of the people are protected. We hope that God Almighty will ward off the evil of this epidemic for everyone.”
Grand Ayatollah Sayyed Mohammad-Ali Alavi-Gorgani:
“Holding the mourning for the Master of Martyrs in the month of Muharram is one of the most important religious rituals that should never be forgotten but in the current situation, it is necessary to hold the mourning ceremonies in compliance with the health tips in order to maintain everyone’s health.”
Rasa News Agency
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