Today's meeting, among Hajj organizers and administrators, commenced with Ayatollah Khamenei touching on Islamic duties of Hajj. The Leader of the Revolution stated: Throughout all requirements of this religious duty; wearing required clothing of the pilgrimage, circumambulation, prayer, striding and sojourning, there exists extraordinary capacities for a spiritual connection with the Almighty Creator, and we should understand the value of this great opportunity.
The Leader mentioned the great capacity the Hajj event offers to millions of Muslim pilgrims from around the world. Urging Muslims to take advantage of this opportunity he said: "The Hajj event can host the greatest social & human capacity; it provides Muslims with a great opportunity to express their beliefs because Hajj is the symbol of unity and power among the Muslim Nation."
Moreover, he considers certain elements, like the gathering of pilgrims from different nationalities, the closeness of their hearts, and their offerings to help and cooperate as inherent social aspects of Hajj. "Hajj, with all these unique spiritual and social features, offers the best time and place for Muslims, from all over the world, to express their views concerning important issues regarding the Islamic Ummah," said the Supreme Leader.
Ayatollah Khamenei continued to elaborate on the necessity of expression against non-believers, which had often been stated by Imam Khomeini. "A true pilgrimage is one with Bira’at (expressed rejection of nonbelievers). Imam Khomeini said he wouldn't accept Hajj without Bira'at." After stating this point, the Leader dubbed the Hajj event as "A perfect opportunity for Muslims to express their concerns on important issues."
He went on to say: One key issue is that of Al-Aqsa Mosque, it's a topic of growing importance these days. Because of impudence, insolence and malignancy of the false, usurper Zionist Regime, the heart of the Muslim Nation palpitates in remembrance of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The Supreme Leader brought to mind current issues, like the outrageous Muslim ban by the Zionist regime at the Al Aqsa Mosque, to that he added, "Zionists are becoming even more aggressive, they dare ban the people to whom Al-Aqsa Mosque belongs!" He reiterated, "Where else, better than Mecca, Medina, or Mash’ara, can Muslims go to express their concerns regarding Al-Aqsa and Palestine?"
According to the Leader of the Revolution, another important topic that Muslims should include in their positions at Hajj, is the appalling presence and intrusion of the USA in Islamic regions, as well as the establishment of the Takfiri terrorist groups by the US. He firmly stated, "More impudent and appalling than all terrorist movements, is the US Government, itself."
Concerning the decision of the officials on the journey of pilgrims this year, Ayatollah Khamenei said that concerns on this did exist, but officials of the Supreme National Security Council examined all aspects of the subject; and they came to the decision that Hajj be organised this year.
Reflecting back on the tragedy at Mina, in Saudi Arabia during the annual Hajj event of 2015, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed the need for sufficient security measures. The Leader of the Revolution stated, "The grief that remains in the hearts of Iranians, due to the horrific disaster in 2015, can never be forgotten; thus, security of Hajj pilgrims is essential." Furthermore, the Leader acknowledged that other states, too, held responsibility for the security of pilgrims by adding, "Security of Hajj pilgrims must be assured by the country responsible for the organization of Hajj; and all other states should be exigent towards security, too." Stressing on the importance of peace and well-being among the pilgrims, he said, "Assuring safety and security does not mean creating a high-security environment."
Additionally, the Leader of the Revolution advised the pilgrims on timely performance of obligatory prayers and public prayers in Masjid Al-Haram and Masjid Un-Nabi; reciting Quran in the two holy mosques; paying careful attention to the rituals on the Day of Arafah and avoidance of shopping.
He added: Dear pilgrims should be thoughtful, more than anything else, about purification of their souls and hearts while enjoying the great virtues of Hajj; because, reaching the spiritual virtues of Hajj is an introduction to its social outcomes.
Ayatollah Khamenei finally stated, "All must take great care, and pay close attention to their responsibilities, so Hajj can be organized with diligence and efficiency."
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