Says 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 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 seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) — the grandson of 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, PM Shehbaz, in his message on the occasion of Ashura (10 Muharram), said the day commemorated God’s support, the triumph of the faithful and the sacrifices made for the supremacy of truth.
He said the great sacrifice rendered 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 tragedy of Karbala conveyed the message that adherence to principles and values formed the foundation of a dignified and civilised society.
“Through his conduct, Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) demonstrated that sacrificing for truth, justice and the protection of human dignity was far superior to submitting to oppression, injustice and falsehood,” the statement quoted the prime minister as saying.
PM Shehbaz said the event of Karbala represented a struggle for the reform of the Muslim community, the revival of the Prophet’s traditions and the promotion of virtue while discouraging wrongdoing.
He said these objectives required 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 should remain a priority instead of allowing differences, hatred and division to prevail.
PM 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 ensuring the protection of the rights of weaker and underprivileged sections of society and contributing towards 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.
