The Role of Mourning for Imam Hussein (a.s.)
In order for us to understanding the importance and philosophy of mourning for Imam Hussein (a.s.), it is not amiss to take notice of the following points:
1. Paying attention to lofty virtues and traits of elect and dignified men and religious leaders:

The Holy Quran (a.s.) has emphasized through many different verses on maintaining and reviving the memory of the great men of God, noble religious leaders and prominent personalities of human history and learning lessons from them.

God, the Sublime, says in Chapter Maryam: "And mention Ibrahim in the Book; surely he was a truthful man, a prophet."[1] Then it explains Ibrahim's strong action against the idols and idolaters.

The Quran says in another verse: "Also mention in the Book the case of Idris: He was a man of truth (and sincerity), (and) a prophet; And We raised him to a lofty station."[2] The Quran speaks of the prophets who were bestowed with God's bounties and blessings.

In another verse, the Quran says: "Commemorate Our Servant Job. Behold he cried to his Lord: "The Evil One has afflicted me with distress and suffering! (The command was given:) "Strike with thy foot: here is (water) wherein to wash, cool and refreshing, and (water) to drink. And We gave him (back) his people, and doubled their number,- as a Grace from Ourselves, and a thing for commemoration, for all who have Understanding."[3]

It is clear that the personal and family aspects as well as the routine activities of these noble men have not been the focus of attention in these verses and the likes. In fact, it is their character, moral virtues and constructive programs which have been highlighted and which indicate that the memory of great and elect men should remain alive and their traits and characteristics should be the focus of attention. For this reason, we see that the infallible Imams, peace be upon them, adopted different ways and methods to revive the memories and names of the martyrs of Karbala, especially the Chief of the Martyrs, Imam Hussein, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

2. The Shia Imams (a.s.) and Different Ways of Mourning for Imam Hussein (a.s.):

A) Holding Mourning Ceremonies:

One of the methods that the Imams used to keep the memory of the rise of Ashura alive was arranging gatherings for crying and mourning and making others cry for the tragic incidents that took place in Karbala and reminding people of those incidents on appropriate occasions.

Imam Sajjad would constantly cry and mourn for what had taken place on the day of Ashura during the years he was the Imam of the Ummah.  He cried so much to the extent that he was known as and called one of the "Bakka’een" (those who cried very much).[4]

Alqame Hadrami relates that Imam Baqir (as) would gather people in his house on the day of Ashura to cry and mourn, and the Imam himself would cry for his grandfather.  There was no Taqiyyah involved and he would tell those in the house to cry for Imam Hossein and to express their condolences to each other on the day of his martyrdom.[5]

On one occasion Imam Sadiq told Dawood Ruqi: "I have never drunk cold water without remembering Imam Hossein."[6]

It is narrated in a hadith that Imam Reza said: "When the month of Muharram would arrive no one would see my father (Imam Kazim) smile and sadness and sorrow would take over him until the day of Ashura. The tenth day of Muharram was the day of sorrow and sadness and tragedy and he would say: Today is the day in which Imam Hossein was martyred."[7]

Therefore, not only would the Infallible Imams attend these gatherings themselves and cry for Imam Hussein but they would always encourage people to cry and mourn for the Imam.  It has been said in a hadith that: "Whoever cries for Imam Hossein or makes someone else cry for the Imam will be rewarded paradise, and even those who show they are sad and crying [even if they aren't because of whatever reason] will also be rewarded with paradise".[8]

The eulogists and poets like Kumit Asadi, Da'bal Khaza'ei and Seyyed Humairi were praised by the Infallible Imams (a.s.) for their reciting elegies and composing poems on the tragedy of Karbala.

B) Visitation of Imam Hussein's Grave Encouraged:

Commemorating the nobles and religious leaders and visiting the graves of the heroes have been a good custom, one that has been practiced by various nations. Among them, the chief of the martyrs and leader of freemen, Imam Hussein (a.s) is like a glamorous sun whose name and memory should be revived and remembered befittingly. There are so many sayings from the infallible leaders about the significance of visiting the grave of Imam Hussein (a.s) in Karbala. In fact, it can be said that those noble and divine leaders took advantage of every opportunity to encourage people to visit the luminous grave of the Chief of Martyrs (a.s). It was as though the Imams were committed to persuade people to visit the tomb of Imam Hussein (a.s.) in Karbala. Not only did this create spiritual and intellectual union with the Imam but it was also a kind of campaign against the tyrant and the unjust rulers as it has always been and is the same even today. There are different narrations from the Infallibles of which we shall mention only one:

Imam Sadiq (a.s) said: "One who visits his shrine (of Imam Hussein) with eagerness and out of affection for the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), Zahra (s.a.) and Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.), will be seated by Allah on the tablecloth of Paradise. He will dine with these holy personalities (Ahle Bait (a.s.)), while the others will be absorbed in the accounting of deeds."[9]

3. The Attribute of Muharram: The Month of the Victory of Blood over Sword:

The month of Muharram is a book so expensive and worthwhile. Its days and nights, hours and moments are pages with ontological and deontological lessons. Indeed, Muharram teaches man how to live and die. By saying "We shall never accept disgrace" Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, sent a message to all human generations at all ages, times and lands to seek justice and truth and to rise up against unjust rulers and tyrannical governments and not to surrender to them.

In addition, when he was alone facing thousands of blood-thirsty criminals, he called out loud, "Is there any helper to help us…". It was as though he asked all conscious men and human generation at all times to help him. He who lost all his comrades, dear and near a few minutes earlier, he who dragged Ali Akbar, his son's body to the tent a while ago, he who saw his devout brother and the standard-bearer of Karbala, Abul Fazl al-Abbas soaked in his own blood, he who had no one with him and was certain that the enemy would not spare him and knew very well that he would meet his grandfather with thirsty lips, why did he ask for help?! Surely, he did not ask others for help to save himself. In reality, he also asked future generations for help; he wants them not to forget the fading tree of monotheism and to safeguard the blood that he and his friends shed to irrigate the tree so that the Ashura movement might become perpetual and the memory of the martyrs of Karbala be kept alive permanently and Islam be insured.

4. Lamentation, the cause of unity and success:

In order for every nation to be successful, it needs something to unify them and to bring them together. Without doubt, the most important cause of unity among the followers of the Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) which can bring millions of people together around a single pivot is mourning for Imam Hussein (a.s.) and his devout companions.

Mourning for Imam Hussein (a.s) can help deliver man from tyranny, injustice and colonial rule. Through the history, lamentations for the martyrs of Karbala have led to major and minor uprisings and revolutions such the revolution of Tawwabeen (the Penitents), the revolution of Mukhtar who killed several enemies of the Holy Prophet's family to avenge the tragedy of Karbala. Mukhtar Thaqafi inflicted a serious blow upon the strong Amawid army in the wake of the event of Ashura.

Generally speaking, according to some experts, most of the revolutions of the world have been inspired by the revolution of Imam Hussein (a.s.) and his friends in Karbala. An example of it is the liberation of the Indian Sub-continent from the English colonial rule. Mahatma Gandhi is reported to have said, “I have learned from Hussein how to be oppressed yet victorious. I have brought nothing new to the Indian nation; only my understanding of the wisdom of the hero of Karbala. If India wants to be a successful nation, it should follow the foot steps of Hussein bin Ali (a.s)."[10]

A more important and concrete example is the glorious revolution of the Islamic Republic of Iran led by Imam Khomeini (r.a) who shook and stunned the world with his charismatic leadership. And yet a recent example is the resistance of Hezbollah in south Lebanon against Zionist aggression. The fully geared Zionist army which was supported by the most modern weaponries were miserably defeated by the power of the faith and devotion of Hezbollah men.

Hence, therefore, it can be said that mourning for Imam Hussein (a.s.) can earn the Muslim Ummah dignity and pride and can help maintain the Islamic and religious culture.

We hope we are enlisted among the lovers of the Chief of the Martyrs, Imam Hussein (a.s) and his true followers and are blessed with their attention.

[1] - Maryam, 41
[2] - Maryam, 56 and 57
[3] - Sad (The Letter Sad), 41 - 43
[4] - Wasa’elul-Shia, vol. 2, pg. 922.
[5] - Wasa’elul-Shia, vol. 2, pg. 398.
[6] - Amali (Saduq), pg. 142.
[7] - Mafatihul-Jinan, Sheikh Abbas Qummi, the section on the rituals and supplications of Muharram.
[8] - Biharul-Anwar, vol. 24, pg. 284.
[9] -  «من سره ان یکون علی موائد النور یوم القیامة، فلیکن من زوار الحسین بن علی علیهما السلام» Kamil al-Ziyarat, pg. 135
[10] - A Look at the life of Imam Hussein (a.s) by Muhammad Muhammadi Ishtihardi, pg. 109.

The Iranian speaker of parliament (Majlis) says Russia’s military intervention in Syria against terrorist groups was well timed and considered.

“We see Russia’s presence in the region, which has been upon a request by the Syrian government, as a timely and well-thought-out move,” Larijani said speaking at the 12th annual meeting Valdai International Discussion Club in the Russian resort town of Sochi on Thursday.

He said that Russia’s air campaign in Syria sent a “serious warning” to the terrorists in the Arab country, adding that the bombings have already proven to be effective.

Larijani told the high-profile meeting, which was also attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, that Russia’s move in Syria would encourage other anti-terror governments to take action.

The Iranian speaker slammed Washington and its allies for their propaganda in promoting their airstrikes against the Daesh Takfiri group in Syria, saying the US-led "paper coalition" has failed to achieve any significant results over the past year and has even emboldened the terrorists.

Larijani said weapons supplied by the US and its allies to so-called moderate militants in Syria have ended up in the hands of terrorist groups like the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front.

Russia began its military campaign against terrorists in Syria on September 30 upon a request from the Damascus government, shortly after the upper house of the Russian parliament gave President Putin the mandate to use military force in Syria.

Defense officials in Moscow say the operation has been a success as hundreds of militants have been forced to retreat from their positions while major arms depots, training camps and command posts belonging to the terrorists have been destroyed in the attacks. 

Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. The crisis has claimed the lives of more than 250,000 people so far and displaced millions.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution, in a letter on Wednesday for the president, referring to the exact and responsible examinations of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in the Parliament and Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) via legal processes, issued important orders for observance and safeguarding the national interests and lofty benefits of the Islamic Republic.
Part of Ayatollah Khamenei’s letter reads that the American government, either in the nuclear issue or any other issue related to Iran, has not adopted any approach other than hostility and sabotage and in the future, too, it is unlikely that it will adopt an ulterior approach.
As the leader has reiterated, the 9 points in the recent parliamentary law and the 10 secondary ratifications of the SNSC must be heeded and observed; however, the leader announced some other points highlighting a number of the points stipulated in the two documents including removal of the oppressive economical and financial sanctions. Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei emphasized again that strong and adequate guarantees should be inserted for preventing the infringements of the opposite sides.
Elsewhere in the letter, the leader makes it clear that adding any other sanction at any level and with any given pretext, such as the repeated and self-forged pretexts of terrorism and human rights by any of the negotiating countries, will translate into breach of the JCPOA and the Iranian government is duty-bound to halt the JCPOA activities according to paragraph 3 of the parliamentary ratification.

Coordination of the Iran’s technical measures with the obligations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) based on declaration of termination of the present and past issues (pmd) are among other points that the leader’s letter explicitly refers to.

Ayatollah Khamenei, referring to the agreed issue of renovation of Arak factory while preserving its heavy water, made it clear that this trend will start only when the definite and certain contract on the substitute plan and adequate guarantee for its implementation has been concluded.

Pointing to other issues of JCPOA such as swapping enriched uranium for yellow cake from a foreign government, the leader stresses in the letter that this will begin under the condition that a sure contract with adequate guarantee has been concluded and this exchange should be carried out gradually and in a number of times.

The outcome of nuclear negotiations that has been manifested as JCPOA, besides positive points, has got a number of ambiguous points and structural weaknesses. Once these weak points and unclear issues are not fully and alertly heeded they can inflict heavy irreparable blows and losses to the present and future of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

That’s why the leader of the Islamic Revolution has stipulated in his letter to the president that the past record of the opposite sides, especially the US, requires that a strong, conscious and vigilant group of officials follows up the advancement and execution of the commitments of the opposite side and realization of what has been ratified.

Iran has warned that any violation of other countries’ sovereignty will worsen the chaotic situation in the Middle East following the deployment of Turkish armed forces on the Iraqi soil to haunt down Kurdish militants.

Iran “believes that any measure undermining the territorial integrity and sovereignty of countries further complicates the critical situation of the region and provides a justification for the intervention of foreign countries in the region,” Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham said on Wednesday.

She made the remarks a day after a Turkish government source said two units of Turkish special forces had crossed into northern Iraq in “hot pursuit” of militants from the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).

Ankara’s decision came after at least 14 Turkish police officers were killed in a roadside bomb attack in eastern Turkey’s Igdir Province earlier on Tuesday. 

Elsewhere in her comments, Afkham condemned the deaths of civilians and security forces in the recent wave of terror attacks in Turkey.

The Iranian official also expressed concern over the renewed conflict between Turkey and the PKK, expressing hope that the two sides would resume their peace process.

Ankara launched airstrikes against PKK positions in Iraq and Turkey as well as purported Daesh targets in Syria after a deadly July 20 bomb attack attributed to Daesh terrorists left 32 people dead in the southeastern Turkish town of Suruc, across the border from the northern Syrian town of Kobani.

A shaky ceasefire between Ankara and the PKK that had stood since 2013 was declared null and void by the militants following the Turkish airstrikes against the group.

The PKK has been fighting for an autonomous Kurdish region in southeastern Turkey since the 1984. The conflict has left tens of thousands of people dead.

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution says the Islamic Republic “did not and will not hold talks with US on issues other than nuclear negotiations.”

Addressing people from different walks of life on Wednesday, the Leader said, “We agreed to hold talks with Americans only on the nuclear issue and for particular reasons, and thank God, our negotiators did a good job.”

Ayatollah Khamenei stated that in other areas, “I have not authorized negotiations and [we] will not hold talks with them.”

The Leader noted that the United States does not conceal its animosity toward Iran, adding, “One [US official] smiles, while another draws up a bill against Iran.”

Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized that the US officials seek to hold negotiations with Iran because they see negotiations as a means of influencing the Islamic Republic and imposing their demands on Iran.

Referring to comments by the Tel Aviv regime after the conclusion of the Iran-P5+1 nuclear talks that Israel will have no more concerns about Iran for the coming 25 years as a result of the nuclear agreement, the Leader said, “First of all you will not [survive long enough to] see the next 25 years, and God willing, no such thing as ‘the Zionist regime’ will exist in the next 25 years.”

“Secondly, during this period, the combatant, and epic, and jihadi spirit will never leave Zionists alone for a single moment.”

Noting that the late Imam Khomeini has described the United States as “the Great Satan,” the Leader said, “Some people insist on disguising this Great Satan as the savior angel. [However,] the Iranian nation expelled this Satan [from the country]; we must not allow that after we expelled it through the door, it could return and gain influence [again] through the window.”

Emphasizing the importance of having strong and resistant economy, advanced science, and a revolutionary spirit as three factors that strengthen the Iranian nation in the face of enemies, Ayatollah Khamenei added that state officials should respect revolutionary youths, while advising “certain” speakers and writers not to verbally attack faithful and revolutionary youths by labeling them as extremist. 

Referring to the importance of elections in Iran, the Leader took to task “certain people” who raise doubt about wholesomeness of elections, stressing that the Guardian Council is the “watching eye” of the Iranian nation and government in any elections.

Aim of Sending the Prophets (a.s.)

In the Name of Allah the Beneficent the Merciful

Blessings of Allah be on you, O Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.)

Allah, the Almighty raised the Prophets (a.s.) with clear proofs and also revealed with them the Scriptures and the Balance so that the people may live with justice and equity. Moreover, He also send down the iron wherein is mighty power as well as many benefits for mankind that Allah may test who it is that will help Him and His Messengers in the unseen.

It is known to one and all that when somebody performs an action with a purpose, till the aim and purpose is not achieved, the act remains incomplete. If the purpose remains unachieved, it is said that he was unsuccessful in his task.

Allah, the Almighty has raised the Prophets to establish truth and justice in the entire universe. Yet, till date humanity has never witnessed an era when truth and justice has been established. Then, God forbid, should we assume that the Prophets' mission has been unsuccessful? And that Iblis, who had taken an oath that he will deviate the entire humanity, was triumphant in his objective?

Certainly not! Iblis can never be victorious in his aim. Allah the Majestic has deemed all of Iblis' conspiracies, machinations and plots as weak and feeble. "Surely the plotting of Shaitan was indeed weak."

Ultimate Justice and Equity

In numerous verses of the Holy Qur’an and prior to it, in other Heavenly Books, Allah the Almighty, has made it amply clear that:

 أَنَّ الْأَرْضَ يَرِثُهَا عِبَادِيَ الصَّالِحُونَ

'Surely My righteous servants shall inherit the earth. " (21: 105)

Moreover, Allah the Almighty has promised the believers and the good doers that He will certainly make them the caliphs and rulers of this earth. And it is clearer than daylight that Allah the Truthful is not a covenant breaker.

Why the Present State of Affairs?

A question can arise in the mind that if the aim and purpose of the Prophets (a.s.) was to fill the earth with justice and equity, which has also been promised by Allah, then why the present state of affairs? Why this oppression, tyranny, mischief, corruption, killings, genocide, insecurity, anarchy, chaos, disorder, etc.? What is the reason for all these? And till when will these continue?

Free and Independent Human Being

Allah, the Almighty, has created man free and independent, which implies that he can
select either of the two ways, good or evil, belief or disbelief, justice or oppression, of his own accord and free will. If he chooses the path of goodness, belief and justice, then of course, he will be surrounded with bounties and blessings.

But if he opts for the other course; its consequences will certainly be disastrous and harmful. If somebody consumes poison, no doubt, its damaging effects will manifest themselves. Unfortunately, mankind chose the path of evil, instead of goodness, and as a result, the world is engulfed with darkness and injustice. While indicating towards this reality, the Holy Qur’an declares,

ظَهَرَ الْفَسَادُ فِي الْبَرِّ وَالْبَحْرِ بِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِي النَّاسِ

"Mischief appeared in the land and the sea for what the hands of the people earned. " (30: 41)

The mischief and corruption rampant in the world is a result of our actions. And this is the case when Allah, the All-Forgiving, pardons most of our sins and transgressions. This is the consequence of only a few of our misdeeds. If Allah really punishes us for all of our actions, whatever little of goodness and virtue is observed in this world will also vanish and the entire universe will convert into a hell for mankind. Allah the Almighty informs in the Holy Qur’an,

وَمَا أَصَابَكُم مِّن مُّصِيبَةٍ فَبِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِيكُمْ وَيَعْفُو عَن كَثِيرٍ

"Whatever calamities afflict you is because of what your hands have earned, While He forgives most (of your sins)." (26: 30)

The present state of our world is because of our vices, transgressions and evils.

Come! Let's see what impressions our deeds and we have left on religion, morals, society and economics.

Religion

Although we claim to be Muslims because we happened to be Muslims by birth, true Islam implies complete submission before Allah, the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) and their laws and commands. Ameerul Momineen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) declares,

الإسلام هو التسليم

"Islam is submission."

Of course, today we are extremely obedient and compliant but not before Allah, His
Messenger (s.a.w.a.) and their laws, but in front of our carnal desires, western culture,
Imperialistic attitudes power and lusts.

Either we don't know how to recite the Holy Qur’an or if we do know, we don't read it. Even if we read it, we don't do so with regularity. Even if we recite it on a regular basis, we don't act on it. And even if we act on it, it's not a complete acquiescence before its commands and prohibitions. This is precisely the reason that today, although the Book of Allah apparently is present in our homes, offices, markets, shops, etc. yet, the Qur’anic thought and approach is conspicuously absent.

We have adorned the mosques with expensive embellishments and ornamentations, but not with Allah's fear, piety, godliness and devotion; thus, instead of being the propagation and dissemination centers of Islamic teachings, our mosques have been reduced as hubs of local politics.

The aim of our creation is Allah's worship and servitude. The essence of worship is divine recognition and sincerity. Unfortunately, everything is available in our worship but sincerity. We perform the prayer and other obligations not as a duty imposed by our Lord but as a ritual and a habit.

For a gain of a few pennies, we are willing to sell our faith and belief. To acquire a little more profit, we are prepared to fib and lie through our teeth.

Morals and Ethics

While Islam emphasizes having good relations with our relatives (sil ar-rahm), we take
Pride in breaking relations with them (qat' ar-rahm). Dignity despite poverty was the
Adage of the old-timers; today, our motto is to acquire worldly wealth, regardless of the degradation that we have to encounter. We don't care for the way that we adopt to earn our livelihood, whether it's permissible or prohibited.

We bring the instruments of sins to our homes and deem it as our duty to use them and as a pre-requisite of our advanced thinking. While wearing the hijab is the sign of backwardness and regress, moving around semi-nude is the mark of progress and advancement.

Lie, slander, false accusation and backbiting have become the norm of the day.

Stealing in weights and measures, breach of promises, anger, dissatisfaction, tongue-lashing, rudeness, misbehavior, etc. are the essential elements of our lives today.

Society

Earlier, we had joint families. No doubt, the system had some flaws and shortcomings but it had a number of pluses like love, attachment, fraternity, sacrifice, sincerity, helping each other in times of need, sharing of joys and sorrows, apportionment of difficulties, etc. Mutual trust and sincerity were the norms and closeness prevailed despite problems.

But today, personal benefits and advantages rule the roost. Worldly gains are favored to family kinship, while personal benefits are preferred to close relations. This is precisely the reason that divine blessings have left our homes. Despite the abundance of all sorts of provisions, we are afflicted with an endless series of anxieties and worries. In this regard, there is a quote of Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) that goes as follows,

"There are three things, the effects of which will be seen by man in this very world, before his death: Rebellion, breaking of relations and false oaths.

The act fastest in recompense is patching of relations. Those who patch relations will see their wealth multiply even if they are sinners.

False oaths and breaking of relations ruin homes. "

Earthquakes, heavenly calamities, new illnesses and diseases, famine, etc, are all due to our misdeeds and vices.

On the one hand, a large portion of humanity is deprived of basic needs like bread, clothes, housing, health, hygiene, etc.; while on the other hand, arms and ammunitions are being stockpiled. Trading in destructive weapons and genocide of the poor and the innocent has become the favorite pastime of the so-called developed nations.

In today's world, with the transformation in conditions, implications of words have also changed dramatically. Destruction and annihilation are called as 'progress', nudity is termed 'culture', immorality is named 'ethicality', and ostentation is regarded as 'art' and so on and so forth.

Economy

Our deeds (rather misdeeds) have transformed the very face of the world. Due to our actions, rains are becoming scarce and the earth is becoming dry. Crops and cultivation are receding to pathetically low levels. Perhaps, to maintain our bank balance and to preserve our artificial standards, crop outputs are deliberately being reduced. By creating artificial shortage and sucking the blood of the poor, we are trying to become healthy.

Excessive desires and expenditures exceeding incomes lead to worries, tension and nervous disorders. Consequently, bribery is rampant and inflation is touching the skies. Everybody is in a state of anxiety, holding others responsible for his own sorry state of affairs in an attempt to exonerate him of the blame. By censuring others, he wants to give himself a clean chit.

But the truth is that we cannot separate ourselves at this state of affairs at any cost. If we are not happy with the present conditions, and certainly we are not, and would like to see divine promise being fulfilled in this earth, and the government of justice, equity, fairness, fraternity, Islam and belief, established, then first and foremost, we have to change ourselves. Allah, the Mighty, informs clearly,

 إِنَّ اللَّـهَ لَا يُغَيِّرُ مَا بِقَوْمٍ حَتَّىٰ يُغَيِّرُوا مَا بِأَنفُسِهِمْ 

"Surely Allah will not change (the conditions) of the people till they transform it themselves." (13: 11)

Never get scared of the conditions because despair is disbelief. Don't fear on account of your weaknesses and ignorance. Take a step towards Allah in His Name.

وَالَّذِينَ جَاهَدُوا فِينَا لَنَهْدِيَنَّهُمْ سُبُلَنَا وَإِنَّ اللَّـهَ لَمَعَ الْمُحْسِنِينَ

"Surely those who struggle for Us, We will certainly guide them to Our ways. And most surely Allah is with the good doers." (29:69)

All the paths of Allah are that of goodness and righteousness. Divine mercy is restless to welcome us. Come! Let's move ahead!

Let us take a glance at our responsibilities today.

Our Responsibilities During Occultation (ghaibah) of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.)

Today, our greatest anxiety is the occultation of our beloved Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

The remaining worries are tolerable to a certain extent but the separation with our most adored and dearest Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) is simply insufferable. We recite in the Dua an-Nudbah,

"It is very difficult and unbearable for me that I see everybody but cannot have a glimpse at your resplendent visage. That I listen to everybody but am deprived of your ever-comforting voice."

If we try to transform ourselves and prepare the ground for the reappearance of Imam az-Zaman (a. t .f .s.) and fulfil our responsibilities vis-à-vis him (a.t.f.s.), then most of our difficulties will be resolved. And when he (a.t.f.s.) himself arrives, then Insha’Allah all our problems will be dispelled with immediate effect.

Come! Let us take a step to discharge these duties in order to do away with our problems and difficulties. For, our existence and that of the entire universe, is indebted to Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.).

Therefore, he (a.t.f.s.) enjoys a right over each and every thing. Keeping brevity in consideration, we will mention four duties over here related to the heart, tongue, limbs and wealth.

Duties Related to the Heart

1. To Love Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.)

Allah the Almighty has deemed the love and affection of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) as the recompense for Prophethood. Today, Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) represents the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Besides, the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) declared,

"A person's faith cannot be complete till
he does not love me more than his own self and
my progeny more than his own children and
offspring." Obviously, who is more of a
descendant of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and
closer to him in lineage than Imam Mahdi
(a.t.f.s.)?

2. To be sorrowful

When one's most beloved goes into hiding, the lovers hold their hearts in grief and sorrows afflict them greatly. In this case, our beloved is the one who, despite being in occultation, prays for us and repels our difficulties. 'Master! Till when should we be beleaguered and hassled due to your separation? O son of Allah's Messenger!

Is there a way to meet you?' This grief is augmented when we observe that the oppressors and tyrants have deposed the Real Emperor, seizing the reins of power.

3. Awaiting

Love and pain are the inevitable consequences of separation. It is the most important duty of every believer to wait for the one whose occultation is the cause of difficulties and problems and in whose reappearance are their solutions, and whose arrival is certain. The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) declared,

"The best action of my nation is to await the reappearance. " Imam Sadeq (a.s.) gives glad-tidings, "He who departs from the world while waiting for the reappearance of Imam (a.t.f.s.) is like the one who is with him (a.t.f.s.) in his tent. Nay! His status is even higher. As if he is fighting alongside the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) in the battlefield. " In other words, waiting for Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is fighting in the way of Allah and the one who waits is a Mujahid.

Duties Related to the Tongue

1. To pray for the safety of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.). For instance, in the qunoot of our prayers, we must regularly recite Dua al-Faraj, 'Allahumma Kun Le…'. In Mafaateeh al-Jenaan, a number of supplications are mentioned.

2. To pray for the protection of our religion, faith and belief. Abdullah Ibn Sinaan narrates from Imam Ja'far Sadeq (a.s.), "There will come a time when the standard of leadership cannot be seen and the Imam of guidance will be in hiding. In such a situation, only he will find salvation who recites the Supplication of the Drowning One (Dua al-Ghareeq)." I (Abdullah) asked, 'What is this supplication?' He (a.s.) replied,

يا الله يا رَحْمنُ يا رَحِيمُ يا مُقَلِّبَ القُلُوبِ ثَبِّتْ قَلْبِي عَلى دِينِكَ

"O Allah! O Beneficent! O Merciful! O Changer of hearts! Keep my heart steadfast on Your religion. "

This supplication can be recited in the Qunoot as well as after the prayers (ta'qeebaat).

3. To pray morning and evening, and after every prayer for the early reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) and to give preference to it over all other supplications.

4. To invite the people towards Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.), to instill his love in their hearts, to draw their attention towards him (a.t.f.s.), to answer queries raised concerning Imamat and Occultation, etc. Proclaiming the Imamat of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and to invite the people towards it is the greatest tradition of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.).

Duties Related to the Limbs

1. Obey the instructions of the Shariah.

2. To organize gatherings and assemblies to discuss the merits and virtues of the Ahle
Bait (a.s.) and to participate in such congregations.

3. To keep away from the prohibitions. In a signed letter (tauqee'), Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) informs,

"The thing that has distanced me from you (Shias) are your undesirable acts that reach unto us and which we don't expect from you." In this regard, there is a fantastic supplication provided by Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) himself and which goes as follows, "Allahummarzuqna taufeeq al-taa'ah… "

Duties Related to Wealth

In today's world, wealth is dearer than life and life more loved than faith. True faith demands that one should sacrifice in the way of Allah the thing that he loves the most.

Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) being the representative of Allah among His creatures, we must sacrifice all that we have in his way. Therefore, we must,

1. Pay sadaqah (charity) every day for the safety of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)

This, by no means, implies that he (a.t.f.s.) is engulfed in some difficulties, God forbid. Certainly, this is not the case. Rather, it is the sign of our love towards him (a.t.f.s.). Moreover, sadaqah is the medium for the acceptance of our supplications and the channel to acquire the grace of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.).

2. Perform Hajj or send others on Hajj on his behalf

Similarly, we must also perform other recommended actions on behalf of our beloved Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

3. Help and assist in the spread and propagation of his name and his cause

We must try to help those organizations that are truly striving for his purpose. In a tradition, Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.) states,

"As compared to other good deeds, to expend one dirham for the cause of the Imam of the time is equal to spending two million dirhams (for other causes). "

Today, it is our duty to elevate the name and cause of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) and spread it far and wide. We must acquaint the people with him (a.t.f.s.), strive to make them more familiar with him (a.t.f.s.) that they may recognize him (a.t.f.s.). In this aim, let us leave no stone unturned. Insha’Allah, this very sincerity will help us tomorrow at the time of reappearance and when the seeds of our supplications will yield fruit. Allah the Gracious commands,

"You invoke, I will fulfill your prayers."

The more we act on our obligations, transform ourselves and dye ourselves in the colour of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), the faster will our supplications be accepted. The promise of Allah will be fulfilled and all the conspiracies and machinations of the Shaitan will be quashed. Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) will certainly reappear. He (a.t.f.s.) will come for sure.

Come! Let's see what will happen after the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

A Glance at the Reappearance of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.)

It should be borne in mind that there will not be a nook or corner of life that will remain untouched with the effects of Imam Mahdi's (a.t.f.s.) reappearance.

Then, not only the earth, but the shape of the entire universe will undergo visible and tangible alteration. Everything will appear new. For details, a separate book is required. Again, being brief, we will indicate just a few of the changes that will occur.

Justice and Fairness

The earth will be filled with justice and equity, as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression. In the government of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.), none will oppress another.

Everybody will receive their dues.

People will be appointed in their respective posit ions as per their perfections and qualifications.

The true and real standards of respect and disgrace will be set.

Earth

• The earth will manifest its bounties.

• The earth will throw up the treasures concealed within it.

• It will pour from the skies, the trees will be laden with fruits, the earth will be lush green and fruits will be ripe. Each seed will yield seven hundred crops.

Economy

Immeasurable wealth will be distributed. Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) will distribute wealth in an unprecedented fashion.

Welfare and prosperity will attain such heights that there will not be a single person on the face of the earth eligible for poor-rate.

Abundance of provisions will make people needless of hoarding.
People will be rich with various kinds of wealth.

Society

All the roads will be vast and expansive.
Rivers will overflow and will be found everywhere. No nook or corner of the earth will be denied water.
Sewerage and gutter water will not flow on roads and in public places. Uncleanness will be completely wiped out.

Ruins will not be found anywhere

Due to the blessings of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.), the color of the earth will change.
Only and only Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) will rule on the entire universe.

Religion

Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) will propagate religion in such a beautiful manner that people will accept it willingly and with the depth of their hearts. They will worship Allah with utmost sincerity. Those who are far from religion will return to it like birds return to their nests.

All the innovations and deviations will be destroyed.

Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) will invite the people towards Allah's Book, the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.), the mastership of Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) and hatred towards his enemies.

The entire world will unite on the covenant of Ahlul Bayt's (a.s.) love.

Knowledge

Due to the grace of Imam az-Zaman (a.t.f.s.), people's hearts will be enlightened with knowledge.

Housewives will be acquainted and familiar with the Holy Qur’an and traditions of the infallibles (a.s.).

Allah the Almighty has divided knowledge into twenty-seven parts. Till now, only two parts have been conferred on humanity. After the reappearance, the remaining twenty-five parts will be manifested as well.

Vision and hearing will attain such levels that the people of the East can see and listen to the people of the West without the means of any instrument or equipment.

General Hygiene

• The blind will become seeing.

• The sick will receive cure.

• By the grace of Allah, the believers will never be afflicted with any illness.

General Security

All the roads will be safe and secure. Hooliganism will be put to an end.
Mischief and corruption will be completely destroyed.
Even the wild beasts will not harm the humans.
The earth and its inhabitants will be free of all afflictions and calamities.

Ethics and Morality

Intellects of all humans will be perfected. Hearts will be cleansed of desires and lusts, while being filled with needlessness.

Ostentation and show-off will be annihilated.

Trustworthiness will prevail.

The young will respect their elders, while the elders will have mercy on the young.
Lies and backbiting will be cleaned out.

None will be busy thinking about raising or pulling down others.

Friendship will be true and sincere.

Hearts will be abundant with love, and free from jealousy, malice and enmity.

In short, that era will be a completely different age. Everything will change, earth, skies, seas, jungles, mountains, trees, birds, beasts, animals and humans.

All these will take place only and only on account of the golden and resplendent reappearance of the real proof of Allah on His earth, the friend of Allah, the infallible leader, divine guide, the beloved of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.), the apple of Hazrat Zahra's (s.a.) eyes, the dearest of Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.), the darling of Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.) and the hope and desire of Sayyid ash-Shuhada Imam Husayn (a.s.), the last divine proof, al-Hujjat Ibn al-Hasan al-Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

If we are truly waiting that momentous day, we should pray for his early advent from the depth of our hearts, and prepare ourselves, along with others, for helping and assisting him in his cause.

Surely, the oppressors deem that day to be far

But

We regard it to be very, very near.

Aameen! O Lord of the worlds!

The family of the drowned Syrian toddler the photo of whose lifeless body on a Turkish beach sparked outrage had been denied asylum in Canada.

According to Canadian media accounts on Thursday, the Vancouver-based aunt of the three-year-old Aylan Kurdi, whose corpse was washed ashore in Turkey on Wednesday, had applied to obtain Canadian refugee status for her relatives in Syria’s war-ravaged town of Kobani, which was largely destroyed after being attacked by the Takfiri Daesh terrorists in June 2015.

Press reports in Canada recounted the story on Thursday, citing Fin Donnelly, a member of the Canadian House of Commons, who had submitted the refugee status application on the family’s behalf.

Citing Aylan’s aunt, Teema Kurdi, the Ottawa Citizen newspaper reported that Canadian immigration authorities rejected the application, in part because of the family's lack of the internationally recognized refugee status as well as exit visas out of Turkey. The daily said she had immigrated to Canada over 20 years ago.

According to the report, Teema Kurdi also explained that the family of her brother Abdullah, including his wife Rehan and their two boys, Aylan and 5-year-old Galip, embarked on the dangerous sea journey only after their application to move to Canada was rejected.

"I was trying to sponsor them, and I have my friends and my neighbors who helped me with the bank deposits, but we couldn't get them out, and that is why they went in the boat," the aunt told the Canadian daily.

Aylan, Galip and their mother died on the same boat on Wednesday, as their boat carrying refugees attempting to cross to the Greek island of Kos from the Turkish coast sank. The father, however, is believed to have survived.

Turkey's Anadolu news agency reported Thursday that the country’s organized crime police had arrested four suspected human smugglers on a beach on Turkey's Bodrum peninsula. The report added that the four were suspected of acting as intermediaries for illegal refugee crossings.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says Iran held nuclear talks with the P5+1 countries for the removal of sanctions against Tehran, and that there would be no deal between the two sides if the bans remain in place.

“If the framework of the sanctions is to remain in place [then] what did we negotiate for? This is completely against the reason why the Islamic Republic of Iran partook in negotiations, since the goal of the talks was the removal of the sanctions,” Ayatollah Khamenei said in a meeting with members of Iran’s Assembly of Experts on Thursday.

On July 14, Iran and the P5+1 countries – the United States, Britain, France, China, Russia and Germany – finalized the text of a nuclear agreement dubbed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in the Austrian capital Vienna.

Under the JCPOA, limits will be put on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for, among other things, the removal of all economic and financial bans against the Islamic Republic.

The Leader said the potential removal of the sanctions was the main reason Tehran gave some concessions at the talks, “Otherwise, there would be no need for us to take part in the negotiations. We could continue our work and could increase the number of our centrifuges to 50,000 to 60,000 from the current 19,000 in a short while and continue 20-percent [uranium] enrichment, and speed up research and development.”

“Should the sanctions remain in place, then there would be no deal either. So this issue must be resolved,” Ayatollah Khamenei said and also rejected the idea that the bans be “suspended” instead of being “lifted.”

The Leader further insisted that Iran’s Majlis (parliament) be involved in the examination of the JCPOA.

“I have no recommendation for the Majlis regarding the manner of the review or whether they should ratify or reject it. It is the representatives of the nation who should decide,” said Ayatollah Khamenei.

The Leader also referred to the comments made by American officials, which were irrelevant to the issue of nuclear agreement.

“They (American officials) say the JCPOA has offered some opportunities to the United States both inside Iran and outside the country and in the region,” Ayatollah Khamenei said.

“One of the US policies in the region is to annihilate and fully destroy the forces of resistance and fully dominate Syria and Iraq and they expect that the Islamic Republic enter this framework. Such a thing would never transpire,” the Leader said, ruling out any negotiation with the US unless on the nuclear issue.

“One should not be duped by the enemy as a result of its smile or probable short-term assistance in a certain issue. We should always find out what the enemy’s plotting and scheme are,” the Leader said.

Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is a leading global city-state and island country in Southeast Asia. It lies off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, one degree (137 km; 85 mi) north of the equator, and is separated from Peninsular Malaysia by the Straits of Johor to the north and from Indonesia's Riau Islands by the Singapore Strait to the south. Singapore's territory consists of the diamond-shaped main island and more than 60 significantly smaller islets. Since the 1960s, ongoing land reclamation projects have increased Singapore's land area, which is highly urbanized, by at least 20%.

Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons, uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. Temperatures usually range from 22 to 35 °C (72 to 95 °F). Relative humidity averages around 79% in the morning and 73% in the afternoon. April and May are the hottest months, with the wetter monsoon season from November to January. From July to October, there is often haze caused by bush fires in neighboring Indonesia, usually from the island of Sumatra. Although Singapore does not observe daylight saving time (DST), it follows the GMT+8 time zone, one hour ahead of the typical zone for its geographical location.

The islands were settled in the second century AD and subsequently belonged to a series of local empires. Modern Singapore was founded in 1819 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles as a trading post of the East India Company with permission from the Johor Sultanate. The British obtained sovereignty of the islands in 1824, and Singapore became one of the British Straits Settlements in 1826. Occupied by the Japanese during World War II, Singapore became independent from the United Kingdom in 1963 and united with other former British territories to form Malaysia, from which it was expelled two years later through a unanimous act of parliament. After experiencing some turbulence in its early years as a nation, Singapore embarked on a path of development, earning recognition as one of the Four Asian Tigers.

About 5.5 million people live in Singapore (as of end-June 2014), 3.4 million of whom are citizens and the remaining 2.1 million are foreign nationals (consisting of 0.5 million permanent residents and 1.6 million non-permanent residents). According to the country's most recent census (in 2010), nearly 23% of Singaporean residents (i.e. citizens and permanent residents) were foreign born (which means about 10% of Singapore citizens were foreign-born naturalized citizens); if non-residents were counted, nearly 43% of the total population were foreign born. As an immigrant country with numerous links to the global economy, Singapore is one of the most globalized countries in the world.

High-rise HDB flats and condominiums overlooking Bishan Park

Singapore is an ethnically diverse country, where ethnic Chinese Singaporeans predominate with about 74.1% of the resident population, followed by significant minorities of Malays (13.4%), Indians (9.2%), and Eurasians. There are four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. English is the common language of the country. Singapore promotes multiculturalism through a range of policies.

Singapore is a unitary multiparty parliamentary republic, with a Westminster system of unicameral parliamentary government. The People's Action Party has won every election since self-government in 1959. One of the five founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Singapore is also the host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Secretariat, and a member of the East Asia Summit, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Commonwealth of Nations. Singapore has significant influence on global affairs relative to its size, leading some analysts to classify it as a middle power. It is ranked as Asia's most influential city and 4th in the world by Forbes.

Singapore's Parliament House

Singapore's foreign policy is aimed at maintaining security in Southeast Asia and surrounding territories. An underlying principle is political and economic stability in the region. It has diplomatic relations with more than 180 sovereign states. As one of the five founding members of ASEAN,[55] it is a strong supporter of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the ASEAN Investment Area, because Singapore's economy is closely linked to that of the region as a whole. Former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong proposed the formation of an ASEAN Economic Community, a step beyond the current AFTA, bringing it closer to a common market. This was agreed to in 2007 for implementation by 2015. Other regional organizations are important to Singapore, and it is the host of the APEC Secretariat. Singapore maintains membership in other regional organizations, such as Asia–Europe Meeting, the Forum for East Asia-Latin American Cooperation, the Asian Network of Major Cities 21, and the East Asia Summit. It is also a member of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Commonwealth.

In general, bilateral relations with other ASEAN members are strong; however, disagreements have arisen and relations with neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia have sometimes been strained. Malaysia and Singapore have clashed over the delivery of fresh water to Singapore, and access by the Singapore Armed Forces to Malaysian airspace. Border issues exist with Malaysia and Indonesia, and both have banned the sale of marine sand to Singapore over disputes about Singapore's land reclamation. Some previous disputes have been resolved by the International Court of Justice. Piracy in the Strait of Malacca has been a cause of concern for all three countries. Close economic ties exist with Brunei, and the two share a pegged currency value.

The first diplomatic contact with China was made in the 1970s, with full diplomatic relations established in the 1990s. Since then the two countries have been major players in strengthening the ASEAN–China relationship. Singapore and the United States share a long-standing close relationship, in particular in defense, the economy, health, and education. The United States was Singapore's third largest trading partner in 2010, behind China (2nd) and Malaysia (1st). The two countries have a free-trade agreement, and Singapore views its relationship with the United States as an important counterbalance to China's influence. A Strategic Framework Agreement between the two, signed in 2005, formalizes security and defense cooperation. Singapore has pushed regional counter-terrorism initiatives, with a strong resolve to deal with terrorists inside its borders. To this end it has given support to the US-led coalition to fight terrorism, with bilateral cooperation in counter-terrorism and counter-proliferation initiatives, and joint military exercises.

Singapore is an education hub, and many foreign students study in Singapore. More than 80,000 international students studied in Singapore in 2006. Every morning, more than 5,000 Malaysian students cross the Johor–Singapore Causeway for education in Singapore. In 2009, 20% of all students in Singaporean universities were international students. The students were mainly from ASEAN, China and India.

Education for primary, secondary, and tertiary levels is mostly supported by the state. All institutions, private and public, must be registered with the Ministry of Education. English is the language of instruction in all public schools, and all subjects are taught and examined in English except for the "mother tongue" language paper. While the term "mother tongue" in general refers to the first language internationally, in Singapore's education system, it is used to refer to the second language, as English is the first language. Students who have been abroad for a while, or who struggle with their "Mother Tongue" language, are allowed to take a simpler syllabus or drop the subject.

Education takes place in three stages: primary, secondary, and pre-university education. Only the primary level is compulsory. Students begin with six years of primary school, which is made up of a four-year foundation course and a two-year orientation stage. The curriculum is focused on the development of English, the mother tongue, mathematics, and science. Secondary school lasts from four to five years, and is divided between Special, Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams in each school, depending on a student's ability level. The basic coursework breakdown is the same as in the primary level, although classes are much more specialized. Pre-university education takes place over two to three years at senior schools, mostly called Junior Colleges.

Some schools have a degree of freedom in their curriculum and are known as autonomous schools. These exist from the secondary education level and up.

Buddhism is the most widely practiced religion in Singapore, with 33% of the resident population declaring themselves adherents at the most recent census. The next-most practiced religion is Christianity, followed by Islam, Taoism, and Hinduism. 17% of the population did not have a religious affiliation. The proportion of Christians, Taoists, and non-religious people increased between 2000 and 2010 by about 3% each, whilst the proportion of Buddhists decreased. Other faiths remained largely stable in their share of the population. An analysis by the Pew Research Center found Singapore to be the world's most religiously diverse nation.

Sultan Mosque in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, the 2nd most expensive building in the world

Singapore is one of the world's major commercial hubs, the fourth-largest financial center and one of the top two busiest container ports in the world for at least the past ten years. Its globalized and diversified economy depends heavily on trade, especially manufacturing, which accounted for around 30 percent of Singapore's GDP in 2013. Singapore places highly in international rankings with regard to standard of living, education, healthcare, and economic competitiveness. Singapore has one of the highest per capita incomes. For the past decade, it has been the only Asian country with the top AAA rating from all three major credit rating agencies, i.e. Standard & Poor's, Moody's and Fitch Ratings.

Singapore's economy depends heavily on exports and refining imported goods, especially in manufacturing, which constituted 27% of the country's GDP in 2010, and includes significant electronics, petroleum refining, chemicals, mechanical engineering and biomedical sciences sectors. In 2006, Singapore produced about 10% of the world's foundry wafer output. Singapore has a diversified economy, a strategy that the government considers vital for its growth and stability despite its size.

Tourism also forms a large part of the economy, with over 15 million tourists visiting the city-state in 2014. To attract more tourists, the government legalized gambling in 2005 and allowed two casino resorts (called Integrated Resorts) to be developed. Singapore also promotes itself as a medical tourism hub: about 200,000 foreigners seek medical care there each year. Singapore medical services aim to serve at least one million foreign patients annually and generate USD 3 billion in revenue.

Quba is the place on the outskirts of Madinah where the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) arrived and first stayed after emigrating from Makkah. They arrived on Monday 12th Rab’i al-Awwal, fourteen years after Prophethood and this date marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar (Hijra), (16th July 622 CE). A masjid was established here by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him), the first to be built in Islam.

• The virtue of Masjid Qubas is mentioned in the following Quranic verse in Surah Taubah: “…certainly a masjid founded on piety from the very first day is more deserving that you should stand in it…” [9:108]
• The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said: “He who purifies himself at his home and comes to Masjid Quba and offers two rakats therein, will be rewarded the reward of an Umrah (lesser pilgrimage).” [Sunan ibn Majah]
• The people of Yathrib (which was later named Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the Enlightened City) had long awaited the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him), and each day they would go beyond the fields and palm groves and wait for him until the sun became unbearable. The Muslims lifted their weapons and rushed to greet the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). There was a great clamour as everyone ran to the edge of the desert to catch a glimpse of the travelers. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) then turned toward the right and came to Banu Amr bin Auf at Quba. Most of the Muslims who had emigrated from Makkah had stayed at Quba and many of them were there when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) arrived.
• It was a time of great joy from both sides. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) addressed them saying: “O People, give unto one another greetings of peace; feed food unto the hungry; honour the ties of kinship, pray in the hours when men sleep. Even so shall you enter paradise in peace.”
• On arriving in the village of Quba after the blessed Hijra (migration), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) stayed for several days in the house of Kulthoom bin Hadm (may Allah be pleased with him) and laid the foundations of Masjid Quba on his land. Prior to the migration of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) the Muslims sometimes offered their Friday prayers at the house of Sa’ad ibn Khaithamah (may Allah be pleased with him) which was close by. The location of this house was included in the modern day extension of Masjid Quba but the location of the house of Kulthoom bin Hadm (may Allah be pleased with him) is marked by a few boulders to the south-west of Masjid Quba.
• The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) personally carried stones, rocks and sand with his companions for the construction work. Al-Tabarani quoted Al-Shimous Bint Al-Nuaman as saying, “I saw the Prophet when he constructed this mosque. He used to carry stones and rocks on his back until it was bent. I also saw dust on his dress and belly. But when one of his companions would come to take the load off him, he would say no and ask the companion to go and carry a similar load instead.”
• Ali (peace be upon him) stayed in Makkah and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) secretly left Makkah for Madinah. During this period he settled all the Prophet’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) affairs in Makkah. He then left on foot and met up with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) in Quba.
• Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) led the first group prayer from Quba Mosque when Al-Aqsa Mosque in Al-Quds (Jerusalem) was the Qibla at the time.