Message to the Commemoration of the Late Ayatollah Al-Uzma Haj Sayyid Abd al-Husayn Lari

In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

The establishment of a commemoration for the esteemed scholar and distinguished Mujahid, the late Ayatollah Al-Uzma Haj Sayyid Abd al-Husayn Lari, which has now, thanks be to God, come to fruition, is among the commendable actions and important duties of those responsible for cultural affairs in the Islamic Republic. The familiarity of the current generation of the Revolution with the radiant scientific, political, jihadist, and ethical face of this great personality can open a new golden page in the thick book of the national honors of Iranians before their eyes and make them more acquainted with their past experiences, which serve as lessons and models for today and the future.

The late Ayatollah Al-Uzma Haj Sayyid Abd al-Husayn Lari possessed special privileges among his contemporary scholars, and it is highly likely that these characteristics led the great Mirza Muhammad Taqi Shirazi to select him from Samarra and from the warm circle of teaching and learning of that great seminary, sending him to the sensitive region of Fars and Bushehr, of which he was well aware. At that time, the region of Fars and Bushehr was under the oppressive control of the British military. This bloody piece of our homeland and nation lived in suffering and hardship due to the brutal and unjust occupation by British soldiers and politicians. The late Sayyid Abd al-Husayn Lari raised the banner of jihad and struggle against the occupiers and established the first small yet meaningful example of an Islamic government in this region. It is evident that the number and equipment of the British occupiers and their political and courtly agents were able to overpower the small, faithful, yet impoverished group surrounding the esteemed Sayyid, causing him and his family great hardship; however, they could not silence the righteous voice of that true religious scholar. That esteemed cleric once again displayed his strong spirit, clear mind, and deep understanding of the country's issues during the Constitutional Revolution of Iran, raising the banner of justice-seeking and struggle against the Qajar despotism in the region of Fars.

Undoubtedly, the late Ayatollah Al-Uzma Sayyid Abd al-Husayn Lari is one of the great and rare jurists who equally illuminated the realm of religious knowledge and the scene of jihad and politics with the bright torch of his existence. He is one of the prides of the seminaries and one of the prominent figures in the history of Iran. It is fitting that a worthy investigation and inquiry be conducted regarding the scientific, ethical, jihadist, and political dimensions of this great personality, and a portion of his immense rights and those of his virtuous family be fulfilled. I ask God Almighty for the success of all the esteemed attendees, especially those involved in this commemoration.

Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings

Sayyid Ali Khamenei

2/2/1377