Message to the Congress Commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the Birth of Hakim Haji Mulla Hadi Sabzevari

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

Thanks be to God, who inspired your awakened and appreciative hearts, men of knowledge, to honor the high-ranking sage whose recognition is much needed by today's world, mired in materialism and entangled in worldly affairs. Praising such sun-like figures is only fitting for those with clear vision and penetrating insight, who can see beyond the dazzling veil of knowledge without action, soulless philosophy, and meaningless materialism, and who can appreciate the unique combination of lofty thought, clear mind, humble heart, overflowing taste, and modest body in figures like the wise sage of the thirteenth century, Haji Mulla Hadi Sabzevari. This distinguished gathering aims to rediscover Hakim Sabzevari. Anyone who has read a few pages of his life knows well that few like him, who traversed the heavens while dwelling on earth, have been recognized during their lifetime. Countless people knew him during his life, were devoted to him, and witnessed his magnificent ascent through the narrow materialistic lens. Several of his books were published before his death and became guides for teachers and students in the fields of wisdom and religion, spreading his illustrious name far and wide. Since his time, thousands of pages have been written about him, his philosophy, and his books. How and in what sense should a renowned figure like this illustrious man be rediscovered? In this regard, three perspectives deserve deep consideration: First, a fresh look at his wisdom, which is a blend of ancient rational thought with a touch of mystical inspiration. In the tumult of contemporary philosophical ideas, often devoid of the light of meaning and the radiance of monotheism, the place of this Quranic philosophy and its stable and unshakeable foundations is vacant. A language familiar with the current global culture and knowledge, and a skilled hand in depicting the beauties of 'Transcendent Wisdom,' backed by a deep, innovative, and comprehensive mind, is needed to place the philosophy of this great sage in its rightful place among the finest human achievements. Second, a reflective view on the impact of this philosophical knowledge on the philosopher's own character. If philosophy is a correct understanding of existence for building a true human being, what experience is better and more eloquent than this? And third, dispelling the false notion that Islamic philosophy has fallen into silence and decline since the medieval Hijri centuries. This damaging neglect, which has plagued Western and even Arab scholars for centuries, can be shattered by drawing attention to Hakim Sabzevari, who was one of the commentators and interpreters of the comparative Sadraean wisdom and a student of the great philosophers of Isfahan. The guiding light of eight centuries of Islamic philosophy, from Khwaja Tusi to Haji Sabzevari and his contemporaries and students, can illuminate the philosophical thought space in the contemporary world. Rediscovering Hakim Sabzevari in these areas entails fulfilling the rights of this great philosopher, mystic, ascetic, and poet, whose commemoration has brought you, the insightful, to his pure resting place.

Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings

Seyyed Ali Khamenei

First of Ordibehesht, 1372

Corresponding to the twenty-ninth of Shawwal, 1314