Following Qualified Islamic Jurists Is Essential During the Occultation: Allama Hassan Sarwari

Shiite News: Hujjat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen Sheikh Hassan Sarwari, Deputy Imam of Friday Prayers at the Central Imamia Grand Mosque in Skardu, emphasized gratitude for divine blessings, respect for parents, the collective importance of congregational prayer, and following qualified Islamic jurists and religious authorities for guidance during the Era of Occultation. In his Friday sermon, he stated that believers should use their lives and resources in accordance with the pleasure of Allah, explaining that true gratitude is not merely verbal but also means using blessings in accordance with divine guidance.

Referring to a narration attributed to Imam Hasan al-Askari (peace be upon him), he said that during the Era of Occultation, believers should follow a jurist who safeguards his own faith and character, opposes his desires and follows the commands of the Imam. Allama Hassan Sarwari described congregational prayer as a practical demonstration of Muslim unity and brotherhood and strongly emphasized obedience to parents and treating them with kindness, while clarifying that obedience to anyone is not permissible when it involves disobedience to Allah. He also urged young people to use modern technology, particularly mobile phones and social media, positively for acquiring religious and educational knowledge rather than using them aimlessly.

In the second part of his sermon, he highlighted serious public issues facing Gilgit-Baltistan and called on the relevant authorities to address the region’s constitutional rights, taxation matters, the timely holding of local government elections, and particularly the severe electricity crisis in Skardu. He emphasized the need for swift progress on the announced solar energy project and called for a permanent solution to the electricity shortage.

During his address, he also condemned the Kohat terrorist attack and expressed support for what he described as Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian’s bold position in support of Palestine at the United Nations.