International Day of Qods

The International Day of Qods, also known as Quds Day, is commemorated annually on the last Friday of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This occasion, initiated by Ayatollah Khomeini in 1979, transcends its immediate geopolitical implications and emerges as a profound reflection of Shia teachings and the concept of resistance. Its significance extends beyond mere political protest; it resonates deeply within the fabric of Shia identity and theological understanding.

Central to the commemoration of Qods Day is the allocation of sacred space and the urgency of safeguarding it from perceived threats. The city of Jerusalem, particularly the al-Aqsa Mosque, holds an esteemed station in Islamic tradition, representing spiritual and historical significance. For Shia Muslims, Jerusalem embodies not only a center of faith but also a symbol of divine justice, rooting back to the legacy of the Imams who sought to uphold righteousness against tyranny and oppression.

Shia teachings illuminate the intrinsic values of justice and resistance, cultivating a deeply held conviction that Muslims must actively engage in the defense of oppressed communities. This ethos is reflected in the maxims of the Imams, who, throughout their lives, encountered formidable adversities yet remained steadfast in their pursuit of justice. The annual commemoration of Qods Day serves as a poignant reminder of this legacy, galvanizing the Shia community around collective action in the face of oppression.

The theological underpinnings of Qods Day are manifold. It is anchored in the belief that the struggle against tyranny is an essential component of faith. This stance is a direct invocation of the teachings of Imam Ali, who opined that “the most virtuous of deeds is to support the oppressed.” Such a belief serves as a beacon, urging individuals to reflect critically on their responsibilities towards the Ummah (Muslim community) at large, particularly in contexts where systematic injustice threatens the sanctity of Muslim spaces.