Custodian Warns Against Superficial Pilgrimage Practices, Stresses Academic Role

IQNA – The custodian of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS), has called for a more profound understanding of pilgrimage (ziyarat), emphasizing the importance of integrating spiritual depth into the experience.

Speaking in a Monday event in Mashhad held to mark the 40^th anniversary of the establishment of the Islamic Research Foundation of Astan Quds Razavi, Hojat-ol-Islam Ahmad Marvi highlighted the role of research in enriching pilgrimage. 

“Pilgrimage is a significant subject that requires special attention in academic and scientific research. It should not be overlooked,” Marvi said. “We need to deepen the experience of pilgrimage and move beyond its mere outward rituals. Pilgrimage holds profound meanings that must be explored and communicated.” 

The Imam Reza shrine attracts approximately 30 million pilgrims annually from both Iran and abroad, Marvi said, noting the diversity among the pilgrims as an opportunity to convey the deeper meanings of pilgrimage on both national and international levels. 

“This massive influx of pilgrims, representing different cultures and nationalities, creates an unparalleled opportunity to share the transformative and profound aspects of pilgrimage,” he said. “It is crucial to ensure that visitors make the most of their spiritual journey and derive meaningful benefits from their time here.” 

Marvi also addressed the challenges posed by negative propaganda against religion and spirituality. He urged for efforts to counter these influences and make pilgrimage a deeply transformative experience. 

“In an era where enemies aggressively propagate negativity against religious and spiritual values, seeking to divert society and young generations away from Ahl al-Bayt (AS), ziyarat, and spirituality, we must work to ensure that pilgrimage becomes a life-changing and spiritual journey,” he emphasized. 

Bridging research and society

The custodian also stressed the need for connecting academic findings to societal transformation. 

“If the outcomes of scientific and research efforts fail to permeate society and influence daily life or social changes, they will not achieve their ultimate purpose,” Marvi said.

“Scholarly work must extend beyond research institutions and resonate within the broader community. This requires thoughtful planning and strategies to integrate academic findings into the social fabric,” he added. 

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