Speaking in the meeting, the Leader praised such an event, drawing attention to one of the biggest responsibilities of Shia scholars and thinkers, which is introducing Shia Imams to the world.

“Some of our Imams such as Imam Ali and Imam Hussein are already well-known for Sunnis, and even for non-Muslims as there are abundant scholarly works on them. However, Imam Hassan, Imam Mousa ibn Ja’far, Imam Hadi, and Imam Ja’far Sadeq, whose prominence is unmatched are not sufficiently known. Although Sunnis talked about these Imams, it is so meager”, said Ayat Khamenei.

The Leader continued: “I believe we need to take three aspects into consideration when talking about the life of our Imams: firstly, spiritual aspect, that is sanctity. We cannot overlook the sanctity of Prophet’s Infallible Household. This should be discussed in a documented way. Sometimes, works are done, but they lack scholarly backbone. This is something that we should not compromise. This aspect necessitates some unassailable scholarly works”.

“The second aspect is concerned with their teachings in different fields, such as life issues, various issues regarding human beings – morality, social contacts, religion, etc.”

“The third one deals with politics. This is the very category that I have spent years investigating about the Imams. This subject is very important. What was the politics of our Imams? It is inconceivable to ordinary people how our Imams confined themselves to only giving lessons in ethics and arbitration with all their lofty divine positions. They had big goals. They were primarily concerned with establishing an Islamic society, which is impossible without an Islamic rule; therefore, Imams were after establishing an Islamic rule.”

The Leader concluded his remarks by stressing that these three aspects must be included while expanding on the life and conduct of Shia Imams.