Visiting the Blue Mosque and Darul Quran Kareem located in the Muslim area of Manila

 

On Thursday, August 5, 1402 (equivalent to July 27, 2023), an event of significant cultural and religious importance took place. Hojjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Seyyed Mohammad Sadiq Tabatabai Shirazi, a respected cleric and professor from the center and a notable figure in the Hozah and University, graced the Blue Mosque situated in the Muslim enclave of Maharlika, a suburb of Metropolis Manila. During this visit, discussions were held with the mosque's director, the teachers of Dar al-Quran, and other officials involved in the administration of the mosque.

 

According to a report from the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, the Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Abdul Majid Abul Qasemi, joined Hojat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Seyyed Mohammad Sadegh Tabatabai Shirazi at the Abi Mosque located in the Muslim-populated area of Maharlika. The visit encompassed discussions with the mosque's director, interaction with the teachers of Dar Al-Quran, and a tour of the mosque's premises.

 

Established in 1974, the Abi Mosque stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the Muslim community in Manila. Over the years, it has evolved into the second-largest mosque in Manila, following the Golden Mosque. The mosque has served as a hub for various activities, including hosting the Holy Quran, which has been pivotal in fostering religious awareness and education in the Muslim area of Maharlika.

 

The event commenced at 10:30 AM with a warm welcome extended to the guests by Mr. Abdul Moneim Suleiman, the director of Dar Al-Quran, along with Quran teachers and students. The visitors were led to the Dar Al-Quran Hall, where they were introduced to the mosque's activities and objectives. A notable Quran reciter initiated the program by reciting selected verses from the Holy Quran.

 

During the event, Mr. Abdul Majid Abul Qasemi, the Cultural Counselor of Iran, delivered a speech emphasizing the significance of the Quran and its continuous impact on the lives of Muslims. He highlighted the enduring miracles of the Quran and its guiding role in the lives of believers. He expressed gratitude for the presence of Hojjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Seyyed Mohammad Sadiq Tabatabai Shirazi and encouraged him to share insights on the Quran's significance.

 

The event also served as a platform to address recent challenges faced by the Quranic community. The Cultural Counselor emphasized the importance of unity among Muslims in protesting against any disrespect towards the Quran. He called for Muslims to raise their voices against such incidents, particularly during Friday sermons and other gatherings.

 

Hojjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Seyyed Mohammad Sadiq Tabatabai Shirazi delivered a speech in Arabic, discussing the Quran's teachings and the duty of Muslims to stand against oppression and injustice. He underscored the importance of unity and solidarity within the Muslim community.

 

The event concluded with a heartfelt recitation of the Quran. Guests explored various parts of the mosque and engaged in fruitful discussions. The Cultural Counselor's suggestions for further action were well received, particularly regarding addressing challenges and raising awareness.

 

The visit to the Blue Mosque and Darul Quran Kareem was a significant step towards fostering cultural and religious understanding, promoting unity among Muslims, and encouraging the protection and reverence of the Quran in the Muslim community of Maharlika. The mosque's role as an educational and spiritual hub was reaffirmed, highlighting its contribution to nurturing a strong and united Muslim community in the Philippines.