The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei, emphasized in Tehran that prayer serves as a constant source of power to resist 'worldly devils.' He highlighted the critical importance of this practice for strengthening society and supporting the nation during times of hardship.
During the annual national conference dedicated to prayer, the Leader particularly noted the paramount significance of establishing prayer, stating that promoting and observing this divine duty is incumbent upon Islamic society.
Ayatollah Khamenei explained that prayer represents 'one of the most beautiful great blessings of Almighty God, the highest institution, symbol, and pillar of religion, as well as the connecting thread through which each of us establishes a close and direct connection with the infinite and eternal divine source.'
He characterized prayer as the 'elixir of prosperity and salvation' and the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. The Leader added that this elixir and pillar of life serves simultaneously as a reliable and continuous support, as well as an inexhaustible reserve for people in the struggle against their own flesh and worldly devils.
Furthermore, Ayatollah Khamenei noted that prayer is a deep source of tranquility and hope, calling it a 'flowing spring of love, hope, kindness, and peace.' He also stressed that divine gifts and abundance in sustenance are achieved and enhanced through establishing prayer and seeking forgiveness.
The Leader insisted that prayer should not be viewed solely as a personal obligation. He referenced Quranic teachings that define the establishment of prayer as a key characteristic of righteous governance. Linking this teaching to the country's current problems, he noted that the Quranic promise of divine support strengthens the indispensable role of prayer in resilience and victory, especially in the sphere of struggle facing the Iranian nation today.
Ayatollah Khamenei asserted that establishing prayer, being a bastion of remembrance of God, hope, and trust in Him, plays a special role in jihad, victory, and triumph on the fields of struggle, particularly in the area where the Iranian people are currently facing. He emphasized that the Iranian nation today receives the divine command to 'establish prayer' like never before.
The Leader called on families, educators, religious institutions, universities, cultural organizations, and influential figures to take greater responsibility for popularizing prayer, especially among youth. In conclusion, he stated that the institutionalization of prayer and joint collective efforts to perform it with due reverence are vital for the progress of Islamic society, noting the central role of mosques and communal prayers in elevating communal worship.