The famous Hazrat Abbas (A.S.) Dargah in Lucknow has recently sparked discussions regarding its vacant land. While proposals for parking and further construction of the shrine are being considered, given the current needs, this land could serve as a hub for education, technical training, and healthcare services. The teachings of Islam and Ahlulbayt (A.S.) guide us to take steps that benefit society as a whole, regardless of religion or caste. The purpose of this article is to awaken the Shia community and highlight the immense virtue of working in the fields of education and healthcare, as taught by our Imams and Islam.
Education and Social Service in Islam and Ahlulbayt’s Teachings
Islam considers education the greatest weapon. The Prophet (S.A.W.) said, “Seek knowledge, even if it is in China.” Imam Jafar Sadiq (A.S.) established schools in his era where Islamic teachings were imparted alongside science, mathematics, and technical education, creating a model that inspired the world. Similarly, scholars like Ayatollah Sistani and Ayatollah Khamenei have utilized their resources to promote education and healthcare. In 2009, Ayatollah Sistani supported the construction of Al-Kafeel General Hospital through his charitable trust to provide better treatment to the needy. In Iran, institutions like Hawza-e-Ilmiya combine religion, science, and technology.
In India, institutions like Unity College and Medical College in Lucknow, established through the efforts of Bharat Ratna Dr. Kalbe Sadiq, benefit people from all religions and castes. These are living examples of how work in education and social service is revered in the eyes of Allah and Ahlulbayt (A.S.).
The Dargah’s Land: A Golden Opportunity
While discussions about building parking or expanding the shrine on the vacant land of Hazrat Abbas (A.S.) Dargah are ongoing, this land holds potential for a much greater purpose. Establishing a school, technical education center, or hospital named after Imam Hussain (A.S.) or the martyrs of Karbala would not only serve the Shia community but also set an example for society at large. Such institutions could be sustained through the Dargah’s donations, similar to how Sikh and Sindhi communities run their hospitals and schools.
Society’s Needs and the Path Ahead
Today’s era is defined by technology, education, and healthcare. In a city like Lucknow, where thousands visit the Dargah daily, a center offering free treatment to the poor, free education to children, and technical training to youth could be established. This would not only benefit society but also honor the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (A.S.) in its truest sense. The battle of Karbala was not just fought with swords but for truth and justice. In today’s context, truth and justice mean educating and ensuring the health of society.
Appeal to Mutawallis and Anjumans
I urge the Dargah’s mutawallis and anjumans to take this matter seriously and involve doctors, engineers, IAS and IPS officers, judges, lawyers, journalists, social workers, intellectuals, and technical experts from the community. Their expertise and opinions can guide us in the right direction. This land is not just a plot but an opportunity to elevate the Shia community and society to new heights.
The Path to Virtue: Education and Healthcare
The Quran and the teachings of Ahlulbayt (A.S.) emphasize that education and social service are among the greatest virtues. The Quran states, “Whoever makes the path easier for others, Allah makes their path easier.” Imam Hussain (A.S.) sacrificed his life in Karbala to uphold humanity and justice. By building schools, hospitals, and technical institutes in his name, we can keep his sacrifice alive. Such efforts will not only earn us respect in this world but also elevate us in the hereafter before Allah and Ahlulbayt (A.S.).
Time for the Shia Community to Awaken
The Shia community must no longer remain dormant. We must act upon the teachings of our Imams. By establishing an education and healthcare center on the land of Hazrat Abbas (A.S.) Dargah, we can set an example not only for Lucknow but for the entire country. The time has come to unite, choose the right path, and work for the betterment of society. Ultimately, we are answerable to Allah and Ahlulbayt (A.S.) for our actions.
Let us create a legacy in the name of Imam Hussain (A.S.) that serves society for centuries and keeps us honored in the hereafter.