Inspired by Karbala – Meaning & Direction (A Collection of Sermons & Letters)

Inspired by Karbala brings together sermons, letters and answers to questions by the late Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Muhammad Saeed al-Hakim (1934–2021), one of the leading religious authorities of Najaf, on the meaning of Karbala and how it should be commemorated. Jalal Moughania's English translation was prepared for Muharram 1447 AH (2025).

The texts explain why Shia grief has genuine roots, the scale of the tragedies suffered by the Ahl al-Bayt, the causes of the Husayni movement and the greatness of Imam Husayn. Several pieces address particular audiences: believers in general, preachers and majlis speakers, student preachers of the seminary, the educated, and pilgrims visiting Imam Husayn on Arbaeen. The final section answers seven formal inquiries about Husayni rituals, including tatbir, where the author asks those who differ to treat one another with respect.

Useful for speakers, majlis organisers and anyone wanting a senior jurist's view of Ashura practice. Translated by Jalal Moughania. Published by The Mainstay Foundation, 2025.