TEHRAN – Iranian handicrafts will serve as a mirror of the country’s religious culture and Shia identity, the vice minister of the Cultural Heritage Ministry said on Sunday.
Maryam Jalali Dehkordi highlighted the historical and emotional connections between Iranian traditional art and religious rituals, especially in the annual Arbaeen Pilgrimage.
“Iranian handicrafts reflect our religious culture and Shia identity. Shia identity is an art born from the souls of believers that turn into expressions of devotion during rituals such as Albain,” said Jalali de Dekorudi.
Albain is the primary observance of Shia Muslims, marking the end of the 40-day period of mourning by Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, following the Battle of Karbara in 680 AD. Millions have taken on pilgrimages, including iconic walks from Najaf to Kalbara, Iraq.
Jalali Dehkordi described Arbaeen as “a place for Hussaini Love’s encounter and an exhibition of Iranian art focused on spirituality.” Here, handicrafts act not only as tools for pilgrims but also as symbols of faith and devotion to the Ahl Al-Bayt (the family of Prophet’s family (Pbuh)).
She added that traditional art, such as flags, coat of arms, wooden plaques, handmade felts and carved ships, conveys the martial artist’s message of loyalty, dignity and love to the imam.
“Along the walks of Albain, Iranian art is presented as a symbol of spirituality. … These are not mere objects, but manifestations of love.”
The ministry organized a handicraft market this year at this year’s major border crossing to honor pilgrims. “We aim to continue the tradition of dedication, offering and loving service in Iranian art, serving the pure intentions of pilgrims,” she said.
Jalali Dehkordi emphasized that religious ritual handicrafts are not consumer goods, but the heart’s connectors to the airlines of the faith message and Ahl Al-Bayt.
The crafts of this road are the quiet language of love and the messenger of solidarity among the Iranians, she added.
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