Leader appoints Imam Reza holy shrine’s new custodian

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei appoints Hojjatoleslam Ebrahim Raeisi as the new Chief Custodian of the Astan Quds Razavi, an organization holding trusteeship of the affairs of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH), the eighth infallible successor of Prophet Mohammad (Blessings of God upon him and his progeny).

According to Press TV, in a decree on Monday, Ayatollah Khamenei said Hojjatoleslam Raeisi is a pious and trustworthy individual who has ample experience in macro management.

The Leader provided the new custodian with several guidelines, saying he should spare no effort to provide services to the pilgrims visiting Imam Reza’s holy shrine, particularly the people in need and the oppressed.

Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted the enormous cultural capacities of Astan Quds Razavi which can play a role in the country and across the Muslim world.

The Leader emphasized that the great potential should be used to promote Quranic teachings in cooperation with cultural experts.

Ayatollah Khamenei further said that the premises and buildings of Astan Quds Razavi represent a unique treasure trove of Islamic architecture as well as scientific and artistic nuances of the Iranian nation which should be protected.

The Leader’s assignment comes after Ayatollah Abbas Va’ez Tabasi, the former Chief Custodian of Astan Quds Razavi, passed away in the northeastern holy city of Mashhad on Friday.

Ayatollah Tabasi passed away at the age of 80 a week after being hospitalized for respiratory complications.

Ayatollah Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani had earlier issued messages of condolences on the demise of the veteran cleric.

Ayatollah Tabasi had served as the custodian of Astan Quds Razavi since the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979.

He was born in Mashhad in 1935 and was laid to rest at the Imam Reza’s holy shrine on Saturday.

ME