Declaration – 4 Rabi‘ al-Awwal 1399 (1979-01-31)

Instructions of His Eminence Haj Sultan Husayn Tabandeh, Reza Ali Shah
Regarding Following the Scholars
(Contained in a Handwritten Note Addressed to Haj Sayyid Hibbatullah Jazbi “Sabit Ali”)

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I extend my greetings to the dear brethren—May God grant them success. Regarding the esteemed scholars and great religious authorities—May God increase their likes—especially the respected Shi‘a maraji‘, as was previously given as a general directive and has always been the custom of our predecessors, and as mentioned in the noble treatise, ‌Pand-e Saleh‌, authored by the late father—may his secret be sanctified—and in accordance with the letter shared with Your Excellency a few months ago, it is appropriate for all brethren to be fully vigilant in current affairs and refrain from anything contrary to the general guidance repeatedly emphasized in the past, to avoid causing concern, unease, suspicion, or difficulty for themselves or others.

We are obligated to maintain the utmost decorum and respect toward the Shi‘a clergy, of whose madhhab we are proud adherents—especially toward the religious leaders and the senior maraji‘ of the Shi‘a community. We must observe the appropriate etiquettes of respect and maintain unity and solidarity. In matters of religious law, we must follow one of the eminent maraji‘. If anyone acts contrary to this instruction or fails to observe proper conduct, it would result not only in dissatisfaction but also distress for this faqir. I sincerely expect that the instructions already given—and those that may be issued—will be fully adhered to and implemented in action.