"We believe we have a mix of Islamic schools and sects." This statement from His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud echoes the spirit of coexistence in the Kingdom as the Ashura season commenced in Qatif Governorate earlier this week, exemplifying harmonious living in the region.
The Ashura events celebrated by the Shia community in the Kingdom are met with exceptional care and attention from all state agencies, ensuring that citizens can practice their religious rites smoothly and safely. Supervisors of the Ashura gatherings in Qatif affirmed that the government preemptively worked to mobilize all resources in preparation for the season, ensuring it is organized in the best possible manner for success and ease of commencement, fostering close cooperation between citizens and all operational agencies.
### Deep-Rooted Tradition
Sheikh Hassan Safar commented on this significant religious occasion, saying that the commemoration of Ashura is a deeply rooted tradition among Shia communities, particularly in Qatif, where this noble custom has existed for centuries. He noted that the wise government of the Kingdom provides a secure and stable environment for commemorating this occasion in Qatif, with security patrols playing their role in maintaining order and effective collaboration between residents and official institutions.
### Daily Lectures
Sheikh Safar mentioned the Ashura programs, stating, "The main program is holding religious lectures. In Qatif, there are around 1,000 religious lectures for men and women every day from morning until midnight in the halls set up for the Ashura season." He added that these lectures are instructional and educational, reinforcing the values of good citizenship and religious identity within the people's minds while addressing various social issues. He shared his observations from attending some gatherings where speakers discussed God's blessings upon humanity, the importance of gratitude, and leveraging one's blessings.
He elaborated on the blessing of security in the country and emphasized that, while many countries face turmoil and wars, the Kingdom enjoys peace and stability. Such messages enhance the feeling of citizenship among listeners.
In another lecture, topics were discussed, such as the importance of family cohesion and how spouses should harmonize and make mutual concessions for the proper upbringing of their children. Furthermore, discussions on drug abuse and raising awareness about its impacts on individuals, society, and the nation were also held.
### Community and State Cooperation
Sheikh Safar underscored the necessity of community collaboration with state agencies, stating, "Cooperation among citizens is always required and beneficial for both the citizens and the nation as a whole." He acknowledged that this occasion is popular and attended by thousands in some gatherings, necessitating proper organization for safety and traffic flow. He warned that minor incidents could escalate without cooperation, especially given recent experiences with terrorism. He emphasized that the presence of security forces serves as a critical message to those contemplating any acts that could threaten national security.
### A Testament to Cooperation
Member of the Eastern Province Council, Abdullah Al-Nuh, remarked that the onset of the Ashura season in Qatif reflects the remarkable collaboration between Qatif residents and security and service agencies, embodying responsibility and citizenship spirit. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the leaders of the nation for creating a safe environment for observing this day and their ongoing support for fostering values of tolerance and coexistence within the community.
Sheikh Adil, a speaker at the Ashura gatherings, stated, "The Ashura season comes with everyone enjoying safety, stability, and impressive organization." He attributed the success of Ashura seasons to continuous organizational work and collaboration among all relevant agencies.
Additionally, Sheikh Mansour Al-Salman emphasized the freedom and security residents experience in the Kingdom, reiterating the excellent coordination with related entities for the Ashura season.
### Positive Outcomes from Collaboration
Hussain Al-Moallem articulated that the success of the Ashura season each year highlights the close cooperation between community members and relevant agencies, with the presence of security forces enhancing that success. He noted that this cooperation exemplifies a fruitful community partnership contributing to peace and stability.
Businessman Hussain Sheikh, a member of one of the gatherings in Al-Awamiyah, highlighted that collaboration between citizens and security forces is essential for the success of any event, showcasing the Ashura season in Qatif as a model of this proactive cooperation.
Social activist Mohammed Al-Maskin observed significant cooperation in the Ashura season across the cities of Qatif, yielding positive results where festivities occur smoothly, with appreciation expressed for the efforts of security and service agencies.
Lastly, Nasser Al-Sheikh Ahmed, former president of the Al-Awamiyah Charity Association, noted that the residents of Al-Awamiyah appreciate the organization and security provided during the Ashura season, ensuring smooth traffic despite the crowds, and he expressed gratitude towards the leadership for utilizing state resources to serve the Ashura season.
