Raisi: Hafez best reveals ties between Islam, Iranian culture
Hafez, a ‘poet of all ages’
Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi hailed the enduring importance of the renowned Persian poet Hafez and described Hafez as “a poet of all ages and centuries”.
He made the statement during a visit to Fars Province, where he marked Hafez National Day on Thursday, according to president.ir. Speaking about Hafez’s timeless poetry, President Raisi emphasized that Hafez’ verses, deeply rooted in intrinsic human values, continue to hold a profound significance across ages and centuries, particularly in the modern era. Raisi highlighted that Hafez is the best manifestation of the ties that Islam have with Iranian culture and customs.
Raisi said that Shiraz has the ancient Persepolis, the Iranian Hafez, and the Islamic Shahcheragh to be proud of and added, “The coexistence of these three throughout history has been such that no one can sense any conflict between them.”
The president described Hafez as a symbolic embodiment of the interplay between Iran’s civilization, culture, and religious heritage, emphasizing that “there is no conflict among them.”
Raisi called upon advocates of culture as well as the artistic and literary communities to honor Hafez’s lasting legacy. Raisi praised Hafez Shirazi, known as the “Tongue of the Unseen Realms,” as a unique jewel in Iranian culture and literature, who is celebrated by speakers of the sweet Persian language worldwide.
He lauded Hafez’s poems for their themes and authentic Islamic teachings and considered them as essential cultural and civilizational symbols of Iran, respected by people of culture and literature across the globe. Drawing attention to Hafez’s deep connection with the Qur’an and his use of Qur’anic language in his works, President Raisi mentioned Hafez’ unparalleled impact across generations.
Raisi further highlighted how Hafez’s verses have been recited by great figures such as Mirza Javad Maleki, Allameh Tabatabai, Imam Khomeini, and the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
The president quoted the Leader, who described Hafez as “the brightest star of Persian culture,” and emphasized the unparalleled place Hafez holds in the hearts and minds of the Iranian nation. Raisi expressed his belief that Hafez’s poetry has the power to bring peace to the troubled souls of contemporary individuals.
He also urged the presentation of Hafez’s character to help address the concerns of the younger generation.
The president concluded by emphasizing the importance of Fars Province as a cradle of culture and literature, calling for necessary governmental support to maintain its timelessness and significance in contemporary society.