Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani is Iraq’s most influential Shiite cleric. He was born on August 4, 1930, in Mashhad, Iran, to a family of religious scholars. Al-Sistani began studying at the age of 5 and has written many books and treatises on Islamic law and life.
Early Life and Education
Al-Sistani moved to the holy city of Najaf, Iraq, in 1952 to study with Shiite clerics. In 1990, he was chosen to lead an important network of schools in Najaf.
Political Involvement
Al-Sistani has been involved in Iraqi politics, issuing his first political fatwa in September 2002, urging Muslims to unite and defend Iraq against outside aggressors. After the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, his house arrest was lifted, and he issued his second political fatwa, urging the Iraqi people to remain neutral and not to interfere with the US forces.
In 2004, al-Sistani endorsed the new Iraqi government, stating that it lacked “legitimacy of elections” but hoped it would prove its efficiency and integrity. He also played a key role in negotiating a ceasefire in Najaf in August 2004.
Later Life and Legacy
Al-Sistani has continued to be a prominent figure in Iraqi politics, issuing fatwas and statements on various issues. In 2014, he appealed to his followers to join the security forces in fighting ISIS militants. He has also met with world leaders, including Pope Francis in 2021.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
