Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi - December 29, 2000 - Hashemi's Account and Analysis of Ritual Self-Flagellation in Khomeini Shahr Despite Ayatollah Khamenei's Ban and Fatwa, and Perceptions of Police Indifference

Hashemi provides a detailed account and analysis of the ritual of self-flagellation (Qameh Zani) that occurred in Khomeini Shahr, despite a clear ban and fatwa issued by Ayatollah Khamenei. This act has been interpreted as a form of political opposition, highlighting police negligence in addressing such practices, despite initial strict measures by the Ministry of Intelligence.

The ritual, known as Tazieh, typically takes place during Muharram, where individuals express their devotion to Imam Hussein and enhance their courage through self-harm, resulting in injury and bleeding. Participants often don shrouds during these acts, particularly on Ashura. Most Shiite scholars and religious authorities have condemned this practice, viewing it as a disgrace to Islam.

Complete Daily Entry:

I spent the day at home, studying the historical context of Al-Quds and Al-Aqsa Mosque, as well as brochures related to diabetes treatments and prevention strategies that Fati had brought from the Special Diseases Foundation.

The anniversary of Imam Ali's (PBUH) martyrdom coincided with my reflections. The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) insisted I visit a program dedicated to writing the Quran in one day using Nasta'liq script, executed by 180 calligraphers and 60 gilders, held at the Islamic Conference Center; however, I declined.

Meanwhile, General Colin Powell, the incoming Secretary of State for the Bush administration, threatened Iraq, predicting that Saddam's regime would fall within a few years. Iraq responded appropriately. Additionally, clashes continued in Iraq as American and British aircraft bombed Iraqi defense centers, which in turn launched missiles at them—a situation that has persisted for years, recurring every few days.

A tragic accident occurred when a train traveling from Mashhad to Tehran collided with a tank truck and several cars at the Qom-Tehran intersection, resulting in six fatalities and numerous injuries. Last night, Iffat attended a commemorative event, returning this morning to describe it as lacking substance, reminiscent of Sufi gatherings.

In Khomeini Shahr, Isfahan, many engaged in self-flagellation, despite the leadership's prohibition, which is seen as a form of political defiance. The police seem indifferent to such acts, whereas in earlier years, the Ministry of Intelligence was stringent in its approach.

Furthermore, it was reported that negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah for the exchange of prisoners have failed. In Lebanon, Christian Cardinal Nasrallah Sfeir and some Christian parties oppose the continued presence of Syrian military forces, while the Lebanese government and most parties support it. Additionally, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria has released a significant number of political prisoners who were incarcerated during his father's regime.