Nahj al-Balaghah Archives

In a notable event promoting intercultural understanding, a Norwegian researcher was honored in Oslo for her academic work in translating one of the most important texts in Islamic literature.

A Scholar’s Dedication

The recognition was presented to Dr. Nora Soneva Igen, a scholar specializing in religious studies, during an international seminar organized by the International Council for Religious and Humanitarian Dialogue at the central library in Oslo.

Dr. Igen delivered an analytical presentation on Nahj al-Balagha, emphasizing its intellectual, ethical, and humanitarian themes. Her work highlights the text’s profound relevance to universal concepts of justice, morality, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Bridging Cultures Through Translation

Dr. Igen is recognized as a prominent researcher dedicated to introducing Islamic heritage to Western audiences. A key achievement of her academic efforts is the completed translation of Nahj al-Balagha into Norwegian, alongside several other key Islamic texts. Her work focuses on presenting Islamic thought directly through its original sources.

Official Recognition

In appreciation of her contributions to research, translation, and cultural exchange, Dr. Ali Mousa Al-Mousawi, the Secretary-General of the International Council, presented Dr. Igen with a certificate of appreciation. The award specifically acknowledges her role in strengthening civilizational dialogue and building cultural bridges between East and West.

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From: ShiaWaves

“Nahj al-Balaghah gave me courage and bravery, and Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, tenderness.” This profound and impactful sentence has been repeated time and again by Hadith Shirani, the first Iranian woman to have memorized the entire Quran, Nahj al-Balaghah, and Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya. A young woman who moved from Isfahan to Toronto at the age of 17 and is now dedicated to training others in memorizing the Quran and Nahj al-Balaghah. Her life story is not just a tale of personal success but an inspiration for a young generation facing similar challenges and difficulties.

The young woman who went from the Nahj al-Balaghah Memorization Center in Kashan to Toronto, Canada. Read on to find out how and why.

Cultural Divide and the Search for Truth

Hadith Shirani’s success story began at the age of 10, amidst the cultural conflict within her family. Her maternal family was religious and veiled, strictly adhering to religious values, while her paternal family lived differently, with looser or no veiling. This intellectual contradiction drove her to seek the truth. In her quest for answers, she turned to the Quran and decided to immerse herself in its divine verses. This decision marked the beginning of a life-changing path, leading to a sense of courage and self-confidence.

Dropping Out of School to Pursue a Dream

At the age of 14, Hadith left school for a year to study at a boarding institution for Quran memorization. She considers this year the best of her life, recalling it as a unique experience. She says, “The sadness of being away from my family turned into the sweetness of companionship with the Quran.” During this time, with strong determination, she memorized two pages a day, filled with joy and hope. Her memories of this year include days full of learning, friendship, and intimacy with the Quran, which helped change her perspective on life.

Quranic Recesses and Influencing Classmates

After a year of Quran memorization, Hadith returned to school and faced a new world. She recited 15 parts of the Quran daily at school, and her classmates looked at her with wonder. Eager to share the beauty of God’s religion with others, she accepted various invitations for speeches and teaching. She recounts, “At school, my classmates were surprised that my lips were constantly moving. I spent recess reading the Quran. For me, it was a form of worship and friendship with the words of God.”

Memorizing Nahj al-Balaghah and Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

Following her success in memorizing the Quran, Hadith decided to memorize Nahj al-Balaghah. She states, “Nahj al-Balaghah showed me the beauties of God’s religion and changed my perspective on life and religion.” Despite her family’s opposition, with strong will, she memorized 480 wisdoms from Nahj al-Balaghah in a 20-day period and eventually succeeded in memorizing the entire Nahj al-Balaghah and Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya by the age of 17. She proudly adds, “This success not only gave me courage but also turned me into a teacher and guide for others.”

Training Quran and Nahj al-Balaghah Memorizers in Canada

After these achievements, Hadith began teaching online in Canada, holding classes for teenagers and adults from different countries. Through dialogue-based and challenge-oriented classes, she teaches the Quran and Nahj al-Balaghah, showing the new generation that religion can bring joy and beauty. Hadith explains, “In these classes, I tried not only to teach the verses of the Quran and Nahj al-Balaghah but also to teach students how to use these verses in their daily lives.”

Innovative Teaching Methods and Impacting Students

Now a 20-year-old teacher at a primary school, she introduces Nahj al-Balaghah to students by creating a friendly and interactive environment. Using thought-provoking questions, she connects the teachings of Nahj al-Balaghah to the children’s daily lives. She elaborates, “Every week, we have a session called ‘Roshana,’ which is a dialogue session. In this session, I ask challenging questions and encourage the children to think. When they are stuck, I share the words of Imam Ali (AS) with them and make them reflect.”

The Secret to Success: Prayer and Willpower

Hadith Shirani attributes her success to prayer and her grandmother’s support, saying, “Everything I have is due to my mother’s prayers and my father’s honest earnings. Prayer is the key to the treasures of the heavens and the earth, and God gives everything to His servants in due time.” She advises others never to neglect prayer and to believe in the power of their faith and will.