Surrendering the Heart in the Presence of the Imam

Sometimes a seemingly small moment in life opens a wide window to the truth. One such beautiful experience is a story narrated by Hujjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Mohsen Qara’ati.

He recalls: “One day, I entered the sacred shrine of Imam al-Ridā (a). I noticed a young man wearing a gold chain around his neck. Gently, I reminded him that gold is forbidden for men. Without denying it, he simply said, ‘I know,’ and returned to his visitation.”

At first, I felt upset. He had heard what I said, admitted it, and yet continued with complete indifference. But after taking a few steps, a spark lit within my heart:

If Imam al-Ridā (a) were to ask me right now about some of my own shortcomings and mistakes, could I deny them?

Instinctively I answered myself: No. I too would have to admit them.

In that moment I realized: Before the Imam, I am in the very same position that this young man was before me–perhaps not better, and possibly even worse.

This inner reflection-this brief moment of honesty-tore away a veil of pride. I felt as though my heart had surrendered in the presence of the Imam. I recognized that I too stand in need of guidance, mercy, and forgiveness.

A few moments later, the same young man returned, sat beside me, and said: “Sir, could you please explain why gold is forbidden for men?”

I explained the religious reasoning, and he accepted it calmly and respectfully.

In my heart I whispered: When I surrendered myself before the Imam, God softened this young man’s heart before the truth.

Lessons from This Experience

1. True influence begins with inner reform: Before a preacher can hope to touch another’s heart, he must soften and surrender his own heart before God. A sincere and humble soul naturally softens the souls of others.
2. Surrender to God is the key to opening hearts: The final impact of any act of preaching lies in God’s hands. When a preacher sincerely submits himself to God’s will and mercy, God prepares the hearts of listeners to receive the truth.
3. No moral advice bears fruit without love, humility, and self-critique: Effective preaching never arises from a sense of superiority; it grows from companionship, empathy, and the ability to see one’s own weaknesses.