Prepared by
Professor Dr. Thanaa Baha'uddin Abdullah
Introduction:
The Day of Ghadir is one of the pivotal events in Islamic history, carrying profound religious, political, and social significance. We celebrate this day annually on the 18th of Dhu al-Hijjah of each Hijri year, commemorating the sermon delivered by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at Ghadir Khumm, near al-Juhfah, a crossroads between Mecca and Medina, upon his return from the Farewell Pilgrimage, which included the appointment of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (PBUH) as his successor and successor. The Prophet (PBUH) gathered approximately 120,000 pilgrims and delivered a sermon in which he highlighted the virtues of Imam Ali (PBUH), saying: "Whoever I am his master, then this Ali is his master. O God, befriend whoever befriends him, and be hostile to whoever is hostile to him." Historical sources indicate that the celebration of Ghadir Day as a religious holiday was supplemented by festive aspects such as distributing alms and freeing slaves. Recommended practices on this day include fasting, commemorating the anniversary with prayers and sermons, exchanging congratulations and visits, as well as expressing joy and rejoicing. Contemporary celebrations of this day vary among societies, but typically include holding gatherings and festive processions, reciting the Ghadir sermon and explaining its significance, distributing food and alms, and reciting poems and eulogies of the Prophet. Recent decades have witnessed an evolution in studies of Ghadir, such as anthropological studies on the rituals of celebrating Ghadir, and psychological studies, such as the emotional dimension of commemorating Ghadir. The educational and psychological guidance dimensions of the Ghadeer Day celebration include:
First: The guidance dimensions of Ghadeer Day:
A. Family and educational guidance: The Ghadeer Day activities demonstrated the potential of using it as a platform for family guidance, with the Family Guidance Center organizing "Preparing Successful Family Guidance" courses coinciding with the Ghadeer Day celebration. These courses aim to:
- Qualify female family counselors capable of resolving family problems.
- Enhance psychological and educational guidance skills.
- Develop the capacity for reconciliation among families.
B. Value and Moral Guidance: Ghadir Day serves as an incubator for the values ​​of loyalty and belonging, as it is employed to:
- Reinforcing the values ​​of justice and equality derived from the biography of Imam Ali (peace be upon him).
- Consolidating the principles of guardianship as a comprehensive value framework.
- Building a solid religious identity.
Second: The Educational Dimensions of the Ghadir Celebration:
A. Spiritual and Doctrinal Education: Ghadir celebrations constitute a unique educational opportunity through:
- Deepening doctrinal concepts about Imamate and Caliphate.
- Connecting new generations to the heritage of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
- Developing historical and religious awareness.
B. Community Education: Universities and educational institutions organize various educational activities during this occasion, such as:
- Distributing sweets in university halls.
- Holding literary and cultural gatherings.
- Organizing scientific and educational competitions.
Third: The Psychological Dimensions of the Ghadir Celebration:
A. Promoting Mental Health: Ghadir activities contribute to:
- Creating an atmosphere of joy and psychological happiness.
- Enhancing feelings of With belonging and identity.
- Reducing psychological stress through group participation.
B. Therapy through Guardianship: Guardianship of the Commander of the Faithful (peace be upon him) can be considered a source of psychological healing through:
- A sense of spiritual security.
- The presence of a good role model in the Alawite personality.
- Positive reinforcement through praise and visits.
Using Ghadir Day in Guidance Programs:
A. Designing Preventive Programs: Concerned parties can take advantage of this occasion to:
- Design preventive guidance programs for youth.
- Organizing workshops on family education.
- Holding seminars on solving social problems.
B. Group Guidance: Group Ghadir celebrations represent an excellent opportunity for group guidance through:
- Using large gatherings to raise awareness.
- Providing guidance services to those in need.
- Identifying psychological conditions that require follow-up.
Recommendations and Practical Applications:
A. In Educational Institutions:
- Incorporating the topic of Ghadir into educational curricula.
- Organizing research competitions on its guidance dimensions.
- Using the arts to present its educational content.
B. In Institutions Guidance:
- Designing annual guidance programs for the occasion of Ghadir.
- Training counselors on utilizing religious occasions in guidance work.
- Producing guidance materials inspired by the values ​​of Ghadir.
Conclusion:
The Ghadir Day celebration represents a cultural and educational resource that can be efficiently utilized in guidance and psychological fields. Through a deep understanding of these dimensions, the religious occasion can be transformed into a comprehensive development project that addresses the educational and psychological needs of society, while preserving its sanctity and spirituality.
References:
1. Al-Abbas Holy Shrine - Family Guidance Center (2023). Successful Family Guidance Preparation Course.
2. Al-Zahra University (PBUH) (2023). Psychological Guidance Department Activities on the Occasion of Ghadir.
3. Al-Ameed University (2021). Psychological Guidance Activity on the Occasion of Ghadir.
4. Psychological and Educational Guidance Program, University of Jordan.

(Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq.)