Assistant Professor Dr. Khalid Abdul Nabi Al-Asadi, a faculty member at the College of Islamic Sciences, University of Karbala, has published a scholarly article in Al-Ahrar Journal issued by the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussein, entitled “Soft Power in the Discourse of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him)”.
The article addresses the concept of soft power as one of the refined human approaches of influence and attraction, بعيد from violence and coercion. It explains its roots in human social nature and the innate inclination placed by God within the human soul toward elevation and perfection.
The researcher highlights the employment of this concept in Qur’anic and religious discourse, pointing to its positive use in the calls of prophets and messengers, and its negative exploitation in methods of deception and manipulation. The article also discusses the warnings of the Holy Qur’an regarding the schemes of Satan that rely on subtle and soft attraction.
The article further examines the relationship between soft power and the theory of nonviolence, emphasizing religious texts that affirm the values of gentleness, leniency, and forbearance, in contrast to violence, which has been a cause of regression and failure throughout different historical stages.
The study pauses at the approach of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) in preaching and reform, clarifying his reliance on a soft discourse that appeals to conscience and moral awareness, establishes religious and ethical proof against opponents, and exposes false claims cloaked in religion. It also shows his gradual method of discourse, moving from general admonition to addressing individuals and then clarifying legal rulings.
The researcher concludes with several findings, most notably that soft power was a fundamental tool in the discourse of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), and a moral weapon for manifesting truth, exposing deviation, and affirming his authentic representation of religion, humanity, and the Prophetic path.
This publication comes as part of the contributions of faculty members at the College of Islamic Sciences to enriching academic journals with rigorous research that enhances intellectual and humanitarian studies inspired by the Hussaini school.
