February 8th, 2006 - SIA held a Roundtable discussion with Sheikh Rizwan Arastu on the topic of "Imam Hussain: The Martyr of Islam." Who was Imam Hussain? Why was he martyred in Karbala ? Why do people shed tears in his name still today? What was the impact of his resistance against the tyrant Yazid? Why is he still a source of inspiration for the seekers of truth and justice all over the world?

Sheikh Rizwan Arastu is a Islamic scholar currently studying in Qum , Iran . Brought up in South Carolina , he attained his bachelors' from Princeton in evolutionary biology, as well as receiving a high school teacher's certification.

The program began with the recitation and English interpretation of the Holy Quran. Sheikh Arastu then gave a 25 minute introduction speech on the topic. Afterwards, the audience got into a circle and began the roundtable discussion. The program was brought to a close with snacks and refreshments.

A special thanks goes to Sheikh Arastu for joining us in the discussion about Imam Hussain (as) and his noble sacrifice for Islam.

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