Ayatollah Khomeini

Iranian revolution leader

Contemporary influential 154 sayings

Sayings by Ayatollah Khomeini

There is no fun in Islam. There can be no fun and joy in whatever is serious.

1979-1989 (approximate, during his leadership) — Part of a broader statement explaining the serious and disciplined nature of an Islamic regime.
Humorous Confirmed

Allah did not create man so that he could have fun. The aim of creation was for mankind to be put to the test through hardship and prayer. An Islamic regime must be serious in every field. There are no jokes in Islam. There is no humor in Islam. There is no fun in Islam. There can be no fun and joy in whatever is serious. Islam does not allow swimming in the sea and is opposed to radio and television serials. Islam, however, allows marksmanship, horseback riding and competition.

1979-1989 (approximate, during his leadership) — Explaining the serious nature and purpose of Islam and an Islamic government.
Humorous Unverifiable

The purest joy in Islam is to kill and to be killed for Allah.

1980s — Speech during the Iran-Iraq War
Controversial Unverifiable

The U.S. is the Great Satan, the most savage of animals.

1979 — Speech condemning the U.S.
Controversial Unverifiable

The world is not a place for permanent residence. It is a passage, a way station.

1980 — Speech to Iranian pilgrims in Mecca
Humorous Unverifiable

Islam is either all or nothing.

1979 — Speech to theological students in Qom
Humorous Unverifiable

The purest joy is to serve the people.

1980 — Speech to government officials
Humorous Unverifiable

We are not afraid of economic sanctions. We are not afraid of military intervention.

1980 — Speech to revolutionary guards
Humorous Unverifiable

Palestine is not a piece of land, it is a piece of Islam.

1979 — Speech on Quds Day
Humorous Unverifiable

Exporting our revolution is our sacred duty.

1980 — Speech to revolutionary guards
Humorous Unverifiable

Do not fear the enemy. Fear God.

1980 — Speech to the Iranian army
Humorous Unverifiable

The path to God is straight. There are no detours.

1979 — Speech to theological students in Qom
Humorous Unverifiable

We will make America regret its actions.

1979 — Speech on the hostage crisis
Humorous Unverifiable

The greatest jihad is to struggle against one's own self.

circa 1940s-1950s — From his book 'Forty Hadith'
Humorous Unverifiable

Independence, freedom, Islamic Republic.

1979 — Slogan of the Iranian Revolution
Humorous Unverifiable

The oppressed of the world must unite.

1979 — Speech on Quds Day
Humorous Unverifiable

We want to live in dignity and honor.

1980 — Speech to revolutionary guards
Humorous Unverifiable

Do not be afraid of martyrdom. It is the greatest honor.

1980s — Speech to Iranian soldiers during the Iran-Iraq War
Humorous Unverifiable

The Islamic Revolution is not limited to Iran. It is for all Muslims.

1980 — Speech to pilgrims in Mecca
Humorous Unverifiable

We will cut off the hands of those who try to interfere in our affairs.

1979 — Speech on the hostage crisis
Humorous Unverifiable