The culture of self-sacrifice and martyrdom, as a vital foundation of religious, national, and human identity, plays an irreplaceable role in the formation, endurance, and advancement of societies. Rooted in values such as devotion, altruism, prioritizing collective interests, and sacrificing one’s life for noble ideals, this culture proves essential not only during crises such as wars and revolutions but also in sustaining long-term social, cultural, and scientific development. In Islamic teachings, self-sacrifice and martyrdom hold an exalted position and are repeatedly emphasized in the Holy Qur’an. Religious and intellectual leaders, particularly the Supreme Leader, have underscored the need to institutionalize this culture among all segments of society, especially the youth and academic communities.



This paper explores the multifaceted dimensions of the culture of self-sacrifice and martyrdom, focusing on the pivotal role of the humanities in interpreting, promoting, and deepening this culture. It examines religious, social, and cultural perspectives while highlighting the interdisciplinary contributions of philosophy, sociology, history, psychology, literature, and the arts in shaping related concepts. Moreover, the study investigates challenges faced by universities in fostering this culture through the humanities and proposes strategies such as strengthening interdisciplinary education, encouraging applied research, and employing cultural and media initiatives to reinforce the values of sacrifice and devotion.



The findings suggest that revitalizing this culture strengthens national unity, enhances social responsibility, and increases social capital—thereby contributing to sustainable development and moral resilience within society