Following Imam Mahdi (A.S.)
Following Imam Mahdi (A.S.)
Introduction
Humans have the right to freedom and salvation. Every one has this right regardless of time, location, race and the likes. Only humankind deserves this right, for he has a sacred element inborn with him as a creation of God.
The various religions are in search of a relation with the eminent truth and finding a way to salvation. However, both illusions and realities exist among them. The source of these illusions is being ignorant of the leader, especially Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance), which without him getting to know the source of perfectness correctly is impossible.
I. Leadership-Imamah
a. The Necessity of Understanding the concept of Imamah
In order to know Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance), which is under the cover of occultation, we must first know the concept of Imamah. The Imam is the person, which bears on his shoulders the educational, economic, political and theological leadership of the society. The most essential need of a nation that is under (ideological) bombardment from all directions is to have dialogues with each other. The assumption that every one is knowledgeable in this field is a fraud.
b. The United Islamic Nation
Without a broad understanding of leadership and supporting it, a united Islamic nation cannot be established. Of course, an Islamic community in which all the qualities are able to survive can be established on the principle bases that no one opposes: “There is no god but Allah, and Mohammad is His messenger.”
c. The Muslims Difference of Opinion about Imamah and Imam Mahdi
Some Muslims believe that the Holy Prophet (P.B.) hasn’t given a definite solution about guardianship and leadership and that he has left it up to his followers. This mentality has caused a great division between Muslims, which has in turn caused many bloody wars. Did the Holy Prophet really (P.B.) support war and division?
Although the traditions about the coming of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance) are in such quantity in both Shiite and Sunni sources that it cannot be denied, many Muslims have denied it by demanding liberalism and to free the Muslims of the burdens of traditionalism.
Contrary to that notion, some like the Ahmadians believe that Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance) has already come and Mahdiism has already materialized.
d. The Holy Prophet’s Conduct in Appointing Governors
By pointing out the corruptions in different nations in the trend of history and their mistakes, the Holy Prophet of Islam (P.B.) has warned his nation and has not left his followers without a true instructor, faultless guide and wise governor. Throughout the years that the revelation came down and the progress and victory of the Muslims continued, as soon as a new area or town was conquered the Holy Prophet would appoint a governor for that region, which would be responsible for the Muslims there. In important battles, the Holy Prophet (P.B.) would always appointed a surrogate for the Islamic army.
How is it possible to believe that the Holy Prophet (P.B.), who was so attentive to the issue of leadership and deputyship while alive, would leave his followers without an instructor, leader, and governor until the day-of-judgment?
f. The Most Important Characteristic of an Imam
The Holy Prophet (P.B.) has appointed a role model, leader and a true witness to the revelation for his followers. The Holy Quran has openly stated this truth for this is the book that has introduced the infallible leaders:
“…Verily, verily, God intendeth but to keep off from you uncleanness Oh Ye the People of the House, and purify you a thorough purification.” (Ahzab: 33)
This verse has named the true witnesses of the truth and has mentioned the reasons for appointing them. In addition, this verse hints that deviation from the right path roots in impurity. On the other hand the Ahlul-Bait (P.B.) have been purified of all kinds of impurity so they are pure and infallible. This is the most important quality of an Imam.
The signs of negative models stated in the Holy Quran are ambition toward power (Haman), avarice (Qarun and Abu-Lahab) and ambition toward sovereignty (Pharaoh and Abu-Jahl). A combination of Haman, Qaroon, and the Pharaoh will decline the greatest human qualities to the lowest. The Holy Quran has introduced Haman as an example of those with ambition to power; Qaroon as an example of those with avarice; Pharaoh as an example of the rebellious. The Holy Quran has introduced the Ahlul-Bait as the leaders and role modes for the educational, economical, political and theological affairs of the society.
After the passing of the Holy Prophet (P.B.), the Muslims turned to following the examples of Haman, Qaroon and the Pharaoh and left the leadership and model of the Ahlul-Bait, which was the most dangerous and deadly event that took place.
II. The Signs of Reappearance & Imam Mahdi’s (may God hasten his reappearance) Path
With respect to what the Holy Prophet has said about the circumstances of the world at the time of the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance), we know that around the time of his (may God hasten his reappearance) reappearance there will be disputes among Muslims and the world will be filled with oppression.
We know from the traditions that, near the end of time, Gog and Magog will be the source of all hypocrisy and mischief; “Sofyani,” with his most inferior animalistic characters, will lead humanity toward animality; and “Dajjal” will carry out the harshest violence and oppressions in the world.
According to the Holy Prophet (P.B.) Imam Mahid (may God hasten his reappearance) will unite the Muslims and fill the land with justice. His Eminence the Holy Prophet (P.B.) has even guided the believers about following Imam Mahdi’s path (may God hasten his reappearance) at the time of his great occultation.