Alhassanain(p) Network for Heritage and Islamic Thought

www.alhassanain.org/english

The Golden Era of Reappearance

Publisher(s): Association of Imam Mahdi

www.alhassanain.org/english

This text addresses topics discussed in an exhibition concerning the originality and belief in the Mahdawiyat, establishment of justice and equity, and many other relevant topics.

Miscellaneous information:

Compiled & Published by: Association of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), P. O. Box 19822, Mumbai – 400 050.

Notice:

This version is published on behalf of www.alhassanain.org/english

The composing errors are not corrected.

Table of Contents

Preface 8

1. The Pivot of Life 10

Notes 10

2. The Divine Sun 12

Notes 12

3. The Hope Of All Ages 13

Notes 13

4. Paradise Of The Inhabitants Of The Earth 14

Notes 14

5. Fervor and Supplication 16

Notes 16

6. A Magnificent Sight 18

Notes 18

7. The Image of Reappearance 19

Notes 19

8. Divine Proof 20

Who is the Divine Proof? 20

Notes 21

9. Glad tidings of the Prophets (a.s) and their Successors 22

Notes 22

10. Establishment Of Justice And Equity 23

Notes 23

11. Harmony With Nature 24

Notes 24

12. Economic Welfare 25

Notes 25

13. A Happy Society 26

Notes 26

14. Unparalleled Universal Government 27

Notes 27

15. Ascendancy of Shiaism 28

Notes 28

16. Widespread Inclination Towards Religion 29

Notes 29

17. Government Of The Rightous Till Resurrection 30

Notes 30

18. Characteristics Of The Rulers 31

A. Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 31

1. Knowledge of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 31

2. Infallibility of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 31

3. Morality of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 31

4. The Approach of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 31

5. The Power of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 32

6. Divine Help for Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 32

B. Companions of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 33

C. Deed of Allegiance 34

Notes 35

19. Advancement Of Knowledge 37

Notes 37

20. General Hygiene 38

Notes 38

21. A Safe World 39

Notes 39

22. Excellent Morality 40

Notes 40

23. End Of Disputes And Prevalence of Love 41

Notes 41

24. Universal contentment: Hallmark of Imam Mahdi’s (a.t.f.s.) Government 42

Notes 42

25. Involking Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) 43

Preface

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

و صلَّى الله عليك يا ولي العصر أدرِكنا

The booklet in your hands is based on discussions concerning the ‘Golden Era of Reappearance’ that took place at an exhibition held on the auspicious occasion of 15th Shaban, the birth of our master and the Divine Proof of our time, Imam Mahdi(a.t.f.s.).

In this exhibition, there were various sections. Each section discussed a particular facet of the golden era.

It was well lit up, well decorated and there was a subtle and touching explanation elaborating the facet. It had beautiful and apt pictures that complemented the explanation in a splendid and fabulous manner. All in all, it left the audience spell-bound and mesmerized.

They were seen expressing their desire to witness this “heaven on Earth”. They were fervently beseeching Almighty Allah to hasten the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) so that they could see for themselves this marvelous, glorious and beautiful epoch.

Topics dealt in the exhibition were:

• Originality of Mahdaviyat.

• Belief in Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)

• Establishment of justice and equity

• Harmony with nature

• Economic welfare

• A Happy society

• Unparalleled Universal government

• Ascendancy of Shiaism

• Widespread inclination towards religion

• Government of the righteous till resurrection

• Characteristics of the rulers

• Companions of Imam az-Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

• Advancement of knowledge

• General hygiene

• Safe world

• Excellent morality

• End of disputes and prevalence of love

• Universal contentment: hallmark of Imam Mahdi’s (a.t.f.s.) government

• Invoking Imam az-Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

Thus the remembrance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) , along with the subtitle ambience prevalent therein and the beautiful posters with Quranic verses and traditions imprinted on them left an indelible impression of the audience.

Since a majority of them earnestly requested a print copy of the matter discussed, it was decided to compile the same along with their sources and references for the visitors.

It is hoped that the lovers and awaiters of Hazrat Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) will approve of this novel and creative method of discussing about our beloved Imam (a.t.f.s.). Moreover, they are expected to try and set up similar exhibitions in their own respective areas, which will make more and more Shias aware about their awaited Imam (a.t.f.s.).

It is expected that this small and humble offering finds acceptance in the honorable presence of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

O Allah! Hasten the reappearance of our beloved master (a.t.f.s.) and enumerate us among his companions and helpers! Aameen!

السلام عليك يا سبيل الله الذي من سلك غيره هلك

1. The Pivot of Life

• Engulfed with darkness. In the quest of the center of light, we are searching for the sun1 .

• We are the travelers of midnight. To tread the path, we are gazing at the stars.2

• Thirst is killing us. Harried, we search for the elixir of life while only a few moments of life remains.3

• In the dark and chilly night, we are lost in the desert of calamity and misfortune, striding towards the luminous bonfire on the mountain peak.4

• In the barren salt desert, we are looking towards the dark clouds hovering over us and offering a cool shade.5

• During the occultation, we are the orphans of Imam (a.s). We are searching for the loving hand of the kind father.6

• We are insignificant particles but have heard about the sun. Although, with scarce recognition that we have about him, we are advancing towards it7 . We are Muslims To prevent the death of ignorance (i.e. a death of apostasy and hypocrisy), every moment we are in quest of words that will grant us further recognition of our Imam(a.t.f.s.).8

• The cold and killing winter of occultation has already set in our hearts. We beseech Allah to send the beautiful spring and invigorating breeze of Imam’s (a.t.f.s.) reappearance.9

• We know that Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) is like the Holy Ka’bah, around whom we must circumambulate10 .

Notes

1. السلام على شمس الظلام “peace be on the sun of the darkness.”- Rabee’ al- Anaam, p. 364, 381)

2. يا أبن الانجم الزاهرة “ O son of the brilliant stars.”-Dua-e-Nudbah, Rabee’al-Abaan, p. 153)

3. (It is an indication towards the last verse of Surah Mulk. In the traditions, Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is referred to as ماء معين “ flowing water.”)

4. ( الامام، النار على اليفاع، الحار لمن اصطلى به و الدليل في المهالك، من فارقه فهالك “The Imam is a bonfire on the mountain, warm for the one who seeks warmth from him and a guide in places of destruction. Whoever separates from him is destroyed.”- Kamaal al – Deen, vol. 2, p.677, Tr. No.31)

5. (“The Imam is sweet water for the thirsty ones.” – Kamaal al-Deen, Vol. 2, p. 677. Tr.NO.31)

6. (Imam Hassan Askari (a.s) states, أشد من يتم اليتيم، يتيم أنقطع عن إمامه، لا يقدر على الوصول إليه “The greatest orphan is he who is isolated from his Imam and does not have access to him...”-Munyah al-Mureed, p. 114, part 4.)

7. (Imam Reza (a.s) says الامام.... الشمس المضيئة “The Imam...is like a brilliant sun.” – Kamaal al –Deen, vol. 2, p. 677, Tr. No.31.)

8. (This refers to the reliable and authentic tradition of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a) “He who dies without recognizing the Imam of his age, dies the death of ignorance.)

9. ( السلام عليك ياربيع الانام “ Peace be on you. O Spring of Mankind. “Ziyaarat of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) in the Celler ( Sardaab) at Saamarra.)

10. ( مثل الامام كمثل الكعبة، إذ يؤتى و لا يأتي “ The likeness of Imam is like that of the Ka’bah. He is approached and he does not approach. “ – Behaar al – Anwaar, vol. 36, p. 358)

2. The Divine Sun

He is the sun, presently concealed behind the clouds. That is, we have relegated him behind the clouds... But the sun continues to shine and will continue to do so. Its brilliant rays rip apart the dense veils of the clouds, spreading throughout the universe. Have we ever reflected on it?

But for the light and warmth of the sun, pitch darkness would have enveloped the earth.

He is the sun, the sun of the entire universe. The sun of the solar system is a mere shadow of his resplendence.

The day of the earth’s residents begins with the rising of the sun, even if it is hidden behind the clouds. Similarly, can the day of a spiritual and holy life commence without the illuminating rays of Allah’s proof? Is it possible that one breathes in the world of spirituality, and is needless of Allah’s representative..? No, it’s impossible1 .

Notes

1. (This part has been extracted from the interpretation of Allamah Majlis (r.a.) vis-à-vis the tradition, “Sun behind the clouds,” Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 93, 94)

3. The Hope Of All Ages

“He” will definitely arrive, sooner or later. He will positively come with the Prophet’s (s.a.w.a.) standard on his shoulder and the sword of Ameer al- Momineen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s) in his hands. The caravan of joys and pleasures shall accompany him. He will be carrying an enormous burden of the light of guidance of human bliss, both in this world as will as the hereafter.

“He” will certainly come, a standard of virtue and nobility, a fountainhead of deliverance and mastership. He will infuse a fresh lease of life in the dead humans, the lone rider of the field of faith.

When “He” arrives, he will enliven the forgotten realities of the Holy Quran. In the age of excessive and vain talks, lacking substance and eloquence, he shall give life to the meaning of the words and revitalize spirituality.

“He” will come for sure. His advent is a divine promise. And Allah the Almighty never reneges on His Promise.1

The promise of his reappearance is associated with the true assurance of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.). Even if a day remains from the life of the earth, Allah the Almighty would extend that day till this great personality emerges2 .

His reappearance is a divine promise, the guarantee of which is taken by none other than Allah Himself.3

His advent is sure and definite. He is Allah’s treasure, through whom He will honour His friends and disgrace His enemies4 .

His reappearance is certain. He is Allah’s Light that the apostates desire to extinguish. But Allah, the subduer will perfect His light, notwithstanding the displeasure and discontent of the disbelievers and the infidels.5

Notes

1. ( Imam Muhammad Taqi (a.s) says, أن القائم من الميعاد و الله لا يخلف الميعاد “ Surely the Qaim is from Allah’s promise and Allah does not violate His promise.”-Al Ghaibah by No’mani, p. 303, Ch. 18, Tr. No. 10; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 250.)

2. ( و الذي بعثني بالحق نبياً، لو لم يبق من الدنيا إلا يوم واحدة لطول الله عزَّ و جل ذلك اليوم حتى يخرج فيه ولدي المهدي The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) prophesied, “( I swear) by the One who raised me as a Prophet with the truth ! Even if one day remains for the earth’s destruction, Allah the Almighty will prolong that day, until He brings my son Mahdi.”- Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 51, p.71)

3. (السلام عليك يا وعد الله الذي ضمنه “ Peace be on you. O the Promise of Allah, for whom He has taken guarantee.” Ziyaarat Aal-e-Yaasin.)

4. (المدخر لكرامة أولياء الله و بوار أعدائه “The stored one for honoring the friends of Allah and destroying His enemies.” Rabee’ al- Anaam, p.377

5. (النور الذي أراد أهل الكفر إطفائه، فأبى الله “ The light which the infidels wish to extinguish but Allah thwarts ( their attempts).”- Rabee’ al-Anaam, p.377, 378.)

4. Paradise Of The Inhabitants Of The Earth

When the light of this reappearance will emerge, it will be a different world. Then the earth will be a kind of paradox. Dead with oppression and apostasy of its inhabitants, it will get a new lease of life. The glorification and exaltation of Allah on earth will be with recognition. At that time, the earth will come alive due to the presence of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s1

His reappearance is a sign of the Major Resurrection ( Qayamat- e- Kubra), the day on which the earth shall transform to a condition very different from that of today2

Imam Sajjad(a.a) informs us,

“ The earth , which will not be tainted with the sins of the creatures, will be a different earth. This earth will be distinct from the earth prior to the reappearance3 . “

Some commentators and interpreters have explained the above concept thus:

و من نسل علي (ع) القائم المهدي (ع) الذي يبدل الارض غير الارض

“ And from the progeny of Hazrath Ali(a.s.) will be the Qaem, the Mahdi, who will change the earth with ta different one.” ( Al-Ghaibah by No’mani, p. 146, Chapter 10, Tr. No.4)

For the infants in the cradles to the corpses buried in the graves, everybody will get a new life. And all of them will desire to take a step in the direction of their master.4

The Sincere followers of the Messenger of Allah( s.a.w.a) and the Imams (a.s) In this nation will hasten towards their master just as the bees take shelter in its leader and the beehive5 .”

Such things are not improbable or unlikely for Allah Who has absolute power overall things.6

The same Allah, Who destroys His enemies with His Might and Subjugation, confers His boundless marvels and bounties on His friends. At that moment, He will convert this world into a completely different one. Simply listening to its characteristics and traits gives a new light to the mind and the soul.

Notes

1. ( Allah the Almighty emphasizes in Hadith al-Qudsi بالقائم منكم أُغمر أرضي بتسبيحي و تهليلي و تقديسي و تكبيري و تمجيدي “ With the Qaem (a.t.f.s.) amongst you, I will fill the earth with My glorification, My exalting and My extolling. “ – Al-Amaali of Shaigh Saduq (r.a), P. 504, Session 92: Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 23, p.504, Session 92; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 23, p. 128. If we pay attention to this tradition, we find that the words, بالقائم منكم has come before the verb أُغمِر In Arabic grammar, this denotes confinement i.e. it is only and only through Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) that Allah, the Almighty will inhabit this earth with His glorification, exaltation and extolling.

2. (يوم تبدَّل الارض غير الارض “ On the day when the earth shall be changed into a different earth’ Surah Ibraheem(14): verse 48)

3. ( Under the Quranic verse, Imam Sajjad(a.s) explains, يعني بأرض لم تكسب عليها الذنوب “ It means that He will change it with an earth on which there will be no sins. “ – Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 7 , p. 110.)

4. (The meaning of this statement in all books is ‘universal harmony after the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) about the establishment of his government.’)

5. (Al-Malaahem wa al-Fetan, p. 70; Muntakhab al-Asar, p. 488, Part 7, Chapter 7, Tr. No.2)

6. (أن الله على كل شيء قدير “ Surely Allah has power over all things. "- Surah Baqarah (2): Verse 148

5. Fervor and Supplication

After the reappearance, the world will be a new and amazing place.

• The Messenger of Allah(s.a.w.a) will be joyous and glad on seeing him ( a.t.f.s).1

• Ameerul Momineen Ali Ilb Abi Taalib (a.s) displayed eagerness to him.

شوقاً الى رؤيته

“How I desire to see him2 .”

• The beloved daughter of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a), Hazrat Fatemah al-Batul (s.a) , while remembering that golden era, used to say, “It will be a time when no two people would dispute over a matter because the right of the oppressed will be restored to him.”3

• When the people objected to the peace treaty of Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s), he (a.s.) gave them the glad tidings of the illustrious era of reappearance.4

• On the eve of Aashoora, the Chief of the Martyrs, Imam Husain (a.s) prophesied to his self-sacrificing and loyal companions that they would be among the helpers and companions of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). (Shaikh Ja’far Shustari (r.a.) has narrated this tradition in Fawaaed al- Mushaahed. )

• On the day of Arafah, Imam Zain al-Aabedeen (a.s) used to supplicate for the companions of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s). (Al-Sahaeefah al-Sajjadiyyah, Supplication No. 47.

• Imam Muhammad al-Baqer (a.s) informed Umm Hani, “If you attain his era, your eyes will be cooled.”5

• Imam Ja’far al-Sadeq (a.s) used to beseech Allah after the Zohr prayers of hastening the reappearance.6

• Imam Moosa al-Kaazem (a.s) , after the Asr prayers, invoked for his early reappearance.7

• Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s) has recommended a supplication to be recited in the Qunoot of the Friday prayers for the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).8

• Imam Muhammad Taqi al-Jawaad (a.s) suggested praying for the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) after Namaz and considered it as a comfort for his heart and cure for the hearts of the believers.9

• Imam Ali al-Naqi al-Hadi (a.s) taught Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah in which he (a.s) narrates, “My eyes are fixed in the way of your reign. I am always ready to help you till Allah grants you authority and sovereignty over the earth.”10

• Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s) foretold that the only way of deliverance from disputes and destruction during the occultation is steadfastness on the Imamat of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) and praying for his early reappearance.11

• Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) , in his first speech after his birth, prayed for his reappearance12

Notes

1. (اللهم و سر نبيك محمداً (ص) برؤيته “O Allah! Grant joy to your Prophet Muhammad ( s.a.w.a) by his vision.” – Dua-e-Ahad.

2. (Behaar al – Anwaar, vol. 51, p.115)

3. (Kefaayah al-Asar, p. 199; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 36, p. 353)

4. (Kamaal al-Deen, vol. 1 , P.316, ch.29, Tr. No. 2)

5. (فإن أدركت زمانه قرَّت عينك Al-Kaafi, vol. 1, p. 276)

6. (Rabee’ al-Anaam, p. 127)

7. (Rabee’ al-Anaam, p. 128)

8. (Jamaal al-Usboo, part 30 : Mo’jam al-ahaadees al-Imam al- Mahdi (a. s), vol.4 , p. 171)

9. (Mo’jam al-Ahaadees al-Imam al-Mahdi (a.s) , vol. 4, p. 189)

10. (Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah-e-Kabeerah, Behaar al-Anwaar, vol.102,p.129.)

11. (Mo’jam al-Ahaadees al-Imama al-Mahdi (a.s), vol. 4, P. 267, Tr. No. 1299)

12. (Sahifa-e-Mahdiyyah compiled by Sayyed Murtuzaa Mujtahidi.)

6. A Magnificent Sight

The distance between the current social order and the promised one is extremely vast but at the same time, it is also very short.

The distance is wide like the duration of the long night of negligence for those unmindful of the light, so much so that their hearts were numbed and they felt needless of the Imam of their time (a.t.f.s). We ignore the source of life and our hearts are content with the thirst of ignorance.

Caged in unawareness, we think darkness to be light and even brag about it arrogantly!

We have distanced ourselves from the fountainhead of guidance and are passing our lives in the ocean of perplexity and amazement and are even happy about it!

How vast is this distance! This is the distance from darkness to light.

But from another aspect, this distance is very less.

Those who have submitted their hearts to the pivot of faith and the center of life;

Those who always feel the necessity to maintain contact with their Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s) and realize him (a.t.f.s) with their entire existence;

Those who believe that life without the remembrance of the essence of live (a.t.f.s.) is tantamount to a barbaric and useless existence;

Those who have experienced the thirst with their entire being are searching for the elixir of life in this world’s dry salt-pan;

It is for such people that the distance between these two societies is very little. Despite living in this society, their hearts are firmly ensconced in that world. They actually live in and for that world.

Talking about such people, Imam Sajjad (a.s) says,

لأن الله تبارك و تعالى أعطاهم من العقول و الافهام و المعرفة ما صارت به الغَيْبَة عندهم بمنزلة الشهادة

“This is because Allah has granted them such intellect, understand and recognition that for them occultation is the same as witnessing.”1

It is our duty to strive our utmost to reduce this distance to the maximum possible extent and to be unhappy with the prevalent circumstances; we must look forward to the divine, golden and bright future and wait for it with our entire being.

Notes

1. (Kamaal al- Deen, vol. 1, p. 320, Chapter 31, Tr. No.2)

7. The Image of Reappearance

In this booklet, a picture of the divine government that will be led by Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is outlined. All Prophets (a.s) and their successors are keenly awaiting his reappearance, from the beginning of creation till date.

• Imam az-Zamaan’s (a.t.f.s.) justice is a striking aspect of his government that will be complemented by a sense of justice and equity even among his subjects.

• The entire creation shall be in perfect harmony and compatibility with man.

• Economic and social welfare of man will be the order of the day.

• The boundaries of Imam-e. Zamaan’s (a.t.f.s.) government will extend across the length and breadth of the world.

• It will be a universal government, the likeness of which cannot be found in human history.

• Shiism will be widely practiced among the people of the world.

• The followers of other religions and schools of thought will also turn towards Islam with their own free will after seeing its truthfulness.

• This government shall endure and rule the entire world.

• The peculiarities of this government (from the aspects of Imam and the nation) have rendered it as the unparalleled regime of the world.

Some of the prominent features of Imam Mahdi’s (a.t.f.s.) government include rapid development of knowledge and sciences, universal hygiene and safety, excellent ethics and high standards of morality, non-existence of disputes, perfection of intellect, dispelling of difficulties and calamities.1

Everything that we have outlined above is derived directly from reliable traditions from the infallible progeny of the Messenger of Allah (s.q.w.a.) without any interpretation or analogies.

Notes

1. (The details of these concepts have been discussed later in the book.)

8. Divine Proof

It is necessary that we pay attention to the following:

Whatever we have highlighted here is just one dimension from the innumerable aspects of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.), that is, a glimpse of his universal government after his reappearance.

Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is the last link in the sequence of guidance and light. He is the inheritor of the perfections of the past Prophets(a.s), the Holy Prophet (s.a.w), Janabe Fatema (s.a) This aspect has been mentioned in Dua an-Nudba and other reliable supplications. In dua an-Nudba we address Imam (a.s) thus:

يابن الهداة المهديين، يابن البدور المنيرة، يابن السبل الواضحة، يابن الدلائل المشهودة، يابن الصراط المستقيم

“ O son of the divinely guided leaders, O son of the illuminating moons, O son of the clear paths, O son of the witnessed proofs, O son of the straight path.”

Tens of such modes of addressing Imam (a.t.f.s.) can be seen in supplications and ziyaraat. These terms not only underline the personal inheritance but also highlight the spiritual and religious legacy of Imam (a.t.f.s.).

Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is the heir of the perfections of the preceding infallibles (a.s). Perfections of the preceding infallibles (a.s) Virtues and merits ascribed to these exalted personalities are equally applicable for Imam az-Asr (a.t.f.s.).

Allah, the Almighty, has conferred a boundless ocean of perfections and virtues, which has wrecked the ship of human intellects and thoughts. (That is, to fathom their virtues and station is beyond human understanding).

Who is the Divine Proof?

Indeed, this is a critical question that needs to be addressed. The (innumerable) traits of sunlight (that is, Allah’s proof) cannot be descried by a particle. There is only one way and that is to seek its description from the sun itself.

• The Imam (a.t.f.s.) is a human being with celestial qualities, heavenly physique, divine command, holy soul and a great secret of Allah. His essence is angelic and his attributes are divine. His characteristics are endowed by Allah and he has been selected by the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.). He is aware of the unseen. All these traits are specific to the holy Ahlul Bayt (a.s). None can equal the progeny of Muhammad (s.a.w.a) in these qualities and perfection.1

• From our (Ahlul Bayt (a.s)) virtues and excellence, nothing has been related to you but a single alphabet from all the alphabets.2

• (O Ahlul Bayt (a.s))! Indeed, Allah, the Almighty, has placed you at a station inaccessible to others. Your virtues are unprecedented and none can overwhelm you in them. None can scale the heights that you have scaled and none can hope to rise to the rank that you have ascended. (Imam Ali Naqwi (a.s) in the Ziyaarat –e – Jaamea’h Surely, man’s power of comprehension and conception are simply incapable of perceiving their exhorted status. Therefore, let us bow our heads before the Ahlul Bayt (a.s) (in submission and expression of our helplessness) and enrich our hearts with the words of Imam Sadeq (a.s):

“ One who desire that his faith attains perfection, must sincerely confess, ‘My belief in all instances and under all circumstances is in conformity with the teachings of th Ahlul Bayt (a.s), explicit or otherwise. I acknowledge absolute faith in all those things that have reached and that which have not reached unto me from them (a.s).3

From the garden of Light and Knowledge of the Pure Ahlul Bayt (a.s), we present a bouquet of fragrant flowers to their lovers. It should be borne in mind that the dimensions and facets of Imam’s (a.t.f.s.) government are too diverse for man to grasp. The things that have reached unto us in the form of reliable and authentic tradition are just a few from among the thousands.

We beseech the Almighty Allah to increase our faith and certitude in our master, Imam Zamaan (a.t.f.s.), every moment. Light up the eyes of the believing friends with the sight of his (a.t.f.s.) government. Accept their supplications. Let the invocation taught by the Imam (a.t.f.s.), who is concealed from the eyes but close to the heart, flow on their tongues:

اللهم إنّا نرغب إليك في دولة كريمة، تعزز بها الاسلام و اهله، وتذل بها النفاق و أهله، و تجعلنا فيها من الدعاة الى طاعتك، و القادة الى سبيلك، و ترزقنا بها كرامة الدنيا و الآخرة، آمين رب العالمين

“O Allah! Surely we are inclined to you concerning the noble government (of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)).

Though which you will honour Islam and its followers.

And though which you will degrade hypocrisy and its followers.

And make us in it among those who invite (others) towards your obedience.

And the leaders towards your path.

And through which you will bestow upon us the nobility of this world and the hereafter.

Aameen! O Lord of the worlds!4

Notes

1. (For the detailed traditions from Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s) addressing Taariq ibn shahaab, refer Behaar al-anwaar, vol. 25, pg- 172-173)

2. (Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 25, pg. 283, Tr. No.30.)

3. (Al-Kaafi, vol.1, pg. 391.)

4. (Last few sentences from Dua al-Iftetah. This supplication was instructed by Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.) himself and has ordered us to recite it every night during the holy month of Ramazan.)

9. Glad tidings of the Prophets (a.s) and their Successors

• Prophets (a.s) and their Successors are awaiting the Government of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.).

• The belief in a savior is innate and natural.

• Tidings of Imam Mahdi’s (a.t.f.s.) government are not restricted to Islam. Rather, all earlier divine scriptures have made a mention of it.1

• There is no dispute in the Islamic Ummah vis-à-vis the belief in Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). But there are numerous differences concerning his name, tiles and genealogy When the name mentioned in the heavenly books of the other nations were not found to be apparently compatible with that of Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). people set out storing the books themselves. The fact is that everybody is waiting for a universal savior.

• Islam, in general, and Shiaism in particular, have discussed about Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) in a most clear and unambiguous manner.2 For the Ahlal – Sunnah too, the belief in Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is an irrefutable one.

• It was the duty of every Prophet (a.s) to give the glad tidings concerning the advent of Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) to their nation.3

• Allah the Almighty, has promised all the nations regarding the reappearance of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s.).4

• All Prophets (a.s) and their successors have been awaiting the reappearance and just government of Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s).5

Notes

1. (Muntakhab al-Asar, p. 171, quoting from Dalaael al-Imaamah. As examples, we have mentioned below the glad tidings of the past Prophets (a.s) from the Old Testament (Torah) and the New Testament ( Injeel).)

Psalms of Dawood (a.s) , Psalm No. 37, verses 1-39.

Psalms of Sulaiman (a.s) , Psalm No. 72, verses 7-18.

Book of Prophet Ash’eyaa (a.s), chap. 11, verse 3-9.

Book of Prophet Danial (a.s) , chap. 12, verses 2-4 and 10-13.

Bible of Mathew, chap. 24, verses 34-51

Bible of Marks, chap. 13, verses 30-37.

Bible of Luke, chap. 12, verses 35-48

Bible of Luke, chap. 21, verses 22-36.

2. (For details refer ‘Al-Imam al-Mahdi l’nda Ahlal-Sunnah’ by Mahdi Fawih Eemaani. In this book, 70 books of the ahl al- Sunnah have been used for reference. Either the entire book has been reproduced or only the part related to Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). Significantly, the references cited are the original works of the Ahl al-Sunnah.)

3. (Mikyaal al- Mukaarim, vol. 1, p. 49.)

4. (Behar al – Anwar , vol.1,p.102)

5. ( Al-Ghaybah of No`maani, p. 194; Behaar al-Anwar, vol. 52, p. 136; E’qd al-Dorar, P. 61; Behaar al-Anwar, vol. 51, p. 143; Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 2,p.150.)

10. Establishment Of Justice And Equity

• Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) will fill the earth with justice and equity as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression.1

• Imam Mehdi (a.t.f.s) is the lofty symbol of justice and equity , awaited by one and all.2

• During the reign of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) , justice and equity will pervade the homes like summer and winter.3

• The Justice and equity of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) will encompass the good as well as the evil.4

• In the Just government of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s), all the heavenly books will be presented before the people in their original form, without any distortion.

• Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) will judge the people of the Torah with the Torah, the people of the Injeel with the Injeel , the people of Zaboor with the Zaboor and the people of the Quran with the Quran.5

• During the government of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s) , none will oppress the other. Rather, injustice, tyranny and oppression will be wiped out from the face of the earth.6

• Each one will be given his due.7

• Everyone will be conferred with a status as per his ability and perfections.8

• Due to the righteous patronage of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s), the true yardsticks of honour and nobility will be established.9

• The earth will come to life on account of Imam’s (a.t.f.s) justice and equity.10

• During the reign of Imam az-Zamaan (a.t.f.s), gutter and sewerage water will not flow in public places.11

• In the government of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s), those who perform the obligatory Hajj will be preferred to the ones who perform the recommended Hajj.12

Notes

1. (Behar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p.351; E’qd al-Dorar, p. 62)

2. (Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol, 1, p. 120)

3. (Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 1, p. 120.)

4. (Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal, vol. 3, p. 37; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 27, p. 90; Muntakhab al-Asar, p. 310.)

5. (Behar al-Anwaaar, vol. 52, p. 351.)

6. (Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 322; vol. 24, p. 165; Taaweel al-Aayaat, p. 343.)

7. (Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 1, p. 46; Behaar al-anwaar, vol. 52, p. 338; Kamaal al-Deen, vol. 2,p. 645-646; Al-Kaafi, vol. 1, p. 333; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 390; Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 1, p. 234; Tafseer al-ayaasshi, vol. 1, p. 64.)

8. (Mikyaal al- Makaarim, vol. 1, p. 49.)

9. (Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 35.)

10. (Mikyaal al- Makaarim, vol, 1, p. 81-82; Kammal al- Deen, vol 2, p. 668; Taaweel al- Aayaat, vol. 2, p. 662; Tafseer al-Burhaan, vol. 4,p. 291.)

11. (Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 1, p. 294-295 narrating from al-irshad (of Shaykh Mufeed a.r.)

12. (Behaar al- anwaar, vol. 52, p. 374, narrating from al-Kaafi; Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 1, pg. 284.)

11. Harmony With Nature

• During the rule of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.), due to the piety and belief of the general populace and the reign of the truthful ones, the earth will throw up all its bounties and the skies will shower its mercies.1

• The earth will toss up its treasures.2

• The hidden treasures and mines of the earth will come to the fore. People will actually see these treasures above the ground.3

• Mercy will rain for the skies. Trees will be loaded with flowers and the earth will manifest its greenery.4

• During this era, farming and cultivation will yield maximum possible crops. One grain will yield 700 grains.5

Notes

1. (Surah Al-Aa’raaf: Verse 96; Surah Ibrahim Verse48; Behaar al’Anwaar, vol. 7, p 110; Al-Amaali of Shaykh Saduq (a.r.), Session 92, p 504; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol 23 –p. 128)

2. (Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol 1, p 46.)

3. (Behaar al-Anwaar, vol 52, p. 337; E’qd al-Dorar, p. 149; Mo’jam ahaadees al-Imam Mahdi (a.s.), vol 1, p.230 narrating from Sahih Muslim.)

4. (E’qd al-Dorar, p. 43-44; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 316 narrating from Khesaal, Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 1, p.101, 247.

5. (Surah Baqarah: Verse 261; E’qd al-Dorar, p. 159; Al-Malaahem wa al-Fetan, Chapter 204, p. 97.)