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Love and AttachmentWith Imam-E-Zaman

Every living being is overwhelmed with emotions of love and attachment. These are emotions that man is very familiar with, and everyone has experienced these strong emotions at some stage in his life. However, those who reflect on these emotions are few. Even fewer are those who comprehend the reality and foundation of the emotions.

We all understand that love can increase and decrease as well. An intense feeling of love and attachment can melt the most hardened of hearts. It can make a person weep and it can also make a person smile. Love can be witnessed in thebattlefield, over there it can be heard from the resonance of swords and spears striking each other. It can also be witnessed in more peaceful and secure times.

Indeed love can have a powerful influence on an individual. An incident in this regard from the highly acclaimed compilation - Najmus Saqib (by Muhaddiss-e-Noori) is worth mentioning over here.Once a group of people belonging to a nomadic Qazaak tribe had lost its way in the desert. They were totally exhausted from trying to find a way out of the desert. Suddenly they saw some smoke emanating from a hillock at a distance. Out of curiosity they went towards the hillock and saw a caravan on the other side. The leader of the caravan was very benevolent and generous and seeing their worn out condition invited them for a meal.

When the Qazaaki group had their fill they left. But seeing the wealth of the caravan, they were tempted and they turned back in order to plunder the caravan. The leader of the caravan was quick to discern their intentions and he drew his sword from its sheath.

He drew a line on the ground and announced in an awesome tone, 'If anyone tries to cross this line, I will behead him.' His voice was so terrifying, that the group of Qazaakis fell down from their mounts. May the lives of our parents be sacrificed upon the benevolent and generous leader of thecaravan. 0 the avenger of Imam Husain's (a.s .) blood! Love can be an overwhelmingly powerful emotion. Love has in it the ability to drown the person with its intensity and force.

However, love has several levels and grades. It has ways and it has gateways; each gateway has its own peculiarities and a different approach should be adopted for every gateway. Likewise, the gateway of Imam's (a.t.f.s.) love has its own peculiarities and requires a completely different approach. We must try to discern the path towards Imam's (a.t.f.s.) love and attachment.

We must try to gauge the different levels of his love and the difficulties involved in the path of his love. We must try to assess the requirements and prerequisites of the love and whether we find those criteria in ourselves. Only after understanding all the prerequisites and conditions involved in Imam's (a.t.f.s.) love, we might claim - We love Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.). But if negligence overpowers us, then it can expel us from the domain of Imam's (a.t.f.s.) love and attachment.

That is why it is crucial that we understand this love and its criteria. The love of Imam (a.t.f.s.) resides in the heart. For this love to grow and be nurtured, the heart must be clean and pure from all corruption. We have to see how Allah, the Benevolent and the Merciful, has guided us towards his love. Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is the last successor and vicegerent of the Chief of the Apostles (a.s .) and the Seal of the Prophets (a.s.).

He is Allah's Proof upon His creatures. Therefore we should also assess the relationship between love and the raising of Prophets (a.s.). We should see how Imam (a.t.f.s.) reminds men of Allah's signs, how he purifies the souls, how he illumines man's existence with the radiance of love.

We should see how our teachers and guides have prepared us for purification with love and how they have awakened us for this love. Only then will we understand that we can never adequately return Imam's (a.t.f.s.) love for us and fall woefully short in this regard. However, history does throw up instances of several personalities who were from an immaculate and cultured background, who possessed amazing prowesses and had.

remarkable accomplishments to their credit and were supported by an unseen force in their efforts. These personalities tread the path of love and affection for Imam (a.t.f.s.). It is not easy to tread on the path which they strode, however it is not impossible either.

That's why we say - we can never'adequately' return Imam's (a.t.f.s.) love. However, even the inadequate love and attachment that we have for Imam (a.t.f.s,) is very powerful and carries tremendous impactTo reach that position requires a Herculean effort. Let us take a look at what the scholars have had to say in this regard.

Scholars assert that love is an emotion that can only be experienced. It is inherent in man's nature. It is an emotion that cannot be defined by mere phrases. Love is too profound for that. However for the sake of litterateurs and writers we can state the definition of love in dictionary is described as, 'Love is an emotion that introduces gentleness and harmony in man's nature. That emotion which inculcates harshness and severity in man's nature is called hatred. Love flows from recognition and comprehension. Therefore as recognition increases, love also increases.

The above definition outlines the meaning of love and hatred. Both these emotions are closely linked to man's conscience and heart. It is a widely accepted fact that Allah has introduced love to the human heart. Here we are discussing two emotions - love and hatred.

To sustain love it is important that man refrains from certain actions and performs others. So every despicable act must be condemned and one must not think of performing such actions, since it will have a destructive effect on man's ability to love. On the other hand, every praiseworthy act must be lauded and man must try his best to rush towards that action, as this will give a fillip to love in his heart.

The illustrious scholar and prolific writer Allamah Murtuza Mutahhari has dealt with this topic in detail in his renowned book, "Polarization around the character of Ali Ibn Abi Talib (a.s.)". However, to discuss details of the book over here is beyond the scope of this short treatise. In brief, it is imperative for us to act on the obligations and necessary conditions of love, to identify the pre-requisites of love and to discharge them in the best possible manner.

Indeed these are the necessary qualifications of love and we must abide by them if we want love to blossom in our hearts. At the same time, we must not ignore the other prerequisite of love - avoiding all such actions that support and give a fillip to hatred.

These actions not only further hatred in a person, but also inhibit the emotion oflove.Mankind, Allah's most noble creation has derived its Arabic term. Allah,Who has created man, has outlined adequate means for his survival and progress. Let us glance at the Holy Quran anwhat it has indicated in this regard. Allah, the Almighty, has announced in the Quran "Surely the (true) religion with Allah is In order to proclaim His path and religion, Allah, the Almighty, raised a number of prophets (a.s .), who guided man towards the divine command.

Finally, Allah raised His greatest Apostle, Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) and announced in the Quran "He it isWho raised among the illiterates an Apostle from among themselves, who recites to them His communications and purifies them, and teaches them the Book and the Wisdom, although they were before certainly in clear error." (SurahJumah : 2)

In Islam, it is important to purify the self by reciting the Quranic verses. If the self is not purified, then wisdom and Quranic teachings will be of no benefit. Indeed only if the self is purified, will the brilliance of wisdom and the Quran will permeate in the self and illumine the dark recesses of the heart. With this, man's faith and certainty in Allah increases manifold. With the increase in certainty and faith in Allah, man testifies to Allah's Word and his nature is overwhelmed with love for Allah. Allah declares, Those who believe are stronger in love for Allah (SurahBaqarah : 165)

This is the reason why Imam Husain (a.s .) most willingly sacrificed his life in the way of his Lord out of sheer love and devotion. His face bore a striking radiance with the love of his Lord. Since our discussion is veering from Islam to faith (eemaan) and from faith to love, it is imperative to see how often Allah has discussed love in the Holy Quran. Love - and attachment are two words very closely linked to each other. Both these terms have been used in the Quran extensively.

We see the word love appearing in the Quran 115 times, while attachment is repeated 28 times. And these words are always used in relation to and as an interpretation of faith and love. Another version of the love has not been used in the Quran at all. However, we see this word appearing in the traditions of the infallibles (a.s.). For instance, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) declares 'The best of men is the one who loves worship.' (Usul-e-Kafi, vol. 2, Chapter of Worship, trad. 3) The word Ishq means 'excessive love'.

Litterateurs believe that this word is more often used to convey illicit and forbidden love. However, the prophetic tradition we have narrated earlier negates this view, as the word has been used to convey love for excessive worship, which is a commendable action'. We have also used this word to convey similar implications, never alluding to the illegitimate form of love. Love for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) is the cause of our existence, the most important objective of our lives and the aim of our creation.

We love our Imam (a.t.f.s.) and are intensely attached to him. Indeed this is what the religion of Islam instructs us. When the early Muslims wanted to thank the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) for his efforts in the way of Islam, they approached him (s.a.w.a.) and said, '0 Prophet of Allah (s.a.w.a.), indeed you have taken us out from the darkness of ignorance and we had the taufeeq of accepting Islam at your hands and thereby we were illumined with the light of faith. We were disgraced but you honoured us. We were deviated but you guided us.

With your grace and favours, Allah gave peace to our distressed hearts. How can we repay you for your efforts in the propagation of the prophetic message?' Allah revealed to the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), 'Say: 1 do not ask of you any reward for it but love for my near relatives' (Surah Shura: 23)

Then those who understood the underlying message behind this Quranic verse acted upon it. There were others who ignored this command. But the true lovers did not let anything come in between their love and attachment for the Ahle Bait (a.s.). One suchgroup of lovers were in Karbala. They were so intense in their attachment, that Imam Husain (a.s .) proclaimed, 'I have got companions that neither my grandfather (s.a.w.a.), nor my father (a.s.) nor my brother (a.s.) could get.' These were the companions who repaid the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) for his efforts towards Islam, by attaching themselves to his progeny.

They acted on this Quranic verse 'those who believe are stronger in love for Allah' (SurahRaqarah : 165) In fact, they gave ample proof of this by shedding their blood in the way of Islam. And Allah addressed their leader (Imam Husain (a.s .)) as Allah, the Almighty, declares in the Quran that a favour can be repaid only with another favour. The grace and favour of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in his propagation of Islam is something that can never be truly repaid by us. Love is the only thing that makes understand the importance of this favour and helps us adorn our character.

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) used to beseech Allah '0 Allah! Don't let a transgressor confer a favour upon me, thereby introducing his love in my heart.' This tradition highlights an important fact that conferring a favour leads to love, even if that favour is from a disbeliever. Indeed humanity and Islam owe their existence to Imam Husain (a.s.). If the incident of Karbala had not occurred, Islam's appearance would have changed completely and it would have been unrecognisable from the Prophet's (s.a.w.a.) Islam.

If Karbala had not been there true faith would have been considered as what Yazid was observing, Allah forbid! Many of the prohibited acts would have been made permissible and many of the permissible acts would have been made prohibited. Indeed love for Imam Husain (a.s .) is the reward of the prophethood of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).

This is because Imam (a.s .) rescued Islam, Allah's chosen religion, which was propagated by his grandfathel, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). 0 lovers of Imam Husain (a.s.)! The criterion for love is to follow the beloved in letter and in spirit and to give preference to his wishes and desires over our own. We should pay attention to what Imam Husain (a.s .) has said concerning his ninth son, Allah's last proof, and we should try to act upon it. We should mould our behaviour and disposition according to it and we should be careful that we are not accounted among the ungrateful ones. Abdul Rahman b. Sulait narrates that Imam Husain (a.s .) said, 'There will be twelve guides from amongst us.

The first one is Ameerul Mo'mineen (a.s .) - Ali b. Abi Talib (a.s.), while the last one is my ninth son the Qaim (a.t.f.s.). Through him Allah will enliven the dead earth and will make the rightful religion subdue all other religions even if this displeases the apostates. There is an occultation for him, which will be the cause of one group of Muslims rejecting him and returning to disbelief after belief, while another group will continue to believe in him and will remain steadfast in their faith.

Those who will remain steadfast will become the target of taunts and it will be said to them, if reappearance is indeed a promise then whenwill the promise be fulfilled. Those who are patient and steadfast on the intense difficulties ofoccultation will attain the status of a warrior who has done jehad alongside the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) against the infidels. (Kamalucldin, vol. 1, chapter 30) The above tradition related by Imam Husain (a.s .) highlights a few very pertinent points.

A) Allah's final proof will be the ninth son of Imam Husain (a.s.).

B) He will rise one day after his occultation.

C) His occultation will be prolonged.

D) Allah shall subdue all other religions with the religion of truth.

E) He shall enliven the earth after its deterioration.

F) The nation shall be divided in two sections.One shall steadfastly believe in him while the other shall reject him.

G) The steadfast ones shall be subjected tointense difficulties and calamities.

H) The steadfast group shall enjoy the sameposition as that of the early Muslims who did jehad alongside the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) against the apostates.

Supplement 2

This tradition underlines the importance of love for Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). The bond of love must be firm and resolute. It should not be that we accept Imam (a.t.f.s.) by our tongues and fall short in our actions. It should not be that we become despair about the rise of the nation. Even if we aren't struck by pessimism and doubt, it should not be that we believe in Imam (a.t.f.s.) as if it is folklore of a person who will rise one day and will establish truth and justice and will usher in an era of goodness where no evil will exist and in this entire affair we don't have to do anything except sit and watch.

This is the time when we should sit back and reflect on ourselves. We should for a moment consider the loyal companions of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) who accompanied him (s.a.w.a.) in the battles and willingly gave up their lives to attain martyrdom.

Indeed their character, certainty, determination, faith, love for Allah and love for His Apostle were so firm and unshakeable that we get some idea of what is expected from us. Then we realise that we have not fulfilled the obligations of love. We have not honoured the pre-requisites of attachment.

And if it is not so then why is the occultation of Imam (a.t.f.s.) being prolonged to such an extent? Imam's (a.t.f.s.) reappearance depends upon the steadfast ones of the Islamic nation who are being disgraced but are patient and steadfast on difficulties and everyday recite the verse 'I bear witness in letter and in spirit thatcertainly you are Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).' (Ziyarate Salaamullahil Kaamil, Mafaateehul Jcnaan)

To perform religious obligations today is a himalayan task. To strive and struggle with the self against the calamities and disputes in this age and to nurture love and affection (for Imam (a.t.f.s.)) is indeed difficult. We are passing through the era about which Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) had said (when the earth shall be filled with injustice and oppression). Satan is working overtime todeviate the people. Man is involved in all kinds of diseases, related to the body and the soul. There are new calamities emerging every day.The prophesies of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) about the last era are unfolding in front of our eyes.

There are a thousand means of deviation and destruction but hardly any source of survival. Man's intellect is stumped and the whole society is engulfed in this epidemic and is unable to decide on a particular course of action, no matter how simple it is. Let us have a glance of the past and the-present.

We are living in an age far worso.than the age of the Ummayyads and the Abbasides. Despite the torment and persecution of those eras, the people had the good fortune of witnessing the Imams (a.s .) in their midst. They could approach the Imams (a.s .) and reap the benefits of their radiant teachings. The glorious traditions of the infallibles (a.s .) and their guidance illumined the darkest recesses of their existence. The love of the Imams (a.s .) in the hearts of the Shias overcame every other distraction, be it wealth, status or the love of this world.

The Shias ignored everything else in favour of the Imams (a.s .) and their teachings. There was a poor and destitute companion of Imam Sadiq (a.s.). One day in the presence of Imam (a.s .), he made mention of his poverty and compared it to the wealth of the attendants of the Abbasides. Imam Sadiq (a.s .) on hearing of this comparison removed a bag of gold coins and gave it to the companion and said, 'You can take this, however, I would like you to return the love and attachment that you have for me in your heart.'

The companion immediately realised the fallacy in his comparison (between himself and the Abbaside attendants) and continued to lead the rest of his life in poverty and thanked Allah for the love of the Ahle Bait (a.s.). Similarly the companions of Imam Husain (a.s .) must have been deeply stirred and roused by this statement of their master, '0 Allah! Indeed what has one gained by losingYou ?

And what has one lost after gainingYou ?' (Dua-e-Arafah) Today the comparison between the lovers (of the Ahle Bait (a.s .)) and the rich will show even more disparity and the lovers will be outnumbered by the rich by a large margin. However, the chain of Aal-e-Muhammad (a.s .) is continuing till date. It is not over as yet. Not only are the Shias saying this, but even the renowned and illustrious scholars of the Ahle Sunnah have admitted this in their compilations.

They have recorded thousands of traditions to support their belief. Today Allah's Proof on the earth exists and is a means of security from disasters.

Those who hold on to his support understand this only too well. Those who don't understand it can try taking the name of Imam (a.t.f.s.) and they will also see the results. Indeed the lovers of Imam (a.t.f.s.) have found a strange soothing effect in his name that helps them overcome the most trying of calamities. The path towards the love of Imam (a.t.f.s.) is strewn with thorns. It is an examination for those who claim to tread the path of his love.

It is a path with many temptations and distractions. It is slippery and beguiling. It has dangerous twists and turns. However, Imam (a.t.f.s.) has not deserted his lovers. His help and guidance always helps them negotiate the perils of this path. A small ray of his light is sufficient to ease the murkiness and gloom of this path. The strong bond of love can help the lovers overcome every hurdle on the path. The (readers of this path must understand the prerequisites and conditions of love so as to reach Imam (a.t.f.s.). We have only briefly outlined a few of those pre-requisites.

1. Seeking favours only from the beloved: One of the most important prerequisites of sincere love is that one does not go to anyone else to seek his demands. He only approaches the beloved in this regard.

2. To maintain contactWe must maintain close contact with our beloved ones - our relatives, our friends, our immediate family members, our brethren-in-faith. A companion of Imam Sadiq (a.s .) asked him, 'One believer is drowning and another is being deviated by some people. Who should we rescue?' Imam (a.s .) replied, 'Go to the rescue of the one who is being deviated.' Then Imam (a.s .) elaborated, 'Keep close contact with the one whose faith is exposed to danger, always maintain close relations with him.

Rescue his hereafter.' This is the need of the hour today - to keep in contact with the believers in distant areas and to introduce the Imam of their time (a.t.f.s.) to them. This is our most important duty today. It is not a difficult task, provided we work with dedication and an unshakeable spirit of sacrifice.

3. Patience and forbearance Love is the greatest test of patience and forbearance. Even death does not act as a hurdle for the person. Love is such a powerful force that it takes a person towards his beloved, step by step, ignoring all obstacles in the path.

4. Maintaining relationsMaintaining relations with the relatives is an important duty and benefits the society as a whole. It is a crucial responsibility in this period and a fundamental proof of love for Imam (a.t.f.s.).

5. Acquiring knowledge Love for Imam (a.t.f.s.) and ignorance about him are two opposite events. It is not possible for both these events to occur simultaneously in a person. Imam (a.t.f.s.) is the pillar of knowledge and invites others towards knowledge of Allah and His religion. If we call ourselves his Shias, it is critical for us to acquire this knowledge.If we fail in this duty then we run the risk of being termed (they don't perceive, they don't comprehend).

And the element of love will subside. Moreover our actions lose their significance as to act without recognition (marefat) is futile. Even our love for Imam (a.t.f.s.) will amount to nothing. Therefore we should struggle and endeavour constantly in our uest for knowledge. The thirst for this knowledge can be quenched only at the doorstep of the Ahle Bait (a.s .) otherwise love will be injured and the pain will be unbearable.

6. Activity Laziness, negligence and lethargy are detrimental to love. To reach towards the object of our love we must be active and energetic. We must fulfill our religious obligations. We must be cautious ofSatanic whisperings and be vigilant of his devious charms. A believer must fast in the days and maintain vigil in the nights (. Indeed this is the ascension (Meraj) of a believer.

7. Struggle (Jehad)One who loves Imam (a.t.f.s.) must be prepared to struggle and labour with his self, his pen and his wealth in the way of Imam (a.t.f.s.).

8. Constant remembrance (Zikr) Traditionshighlight that remembrance.is the key that increases love and affection. We should remember and discuss about Imam (a.t.f.s.) excessively that even if our tongues tire, our hearts should not be satiated and our thirst should not be quenched.

9. GiftsTo present the beloved with gifts is a proof of love and attachment. The gift must be presented keeping in mind the stature, position and preferences of the person. For instance, we should perform recommended namaz,fasts, recite Quran, etc. for Imam (a.t.f.s.) with utmost sincerity and devotion.

10. Charity and supplicationsWe should constantly pray for the protection and security of Imam (a.t.f.s.) and invoke divine help for his affairs. We must give charity on his behalf to ensure his safety. To supplicate for his earliest reappearance must be a part of our daily schedule. We must complain to Allah about his prolonged absence and must re-affirm our pledge with him.

11. Awaiting the reappearance (Intezar) Imam (a.t.f.s.) shall spread justice and equity across the length and breadth of this world - We mustawait this era eagerly and always endeavor to be included among the true and sincere awaiting ones. We must never despair of Imam's (a.t.f.s.)

reappearance , as despair and despondence are satanic traits. There are other obligations and duties to be discharged to fulfill the demands of love and affection, but we have sufficed with the few mentioned above. Finally we plead with Allah and beseech Him to bestow us with true recognition of Imam (a.t.f.s.).

This recognition alone will inspire sincere love and attachment for Imam (a.t.f.s.) in our hearts. We pray to Allah to make steadfast our faith, which is the root of love as the Quranic verse proclaims 'Those who believe are intense in their love for Allah.

PropogateThe Remembernece of Yusuf-E-Zahra (A.T.F.S.)

The Divine Personality of the last nominee of the last Prophet of Islam (A.s .), will spread the teachings of Islam in the four corners of the world. He will change the strife-torn, miserable, unjust and tyrannical world into a garden of peace, justice and tranquility virtue and righteousness.

He will gather all the disintegrated true believers on the platform of purity and righteous persons, their due status & honour in the society, whilst the enemies, the unjust and evil persons will be degraded and dishonored.

He is the son of Ummul-Momineen Hazrat Khadija (S.A.), the Queen among the Arabladies, He is the apple of the eyes of Hazrat Fatima Zahra (S.A.) the lady of the two worlds - This and the hereafter - and Ali (A.S.), the magnificent, leader of the Pious Believers. He is the chosen son of the Holy Prophet of Islam Mohammad-e-Mustafa (Pbuh) the last jewel in the crown of Prophethood. He is the one who is the responsible personality of Islam, the only divine representative on this earth. He is none other than Hazrat Hujjat Ibnil Hasan-Al-Askari, Mahdi,Aakhrezzaman .

The Meaning ofThe Title Imam-E-Zaman (A.S.)

A title reflects the personality of man. His characteristics and qualities are projected through it. Nowadays such instances are extremely numerous where this dictum rarely comes true. The titles are some times promiscuous bestowed without knowing the actual meaning by the patrons and by the patronized which is out of context here.

The Prophets of God are familiar by the titles added with their names which throw light on their prolity and innate qualities endowed in them by the creator. The prophet Moses (A.S.) is addressed as "Kaleem-Ullah" as he had conversation with the Creator of the world, while our last prophet as is specifically mentioned in the Holy Book is known as Rehmatullil Alamin - the one whose existence is a source and fountain of blessings in this world and in the world here after. Like - wise his progeny is also profusely blessed.

Unlike others, the appellations of dignity of Imame-e-Zaman (A.S.) have each got their own significance separately. Janab Muhaddis Noori (may God shower His blessings on him) the author of the book "Najm us Saquib" has mentioned one hundred eighty two names and titles of Imam-e-Zamana with positive references.

Those who are fond of reciting prayers (Dua) not only for consecration and happiness but with a view to attain and get mastery of the philosophy and high ideals taught by the descendents of the Holy Prophet, are fully aware of innumerable titles of Imam-e-Zaman (A.S.) mentioned in those prayers (Dua). In this context, Dua Nudbah and Ziyarat-e-Al-e-Yasin etc deserve special attention. All those Dua are collected and have found place in Mafateehul Jinan. In this article we will throw light in detail only on one title.

IMAM_E_ZAMANA (A.S.)

In our prayers (Dua) and in day to day conversation this assumed name is directly and closely linked with our exalted Imam Mahdi (A.S.). No sooner as we hear or utter this noble appellation attention is at once drawn to the Awaited Imam (A.S.). Imam-e-Zaman, Imam-e-Asr, Saheb-e-Asr and Vali-e-Asr are all synonyms and directly attached with the last Saviour. We have become accustomed to hear them but have never bothered to know the facts related with them. It is because of this reason that doubts are germinating in our minds. Once the actual meaning is grasped our minds will never be clouded with such notions.

This assumed name is combination of two words, first is Imam, Saheb and Wali while the second is Zaman andAsr . An Imam is called so as he is always ahead of every body except God while otherare always behind. He always leads while others are directed ad guided by him. This particular point becomes clear when we pray together (Namaz-e-Jamaat) where all the gesture of Imamare strictly followed by his followers. When he performs "Rukoo" it is copied as it is by his followers, when he prostrates they alsoprostrate : In short and Imam holds sway over his followers over the Imam. Saheb and Walimeans master and commander. So the followers are dictated by the master.

We address him as Imam-e-Zaman not due to conviction in regard to religion. It is based on facts and has solid foundations and thick back ground. Zamana means the sphere of existence or the whole creation.all the creatures except God are covered in this sphere and nothing under the sky and on earth is beyond the sphere of existence.

The above exegesis explains that the whole creation-the earth, the sky, the moon and the stars, is in the domain of Hazrat Mahdi (A.S.). The universe is in motion at his instance. The time can be changed by him and nothe by the time and environment.

After the revelation of these facts one can understand easily the secret of Imam's longevity and youthful exuberance. All the creatures have to go beyond the frontiers of life to the great unknown first by jumping in the vanguard of youth and then to the tail end of the life called old age by evolutions but the Imam (A.S.)is undisputedly invariable with this evolution and would remain young.

The above points are supported by the Holy Quran in SuratulAsr which runs as follows. "I swear by the Time;Surely man is in loss. Except those who believed and did good deeds andadvise for the truth and advise for the patience".

Whatever gain and loss is mentioned in the above Sura are for the individuals to face in the hereafter those who are indulging in all the vices; enjoying the colorful life and doing things which are out of tune with the spirit of the religion. Imam-e-Asr (A.S.), Vali-e-Asr (A.S.) and other spiritual leaders (Imams) are undoubtedly above all those things, though they lived and are living in this world. Such type of question can never be raised in the mind against them.

A question that generally pricks the minds of the people is that a being who is high in place of excellence and whose gandeur is beyond the imagination of mankind and for whom this world inspite of all its vastness and attractions nothing but trash why then such a being with all sublimity is kept out of view ?

Among all the Prophets of God, the foremost and the last is Hazrat Mohammad Mustafa (SAW)

who came into being to elevate the minds and to place the mankind in an honoured position. The mission was accomplished to a greater extent in his life time but the whole-some results could not be achieved in spite of the struggle of his predecessors due to intrigues, so the very purpose of his teaching and preaching to place the mankind could not be achieved as desired. The reappearance of our last savior is motivated with an object to fulfil theun accomplished mission of the last Prophet of Islam. "The Awaited" one would fill the world with justice as it was full of tyranny and oppressions." So his noble existence is meant to achieve a destined end.

It is now evident that Imam (A.S.) is root (base) and the world is the tree spread in branches. Imam (A.S.) is before all others in time while the world is last in time. It is a folly to treat it as exaggeration. It is because of him the worldis existing and the creatures owe their substances to him only. He is the source of substances for the destitute. The sky and the earth also owe their sustenance to him.

To keep this point ever green in memory, it would not be out of way to repeat the narrations of Ayatullah Waheed Khurasani referred to him Mirza Ahmed son of Akhund Khurasani the author of "Kefayat". He narrates that "my mother was unwell. Day by day her illness was getting worse.

We were very much puzzled. The doctors were in a fix. One day we received the news of the arrival of an elderly person in Najaf-e-Ashraf expert in astronomy. My brother Mirza Mohammad and I went to him and met him in the Holy tomb of Hazrat Amir-al-Momineen (A.S.). We told him that we have come to inquire about an urgent thing from you.

We will concentrate on that problem conscientiously and you give us the reply. The elderly man moved the heads of rosary and said that the disease had spread all over the body of the patient for whom you want to enquire from me. The chance of recovery are very weak and within a day or two the patient would die.. Our intention was to inquire about the reason of illness of our mother. Second time my brother thought conscientiously and requested the saint to tell about it. The heads of rosary were again moved by him but his facial expression suddenly changed. This process was thrice repeated and all the three times he seemed to be much worried.

He then said that the man about whom they wanted to know was first seen in Lebanon and then was found in Kaba, now he is found in Madina. He moved once again the heads of rosary said that I have witnessed that the sun was circling around his head and he is Imam-e-Zamana (A.S.)" This point is pertinent as the Imam (A.S.) is the centre of the universe so the sun has to circle around him.

Today we are living in the domain of such a noble and exalted Imam (A.S.). It is a pity that we are claiming to be his followers but have departed form the ways dictated and directed by him. If we are sincere in claiming to be his followers, we must be attached to him spiritually to free ourselves form the hardship of this world and the world here-after.

May Allah increase our marefat about Imam-e-Mahdi (A.S )

SadaqahFor the Safety of Imam-E-Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

In today's world of science and technology, doctors have found solutions to numerous diseases which were once considered as incurable and fatal. Inventions of sophisticated devices and formulation of new life saving drugs have helped them in their cause. Yet, we find Muslims who say that a person's life and sustenance can be increased and calamities averted merely by giving alms.

Sadaqah is derived from the word Sadq i.e. to be righteous, truthful,alms -giving. We will focus our attention on its third meaning i.e. alms-giving and discuss about it. While going through the pages of history - which are full of incidents about the benefits of giving alms - one incident stands apart.

It is narrated that once Hazrat Isa (a.s .) was passing by a house along with his companions. Celebrations were going on in that house on the occasion of a marriage. Hazrat Isa (a.s .) pointed out to his companions that tomorrow, (the people of) this house will aggrieved. On the morrow, the companions of Hazrat Isa (a.s .) informed him that nothing like what he had predicted had occurred in that house.

Hazrat Isa (a.s .) decided to visit that house and find out the reason due to which the calamity was averted. On inquiry, the newly married bride of the house spoke about the events of the previous night. She said that last night she had given bread to a beggar who had come to their house. After knowing this Hazrat Isa (a.s .) lifted the bed and they saw that there was a snake with a bread in its mouth. Hazrat Isa (a.s .) showed them that the alms which was given in the form of bread by the bride had saved them from death.

The traditions of the infallibles (a.s .) too speak about the advantages of giving alms. Discussing all of them is beyond the scope of this article. We will restrict our discussion in reviewing only a few of them. It has been narrated from Imam Baqir (a.s .) that giving of alms prolongs one's life and saves a person from seventy types of difficulties at the time of death. (Man la Yahzorohul Faqih p 34 H. No. 1729)

Imam Sadiq (a.s .) says, 'Allah will keep away all the difficulties which descend from the sky in the daytime, if one gives alms early in the morning. And Allah will keep away all the difficulties which will descend from the sky in the night, if one gives alms in the early hours of night." (Ibid., H. No. 1733)

Hazrat Ali (a.s .) says, "In order to be exon-erated of your sins and be included under the grace and love of Allah, give alms and observe the bonds of relationship." (Ghurarul Hekam by Abdul Waahid Aamudi)

A tradition from Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) summarises all the benefits of giving alms. He (s.a.w) says, 'There is no god except Allah, giving alms saves a person from sickness, plague, fire, drowning, falling and madness." Then Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) counted seventy difficulties from which a person can be saved by giving alms. (Man la Yahzorohul Faqih, p 35, H. No. 1734)

Now that we are familiar with the benefits and effects of giving alms, the question which comes to our mind is "How can the giving of alms by us be the cause of safety of our last Imam, Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.)?"All human relations, actions, etc. are based on the natural instincts of love and attach-ment. This attachment and love may be for worldly gains or for the hereafter. Islam, the last and the perfect religion of Allah in based on attachment. Thus we find in Quran:"And those whobelieve, love Allah the most." (Baqarah: 165).

The point to be noted here is that when a person shows interest or love towards something, then he will show his love and attachment for everything related to that particular thing. We see in our daily lives that if a person is interested in a particular field of study, engineering for instance, he will not only be interested in the area of his specialization but he will also be interested in all those areas which are related to it. On the basis of the above principle, we know that the most esteemed and honored from among the creatures, in front of Allah, the Almighty, are the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) and the infallible Imams (a.s.).

We see in a tradition from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) that he said, "The faith of no one is acceptable to Allah except for him who loves me more than himself, my family more than his family, my descendants more than his own descendants and myself more than his own self."

It is crystal clear from this tradition that a true Muslim is filled with the love of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) and his descendants and especially in the present age, with the love of our beloved master, Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.). Also we see a tradition from Imam Mahdi (a.s .) who relates from his father, Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.): "0 my son know that the hearts of the obedient and sincere people will turn to you as birds turn to their nests."(Kamaluddin, p. 448)

But, only verbal claim that we love the Holy Prophet (s.a.) and our Imam (a.s .) is no proof. Rather, the proof of our love lies in our behavior, manners, dealings, etc. It is but natural that a lover likes the safety and security of the one whom he loves. A person can protect his beloved in two ways, directly or indirectly. Directly meanshimself protecting and indirectly means by arranging some protection for the beloved.In our age where it is not possible for us to physically see whether our beloved master. Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is protected or not (because of the barrier of occultation) there is no need to lose heart as we can lways take the indirect way i.e. giving alms for his safety. A tradition from Ameerul Momineen Alt (a.s .) says (a.s.), "Giving alms dispels calamity."

When we go through the books of history, we realize that the great scholars of Islam have devoted a lot of pages on this topic. One such scholar is Sayyed Ibne Ta'oos (r.a.). He is one of the great Shiite personalities of 7th century hijri. He writes in his will to his son regarding the responsibilities towards Imam (a.s .) that, "Give priority to Imam's need before asking your request.

Donate alms and charity for his glorious being before you do for your own self or for your family and offer supplications for him before remembering yours. In short, in all your good and recommended deeds, give priority to his pious and precious being because this attracts the attention of Imam (a.s .) towards you and will increase his generosity and kindness upon you."

At this juncture, one question might intrigue you and that is, "Does Imam (a.s.), who is having all the blessings, knowledge and kindness of Allah need the alms of a few pennies given by us?"

The answer is certainly not. But as we have seen in the foregoing paragraphs, that when you love someone, that love should be manifested in your behavior, dealings and manners. By giving money in charity, we are manifesting our love towards our Imam (a.s .) and fulfilling the condition of the tradition of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w) that says, "The faith of no one is acceptable to Allah except for him who loves me more than himself......." And also we have to keep this point in mind that Imam-e- Zamana (a.s .) himself says, "Pray more for my early reappearance. Indeed, in it there is salvation for you."

We find that there are many supplications which have been narrated by our Imams (a.s .) to pray for Imam Mahdi (a.s.) in the time of occultation. For more details about invocations refer to the book of Mafateeh-ul-Jinan by Shaykh Abbas Qummi. We also see that Imam (a.s .) himself has asked us to pray for his early reappearance though he is in no need of our invocations. It (reciting invocation) is a sign and manifestation of our love towards him.

Now, after understanding why alms should be given for the safety of Imam (a.s.), the question which arises is "What should we do with money collected as alms? " The reply to this lies in a tradition from Imam Sadiq (a.s .) who says 'If a person is not near and cannot send his gifts to us, then he should give it to our pious Shias. He will get the same reward of giving it to us..." (Man la yahzorohul faqih)

In the end we pray to Allah, the Almighty, to increase our grace and provide us opportunities so that we can manifest our love towards Imam al-Muntazar al-Mahdi (a.s .) by giving alms for his safety and performing only those deeds which bring us closer.