Who is Imam Mahdi (a.j.)?
Imam Mahdi (a.j.), whose full name is Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Askari, is the last of the twelve infallible Imams. God has sent him to guide and save humanity from oppression and corruption. He is currently in occultation, and he will reappear at a time known only to God, to establish justice and found a global government based on truth and righteousness.
The Identity and Status of Imam Mahdi (a.j.)
Imam Mahdi (a.j.) is the son of Imam Hasan al-Askari (pbuh) and a descendant of the Prophet of Islam (pbuh). He holds the position of Imamate and is infallible, meaning he is free from any error or mistake and, through divine knowledge, is fully responsible for guiding people. Imam Mahdi (a.j.) is God’s proof on earth and the final leader of truth, who will appear at the appointed time after a long period of occultation to reform and restore the world.
The Occultation of Imam Mahdi (a.j.)
Imam Mahdi (a.j.) entered the period of occultation from childhood, which is divided into two phases:
- Minor Occultation: a short period during which he was in limited contact with some of his followers.
- Major Occultation: the long and current period, hidden from public view, with the time of his reappearance known only to God.
During this period, Imam Mahdi (a.j.) is alive and present, but people are not able to meet him directly. His spiritual presence and leadership continue, and he is ready to return at the appointed time.
The Role of Imam Mahdi (a.j.) in the End Times
When the world is engulfed in oppression, corruption, injustice, and chaos, Imam Mahdi (a.j.) will appear to establish order and justice. With the help of divine powers, he will guide people toward truth and righteousness and establish a global government based on justice and fairness.
The duties and characteristics of Imam Mahdi (a.j.) during his reappearance include:
- Defeating oppression and tyrants
- Establishing a just, pure, and God-pleasing government
- Reviving the true religion and moral values
- Bringing peace, security, and prosperity to all humankind
The Relationship of Imam Mahdi (a.j.) with Prophet Jesus (pbuh)
According to religious sources, Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will return to earth at the time of Imam Mahdi’s (a.j.) advent to assist him in establishing global justice. The presence of Prophet Jesus (pbuh) alongside Imam Mahdi (a.j.) symbolizes the bond between these two great figures and the unity of humanity in building a better world.
With the help of Prophet Jesus (pbuh), Imam Mahdi (a.j.) will defeat the enemies of religion and oppressors and, together with him, establish a government of justice.
Personality and Moral Characteristics of Imam Mahdi (a.j.)
Imam Mahdi (a.j.) is known as a person endowed with divine knowledge and wisdom, whose every decision is based on justice, truthfulness, and compassion. He is not only a political leader but also a great spiritual guide who directs people toward God and humanity.
The Importance and Message of the Appearance of Imam Mahdi (a.j.)
His reappearance symbolizes the ultimate triumph of truth over falsehood and fulfills God’s promise to restore balance and justice to the world. This event is a great hope for all humanity, showing that oppression and tyranny are not eternal, and in the end, truth and justice will prevail.