Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)

Birth and the Minor Occultation (Ghaybat al-Sughra)

Imam al-Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) was born in absolute secrecy to protect him from the Abbasid caliphs. Upon his father's martyrdom in 260 AH, he assumed the Imamate. For the next 69 years, he entered the Minor Occultation, communicating with his followers only through four specially appointed, successive deputies (Nuwwab al-Arba'a).

The Major Occultation (Ghaybat al-Kubra)

In 329 AH, the Major Occultation began. The Imam is alive by the will of Allah, much like Prophet Jesus (a.s.) and Prophet Khidr (a.s.), but he is hidden from public recognition. During this era, believers are instructed to turn to pious and learned Islamic jurists (Maraji) for religious guidance.

The Promised Return

It is a fundamental Islamic belief that the Mahdi will reappear alongside Prophet Jesus (a.s.) at a time when the world is filled with oppression. He will eradicate tyranny, establish global justice, and unite humanity under the banner of Tawhid (monotheism).

Our Duties During Occultation

Believers are tasked with Intidhar (awaiting). True awaiting is not passive; it requires spiritual self-purification, actively fighting injustice, and preparing oneself and society to be worthy of his leadership. Frequent recitation of Dua Faraj is highly recommended to pray for his hastened reappearance.