*How and when will Imam Mahdi(atfs) reappear?*
*Excerpt No – 13*
*Book – Ghaibat Al Tusi*
*Author – Shaikh e Tusi(ar)*
*Chapter – 7 : Long Lifespan of the Imam of our time(atfs)*
This chapter covers various topics, and answers many questions relating to occultation and the eventual reappearance of Imam Mahdi(atfs).
*1. His age at the time of reappearance.*
Regarding the matter concerning the age of Imam Mahdi(atfs) at the time of his reappearance, we can simply say that he was born in the year 255 or 256 AH and whenever he reappears, his age would be calculated accordingly. As per traditions, regardless of his real age, he will come out of occultation looking like a young man of around forty years of age.
*2. Claims that Imam Mahdi(atfs) will die or will be martyred and will become alive again before reappearance.*
There are many who make false claims that Imam Mahdi(atfs) has passed away or has been killed. This is because of their doubt in Allah(swt) and enmity towards Aal e Muhammad(as).
Imam Sadiq(as) says:
“If someone comes to you and says that he has touched his (Imam Mahdi’s) grave, then do not accept from him”.
There is enough proof through narrations that Imam Mahdi(atfs) is alive by the will of Allah, and will continue to live until he reappears to establish justice and equity.
*3. Time of reappearance.*
The time of reappearance of Imam Mahdi(atfs) is in the hidden knowledge of Allah(swt). The Imams(as) have strongly commanded us to be careful on this matter.
Imam Sadiq(as) says:
“One who fixes (predicts) the time of reappearance, has lied. Neither have we fixed a time for it in the past, nor would we do so in the future”.
*4. Signs preceding the reappearance.*
This part discusses prophesized events which would happen before the reappearance of Imam Mahdi(atfs). The occurrence of these signs is an indication that the time of reappearance is getting closer. It is important to understand that there are certain signs that are bound to happen and then there are others that may or may not take place. The knowledge of how and when these events will unfold remain with Allah(swt).
Moreover, we have narrations where Imams(as) have advised us on how to manage our lives during these difficult times of occultation. For example,
Imam Sadiq(as) says:
“Every person is duty bound to fear Allah(swt) and remain attached to religion”.
Furthermore, there are traditions regarding those who sincerely await Imam Mahdi(atfs).
Imam Sadiq(as) says:
“The most proximate servants of Allah(swt) with whom He is pleased are those who continue to have faith that the Hujjat(atfs) of Allah(swt) can never be invalid and wait for him day and night, during his occultation while they don’t know about his location.
And the wrath of Allah(swt) is on those of His enemies who fall into doubts and denial when the Hujjat(atfs) of Allah(swt) is in occultation…”
May Allah(swt) end the Occultation of Imam Mahdi(atfs) at the earliest and keep us steadfast in our faith.