Al-MahdiAl-MahdiThe Twelfth ImamThe Twelfth Imam

By A.S. Hashim. MDBy A.S. Hashim. MD

In this Slide ShowIn this Slide Show

Discussed in this Slide Show:Discussed in this Slide Show:LineageLineageHadiths on his behalfHadiths on his behalfAl-Askari explains to his son Al-MahdiAl-Askari explains to his son Al-MahdiAl-Mahdi Becomes the ImamAl-Mahdi Becomes the ImamSalat of JanaazaSalat of JanaazaDuring the Minor OccultationDuring the Minor Occultation

Uthman Al-Amri, the 1st Safeer: Uthman Al-Amri, the 1st Safeer: Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the 2nd SafeerMuhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the 2nd SafeerHusain Ibn Rooh, the 3rd Safeer Husain Ibn Rooh, the 3rd Safeer Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari, the 4th Safeer Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari, the 4th Safeer

End of the Minor OccultationEnd of the Minor OccultationSample Du’aaSample Du’aaSample Pronouncement [Tawkii’ Sample Pronouncement [Tawkii’ التوقيعالتوقيع]]

LineageLineage

Al-Mahdi

Al-Askari

Al-Haadi

Al-Saadiq

Al-Kadhim

Zainul Abideen

Al-Baaqir

Al-Husain

Ali

Al-Ridha

Al-Jawaad

Ahlul Bayt

LineageLineage

Father

Al-AskariAl-Askari

Mother

NarjisNarjis

Al-Mahdi

Benu HashimBenu Hashim Ahlul Bayt

Disciple of JesusDisciple of JesusSimon,

Circumstances of the BirthCircumstances of the Birth

Pregnancy of Al-Mahdi's mother was top secret even to Pregnancy of Al-Mahdi's mother was top secret even to close family members and friends.close family members and friends.

Exceptional precautions were necessary to evade Benu Exceptional precautions were necessary to evade Benu Abbas from discovering the event and destroying the babyAbbas from discovering the event and destroying the baby

When Narjis was due to give birth to Al-Mahdi, Al-Askari When Narjis was due to give birth to Al-Mahdi, Al-Askari asked his great-aunt Hakimah to supervise the event.  asked his great-aunt Hakimah to supervise the event. 

Hakimah was fasting at the time since it was the 15th of Hakimah was fasting at the time since it was the 15th of Sha'ban.Sha'ban.After breaking her fast, Hakimah stayed in the house, kept After breaking her fast, Hakimah stayed in the house, kept praying while waiting until early in the morning when the praying while waiting until early in the morning when the blessed event took place and Al-Mahdi was born. blessed event took place and Al-Mahdi was born.

BirthBirth

Year 255H:Year 255H:  Al-Mahdi was born in Samur'raa in the year Al-Mahdi was born in Samur'raa in the year 255H.  255H.  His father, Al-Askari, said the Athan in his right ear and the His father, Al-Askari, said the Athan in his right ear and the Iqaama in the left.  Iqaama in the left.  For the Aqeeqah Al-Askari asked his confidante, Uthman For the Aqeeqah Al-Askari asked his confidante, Uthman Al-Amri, to purchase 300 rams, sacrifice them, then Al-Amri, to purchase 300 rams, sacrifice them, then distribute them to members of Benu Talib.  distribute them to members of Benu Talib.  Al-Askari also asked him to distribute a large amount of Al-Askari also asked him to distribute a large amount of meat and flour to the poor of Samur'raa.  meat and flour to the poor of Samur'raa.  Aqeeqah was done in compliance with the Prophet's Aqeeqah was done in compliance with the Prophet's recommendation, however this Aqeeqah was special, for recommendation, however this Aqeeqah was special, for the newborn was very special too.  the newborn was very special too. 

LineageLineage

Al-Mahdi grew up in an environment that was restrictive Al-Mahdi grew up in an environment that was restrictive to an exceptional extentto an exceptional extent

He was detached from contact with people, and his He was detached from contact with people, and his whereabouts were unknown to most people except for whereabouts were unknown to most people except for the very special, the confidantes, and the trusted ones.  the very special, the confidantes, and the trusted ones.  Al-Mahdi was cared for with love and tender care in a Al-Mahdi was cared for with love and tender care in a virtuous and pious home but away from people.virtuous and pious home but away from people.Al-Mahdi's lineage came from Ahlul Bayt and from Narjis,Al-Mahdi's lineage came from Ahlul Bayt and from Narjis,Narjis was Christian whose line of heritage went back to Narjis was Christian whose line of heritage went back to Simon, the disciple of Isa (Prophet Jesus).  Simon, the disciple of Isa (Prophet Jesus).  Narjis converted to Islam and became a woman of piety, Narjis converted to Islam and became a woman of piety, virtue, and chastity.virtue, and chastity.

As Al‑Mahdi grows upAs Al‑Mahdi grows up

Al-Mahdi was aware of his father's attachment to Al-Mahdi was aware of his father's attachment to him and the special care he gave him.  him and the special care he gave him. 

His close relationship with his father Al-Askari was that His close relationship with his father Al-Askari was that of love and understanding, and extreme protection.of love and understanding, and extreme protection.Al-Mahdi could not go out but rather was painstakingly Al-Mahdi could not go out but rather was painstakingly sheltered at home by his family.sheltered at home by his family.He noticed his father pray devotedly, excessively so, He noticed his father pray devotedly, excessively so, and often say Du'aa, and fastand often say Du'aa, and fastLike his predecessors Al-Mahdi had a very investigative Like his predecessors Al-Mahdi had a very investigative mind which was ever thirsty for knowledge  mind which was ever thirsty for knowledge 

Hadiths on his behalfHadiths on his behalf

Of the 38 Hadiths of the Prophet this stands out:Of the 38 Hadiths of the Prophet this stands out:

““Al-Mahdi is from my progeny.  His name is similar to Al-Mahdi is from my progeny.  His name is similar to mine and his epithet is similar to mine.  In his physique mine and his epithet is similar to mine.  In his physique and character he looks like me.  He and character he looks like me.  He will be in a state of will be in a state of OccultationOccultation and there will be confusion (Hayra) in and there will be confusion (Hayra) in which people will wander about.  Then he will come which people will wander about.  Then he will come forth like a shooting star to fill the earth with justice and forth like a shooting star to fill the earth with justice and equity as it was filled before with injustice and inequity.”equity as it was filled before with injustice and inequity.”

Ali’s Saying on his behalfAli’s Saying on his behalf

Imam Ali had saidImam Ali had said

I thought about a child who will be from my flesh, I thought about a child who will be from my flesh, the eleventh from my line of descendants. the eleventh from my line of descendants.

He is Al-Mahdi who will fill the earth with justice He is Al-Mahdi who will fill the earth with justice and equity [righteousness] when the world has and equity [righteousness] when the world has

reached reached the height of injustice and Evilness.  the height of injustice and Evilness. 

He will He will live in a state of occultation, as a result of live in a state of occultation, as a result of which a group of people will go astray and which a group of people will go astray and

another remain faithful.another remain faithful.

More Sayings on his behalfMore Sayings on his behalf

Imam Al-Husain is quoted saying,Imam Al-Husain is quoted saying,““The ninth in my lineage will establish Truth and The ninth in my lineage will establish Truth and

Righteousness.  Allah will infuse spirit into the earth Righteousness.  Allah will infuse spirit into the earth through him and the religion of Allah will prevail over all through him and the religion of Allah will prevail over all

others.  His occultation will be very long, and [because of others.  His occultation will be very long, and [because of that] plenty of people will go astray that] plenty of people will go astray

but the truthful ones will remain firm in their belief.....”but the truthful ones will remain firm in their belief.....”Imam Al-Saadiq is quoted saying,Imam Al-Saadiq is quoted saying,

““When Al-Mahdi rises he will summon the people to Islam When Al-Mahdi rises he will summon the people to Islam anew and guide them to a matter which had become lost anew and guide them to a matter which had become lost

to them and from which people had gone astray.  to them and from which people had gone astray.  He is the only one called Al-Mahdi because he guides to He is the only one called Al-Mahdi because he guides to the matter from which men had deviated.  He is called Al-the matter from which men had deviated.  He is called Al-

Qaa'im because of his rising.”Qaa'im because of his rising.”

Two more Sayings on his behalfTwo more Sayings on his behalf

Imam Al-Jawaad is quoted saying,Imam Al-Jawaad is quoted saying,““Al-Qaa'im is from [us] and that he would be Al-Mahdi; he Al-Qaa'im is from [us] and that he would be Al-Mahdi; he

must be awaited by his followers during his Occultation must be awaited by his followers during his Occultation and obeyed at his rising and obeyed at his rising

and that he would be my descendant in the third and that he would be my descendant in the third generation.”generation.”

Imam Al-Haadi is quoted to have written to a Imam Al-Haadi is quoted to have written to a loyalist,loyalist,““The Imam after me is my son Al-Hasan [Al-Askari] and The Imam after me is my son Al-Hasan [Al-Askari] and

after him will be after him will be his son Al-Qaa'im, who will establish justice [righteousness] his son Al-Qaa'im, who will establish justice [righteousness]

as the world will be full of injustice and Evilness.”as the world will be full of injustice and Evilness.”

Quoting Sunni Hadith BooksQuoting Sunni Hadith Books

From Sahih Bukhari:From Sahih Bukhari:Narrated Jabir bin Samura: I heard Muhammad saying, Narrated Jabir bin Samura: I heard Muhammad saying, "Islam will continue to be strong to twelve Muslim rulers." "Islam will continue to be strong to twelve Muslim rulers." He then said a sentence which I did not hear. My father He then said a sentence which I did not hear. My father said, "All of them (those rulers) will be from Quraish."said, "All of them (those rulers) will be from Quraish."In a Hadith widely regarded as authentic, Muhammad said,In a Hadith widely regarded as authentic, Muhammad said,Even if the entire duration of the world's existence has Even if the entire duration of the world's existence has already been exhausted and only one day is left before the already been exhausted and only one day is left before the Day of Judgment, Allah will expand that day to such a Day of Judgment, Allah will expand that day to such a length of time, as to accommodate the kingdom of a person length of time, as to accommodate the kingdom of a person out of Ahlul Bayt who will be called by my name and my out of Ahlul Bayt who will be called by my name and my father's name. He will then fill the Earth with peace and father's name. He will then fill the Earth with peace and justice as it will have been filled with injustice and tyranny justice as it will have been filled with injustice and tyranny before then.before then.

Al-Askari explains to his son Al-MahdiAl-Askari explains to his son Al-Mahdi

Prophet Muhammad tells us that when your time comes, Prophet Muhammad tells us that when your time comes, you will go through you will go through two Occultationstwo Occultations, a , a minorminor and a and a majormajor one.one.   

Benu Abbas put me under house arrest many times, and Benu Abbas put me under house arrest many times, and detained me in cells of their Palace, just to prevent your detained me in cells of their Palace, just to prevent your birth.birth.You were born despite their attempts. And we kept your You were born despite their attempts. And we kept your birth secret except for the confidantes.birth secret except for the confidantes.You are unique, your works will be of You are unique, your works will be of global dimensions.global dimensions.This is why we take precautions to evade the eyes of the This is why we take precautions to evade the eyes of the people, to keep you safe from Benu Abbas.people, to keep you safe from Benu Abbas.

Al-Mahdi Becomes the ImamAl-Mahdi Becomes the Imam

Al-Askari got sick and his sickness lasted for 8 days (?Al-Askari got sick and his sickness lasted for 8 days (?poisoned).poisoned).

Al-Askari had confidentially shown Al-Mahdi to his Al-Askari had confidentially shown Al-Mahdi to his adherents and had designated him as the final Imam.adherents and had designated him as the final Imam.At one occasion (when asked about the subsequent At one occasion (when asked about the subsequent Imam) Al-Askari showed Al-Mahdi to a group of 40 Imam) Al-Askari showed Al-Mahdi to a group of 40 devotees despite the confidentiality of the matter.devotees despite the confidentiality of the matter.Al-Askari died after:Al-Askari died after:1.1. having entrusted the Corpus of Knowledge in the having entrusted the Corpus of Knowledge in the

hands of Al-Mahdi, hands of Al-Mahdi, 2.2. designating him as the last Imam, and designating him as the last Imam, and 3.3. having given him his will.  having given him his will. 

Salat of JanaazaSalat of Janaaza

The uncle of Al-Mahdi was about to lead a private Salat The uncle of Al-Mahdi was about to lead a private Salat of Janaazaof Janaaza

Participants consisted of relatives and prominent devotees of Al-Participants consisted of relatives and prominent devotees of Al-Askari called Al-Khaassah, (the Shi’a).  Askari called Al-Khaassah, (the Shi’a).  Just as he tried to lead Salat of Janaaza a boy came out and Just as he tried to lead Salat of Janaaza a boy came out and commanded:commanded:

   أبي على الصآلة في منك أحق فأنا عم، يا 4ح2 4ن أبي ت على الصآلة في منك أحق فأنا عم، يا 4ح2 4ن تUncle, move aside, Uncle, move aside,

I have more right than you to pray over my father's body.I have more right than you to pray over my father's body.Startled, the uncle moved aside and Al-Mahdi led the Salat, now that Startled, the uncle moved aside and Al-Mahdi led the Salat, now that he was the Imam.  he was the Imam.  Also surprised were the participants who had not seen but heard of Also surprised were the participants who had not seen but heard of Al-Mahdi.Al-Mahdi.

The other Janaaza PrayerThe other Janaaza Prayer

Young Al-Mahdi was described as:  Young Al-Mahdi was described as:  Radiant, Radiant, with fairly wide forehead, and with fairly wide forehead, and spaced front teeth.spaced front teeth.When Al-Mahdi finished off the Janaaza Salat he left immediately When Al-Mahdi finished off the Janaaza Salat he left immediately and vanished.  and vanished.  This way Al-Mahdi was witnessed by the crowdThis way Al-Mahdi was witnessed by the crowdAnother Salat of Janaaza was performed by a huge crowd:Another Salat of Janaaza was performed by a huge crowd:

Was led by the brother of the Khalifa Was led by the brother of the Khalifa Quite possibly the private Janaaza Salat led by Al-Quite possibly the private Janaaza Salat led by Al-Mahdi was followed sometime later by the public Mahdi was followed sometime later by the public one.one.

WhereaboutsWhereabouts

Initially Al-Mahdi concealed himself somewhere in Samur'raa.Initially Al-Mahdi concealed himself somewhere in Samur'raa.Samur'raa was teaming with government employees, Benu Samur'raa was teaming with government employees, Benu Abbas, the Turkics, and militaries of various nationalities. Abbas, the Turkics, and militaries of various nationalities. Al-Mahdi probably hid in the Sirdaab, an exclusive cellar Al-Mahdi probably hid in the Sirdaab, an exclusive cellar built deeply underground and used by Imam Al-Askari for built deeply underground and used by Imam Al-Askari for Salat and seclusion.  Salat and seclusion.  The Sirdaab's entrance must have been uniquely well The Sirdaab's entrance must have been uniquely well camouflagedcamouflagedIt successfully evaded all attempts of Benu Abbas to find It successfully evaded all attempts of Benu Abbas to find himhimIn later years Al-Mahdi's headquarters were possibly in In later years Al-Mahdi's headquarters were possibly in Baghdad, known only to his Safeers.  Baghdad, known only to his Safeers.  Imam Al-Mahdi was seen at the Ka'ba during Haj time.Imam Al-Mahdi was seen at the Ka'ba during Haj time.

  AttestantsAttestants

While available to his Safeers, Imam Al-Mahdi While available to his Safeers, Imam Al-Mahdi made provisions for meeting with certain made provisions for meeting with certain adherents at certain occasions.  adherents at certain occasions. 

This was certified by reports of the adherents in This was certified by reports of the adherents in various areas, at different times.  various areas, at different times. 

The names of 46 such people who had met him The names of 46 such people who had met him are in existence are in existence

In addition to that 13 Wakeels (representatives) In addition to that 13 Wakeels (representatives) had reported about their meeting with him toohad reported about their meeting with him too

CorrespondenceCorrespondence

Imam Al-Mahdi corresponded indirectly with the Shi’a, by Imam Al-Mahdi corresponded indirectly with the Shi’a, by way of the Safeer (Ambassador).  way of the Safeer (Ambassador). 

The Safeer had many Wakeels, (agents) for each The Safeer had many Wakeels, (agents) for each Province.  Province.  Each Wakeel had subordinate workers and so on down the Each Wakeel had subordinate workers and so on down the hierarchyhierarchyAll of them communicated in strict confidentiality.All of them communicated in strict confidentiality.Imam Al-Mahdi's correspondence was:Imam Al-Mahdi's correspondence was:

personal sometimespersonal sometimesanswering Fiqh inquiries at other times, andanswering Fiqh inquiries at other times, andgiving edicts as the occasion arose.  giving edicts as the occasion arose. 

Imam Al-Mahdi's writing was concise, and very clear.  This Imam Al-Mahdi's writing was concise, and very clear.  This mode and style continued for 69 years.mode and style continued for 69 years.

HandwritingHandwriting

The Tawkii'The Tawkii' التوقيعالتوقيع(Al-Mahdi's correspondence) (Al-Mahdi's correspondence) given to the Safeers carried exactly the same style given to the Safeers carried exactly the same style of handwriting and signature throughout the years.  of handwriting and signature throughout the years. 

These letters were examined and checked several times These letters were examined and checked several times to see if they were written by the same person, and such to see if they were written by the same person, and such was always the case.was always the case.The high literary Arabic style of correspondence was also The high literary Arabic style of correspondence was also of the same caliber despite the passage of years and the of the same caliber despite the passage of years and the appointment of various Safeers.  appointment of various Safeers.  The level of expression was also the same throughout The level of expression was also the same throughout the years, without any change.the years, without any change.

During the Minor OccultationDuring the Minor Occultation

Safeers (Ambassadors) were appointed by Imam Safeers (Ambassadors) were appointed by Imam Al-Mahdi, to represent him.  Al-Mahdi, to represent him. 

They brought to him the Fiqh questions, inquiries, and They brought to him the Fiqh questions, inquiries, and the myriad of questions from his adherents (the Shi’a) the myriad of questions from his adherents (the Shi’a) The Shi’a were residing in diverse areas all over by The Shi’a were residing in diverse areas all over by now, hundreds if not thousands of miles away.  now, hundreds if not thousands of miles away.  All questions were answered briefly, clearly, some with All questions were answered briefly, clearly, some with constructive suggestions, constructive suggestions, others with predictive sentences foretelling events that others with predictive sentences foretelling events that came true later on. came true later on. 

During Minor Occultation: During Minor Occultation: The four Appointed SafeersThe four Appointed Safeers

4th

3rd

2nd

1st

SafeersSafeers

1. Uthman Al-Amri

2. Muhammad ibn Al-Amri

3. Husain ibn Al-Rooh

4. Muhammad Al-Sammari

Time Period of SafeersTime Period of Safeers

1. Uthman Al-Amri: the 1st Safeer, for 5 years

2. Muhammad ibn Uthman Al-Amri: for 40 years

4. Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari: for 3 years

App

oint

ed S

afee

rs

3. Husain ibn Al-Rooh: for 21 years

Uthman Al-Amri, Uthman Al-Amri, the 1st Safeerthe 1st Safeer: : 

Uthman Al-Amri was a confidante of Imams Al-Haadi, Al-Uthman Al-Amri was a confidante of Imams Al-Haadi, Al-Askari, and Al-Mahdi.  Askari, and Al-Mahdi. 

He had the privilege of performing the Aqeeqah when Al-Mahdi He had the privilege of performing the Aqeeqah when Al-Mahdi was born, was born, then was in company of the 40 people who were given a chance then was in company of the 40 people who were given a chance to see Al-Mahdi when Al-Mahdi was a young boy. to see Al-Mahdi when Al-Mahdi was a young boy. With the advent of the Minor Occultation Uthman Al-Amri became With the advent of the Minor Occultation Uthman Al-Amri became the first Safeer appointed by Imam Al-Mahdi.  the first Safeer appointed by Imam Al-Mahdi.  Letters, communications, or clarifications, were done over a period Letters, communications, or clarifications, were done over a period of several years until he died. of several years until he died. 

  Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the 22ndnd Safeer Safeer

Muhammad Ibn Uthman was extremely capable Muhammad Ibn Uthman was extremely capable in managing the Wikaalah (administration) which in managing the Wikaalah (administration) which grew many folds.  grew many folds. 

He conducted his job for 40 years, worked tenaciously He conducted his job for 40 years, worked tenaciously and in strict confidentiality and in strict confidentiality He delivered the Imam's written messages to the Shi’a He delivered the Imam's written messages to the Shi’a and administered the organization under the authority and administered the organization under the authority of Imam Al-Mahdi.of Imam Al-Mahdi.He was well known to both Imams Al-Haadi and Al-He was well known to both Imams Al-Haadi and Al-Askari.  He and his father were called the trusted, the Askari.  He and his father were called the trusted, the reliable, and the confidantes.reliable, and the confidantes.

Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the 22ndnd Safeer Safeer

Muhammad Ibn Uthman expanded the Shi'a Muhammad Ibn Uthman expanded the Shi'a organization:organization:

he gradually expanded the number of Wakeels he gradually expanded the number of Wakeels (Deputies) in many provinces, (Deputies) in many provinces,

The Wakeels were of limited responsibilities, The Wakeels were of limited responsibilities, divided into:divided into:

1.1.regional,regional,2.2.provincial, thenprovincial, then3.3.town representation.town representation.

The Wakeels were directly responsible to the Safeer The Wakeels were directly responsible to the Safeer The Wakeels met with Imam Al-Mahdi many times but The Wakeels met with Imam Al-Mahdi many times but had to work in complete confidentiality.had to work in complete confidentiality.

Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the 22ndnd Safeer Safeer

Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri was a pious person Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri was a pious person trusted both by Al-Mahdi and the Shi’a.  trusted both by Al-Mahdi and the Shi’a. 

During his last years he dug a grave in which he used to sit, pray During his last years he dug a grave in which he used to sit, pray and say Du'aas, in preparation to meet his Lord.  and say Du'aas, in preparation to meet his Lord.  He prepared his own grave stone and inscribed on it verses from He prepared his own grave stone and inscribed on it verses from the Quran and the names of the Imams.  He was buried in his the Quran and the names of the Imams.  He was buried in his house.house.Imam Al-Mahdi foretold the date of the death of the Safeer, and Imam Al-Mahdi foretold the date of the death of the Safeer, and appointed Husain Ibn Rooh to take his place as the third Safeer.  appointed Husain Ibn Rooh to take his place as the third Safeer.  Muhammad Ibn Uthman was buried in Baghdad, and his tomb still Muhammad Ibn Uthman was buried in Baghdad, and his tomb still exists, it is called Al-Khillani.exists, it is called Al-Khillani.

Al-Mahdi in HajAl-Mahdi in Haj

Al-Mahdi used to perform the Haj every year.  Al-Mahdi used to perform the Haj every year.  Haj season was to meet and exchange information, since Haj season was to meet and exchange information, since people from far away and of different localities would people from far away and of different localities would gathergatherHaj time was used extensively to streamline the activities.Haj time was used extensively to streamline the activities.Al-Wakeels who had met Imam Al-Mahdi became Al-Wakeels who had met Imam Al-Mahdi became affected with a form of disorientation, and only after he affected with a form of disorientation, and only after he left did they come to the conclusion that it was Al-Mahdi left did they come to the conclusion that it was Al-Mahdi himself.himself.Some people say they ate with him, others saw him while Some people say they ate with him, others saw him while in Sujood in Mecca uttering Du'aa, then leaving with a in Sujood in Mecca uttering Du'aa, then leaving with a narrator to the house of Khadija, the wife of the Prophet.narrator to the house of Khadija, the wife of the Prophet.

Al-Mahdi in HajAl-Mahdi in Haj

A narrator said he saw the Imam doing Tawaf A narrator said he saw the Imam doing Tawaf around the Ka'ba, and described him:around the Ka'ba, and described him:

as good looking, with very pleasing perfume, as good looking, with very pleasing perfume,

respectful demeanor, awe inspiring personality, respectful demeanor, awe inspiring personality,

yet was close to the people in his articulation.yet was close to the people in his articulation.

During Haj time Al-Mahdi used to meet with the During Haj time Al-Mahdi used to meet with the special of his partisans and devotees, discuss special of his partisans and devotees, discuss with them and solve their problems for them. with them and solve their problems for them.

Husain Ibn Rooh, Husain Ibn Rooh, the 3the 3rdrd Safeer Safeer

Year 305HYear 305HHusain Ibn Rooh was a highly respected person whom Husain Ibn Rooh was a highly respected person whom the Imams Al-Askari and Al-Mahdi knew well.  the Imams Al-Askari and Al-Mahdi knew well.  He was distinguished by his sharp acumen and quick He was distinguished by his sharp acumen and quick mind, mind, He was highly influential in the government, He was highly influential in the government, At the same time he was in charge of the Shi'a At the same time he was in charge of the Shi'a organization without the government’s knowledge. organization without the government’s knowledge. He continued to keep contact with the Imam and bring He continued to keep contact with the Imam and bring back his written answers (Tawkii’ back his written answers (Tawkii’ التوقيعالتوقيع) to the ) to the Wakeels.Wakeels.

Husain Ibn Rooh, Husain Ibn Rooh, the 3the 3rdrd Safeer Safeer

Husain Ibn Rooh refined the Shi'a organization Husain Ibn Rooh refined the Shi'a organization (Wikaalah), which had become highly developed (Wikaalah), which had become highly developed by now.  by now. 

He had a magnetic personality, and was quick mindedHe had a magnetic personality, and was quick minded

Once he was imprisoned suspecting him against the Once he was imprisoned suspecting him against the government, but was later released to assume an government, but was later released to assume an important post in the government once more.  important post in the government once more. 

Husain Ibn Rooh carried out his duties as a Safeer for Husain Ibn Rooh carried out his duties as a Safeer for 21 years. 21 years.

Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari, Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari,

the 4the 4thth Safeer Safeer Year 326H Year 326H

Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari carried out his Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari carried out his duties well, just as well as his predecessorsduties well, just as well as his predecessorsHis headquarters were also in BaghdadHis headquarters were also in BaghdadIt is assumed that Imam Al-Mahdi resided in It is assumed that Imam Al-Mahdi resided in Baghdad too for easier communication.  Baghdad too for easier communication.  Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari undertook his Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari undertook his duties for 3 years only, when by 329H he got a duties for 3 years only, when by 329H he got a message from Imam Al-Mahdi which was the message from Imam Al-Mahdi which was the last Tawkii'.last Tawkii'.

End of the Minor OccultationEnd of the Minor Occultation

329H329H Imam Al-Mahdi’s last Tawkii’ Imam Al-Mahdi’s last Tawkii’ التوقيعالتوقيع said:said:

"May Allah give good reward to your brethren concerning you (i.e. on your death), for indeed you shall die after the sixth day.  So prepare your affairs, and do not appoint anyone to take your place after your death.  For the Major Occultation has now started, and there can be no appearance until (after a long time when Allah gives His permission) hearts become hardened and the world becomes filled with injustice........"

محمد،      ابن علي ياإخوانك أجر الله أع@ظم4بينك ما Aميت إنك فيك،

( ستة ( الموت وبينوال أمرك فاجمع أيام،يقوم Kأحد إلى توصي

فقد وفاتك، بعد مقامكفال 2امه الت الغيبة وقعتيأذن أن بعد S إال ظVهور

على وذلك تعالى، اللهوقVو2ة المده طول

األرض وامتآلء القلوبجورا

The Minor OccultationThe Minor Occultation

Lasted 69 years: 260H to 329HLasted 69 years: 260H to 329HWith 4 Safeers:With 4 Safeers:

1.1.Uthman Al-AmriUthman Al-Amri2.2.Muhammad son of Uthman Al-AmriMuhammad son of Uthman Al-Amri3.3.Husain Ibn RoohHusain Ibn Rooh4.4.Ibn Muhammad Al-SammariIbn Muhammad Al-Sammari

Keeping contact with the Imam, bring his written Keeping contact with the Imam, bring his written answers, Tawkii‘' answers, Tawkii‘' التوقيعالتوقيع to the Wakeelsto the Wakeels .. الوكيلالوكيلThe administration is called Wikaalah The administration is called Wikaalah الوكالهالوكاله

During the Minor OccultationDuring the Minor Occultation

Political debility affecting the Abbasi rule. Political debility affecting the Abbasi rule. 1.1. The Zinj [the Blacks], who had rebelled and ruled Basrah The Zinj [the Blacks], who had rebelled and ruled Basrah

province for 20 yearsprovince for 20 years2.2. Relative independence of the Tahiri in Iran, Relative independence of the Tahiri in Iran, 3.3. Fatimi Dynasty succeeded in 295H established themselves in Fatimi Dynasty succeeded in 295H established themselves in

North Africa and then Egypt.North Africa and then Egypt.4.4. The Qaramita, a destructive element, played havoc in many The Qaramita, a destructive element, played havoc in many

areas locally and far away.areas locally and far away.5.5. Besides, the Zaidi were agitating, keeping the government Besides, the Zaidi were agitating, keeping the government

preoccupied.preoccupied.

Khalifas were anxiety ridden fearing for their lives and Khalifas were anxiety ridden fearing for their lives and loss of their power.loss of their power.

Khalifas between 248H-329HKhalifas between 248H-329H

NameName Approximate PeriodApproximate PeriodAl-MuntasirAl-Muntasir 6 Months6 Months

Al-Musta’eenAl-Musta’een 2 Yrs and 9 Months2 Yrs and 9 Months

Al-Mu’tazAl-Mu’taz 3 Yrs and 6 Months3 Yrs and 6 Months

Al-MuhtadiAl-Muhtadi 11 Months11 Months

Al-Mu’tamidAl-Mu’tamid 23 Yrs23 Yrs

Al-Mu’tadhidAl-Mu’tadhid 9 Yrs and 9 Months9 Yrs and 9 Months

Al-Mu’ktafiAl-Mu’ktafi 6 Yrs and 6 Months6 Yrs and 6 Months

Al-Muq’tadir until removedAl-Muq’tadir until removed 21 Yrs and 2 Months21 Yrs and 2 Months

Al-Muq’tadir until killedAl-Muq’tadir until killed 3 Yrs and 9 Months3 Yrs and 9 Months

Al-QaahirAl-Qaahir 1 Yr and 6 monts1 Yr and 6 monts

Al-RadhiAl-Radhi 6 Yrs and 11 Months6 Yrs and 11 Months

Khalifas fighting for their lifeKhalifas fighting for their life

Instability, leading to paranoia of the Khalifas and fear for Instability, leading to paranoia of the Khalifas and fear for their lives.their lives.Some ruled for a mere few months to 2-3 years.Some ruled for a mere few months to 2-3 years.The lucky one could muster 10 years of rule.The lucky one could muster 10 years of rule.Subordinates, (Khalifa’s own slaves) dictating on the Subordinates, (Khalifa’s own slaves) dictating on the Khalifa, and he had to comply or else.Khalifa, and he had to comply or else.General unrest and anxiety of the public.General unrest and anxiety of the public.Political turmoil and revolts.Political turmoil and revolts.Lack of confidence in the Khalifas and government.Lack of confidence in the Khalifas and government.Even derogatory poems were said about them:Even derogatory poems were said about them:See Next SlideSee Next Slide

Weakening of the KhilaafahWeakening of the Khilaafah

Khilaafah becomes very weak as the poet eloquently expressed:Khilaafah becomes very weak as the poet eloquently expressed:  

The Khalifa is in a cage, at the mercy of the slaves,And just as a parrot does, he echoes what to him they say.

 

Kوصيف وصيفK بين بينوبغاوبغا

تقول تقول كما كماالببغاالببغا

في في خليفة خليفة

KقفصKقفص

قاال ما قاال يقول ما يقوللهله

During the Minor OccultationDuring the Minor Occultation

Sunni Hadiths books authored during Al-Mahdi’s period:Sunni Hadiths books authored during Al-Mahdi’s period:

1.1. al-Tirmidhi al-Tirmidhi

2.2. al-Nisaa'i al-Nisaa'i

3.3. Ibn Maajeh      Ibn Maajeh      

4.4. Sunan Abu Dawood Sunan Abu Dawood

Shi’a Hadith, Al-Kaafi by Kulaini, was being writtenShi’a Hadith, Al-Kaafi by Kulaini, was being written

Feverish cultural development getting up speedFeverish cultural development getting up speed

While politics was in decadency, the culture was on the While politics was in decadency, the culture was on the ascendancyascendancy

Sample Du’aa ISample Du’aa I

O Allah!: O Allah!:

We ask of Thee to favor us with the gift to We ask of Thee to favor us with the gift to obey Thee, andobey Thee, and

Detach us from being disobedient to Detach us from being disobedient to Thee.Thee.

Bestow on us sincerity in intentions; andBestow on us sincerity in intentions; and

Provide us with knowledge of the sacred.Provide us with knowledge of the sacred.

O Allah!:O Allah!:

Honor us with guidance and honesty , andHonor us with guidance and honesty , and

Direct our tongues to the right and wise;Direct our tongues to the right and wise;

Fill our hearts with comprehension and Fill our hearts with comprehension and knowledge, andknowledge, and

Cleanse us from the forbidden and Cleanse us from the forbidden and doubtful.doubtful.

     الطاعه توفيق ارزقنا   اللهم الطاعه توفيق ارزقنا اللهم     النيه وصدق المعصيه   وبعد   النيه وصدق المعصيه وبعد

  وأكرمنا الحرمه   وعرفان وأكرمنا الحرمه وعرفان   وسدد واإلستقامه   بالهدى وسدد واإلستقامه بالهدى   والحكمه بالصواب   ألسنتنا والحكمه بالصواب ألسنتنا

بالعلم قلوبنا بالعلم وامأل قلوبنا وامألبطوننا   وطهر بطوننا   والمعرفه وطهر والمعرفه

  والشبهة الحرام   من والشبهة الحرام منالظلم عن أيدينا الظلم وأكفف عن أيدينا وأكفف

أبصارنا  واغضض أبصارنا  والسرقه واغضض والسرقه    والخيانه الفجور    عن والخيانه الفجور عن

اللغو عن أسماعنا اللغو واسدد عن أسماعنا واسدد...... ...... والغيبةوالغيبة

Sample Du’aa IISample Du’aa II

O Allah our Lord!  We ask of Thee for an O Allah our Lord!  We ask of Thee for an honorable government so Islam and Muslims be honorable government so Islam and Muslims be dignified, and the hypocrites be in disgrace, and dignified, and the hypocrites be in disgrace, and make of us people who call to Your obedience, make of us people who call to Your obedience, and the leaders to Thy way, and award us the and the leaders to Thy way, and award us the dignity in this life and the one to come.  dignity in this life and the one to come. 

O Lord!  What Thou have taught us of the truth, O Lord!  What Thou have taught us of the truth, Let us carry it out, and what we languished in it, Let us carry it out, and what we languished in it, let Thou inform uslet Thou inform us

O Lord! Bring in him our Unity, and repair in him O Lord! Bring in him our Unity, and repair in him our predicament, and increase in him our small our predicament, and increase in him our small numbers, and fortify us in him to erase our numbers, and fortify us in him to erase our lowliness, lowliness,

Oh Allah Lord of the Truth, Amen!Oh Allah Lord of the Truth, Amen!

إليك نرغب إنا إليك اللهم نرغب إنا اللهمVع�ز� ت Kكريمة Kدولة Vع�ز� في ت Kكريمة Kدولة في

  وأهله اإلسالم   بها وأهله اإلسالم بهاالنفاق بها النفاق وتذل بها وتذل

وأهله  وأهله 

من فيها من وتجعلنا فيها وتجعلناطاعتك إلى طاعتك الدعاة� إلى الدعاة�سبيلك إلى سبيلك والقادة إلى والقادة

كرامة بها كرامة وترزقنا بها وترزقناواآلخره واآلخره الدنيا الدنيا

من عرفتنا ما من الهم عرفتنا ما الهموما فحملناه وما الحق فحملناه الحق

فبلغناه عنه نا فبلغناه ق4صVر@ عنه نا ق4صVر@

Sample PronouncementSample Pronouncement [Tawkii’ [Tawkii’ التوقيعالتوقيع]]

حديثنا و2اة� Vر إلى فيها فارجعوا الواقعه الحوادث حديثنا وأما و2اة� Vر إلى فيها فارجعوا الواقعه الحوادث وأماعليكم حVج2تي عليكم فإنهم حVج2تي فإنهم

عليهم الله حVج2ة4 عليهم وأنا الله حVج2ة4 وأناAl-Mahdi issued a Pronouncement [Tawkii'] in reply to Ishaaq Ibn Ya'qoob Al-Mahdi issued a Pronouncement [Tawkii'] in reply to Ishaaq Ibn Ya'qoob via his second Safeer in regard the works during the Major Occultation:via his second Safeer in regard the works during the Major Occultation:

As for the events which will occur, turn to the narrators of our As for the events which will occur, turn to the narrators of our tradition, because the narrators are my proof to you, while I am the tradition, because the narrators are my proof to you, while I am the

proof of Allah to them.proof of Allah to them.

Al-Tibrisi mentions the following tradition attributed to Imam Al-Askari:Al-Tibrisi mentions the following tradition attributed to Imam Al-Askari:It is mandatory for the populace to follow the jurist who refrains from It is mandatory for the populace to follow the jurist who refrains from

committing wrong, mentions his faith, opposes carnal desire, and obeys committing wrong, mentions his faith, opposes carnal desire, and obeys Allah's Command.Allah's Command.

Beneath the blue dome is the cellar (Sirdaab)Beneath the blue dome is the cellar (Sirdaab)where Imam al-Mahdi is said to have been last seen after

the demise of his father

Ziyarah of Al-MahdiZiyarah of Al-Mahdi

يس آل� ع4ل4ى A4م ال يس س4 آل� ع4ل4ى A4م ال �ه� س4 4ات آي �ي2 2ان ب و4ر4 2ه� الل د4اع�ي4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال �ه� الس2 4ات آي �ي2 2ان ب و4ر4 2ه� الل د4اع�ي4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2�ه� د�ين 2ان4 و4د4ي 2ه� الل 4اب4 ب 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال �ه� الس2 د�ين 2ان4 و4د4ي 2ه� الل 4اب4 ب 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2

ح4ق�ه� 4اص�ر4 و4ن 2ه� الل �يف4ة4 ل خ4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال ح4ق�ه� الس2 4اص�ر4 و4ن 2ه� الل �يف4ة4 ل خ4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2�ه� اد4ت �ر4 إ �يل4 و4د4ل 2ه� الل حVج2ة4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال �ه� الس2 اد4ت �ر4 إ �يل4 و4د4ل 2ه� الل حVج2ة4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2 V4ه جVم4ان 4ر@ و4ت 2ه� الل 4اب� �ت ك �ي4 4ال ت 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال 4هV الس2 جVم4ان 4ر@ و4ت 2ه� الل 4اب� �ت ك �ي4 4ال ت 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2

4ه4ار�ك4 ن اف� ط@ر44 و4أ @ل�ك4 4ي ل 4اء� آن ف�ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال 4ه4ار�ك4 الس2 ن اف� ط@ر44 و4أ @ل�ك4 4ي ل 4اء� آن ف�ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2ض�ه� ر@

4 أ ف�ي 2ه� الل 2ة4 4ق�ي ب 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال ض�ه� الس2 ر@4 أ ف�ي 2ه� الل 2ة4 4ق�ي ب 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2

V2د4ه و4و4ك V4خ4ذ4ه أ 2ذ�ي ال 2ه� الل 4اق4 م�يث 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال 2د4هV الس2 و4و4ك V4خ4ذ4ه أ 2ذ�ي ال 2ه� الل 4اق4 م�يث 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2 V4ه ض4م�ن 2ذ�ي ال 2ه� الل و4ع@د4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال 4هV الس2 ض4م�ن 2ذ�ي ال 2ه� الل و4ع@د4 4ا ي @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2

VوبV @م4ص@ب ال Vم@ @ع�ل و4ال VوبVص@ @م4ن ال V4م @ع4ل ال �ه4ا ي4 أ @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال VوبV الس2 @م4ص@ب ال Vم@ @ع�ل و4ال VوبVص@ @م4ن ال V4م @ع4ل ال �ه4ا ي4 أ @ك4 4ي ع4ل V4م ال الس2

Vع4ة @و4اس� ال Vح@م4ة و4الر2 Vغ4و@ث@ ع4ةV و4ال @و4اس� ال Vح@م4ة و4الر2 Vغ4و@ث@ و4ال

Ziyarah of Al-MahdiZiyarah of Al-Mahdi

Peace be unto the progeny of Yaseen Peace be unto the progeny of Yaseen

Peace unto you; the caller to Allah and the interpreter of His VersesPeace unto you; the caller to Allah and the interpreter of His Verses

Peace unto you; the gateway to Allah and the applier of His religionPeace unto you; the gateway to Allah and the applier of His religionPeace unto you; the viceroy of Allah and the backer of His rightPeace unto you; the viceroy of Allah and the backer of His right

Peace unto you; the Claim of Allah and the sign of His volitionPeace unto you; the Claim of Allah and the sign of His volition

Peace unto you; the reciter and the interpreter of the Book of AllahPeace unto you; the reciter and the interpreter of the Book of AllahPeace unto you at the hours of the night and its two ends Peace unto you at the hours of the night and its two ends Peace unto you—the herald of Allah on His landsPeace unto you—the herald of Allah on His lands

Peace unto you—the covenant of Allah that He has made and Peace unto you—the covenant of Allah that He has made and confirmedconfirmed

Peace unto you—the Promise of Allah that He has assured…Peace unto you—the Promise of Allah that He has assured…

In ConclusionIn Conclusion

Al-Mahdi: Outline of Events and the OccultationDiscussed in this slide show are:Discussed in this slide show are:

LineageHadiths on his behalfAl-Mahdi Becomes the ImamSalat of JanaazaDuring the Minor OccultationUthman Al-Amri, the 1st Safeer: Muhammad Ibn Uthman Al-Amri, the 2nd SafeerHusain Ibn Rooh, the 3rd Safeer Ibn Muhammad Al-Sammari, the 4th Safeer End of the Minor OccultationSample Du’aa

For Details Go to:For Details Go to:

Go to: Islamicbooks.info then choose:Go to: Islamicbooks.info then choose:

Series of Islamic Books: Series of Islamic Books:

Life of Ahlul Bayt Vol. IIILife of Ahlul Bayt Vol. III

Be in Allah’s CareBe in Allah’s Care

Thank you and May God Bless you.Thank you and May God Bless you.

Dr. A.S. HashimDr. A.S. Hashim