His Identity and Lineage
Imam Mahdi (peace be upon him), also known as Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Askari, is the 12th Imam in the line of divinely appointed successors from the family of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family).
He was born in 255 AH (868 CE) in Samarra, Iraq. Father: Imam Hasan al-Askari (the 11th Imam), descendant of Imam Ali and Lady Fatima (daughter of Prophet Muhammad). Mother: Lady Narjis Khatun, from a Roman lineage, became part of Ahlulbayt by divine plan.
His Names and Titles
- Al-Mahdi (المهدي): The Guided One.
- Sahib al-Zaman (صاحب الزمان): Master of the Age.
- Al-Muntadhar (المنتظر): The Awaited.
- Al-Qa’im (القائم): The one who will stand up for justice.
These titles reflect the community’s love and longing for their Imam.
The Concept of Occultation (Ghaybah)
After his father’s martyrdom in 260 AH (874 CE), Imam Mahdi entered occultation. He is hidden from view but remains alive, guiding affairs unseen.
- Minor Occultation: ~69 years. Communication through four appointed deputies (the “Four Safeers”).
- Major Occultation: From 329 AH (941 CE) till today. No appointed deputies, guidance through qualified scholars (Maraji’).
Why the Occultation? – To protect his life from tyrants. – To test the faith and patience of believers. – To prepare purified companions for his return.
Imam Mahdi is aware of his followers and intercedes for them. Many believers send him salaam daily.
The Awaited Return
Shia Muslims believe Imam Mahdi will return when Allah wills, to fill the earth with justice after it has been overwhelmed by oppression. This belief is supported by narrations from both Sunni and Shia sources.
In Daily Life
Imam Mahdi is a present, caring leader. Believers connect with him through prayers like:
- Dua Al-Ahad: Renewing allegiance every morning.
- Dua Nudba: Longing for his return (Fridays).
- Ziyarat Ale Yasin: Greeting Imam Mahdi.
In Summary
Imam Mahdi (aj) is the twelfth divinely appointed Imam, the son of Imam Hasan al-Askari and Narjis Khatun, currently in occultation by Allah’s command.
He bears titles such as Al-Mahdi, Sahib al-Zaman, Al-Muntadhar and Al-Qa’im, reflecting his role as the awaited saviour who will return to establish global justice.
Awaiting him is not passive – it is a daily act of spiritual preparation, truthfulness, and striving for justice, so that when he comes, we may be among his loyal supporters.
Explore More
- Described In Quran & Hadith
- How To Talk
- Impact of His Appearance
- Misconceptions
- Practices & Allegiance
- Reflections & Stories
- Return
- Signs of Reappearance
- Supporters
- The Ultimate Reformer
- Why Occultation