Hawzah News Agency- In various Mahdavi supplications, the Imam of the Age (may Allah hasten his reappearance) is introduced through profound titles and descriptions. Each of these characteristics illuminates aspects of his elevated personality and helps the believer to grow closer in faith and devotion.
1. Alam al-Mansoub (The Appointed Flag)
Imam Mahdi (AS) is referred to as the “Appointed Flag” — a banner of guidance for those seeking truth. His very existence serves as a divine symbol, leading humanity amid the trials of occultation.
«السَّلَامُ عَلَیکَ أَیهَا … العَلَمُ المَنصُوب.»
“Peace be upon you, O the appointed flag.”
— Ziyarat Al-Yasin
Without the light of his guidance, mankind is vulnerable to misguidance and confusion.
2. The Ark of Salvation
He is likened to the Ark of Salvation, meaning that belief in his Imamate and obedience to his command is the path to deliverance. There is no alternative route to true salvation.
«اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَی خَلِیفَتِکَ فِی بِلَادِکَ …. سَفِینَةِ النَّجَاةِ»
“O Allah, bless Your caliph in Your lands… the Ark of Salvation.”
This metaphor recalls the ark of Prophet Noah (AS), offering safety and direction amidst the storms of moral and spiritual upheaval.
3. Heir to the Knowledge of the Prophets
Imam Mahdi (AS) is the inheritor of all divine knowledge granted to the prophets and saints throughout history. He carries within him the wisdom of all previous messengers.
«السَّلَامُ عَلَیکَ یا وَارِثَ عُلُومِ النَّبِیین.»
“Peace be upon you, O heir to the knowledge of the prophets.”
— Ziyarat of the Holy Cellar
«السَّلَامُ عَلَیکَ أَیهَا …. الْعِلْمُ الْمَصْبُوب.»
“Peace be upon you, O the knowledge that has been poured out.”
— Ziyarat Aal-e-Yasin
His knowledge is both vast and divinely inspired — comprehensive and accessible for the guidance of humanity.
4. Infallible and Pure from All Flaws
As the divine proof on Earth, Imam Mahdi (AS) is infallible — free from sin, impurity, and any defect. He is preserved by Allah to be the flawless guide for all people.
«عَصَمْتَهُ مِنَ الذُّنُوبِ وَ بَرَّأْتَهُ مِنَ الْعُیوبِ وَ طَهَّرْتَهُ مِنَ الرِّجْسِ وَ سَلَّمْتَهُ مِنَ الدَّنَس.»
“You have protected him from sins, cleansed him from every flaw, purified him from impurity, and secured him from defilement.”
— Dua of Imam Reza (AS)
This purity reflects his spiritual authority and divine responsibility.
5. A Refuge and Protector for the People
Imam Mahdi (AS) is the refuge of the oppressed, a sanctuary for those who have no other support, and a protector during times of hardship.
«وَ اجْعَلْهُ اللَّهُمَ مَفْزَعاً لِمَظْلُومِ عِبَادِکَ وَ نَاصِراً لِمَنْ لَا یجِدُ لَهُ نَاصِراً غَیرَک.»
“O Allah, make him the outcry of Your oppressed servants and the helper of those who have no helper but You.”
— Dua Al-Ahd
In Dua Al-Nudbah, we also declare:
«اللَّهُمَّ وَ نَحْنُ عَبِیدُکَ التَّائِقُونَ إِلَی وَلِیکَ المُذَکِّرِ بِکَ و بِنَبیکَ خَلَقْتَهُ لَنَا عِصْمَةً وَ مَلَاذاً، وَ أَقَمْتَهُ لَنَا قِوَاماً وَ مَعَاذا.»
“O Allah, we are Your servants, longing for Your guardian who reminds us of You and Your Prophet. You created him to protect our religion and faith, to be our stronghold and our refuge.”
His role as a spiritual protector reinforces the hope and strength of believers during the time of occultation.
Contemplating these qualities — as found in authentic supplications — not only enhances our love and recognition for Imam Mahdi (AS) but also nurtures the spiritual readiness to receive him. May Allah hasten his reappearance and count us among his sincere followers.
Adapted from “Negine Afarinesh, The Jewel of Creation,” with slight modifications.
Your Comment