What Are the Most Important Duties of Shiites in the Absence of Imam Mahdi?

Translated by: Sadroddin Musawi

1. To pray for Imam Mahdi and to pray for us to have the honor of meeting him.

This is a point Imams emphasize on. Imam Sadiq taught a prayer to Zarrareh and said, “Say this prayer if you realize the significance of the era of absence of Imam Mahdi.”‌

There are many other prayers too that most Shiites know about.

2. To get to know the attributes and characteristics of Imam Mahdi. Of course lovers need to know about the features of their beloved ones and about their approach and way of life.

There are many different verses and sayings in this regard.

3. To stick to the codes of conduct.

Every creature on the earth should obey Imam Mahdi, as his name is honorable and his memory is full of grace. He is the leader of all and the best person God has created. People get their sustenance because of his existence and he is the source of every kind of perfection.

4. To have love and affection towards Imam Mahdi.

Late Seyyed Abdolkarim Kaffash used to go to Imam Mahdi once a week. He lived in Rey. One day Imam Mahdi asked what he thought would happen if he could not see Imam anymore. Seyyed Abdolkarim said that he would definitely die. Imam Mahdi said, “That is why you could see me.”‌

5. To Make Others Fond of Imam Mahdi.

Naturally, people talk about the things they like and they introduce them to other people, especially if it is about someone like Imam Mahdi.

6. To wait for the Return of Imam Mahdi.

According to Imam Sadiq, “Some of the attributes of Imams are purity, benevolence, and waiting for the return of Imam Mahdi.”‌

Many sayings talk about waiting for Imam Mahdi’s return as one of the most valuable things a believer could do, and according to the messengers of God, when someone dies and he is waiting for the return of Imam Mahdi, he will be treated like people who are martyred when fighting in the army of Imam Mahdi or like those who have fought with the pagans along with Prophet Muhammad.

1. To show interest for meeting with Imam Mahdi.

2. To talk about the virtues of Imam Mahdi and taking part in religious classes.

3. To give alms with the intention of Imam Mahdi’s health.

4. To go to Hajj and visiting the holy shrines in behalf of Imam Mahdi.

Those who visit holy places in behalf of Imam Mahdi are actually dedicating their religious practitioners to him.

5. To ask Imam Mahdi for help, as mentioned in some sayings.

Even the great thinkers and Shiite scholars ask Imams for help. According to Late Ameli, when Hazrat Zahra was hit by the door, she was looking for Imam Ali and asking Hazrat Hujjat bin Al-Hassan for help.

6. To Pledge allegiance to Imam Mahdi over and over.

According to some sayings, one should pledge allegiance to Imam Mahdi after saying prayers each time or on every Friday.

Imam Sadiq said, “Anyone who sends peace to Prophet Muhammad and his descendants after saying his prayers, won’t die before seeing and recognizing Imam Mahdi.”‌

7. To keep away from what is prohibited.

People who are truly waiting for Imam Zaman to return, should stay away from the things Imam Mahdi detests and do the things he approves of.

8. To be friends with virtuous people.

Being friends with the lovers of Imam Mahdi makes us closer to Imam and pleases him. More than that, we should try to help the lovers of Imam Mahdi and the believers to solve their problems.

Quran says about the companions of Prophet Muhammad, “Prophet Muhammad and his companions are ruthless with the pagans and very nice to each other.”‌

God also advices people to make friends with honest people.

9. To keep away from the enemies of God and Imams.

Imam Hadi said in Ziarat Jame’e prayers, “I take refuge to God from the enemies of the descendants of Prophet Muhammad.”

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