In Shia Islam, particularly within the Twelver (Ithna Ashari) tradition, the Twelfth Imam is Muhammad al-Mahdi, also known as Imam Mahdi. He is believed to be the final and ultimate savior of humankind. According to Twelver Shia beliefs:
Birth and Lineage: Muhammad al-Mahdi was born in 869 CE (255 AH) in Samarra, Iraq. He is the son of the Eleventh Imam, Hasan al-Askari, and his mother, Narjis Khatun.
Occultation: At a young age, he went into a period of occultation (ghaybah), during which he is hidden from the world but continues to guide and oversee the affairs of the Shia community. This occultation is divided into two periods:
Minor Occultation (Ghaybat al-Sughra): Lasted from 874 CE to 941 CE, during which he communicated with his followers through four appointed deputies.
Major Occultation (Ghaybat al-Kubra): Began in 941 CE and continues to the present day. During this period, there are no specific intermediaries, and he is believed to be hidden by God's will.
Return: Shia Muslims believe that Imam Mahdi will reappear as the Mahdi, a messianic figure who will bring justice and peace to the world by eradicating tyranny and oppression. His return is awaited eagerly by Shia Muslims, who believe he will establish a universal government based on Islamic principles.
Imam Mahdi holds a central place in Shia eschatology and spiritual life, symbolizing hope, justice, and divine guidance.
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