Who is Al-Mahdi Al-Qaim of Shia Muslims?

Al-Mahdi Al-Qaim, also known as the Mahdi, is a significant figure in Shia Islam, particularly in the Twelver Shia tradition. The Mahdi is believed to be the final and twelfth Imam, a messianic figure who is expected to reappear and bring justice to the world.

Key Beliefs about Al-Mahdi Al-Qaim:

Name and Lineage: His full name is Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Mahdi. He is the son of the 11th Imam, Hasan al-Askari, and is a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatimah and her husband Ali, the first Imam.

Occultation:

Minor Occultation: According to Shia belief, the Mahdi was born in 869 CE but went into hiding (occultation) at a young age. Initially, he maintained communication with his followers through a series of deputies during what is called the "Minor Occultation."

Major Occultation: In 941 CE, the Mahdi entered the "Major Occultation," a period in which he is believed to be hidden from the physical world and has no direct contact with his followers.

Role and Reappearance: Shia Muslims believe that the Mahdi will reappear at the end of times as Al-Qaim ("the one who will rise") to establish justice, defeat the forces of evil, and bring about a period of peace and righteousness. His reappearance is awaited with great anticipation, and his coming is seen as a fulfillment of divine justice.

Connection with Other Eschatological Figures: In Shia eschatology, the Mahdi is often associated with the return of Jesus (Isa), who is believed to join him in his mission to restore justice and righteousness.

The concept of Al-Mahdi Al-Qaim is central to the Shia understanding of history and the future, symbolizing hope for divine intervention and ultimate justice.