Imam Sajjad (A) said: “One who remains steadfast in his belief regarding our guardianship (Wilayah) during the occultation of al-Qa’im will be prescribed by Allah the reward of a thousand martyrs who has fought in the wars of Badr and Hunayn (alongside the Prophet (S))”1

The Prophet (S) said: “Ask Allah for His blessings and bounties as He loves when His servants ask (from Him). And know that the best of worships is awaiting the re-appearance.”2

Duties During The Era Of Occultation

May Allah guide us and help oss to find the way to open and expand our hearts and mind, so that we with their help may liberate ourselves from the chain of inner ignorance and doubt.

The re-appearance (faraj), even if it lasts for only an hour, will bring enlightenment after it. Enlightenment is also relief (faraj).

Have we really thought of a way to reach this event?

At times our Imams (A) have made this the completion of the proof (itminaan al-hujjah) upon us, and hence have said: “Pray ardently for the re-appearance”, however not just by mere utterance with the tongue!

They have also said that we should act and behave like the initial acts of behaviour. In other words, to act in new situations in the same way as we have acted in the past.

Our Imams (A) have taught us to act with certitude and at cases when we don’t have certitude we should halt and act with precaution.3

The Office Of Imam Al-Asr (Aj)

God knows what sort of person we are counted as in the notebook of Imam az-Zaman (AJ), a person who is told the deeds of the servants twice a week (Monday and Thursday)! All we know is that the way we should be, we are not.4

Preparedness For The Appearance

If the Imam's (AJ) awaited return, peace be upon him, is close then every person ought to and should prepare himself that that day.

An example of one of the ways for preparedness is to make repentance (tawbah). This repentance will ward off all the calamities which have befallen the Shias, which really are without likeness, and other calamities which will come before the re-appearance of Imam.5

Are We Truly Waiters?

For a thousand years ago our Imams (A) reported that the calamities which will afflict the people of faith (ahl al-iman) will be so severe that a large number of them will lose their faith!

Does really walking away from faith result in walking away from calamities?

Are we truly among the waiters of Imam az-Zaman (AJ)?

Do we also want that Imam az-Zaman (AJ) should re-appear?

Are we satisfied with his re-appearance?

Is that eminent one pleased with our actions?

Is the Imam (AJ) pleased that we are spending his resources and property in an unfitting way as if it is not even his property?

Is the Imam (AJ) pleased with our neglectfullness regarding following his and his fathers' path, opinions, commands and love, peace be upon them? Or that we entire abandon it?!

Believing On The Imam

Doubts in the existence of Imam al-Asr (AJ) and opposition of him comes from a group of people who lack belief in the leadership (Imamat) of his eminent father Imam Hassan Ibn Ali al-Askari (A). Those who have faith in the leadership (Imamat) of Imam al-Askari (A) also believe in his successor, his beloved son Mahdi (AJ), and his being alive until the re-appearance.

Famous narrations that are quoted from his eminent father as well as his testament to his successor and beloved son are definite documents and there are no doubts in their validity.

Also, his existence and life are among religious requirements, hence all the Muslims believe in long life for certain individuals.

Moreover, the visions of the righteous (salihin), the general scholars (Ulema) and other then them, as well as the encounters with Imam from those who have been healed and sought help in the east and west are of such huge number that one finds them truthful. And I will guarantee such certitude!

I will another point to what has already been said, namely that in the tradition of two weighty things (Hadith al-Thaqalayn), which is authentic (mutawatir) among both Sunni and Shi’a, it has been reported from the great Prophet of Islam (S) that the Quran, Imam and the family (itrat) won’t be separated from each other until Judgement Day.

The conclusion is that in every era that one has the Quran one must also have an Imam alongside with it, and faith in one of them is equivalent to faith in the other.6

Faith In The Imam!

Man afflicts himself with that which even his enemy doesn't do to him! Namely to dry and wipe out the source of prosperity and peace! Consequently, it isn't certain at all if everyone will have a true inner faith and conviction to the Imam (AJ) at the time of his re-appearance. Some profess faith only out of constraint!

Perfect Belief!

If we are in a room with a shut door and know that a big power, such as USA or the former Soviet Union, is standing behind the door and listening to our talk for or against them and recording it, and later will use it against us, we will become so frightened and careful what we say! Even though we can’t see them we know they are behind the door.

Then why do we not behave like this when it comes to Imam az-Zaman (AJ), acting for or against issues concern with him?! And there is no difference between us and Ahl al-Sunnah that don’t have such a belief?!

Complete Presence Of The Imam

Some think that the Imams (A) don’t hear or are just like us ordinary men. One from the followers of the Sunni school passed the holy cellar of Samara (sirdab Samara) and heard a person inside the cellar repeatedly say, “Ya Sahib al-Zaman!”.

That passer-by said in a mocking tone, “Ya Sahib al-Zaman! Ya Sahib al-Zaman! Say so much until he answers you!!”.

They don’t understand! They are entirely unreasonable! The Imams (peace be upon them) are the all-seeing eye and all hearing ear of Allah, whom if something is uttered knows and hears it even before all those in the gathering hear it!

Complete Following

The one who has faith in and conviction of the Creator and the creation, has belief in and a bond with the Prophets and their successors (peace be upon them), turns to them (tawassul) in his belief and deeds, walks and halts according to their commands, in worship empties his heart from all other than Allah and wholeheartedly performs the prayer (which everything depends upon), in doubtful situations follows Imam al-Asr (AJ) - in other words distances himself from all that which is against the Imam and approaches everything which is with the Imam, curse the one whom the Imam curses and is compassionate towards the one whom the Imam is compassionate to - a person who possesses all these characteristics and attributes will not lack any perfection and won't have any trouble.

Perfect Nobility Of Imam Al-Asr (Aj)

Imam az-Zaman (AJ) during the era occultation has complete control and has the first saying in all affairs, and hence also is active.

He sent a multitude of letters and orders to Mirza Bozorg Shirazi.

For example, once a person brought an order to Mirza who took it, read it and gave a small amount of money, which equals perhaps two dinar today, to the person who then left.

Another person who was present there saw that at the end of the order was the stamp and signature of Imam az-Zaman (AJ)! He asked, “Is the order from Imam al-Asr?” Mirza answered, “Yes!” The person then said, “Then why did you give so little money considering that the master sent the order and hence you should be more generous?” Whereupon Mirza said, “You have only seen this one order from him and not all the other ones!!”7

The Ways Of Communion

The ways to communion with Allah is through obedience to Allah and Imam az-Zaman (AJ); and the criteria for this is by acting according to the notebook of Sharia, that is “ar-Risalat al-Amaliyyaht as-Sahiha”.8

A Strong Bond With Imam

We must know that our remedy lays in self-building in all aspects; and without this we are incapable and our works won’t have an end.

Admitting that actions come from ourselves which we have thought and think of; if we don’t improve our selves and establish a bond with Allah and His representatives our task won’t be accomplished; neither today, nor tomorrow nor the day after tomorrow – what accomplishment is this!

Will our conduct really be correct if we don’t establish a strong bond with Wali al-Amr, Imam al-Zaman, peace be upon him, and build our Selves?

As we are now will our task truly be accomplished if we don’t improve our conduct?!9

The Way To Establishment, Love And Communion

The way to establish a bond with Ahl al-Bayt (A) and particularly his eminence Wali al-Asr (AJ) consists of:

1) Knowledge and insight (marifah) of the Almighty Allah

2) Complete obedience to Allah

These two will develop a love to Allah and towards all those whom Allah love, such as the Prophets, the Apostles, and it will especially create a attachment and bond to Muhammad (S) and Ale Muhammad (A) whom among those Sahib al-Amr (AJ) are closest to us.10

A Seeing Eye And A Hearing Ear

Something that will cause our embarrassment and shame is the fact that Imam knows all things and hear all things, they are “Ein Allah an-Nadhira, Adhn Allah as-Same’ah” – Allah’s seeing eye and hearing ear.

What have we done to achieve proximity and closeness to them? You who are seekers of presence and re-appearance, why don’t you do something so you always see yourselves beside that master?! He sees us and we don’t see him! Then why are we so far away?11

Closeness To Sahib Az-Zaman (Aj)

In our solitude with Allah, in our invocations, repentance, prayers and worships, we should read especially the noble invocation of “Adham al-bala wa barih al-khifah” and want from Allah that he sends Sahib az-Zaman (AJ)!

We should be with him and, whether he now comes or not, don’t walk away from him or his satisfaction. He sees and he knows what we say to each other!

He is Allah’s seeing eye and hearing ear (Ein Allah an-Nadhira, Adhn Allah al-Wa’eah), and hears our words before our selves! When we utter a word the sound from it comes from our mouths toward our ears; there is a distance between the mouth and the ear and He is preceding this distance and hears what we say before we hear it! Considering this can we really do something without him not being aware? Can we do something without him knowing?12

Maintaining Communion With The Imam

If we know that we are in the presence of “Ein Allah an-Nadhira”, Allah’s seeing eye, do we really have the nerve to ask for an encounter with the Occulted One (AJ) bearing in mind that we act opposite to his satisfaction?

We let go of prayers and fasting and replace it with backbiting and slander!

Do we want that he tells us that, “I have made the forbidden lawful for you and removed the obligations from you”?

What is meant is that what would have happened if we maintained our bond with that master through divine servitude?

Others didn't let us, even if we also are to be blamed for not wanting the bond between us and Imam (AJ) to be maintained. Otherwise, every person would find, have a bond and a conviction, and (consequently) a day would come when each person would improve himself, become his follower and have a happy ending as a result.

Necessaries Of The Waiting

Mere waiting for the re-appearance is not enough! Support, or rather obedience and servitude are also required. This is especially significant considering what events will happen prior to the emerge of Imam az-Zaman (AJ), to such extents that the saying “the earth will be filled with injustice” will become realized. God knows what afflicts persons through their lack of faith! May Allah make the emerge of that master prosperity to the fullest extents for the people of faith and hasten his re-appearance.

Is it really possible that absolute prosperity may come about without faith, obedience and servitude?!

May Allah grant success to the people of faith from being lead astray.

The Method Of Concealing Ones Faith (Taqiyya)

The Shi’a Imamiyyah school of thought has stayed alive through concealing ones faith (taqiyyah). Considering this, is it really correct to not recognize concealing the faith (taqiyyah) as a part of the religion and separate it from religion?!

They asked Husayn Ibn Ruh (RA) about the successor of the Prophet (S) in a public gathering where both Shi’a and Sunni where present. In reply he said, “In our opinion it is correct that Abu Bakr was the caliph after the Messenger of Allah (S)!”

After this the Sunnis (aammah) said regarding him, “Until when will they lie about this Shaykh?”

The elected representative of Imam (AJ) practiced concealing of the faith (taqiyyah).

Similarily after the uprising of Imam Husayn (A) no other of the Imams (A) have thought of uprising, to such degrees that Imam Hadi (A) and Imam Askari (A) even were prisoned (without uprising).

Requirement Of The Waiting!

The Quran is a book filled with light and a guidance towards the Imam (AJ). It is not possible that the proof of Allah (hujjat) won’t be among us or the people be without Imam (AJ). What is within our reach is to act so as to bring about the re-appearance.

Waiting for the re-appearance of Imam az-Zaman (AJ) is not compatible with hurting his friends. It is years now that the friends of that master from both parts of this war are killed which draws sorrow upon him, but outwardly his hands are tied and he can’t do a thing!

But how loving and kind that master is towards those who mention his name, call upon him and turn to him for help! His is more loving towards them then their own fathers.

If we fall into negligence, don’t pray and supplicate and shut our eyes to all these calamities we must either not count them as Muslims or ourselves! And if we are not merciful towards them no one will be merciful towards us.13

The Friend Of The Prince

We love Imam az-Zaman (AJ) because he is the bee prince; our affairs reach us completely through him and the Prophet (S) has appointed him as our leader.

And we love the Prophet (S) since Allah has made him the bond between us and Himself.

And we love Allah because He is the source of all blessings and it is from His bounties that all potentialities come to existence.

Hence if we want ourselves and our own perfections we must be Allah’s friend, and if we are Allah’s friend we must be the friends of His blessed bonds, the Prophet (S) and his successor. Otherwise, we are either not friends to ourselves, to the generous Giver (Allah) or to the link of blessings (the Prophet (S) and the Imams (A)).

The Consent Of Imam Al-Asr (Aj)

If we act upon those articles of faith which there is no doubt regarding, we will realize in our sleep and at the time of giving account which of our deeds definitely pleases Imam az-Zaman (AJ) and which ones sadden him.

A person who acts according to the certain commands of the religion and at times of doubts regarding the following of a creating religious leader (taqlid) acts with caution, won't feel regret even if for example it would later turn out that the person's religious leader (marj'a taqlid) didn't fulfil the criterion to be followed. This is so since such a person (through his caution) has acted according to all religious leaders' (maraj'e) directions and all religious commands (fatwa).

Achieving The Satisfaction Of Imam Al-Asr (Aj)

In social affairs we should not look upon others and follow this one or that one as they are not infallible persons, no matter how great or noble they are! Rather we must look and see if we would act such a way if we were alone and no one was present.

We shouldn’t look upon others. We shouldn’t compare ourselves with Ahl al-Sunnah. Rather we must achieve the satisfaction of Imam az-Zaman (AJ) in our actions, in spending the part of Imam (AJ) (in Khums) as well as other social affairs.14

In The Way Of Imam

Some animals, such as the honeybee or animals who give milk, is profitable for the people. Man, also can be profitable for religion and people.

Accordingly, if we work to our best efforts for guidance of the people, is it possible that we won’t have the favour of “Allah’s watching eye” (Ein Allah an-Nadhirah), Imam az-Zaman (AJ)?!

If we are in the way of Imam we shouldn’t be sad no matter how bad they speak of us or mock us. Rather we should proceed on that path of Truth with firm steps and endure the difficulties we may face.15

The Dissatisfaction Of Imam Az-Zaman (Aj)

Woe upon the one about whom Imam al-Hujjah (AJ) knows that he is indifferent and nonchalant when it comes to achieving the Imam's satisfaction or distancing himself from that which the Imam disapproves with.

In material affairs he tells the people his hand is Imam’s hand and he is Imam’s representative, while in other affairs this is not the case!

God save us from being like that! Especially considering that we want that in the end of our life and at our deathbed he comes to our rescue and through is intercession our calamities may be lifted. Is it possible that we be distant from him at the beginning and then at the end have the inclination for his help?!

A doctor near his death greeted all the illuminated Infallibles (A) paid homage to them, but no one among those present saw any person!

We should not act in a way so those great ones which we are in need of tell us at our last breath, “We don’t know this person!”

The difference in rank of faith, God-consciousness (taqwa) and certitude between us and past scholars (Ulema) is huge! A hundred years of span between us and them is like a thousand years! The supplicated and were answered fast, it was something usual for them. But nowadays it's very rare that someone says, "I prayed and my prayer was answered".

It has been narrated that a person, whose death had the span of a week with Shaykh Abd al-Karim Haeri (RA), was in Mashhad and his family was in Iraq. He visited the mausoleum of Imam ar-Ridha (A) where he said, “My family!”

Without any delay a person passed by him and gave him an amount of money, but he turned towards Imam and said, “This is not in measure with your generosity!”

Another amount reached him but he said again, “It is to little!”

After this one from among the scholars (Ulema) of Mashhad, who was present, approaches him and says, “It is apparent that your trade with Imam is good!”, then stretched into his pocket and gave the same amount of money which that person desired.16

Neglecting The Present Imam

Every person must think upon himself and find a way to develop a bond with Imam al-Hujjah (AJ) and bring relief to himself whether that master’s re-appearance is close or not!

There has been group whom the Occulted One (AJ) has been present and apparent for at times, as if they have connected to him without any wire and have been answered on his behalf!

The late Muqaddas Ardabili (RA) and Sayyid Bahr al-Uloom (RA), about whom the probability of lies coming from them is none, didn't approve with the expression "fa alayhi l'anat Allah" which means "may the curse of Allah upon him". They said that such expressions are associated with Bahaism and those who falsely claim to be al-Mahdi.

As developing a bond and connecting to Imam and bringing about personal relief (faraj) is an affair concerned with ourselves contrary to general relief (faraj). Thus, why don’t we pay attention on how to establish a bond with that master and neglect such a thing? And at the same time, we focus on the general re-appearance and encounter with Imam! If we don’t commit ourselves to personal relief through self-building there is a fear that at the time of re-appearance we will flee from that master! Because the path we walk upon is a path for those who don’t pay attention to important matters.

The task of the sun is to shine no matter how thick and many the clouds are. Sahib az-Zaman (AJ) is also like this, no matter how thick the veil of occultation is!

In accordance with what our holy Prophet (S) has said (regarding the most of us); our eyes don't see but there is and has been a handful who sees, and if they don't see they have a bond with the Imam (AJ)!

A person from the Zaydi school of thought said, “Every Imam whose body is not seen has not the worth of even a grain!” In reply a Sunni person said, “12 Imami Shi’a say that the Imam is occulted, but you, who also are Zaydi, say that an Imam who can’t be seen has not even the worth of a grain. Hence it is apparent that both of you are on the wrong side!”

We have seen persons who seem to have communication with Imam, whatever they said or wanted happened!

One person in the desert said three times, “Ya Imam al-Zaman! Send me a vehicle!” Instantly a vehicle became apparent which he could travel with.

Yes, that master is so close to us and aware of our state, but it we who do not see, neglect him and imagine that we are far away!

It’s a pity that we don’t grasp the blessing of leadership (Wilayah)!17

It Is Not Required That The Imam Comes!

Anyhow - for the hasten of re-appearance, lifting of affliction and calamities, rescue and improvement of the believers’ state - we must say, “O Allah! Put an end to the sufferings of the people by his re-appearance” (Du’a ‘Ahd).

As oppression, tyranny, calamities and pressure has truly befallen Islam and the Muslims, especially the people of faith (ahl al-iman), the knife has reached the bone.

Not once or twice but many times it has been heard that some persons say, “When others where leaders and sources of emulation (Marja’) Imam didn’t come, now that the leadership and guidance has reached us he is going to appear?!”

The talks of these persons is like the talks of some persons who, according to narrations (ahadith), at the time of re-appearance write a letter to the Occulted One (AJ) saying, “We are responsible for all the work and efforts, you don't need for you to come and intervene!"

Oppressing The Imam

What a marvellous thing the Quran is which in all the different times of revelation tells us about what can be seen and heard.

The peer of the Quran (Ahl al-Bayt (A)) also narrates to us about the blessings of the world. But we don’t know the worth of our sympathizers, guides, defenders and patrons but instead kill them just like the community of Prophet Saleh (A) who killed the sent camel which was a source of blessings for them.

We can not see our Imams (A) who are the custodian of our blessings (wali al-n’emah) and the bond between us and Allah.

If Imam az-Zaman (AJ) comes we will make the same deal with him as we did with his pure forefathers!

Is it possible that Imam az-Zaman (AJ) has 400 million followers and doesn't re-appear?!18

We Have Tied The Hands Of Imam!

What should we do to our inner and outer problems? What have we done so we are afflicted with these problems? We must ponder upon what we have done so we are left without any guardian.

The problem is that we don’t, haven’t and won’t build ourselves! We are not ready to build ourselves!

The noble Prophet (S) said, “Are you not aware of your pain and cure? Your pain is sin and your cure is repentance.”

We want to do whatever we desire but other are not allowed hurting us in anyway. We ourselves do whatever we want towards our dear ones and friends but others, the enemies, are not allowed to hurt us!

If we build ourselves Allah is enough, Allah is the guider. But we don’t want to build ourselves and at the same time we don’t want to be pained by others.

The evil ones will continue doing their deeds unless an appropriate and sufficient patron stops them.

If we were on the path, we would walk it. Who killed the Leader of the believers (Amir al-Momenin (A))? Who killed Husayn Ibn Ali (A)?

Who has tied the one who is now (Imam az-Zaman (AJ)) for a thousand years?

We are not prepared to build ourselves. If we build ourselves slowly the entire humanity will be built.19

The Watching Eye Of Allah

Is it possible that a person works for the guidance of people to the best of his efforts and be like Imam Mahdi (AJ) and then don’t have the favour of the Watching Eye of Allah (Ein Allah an-Nadhirah)?

Woe upon the state of a person who considers the assistance of oppression or defending oppression to be good!

Oh, if we only realized this world's emptiness and nothingness, didn't give so much value to nothing and didn't dispute and quarrel so much over nothing!

Shooting The Imam!

May Allah have mercy upon the late Kohestani20. The custom which he laid in (the province of) Mazandaran (Iran) can not be found elsewhere. Even though the cities of Mazandaran lay close to each other he built a religious school (Madrassah) for the religious students in every city.

One of the fellow students said, “In the time of Muhammad Reza Pahlavi they come on behalf of the regime to give him some money, but he didn’t accept.”

He didn’t accept money from Hajj Borujerdi as well and said, “If I accept this I can not continue to give the advice to the scholars (Ulema) that I am giving currently!”

May Allah grant us the success to not shoot arrows at Imam (AJ)!21

The Signature Of Imam Az-Zaman (Aj)

We students must think upon how we can receive the support and signature of our master Wali al-Asr (AJ). That is, how we should study and act so our master assists us and signs our deeds.

A student’s thoughts, focus and sorrow should always, whether in the during of his studies or after, be upon how he should behave, act and talk so his master approves of him.

If a student always is in these thoughts and walk on this path, on how to receive the signature of approval from his master, he won’t be lead astray – neither in his works, talks or behaviour.

Neither will he act in contradiction with his master. Such a disciple will never walk astray or feel regret.

Present Among The Mystics (‘Urafa)

We want from Allah, with the Prophets (S), the Apostles (A) (Awsiyah) and the current Apostle (AJ), who is present among the mystics (‘Urafa), as an intermediate, that we don’t be deviated from being godly, be with the godly and God’s intermediates. That He makes us see, know ourselves and the godly ones. Then their opposites will also be known.22

The Effects From Du’a Al-Faraj

If Du’a Al-Faraj don’t bring about general relief (faraj) till will at least bring relief to the supplicating one, insha Allah.

Just as it has been narrated in some traditions, “Pray, for in it lays your relief (faraj).”23

The Sorrows Of Imam Al-Asr (Aj)

Now that a handful of Shias - whom among those are scholars (Ulema), women and children, who neither have any sanctuary nor any refuge, are afflicted with problems, shouldn’t we pray to Allah with a weeping eye and a broken heart that He lifts the calamities?

Is it right that we sit comfortable and just watch while our brothers and sisters in faith are in difficulties due to oppressors?!

If we don’t show sympathy towards them and pray for their rescue today and tomorrow we face similar calamites, others won’t pray or show sympathy towards us neither.

Should our leader and master Wali al-Asr (AJ) be in sorrow and we be happy?!

While he cries at what effects calamities leave upon his friends we should be in a laughing and joyful state?!

And at the same time consider ourselves his followers?!24

Shelter For The Believers

If the people of faith (ahl al-iman) come to know their real shelter – that is Sahib az-Zaman (AJ) – and seek refuge with him, is it then possible in this aspect that his favour upon them may not be realized?!25

Ardent Attentiveness And Turning (To Him)

That which has reached us through inheritance is the Book and the Family (A) and we must make use of them more than others.

Some people turned to the late Shaykh Hassanali Tehrani as an intermediate and also saw the effects of this intercession, but they are not aware of Imam al-Asr (AJ)!

We must turn to Imam al-Asr (AJ) more than these persons so we may see the effects. Certainly, Imam al-Asr (AJ) leaves better effects than anyone else.26

Fearful Heart In Prayer

To have a fearful heart during prayer, truly turning (tawassul) to Imam az-Zaman (AJ) prior to the prayer will make you perform the prayer with absolute completeness.27

The Perfection Of Man

The perfection of man lays in servitude, and servitude is abandonment of sin in belief and deeds.

The perfect person is the guide, and in this era that is Wali al-Asr (AJ). And the path to receive his guidance is to continuously with sincerity, honesty and without doubt perform known supplications (tawassul), such as Ziyarat Ma'thora, and the prayers of the Imam (AJ).

Peace and salutations be upon Allah and all His friends!

Public Invocations

Problems and calamities which the Shi’a are afflicted with are many today. Diverse diseases, cancer, accidents; hence we must at holy places humbly pray and supplicate for an ending of all these misfortunes.

The late Imam Khumayni said, “Sayyid Abd al-Hadi Shirazi came to Iran for medical treatment and then went to the holy city of Mashhad. I went to see him. He had lost his eyesight and asked all those around him to pray for him.”

The misfortunes and calamities which the Shi’a are troubled with today are considerably more than those which Sayyid Abd al-Hadi had to endure. We must wish from all too deeply pray, beg and supplicate so perhaps the door of relief is opened.

Reforming The Self Is The Symbol Of Communion

We must know that self-building is our cure in all aspects, without which we will be incapable and our problems will be endless. We must admit that as long as we don’t reform our selves and don’t be in touch with Allah and His representatives our problems will not be solved, nor if we postpone it until tomorrow or the day after.

Until we don’t have a strong bond with Wali al-Amr Imam az-Zaman (AJ) our problems won’t be solved. And the strength of our bond with Wali al-Amr (AJ) also lays in self-building.28

Continuous Presence

We must act as if Imam az-Zaman (AJ) is present. Where he goes, we should go, what he does we should do and what he abandons we must abandon!

And if we don’t know, we at least know and can act upon precaution!

But sometimes we don’t want to be on the path of that master’s satisfaction, not that we don’t know what his satisfaction lays in or can not reach it.29

The Veils Of Seeing

Where did those go who have a tie with Imam az-Zaman (AJ)?! We have rendered ourselves helpless and sometimes don’t have a thing by cutting relations with him! Where they poorer than us?

If you say: our hands do not reach that master! Your answer is that why where you not hard upon yourselves in performing the obligatory and abandoning the forbidden?

With just this he is satisfied with us as, “The most virtuous of people is one who abstains from the forbidden.”

Abandoning the obligatory and committing the forbidden are the veils and curtains covering our sight from that master.30

The Most Vital Invocation With Outcome

The most vital invocation is Imam al-Zaman’s (AJ) Du’a Al-Faraj. All the problems of the people and the governments stream from the occultation of that master. We must pray for the lifting of social calamities and the fulfilment of peoples wishes to the same extent that we pray for the solve of our personal difficulties.

Sayyid Ibn Tawus went to the holy mausoleum of Amir al-Momenin (A), cursed the local judge and thereafter said, “It will cause your destruction in three days!”. And that is what happened.

Sayyid Ibn Tawus stated in the book “Iqbal” that he has divine inspiration (ilham) and mentioned some examples. He was among those regarding whom it has been said that he did not since once in his entire life!31

Praying For Imam

The Occulted One (AJ) has the most extensive knowledge and possess the Great Name (Ism al-Adham) most then all. He has told so many who has seen him in dreams or awake to pray for him!

Even though he can bring the dead to life he himself is jailed in a big prison. He gives special attentiveness to others, especially in individual affairs. But when it comes to social affairs concerning the Imam himself he has no right to do so!

May Allah strengthen the bond between Imam az-Zaman (AJ) and the Shias and people of faith (ahl al-iman) so when patience is needed we may be patient and endure.

This narration (hadith) is reported from the Sunnis (aammah) where the eminent Messenger (S) said, “The best of deeds for my community (Ummah) is awaiting the relief (faraj)”32

Du’a Al-Faraj – The Invocation For Humanity

If a person prays from the bottom of the heart for the believing men and women while he doesn’t pray for himself, the angels instead will pray for him.

If someone prays for himself it is possible that due to not fulfilling the conditions of invocation or some other obstacle his prayer may not be granted. But when angels pray there are no obstacles or lack of attention and their prayers are surely heard.

Prayers for the people of faith (ahl al-iman) and those who are counted as people of faith is prayers for the Great Leader (AJ), thh absolute guardian and saviour of this time. And prayers for him is prayers for the entire humanity.33

Du’a Al-Faraj – The Invocation For Afflictions

The prayer for hastening the relief (faraj) is our prayer of greetings.

In narrations it has come that at the end of time everyone will be ruined except those who prayer for the relief (faraj).

With these words our Imams (A) has granted a lot of favour to the people of faith (ahl al-iman) and the Shi’a so they may come to know themselves. It is a sign for them, that is; by praying for the relief (faraj) is a sign of one’s faith still being firm.

They have given other remarkable commands as well, as at the end of time the difficulties for the people of faith (ahl al-iman) will be very hard to such extents that it is said, “…after which the earth will be filled with injustice and oppression.” Possibly it also has come in narrations that “most of those who believe in the leadership (Imamat) of that master will deny him.”

They has also commanded that at the end of time we should read this invocation of relief (faraj), which is an invocation to stay firm in our religion: “O Allah, O the Beneficent (Rahman), O the Merciful (Rahim), O the Turner of hearts; firm my heart in your religion”34. In other words; preserve that degree of faith which You have granted me – not being a Muslim and be kept as a Muslim because that is not firmness in religion.

These turnings for intercession (tawassul), mourning ceremonies (azadari) and visiting the graves of Ahl al-Bayt (A) (ziyarah) is a sign that the people of faith (ahl al-iman) are connected and close to them and has not yet walked astray from them. That is why the infidels and their servants wanted to separate Muslims from the Quran, let alone mosques and mourning ceremonies, as these where all against the desires of the tyrannical powers. Consequently, they commanded the ruining of graves and shutting down of mourning ceremonies as well.

The 8^th of the month of Shawwal, which is the day the graves of Imams of Baqi (A) where demolished, was as per custom a day off in the theological schools (Hawza al-Illmiyyah) in Najaf, but we slowly became used to it and eventually it was something normal for us!35

Relief From Calamities Through Du’a Al-Faraj

In difficulties and calamities Du’a Al-Faraj must be read a great deal as Du’a Al-Faraj is the invocation of personal relief (faraj)! That is why during severe times one must be attached to that invocation.

When they were going to whip the son of Hassan Ibn Ali (A), the son-in-law of Husayn Ibn Ali (A), 500 times according to the order of Walid, Imam Sajjad (A) told him, “My cousin! Don’t forget Du’a Al-Faraj!”

He replied, “My cousin! What is Du’a Al-Faraj?”

Imam Sajjad (A) taught him the prayer whereupon the son of Hassan Ibn Ali (A) started reciting it.

Someone who was appointed as his assassin stepped down from the pulpit and said, “I see (in him) a person who has endured a lot of oppression! I will postpone his death until I have spoken with the leader (Walid) regarding this.”

And it was postponed until Walid was consulted who gave the order that he should be released.36

Certain Outcome From Du’a Al-Faraj

The Muslims are weak in the hands of the infidels and the infidels have power and authority over the Muslims through the Muslims’ own wealth and resources!

Isn't it negligence and conceit on our behalf to go on living happily (ignoring) all this contempt and oppression (directed at us)?!

How should a group of sheep who have no guardian, leader or shepherd and are attacked by bloodthirsty wolves from all sides be?!

God knows how the infidels sit and draw schemes on how to render the Islamic countries weak, low and enslaved!

How much we must think upon the Occulted One (AJ) and pray for the hastening of his re-appearance! Devoted invocations for the hastening of re-appearance do have an effect, but not mere movements of the tongue, like dryly and emptily saying “hasten the re-appearance!” (Adjal Faradja) at the end of sermons just to make the people rise!

Du’a for the hastening of relief (faraj) is like supererogatory prayer (nafilah) a recommended deed. That is, we truly and sincerely with sorrow should want from Allah that the span of a thousand and some years which has fallen between the people and divine link comes to an end.

No prayers and supplications are performed in a state of sorrow, sadness and inner engagement by people; if it had been then the situation wouldn't be as it currently is. The re-appearance is at a certain and chosen time and at that time the Imam (AJ) will come.

Du’a Al-Faraj

The best of deeds to not be ruined at the end of time is the Faraj of Imam az-Zaman (AJ). Of course, a Du’a Al-Faraj which leaves an effect upon all our actions!37

Invocation During The Pilgrimage

When you go for the pilgrimage (hajj) want from Allah to most important of wishes, that is the coming of his eminence Wali al-Asr (AJ) which also is the relief (faraj) of humanity. And after that pray for the removal of corrupt and tyrannical regimes.38

Conditions And Results Of Du’a Al-Faraj

What calamities befall Imam az-Zaman (AJ), who is the king of the entire earth and around whom all affairs circulate! In what state is that master and in what state are we? While he is in prison and has no comfort or joy, we are totally negligent and unmindful of this!

Those who have had the honour to meet that master in dreams or awake has heard from him that he has said, “Pray ardently for my coming (faraj).”

God knows how many these prayers must be so the re-appearance will be appropriate! If some are serious and sincere in their invocations as well as share the joy and grief of Ahl al-Bayt (A) they will undoubtedly have visions and certainly not be blind as us.

Invocations must be done with observing the conditions pertaining to it. Repentance among others is one of the conditions for a proper invocation according to the saying, “The prayer of one who has repented is granted.”

We shouldn’t act in a way that we pray for the hastening of re-appearance and at the same time act in a way which we postpone the coming of that master!39

True Invocation

Those who are truthful in their invocations, are happy at the joy and sad at the sorrow of Ahl al-Bayt (A) see things and have visions, without any doubt they have, and indeed they are not blindfolded as us.

God forbid that we pray for the hastening of Imam al-Zaman’s (AJ) re-appearance while our actions postpone his coming!40

The Paths To The Re-Appearance

The path to end of sufferings is confined to praying for the hastening of the re-appearance of Wali al-Asr (AJ) in solitude, not mere rolling of tongue and empty saying of “hasten the re-appearance!” (Adjal Faradja). Rather what is important and gives result is an honest invocation with a sincere intention along with repentance.41

Du’a Al-Faraj

With the reciting of Du’a Al-Faraj in the time of occultation every invocation for the hastening of re-appearance is meant, such as for example “O Allah! Great was the calamity…” (Allahumma Adham al-Bala’…”).4243

Repentance And Invocation For The Re-Appearance

We seek refuge in Allah from treading upon a path whose condition is to step upon the truth!

We seek refuge in Allah from treading upon a path we can not return from!

May Allah make that if we knew that we can’t walk upon this path and must return, we return! Otherwise, God knows how much we must lie and make excuses for our faults!

We hope that these events that are happening are tidings that the coming of Imam az-Zaman (AJ) is close.

Sahib al-Amr Imam az-Zaman (AJ) is more grieved than us that two groups of Muslims have strife among themselves!

History hasn't before witnessed all this dispute and conflict that exists between Muslims today, which shows that it (the sectarianism) is connected to the coming of the Imam (AJ).

Invocations During The Era Of Occultation

They said that in the mausoleum of Sayyid ash-Shohada’ (A) a person was sitting beside a luminous Sayyid who spoke about the re-appearance of Imam az-Zaman (AJ). Shaykh with an empty mind and without attention said, “Some are deniers!” He said, “Yes, by God he will come and take revenge from them.”

Shaykh said, “Will I experience the re-appearance?”

The veins of the Sayyid turned red and he said, “If Allah gives you the lifetime!”

Apparently there is a secret behind the order to recite “O Allah teach me to know You…” (Allahumma arrafni nafsak) during the time of occultation!

It has also been commanded to read the following invocation, “O Allah, O the Beneficent, O the Merciful, O the Turner of hearts; firm my heart in your religion” 44(Ya Allah, ya Rahman, ya Rahim, ya Muqallab al-qulob, thab-bat qulobi ‘ala dinik).45

Results Of Du’a Al-Faraj For Those Who Have Wandered Astray

We assumed that supplications for the hastening of re-appearance was dependent upon the righteousness of the supplicant, but this is not the case. Even a sinful person should supplicate since the prayers affect and motivate him to leave his sins. But one who continues with his sins won't likely leave them even after the re-appearance of the Imam (AJ)!

The re-appearance of that master will be a relief for the believers (not for the evil ones).

If man is drowned in water and mud, how could he then be rescued if the world is filled with water?!

When his eminence re-appears he will ask, “Why did you perform this open deed?”

It is not certain if he will inquire into hidden deeds.46

The Way To Recovery

The perfection of man lays in servitude, and servitude is abandonment of sin in belief and deeds.

The perfect person is the guide, and in this era that is Wali al-Asr (AJ). And the path to receive his guidance is to continuously with sincerity, honesty and without doubt perform known supplications (tawassul), such as Ziyarat Ma'thora, and the prayers of the Imam (AJ).

Peace and salutations be upon Allah and all His friends!

Weeping In Rank

Sayyid Ahmad Karbalai spent a lot of time in the mosque of Kufah and Sahla. A person said, “I saw Sayyid Ahmad Karbalai in the position (maqam) of Imam Mahdi (AJ) worshipping until dawn with tears and cries.”47

Complete Bond With The Imam!

Obedience and surrender to Allah after knowing Him results in love for Him as well as those who love Him, such as the Prophets (S) and the Apostles (A) (Awsiyah). Among those Muhammad (S) and the Family of Muhammad (S) are the most loved ones by Allah and the closest of them to us is his eminence Sahib al-Asr (AJ).48

• 1. “M’ajam Ahadith al-Imam al-Mahdi (AJ)”, Vol. 3, p. 197.
• 2. “M’ajam Ahadith al-Imam al-Mahdi (AJ)”, Vol. 1, p. 248.
• 3. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 23.
• 4. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 120.
• 5. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 109.
• 6. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 60.
• 7. During a lesson in Kharij al-Fiqh (Wednesday 9-8-1382 (2003)).
• 8. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 62.
• 9. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 104.
• 10. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 61.
• 11. “Az Veraje Sokot”, p. 228.
• 12. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 109.
• 13. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 366.
• 14. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 101.
• 15. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 103.
• 16. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 101
• 17. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 133-135
• 18. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 12.
• 19. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 101-102.
• 20. He was born in the year of 1303 A.H (1884 A.D) in Kosan (famous as “Kohestan” today). He finished his primary education in Bushehr and moved to Najaf al-Ahsraf in the year of 1340 A.H (1921 A.D). After staying 10 years in Najaf he returned to Kohestan. He left this world in the year of 1392 A.H (1973 A.D), at the age of 84. He spent his life in asceticism, God-consciousness (taqwa) and self-building. His encounters with Wali al-Asr, may our souls be sacrificed for him, are well known.
• 21. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 253.
• 22. ”Feiz Az Veraje Sokot”, p. 81.
• 23. ”Roz Nahai Az Alam-e-Ghayb”, p. 55.
• 24. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 181.
• 25. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 254.
• 26. ”Roz Nahai Az Alam-e-Ghayb”, p. 55.
• 27. “Be Soje Mahbob”, p. 63.
• 28. ”Feiz Az Veraje Sokot”, p. 65.
• 29. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 386.
• 30. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 361
• 31. ”Roz Nahai Az Alam-e-Ghayb”, p. 363
• 32. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 299
• 33. ”Feiz Az Veraje Sokot”, p. 83.
• 34. ”Bihar al-Anwar”, Vol. 52, p. 148.
• 35. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 363.
• 36. ”Tahzib”, Vol. 3, p. 294.
• 37. ”Nuktehaje Nab”, p. 72.
• 38. ”Roz Nahai Az Alam-e-Ghayb”, p. 53.
• 39. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 118.
• 40. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 230.
• 41. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 347.
• 42. ”Bihar al-Anwar”, Vol. 82, p. 206.
• 43. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 2, p. 306.
• 44. ”Bihar al-Anwar”, Vol. 2, p. 148.
• 45. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 124.
• 46. ”Dar Mahzare Ayatollah al-Udhma Behjat”, Vol. 1, p. 361
• 47. ”Roz Nahai Az Alam-e-Ghayb”, p. 372
• 48. ”Bargi Az Daftare Aftab”, p. 155