However there exists a difference between a Prophet and an...

However there exists a difference between a Prophet and an Imam from another view-point and it is as such: As a Prophet is the establisher and founder of religion it is obligatory for him to start his invition and mission in a customary manner and notify the people about the ordinances (as against an Imam). Since argumentation has been completed upon the people through a Prophet, it is necessary for the people to ask and inquire from an Imam.

It is not obligatory for an Imam to invite the people and then guide them. Rather it is obligatory upon the people to approach the Imam and receive the religious commandments from him, protect him and ward off the enemies from him just as it was obligatory, for the people to protect their Prophet and receive the religious commandments from him.

When the people begin to lapse such duties and forsake their Imam and the Imam in turn fears from being killed by his enemies and finds none to defend him from his enemies it is permissible for him to isolate himself from the people and leave aside the duty of invitation and propaganda. This responsibility is directed towards the people and not the Imam. The views of 'Muhaqqeq' i.e. Khawja Naseer Tusi too are the same.

In his book 'Tajreed' he says: "The presence of Imam is one grace and his domination is another and his absence is due to our sake.

Now that you have understood this matter, we say: We may mention the following as the reasons and philosophy behind the Occultation of Imam-e-Zaman": Firstly: FOR RECTIFYING AND PUNISHING THE SHIAS AND RATHER ALL THE OTHERS: If a Prophet or an Imam is present among a nation and that nation does not rise for his obligatory rights or does not obey his commands and in short, the Prophet's invitation leaves no impression on the nation and rather they exceed the limit and cause harm to their Prophet, it is permissible for the Prophet to abandon and isolate his nation so that in this manner he rectifies his nation.

Perhaps in this manner, the nation concerned would stop its rebellion and begin to adopt the path of guidance. Perhaps they would seek benefit from the Prophet existence and an Imam too would act as a preacher, guide, leader and the one inviting the people. The Divine saying: Stems from this very aspect When isolation and abandonment of invitation becomes the means for rectifying a nation then it is prudent to do the same even though people may be unaware of this matter.