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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Discussion On Imam-e-zaman(a.t.f.s.) Realization of the Prophecies In this chapter, we shall discuss whether the prophecies of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and the infallible Imams (a.s.) concerning Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) have occurred or not. For example, it has been prophesied that Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) is the ninth son of Imam Husain (a.s.).

Now we shall see whether this prediction has been actualised or Allah forbid, there was an element of falsehood in this statement. Here, we should refer to history. Our subject of historical investigation is whether the birth of this promised person has taken place or not? If yes, when? Who was his father? Where was he born? In other words, we will try to find out the details of Imam-e-Zaman's (a.t.f.s.) birth certificate.

Of course, this is a partial discussion that should not be searched for in the general Islamic history. This discussion should be pursued in the life history of the Imams (a.s.), and that too, the twelfth Imam (a.t.f.s.). Anyway, it should also be known that books of traditions compiled on this subject prove that a detailed knowledge of the birth of Prophets (a.s.) and Imams (a.s.) are not an essential part of our creed.

For, it is possible that somebody believes in the basic principle of Imam-e-Zaman's (a.t.f.s.) Imamat and also accepts his existence, but does not accept that he was born on the 15th Sha'baan. It does not weaken his belief in Imamat in any way. The characteristics of birth are not an important subject that belief in it necessitates a series of historical references. Even for other Imams (a.s.) too, we do not have traditions dwelling in detail about the birth of all of them.

Perhaps in this regard, the least controversial and most informative is the discussion concerning Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.). Of course, for some other Imams (a.s.) too, a lot of traditions have been narrated e.g. regarding the birth of Imam Husain (a.s.) {3rd Sha'baan}, numerous quotes are available. But concerning the Holy Prophet's (s.a.w.s.) birthday, considerable differences are found. Anyhow, regardless of such differences, it does not create any contrariety in the basic principle.

Hence, we can see quite a few contrasts regarding the birth dates in the books of traditions and history. But the 15th Sha'baan is the most famous and most authentic date narrated. The year of Imam-e-Zaman's (a.t.f.s.) birth has been given as 255 or 256 A.H.