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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Discussion On Imam-e-zaman(a.t.f.s.) The View of Traditions Traditions narrated from the Holy Prophet (s.a.) in this regard can be classified into three broad categories. The first group of traditions is those that talk about the immediate successor of the Holy Prophet (s.a.). The second group talks about all his successors while the third discusses about his last successor, the reformer of Islam and the promised one of humanity.

Under the last category, various topics can be initiated and traditions can be further classified under them. Maaedah: 3 Qasas: 5,6 Initially, it is necessary for us to know that for which type of discussions should we refer to the traditions and on what topics we can rely on them and for what kind of people should these traditions be quoted.

For example, can we use traditions as an argument for a youth who cannot digest the concept of longevity of Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) or somebody who thinks that what sort of social problems could be solved by believing in Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.)? Certainly not, because such persons are absolutely unwilling to enter the field of traditions. Their question or skepticism is not related to traditions.

Even if we quote two thousand traditions for them to prove longevity, they will raise yet another question: Why have the traditions supported a concept that is contradictory to science and intellect? Then in what circumstances or on what occasions should we rely on traditions? If we consider the appointment of the Imam to be from Allah's side and that of His messenger (s.a.), then there is no other way to know who the twelfth Imam except through traditions is.

If we consider the Prophet (s.a.) as the final authority in the appointment of his successor and Imam, then the appropriate and scientific way would be to refer to his sayings. And if we desire to know about a person and his biography, then the only way would be to refer to the books of traditions and history. Any other approach would be unscientific and incorrect.

It was necessary to present the above preface because in the past we have encountered such people who have demanded that we prove the existence of Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) through scientific ways and means. And when somebody forwards traditions and quotes from the Prophet (s.a.), they refute it by countering, 'Mister, tradition is not science. Prove to me scientifically.' Maybe somebody might attempt to prove the same scientifically for him.