That crucial obligation has been expounded in 'Then disperse...

That crucial obligation has been expounded in 'Then disperse abroad and in the land and seek of Allah's grace.' (Jumaa : 10) By way of elucidation of the above verse Jabir b. Abdullah (r.a.) narrates from Masoomeen (a.s.), 'The grace of Allah mentioned in the ayat alludes to the Imams (a.s.). (Mikyaalul Makaarim vol. 2, pg. 273) Besides, in the Quran, Allah commands us to enter a house only through its door.

Likewise, Allah has designated an Imam in every era, through which the Muslims are commanded to 'enter' into Allah's grace and mercy. And the fact that the Imam (a.s.) of this era is in occultation does not in any way diminish his mediation and arbitration prowess vis--vis Allah; for an Imam is Allah's emissary on this earth, and to that extent there is no difference between an apparent Imam and a hidden one.

Imam (a.s.) is aware of everything that goes around as he himself proclaims, 'Certainly, we with our knowledge are cognizant of all your affairs and your dealings are never concealed from us.' (Behaarul Anwaar, vol. 53, page 175). In another tradition Imam (a.s.) asserts, Translation, 'We are never neglectful of your guardianship nor are we ever unmindful of your remembrance (Behaarul Anwaar, vol. 53, page 176) And no mountain, bulwark or curtain can ever act as an impediment for Imam (a.s.).

In this regard, Syed Ibne Taoos has recorded a tradition in his book, 'Kashful Muhajjah'. 'A companion of Imam Ali. Raza (a.s.) narrates, 1 wrote a letter to Imam (a.s.). In the letter I mentioned about a person who wanted to offer his demands to Imam (a.s.); those demands that he sought from his God. Imam Raza (a.s.) replied that if he has any requirement, tell him to simply move his lips, and the response (from my side) shall reach him.' (Mikyal Makaarim, vol.

2, page 273) In 'Al-Kafi', there is a lengthy tradition narrated by Imam Raza (a.s.), about the elevated station of an Imam. An excerpt of this important narration has been brought below so as to appreciate, although to a very limited extent, the compassionate nature of Imam. Imam Raza (a.s.) pronounces, Translation, 'Imam is a confidant, an aide, a sympathetic father, an affectionate brother, and a caring mother who nurtures her infant." (Al-Kafi vol.

1, page 200) The above tradition provides us with a glimpse, albeit a fleeting one, of the immense love and affection Imam (a.s.) has for his Shias. Our affliction and grief disturbs him even more than it disturbs us.