ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books A Glance at the Beloved Awaiting =========== Awaiting the reappearance of Imam al-Asr (a.t.f.s.) Among the most important signs and essentials of recognition of Imam al-Asr (a.t.f.s.) (may Allah hasten his appearance) is awaiting his reappearance. In traditions awaiting the reappearance is described as the best worship. Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) declares: أفْضَلُ العِبادةِ انتِظارُ الفَرَجْ.

'The best worship is awaiting the reappearance.'[^1] Awaiting for all solutions from Allah's side is propounded as worship. When this matter is in relation to the Imams (a.s.), that too in the time of occultation, it assumes special status and becomes the highest form of worship as underlined by traditions. We have brought some of these traditions to impress our point.

He is not but like the one who was martyred in front of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.).[^2] But this will not be the case with every Shia, and not all of them will enjoy such an esteemed position. Only that person will enjoy this exalted status who has complete understanding and deep recognition about his Imam (a.t.f.s.) and his occultation, and is not superficial in his beliefs like others. Only then will he be better than the people of all times.

In this context, Imam Zainul Abedeen (a.s.) declares: O Abu Khalid, certainly people in the time of his occultation, who have belief in his Imamat and are awaiting his reappearance, are the best people of all times. For Allah has given them wisdom, understanding and recognition with which occultation for them is like seeing Imam (a.s.) in person. Allah has made them such as if they have fought in the way of Allah with sword in front of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.).