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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books The Last Luminary and Ways to Delve Into the Light Responsibility 56: Protecting Ones’ Spiritual Rank Part 1 The true believer needs to be vigilant in regards to the spiritual stations, ranks and closeness to the Imam. One must ensure that nothing is done to damage this spiritual rank that one is not distanced from the Imam through one’s action, nor loses the attention and friendship of the Imam.

A believer must be vigilant so that in fulfilling one’s responsibilities which are the right of the Imam over him, there is no negligence and that he performs them in the best possible way. A believer must also be attentive since he is constantly in the presence of Imam al-Zaman (ajtf) and must keep away from anything which would lead the Imam to becoming upset.

In addition, one must ensure that in whatever state he is in, whatever movements he takes, and even his silence are all performed in accordance with and for the intention of earning the love of the Imam. A Muslim must not fall into negligence for even one instant in regards to earning the pleasure of the Imam which is equal to pleasing Allah.

According to the traditions from the Ahlul Bayt (as), the actions of the Shi’a are constantly being presented to Imam al-Zaman (ajtf) with extra emphasis given on the days of Monday, Thursday and Friday when a report of our actions is given to him.

Thus, it is imperative that a true Shi’a remains attentive and vigilant and does not do anything which would result in being embarrassed in the presence of the Imam or would result in the Imam being put into an uncomfortable situation when he sees our deeds. It has been narrated from one of the infallible A`immah (as) that: “The actions of the Ummah are presented to the Prophet every Tuesday and Thursday and thus, he is constantly informed about them.

In addition, the A`immah are also presented with the actions and they also have knowledge of this.”[^1] Imam Ja’far b. Muhammad as-Sadiq (as) has said: “The actions (of the Ummah) are presented to the Messenger of Allah and the A`immah on Thursday.”[^2] The meaning of showing vigilance is that in all of our actions, dealings, movements and all of our words, a true believer must be observant of his Imam.

He must know that the Imam is with him and that he should not, even momentarily, (spiritually) separate himself, or fall into negligence.