The Jurisprudence of the Signs of the Reappearance – Part two

 

The Jurisprudence of the Signs of the Reappearance – Part two

Translator:

Akbar Birami

Commentary and Research:

Seyyed Mahdi Mojtahedi Sistani

According to the noble narrations of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them), Almighty Allah has placed signs for the reappearance of our great master, the Remnant of Allah, Imam al-Mahdi (may Allah hasten his reappearance). Al-Shaykh al-Saduq narrates with his chain from Muhammad ibn Muslim: I heard Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) say: "Before the Qa'im (the one who rises), there will be signs from Allah for the believers."¹

 

Sometimes, events occurring in the contemporary world cause us to pause and reflect on the signs of the reappearance of Imam al-Mahdi (peace be upon him); a pause under whose shade the researcher gains a deep and correct perspective on the knowledge of identifying the signs.

 

The deep perspective that a researcher gains through the correct study of the signs of the reappearance has two tangible and valuable results: Firstly, it can answer the set of questions and conjectures that arise in his mind due to the occurrence of these events; and secondly, it can take hold of and manage and frame the misguided efforts of some of our believing brothers in equating the events of today's world with the signs of the reappearance and making wrongful correlations, and even reducing the personalities of the era of the reappearance to the level of specific individuals and similar matters.

 

Such correlations are certainly not correct, and one must pause regarding such events, strive as much as possible, and prevent people from such behavior with the narrations of the reappearance. These teachings always require the existence of specialists, and in such matters, one must refer to specialized and expert individuals. The status and position of this knowledge are like other sciences and crafts; and among the behaviors that humanity is accustomed to and the manner of the wise is based upon, is referring to the experts and specialists in every craft and knowledge.

 

On the other hand, in addition to the findings and events occurring in the surrounding world, through which minds are drawn to the signs of the reappearance, narrations have also reached us that call us to recognize the signs of the reappearance of Imam al-Mahdi (peace be upon him); among them is a narration that Al-Shaykh al-Kulayni narrates with his chain from our master Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) who said: "Recognize the sign; for if you recognize him, whether this matter is hastened or delayed, no harm will come to you."¹

Undoubtedly, the meaning of the Imam's (peace be upon him) statement: "Recognize," according to the reliable opinion, is a recommended and preferable command; and therefore, this narration always serves to portray the recognition of the signs of the reappearance as good and recommended for the believers.¹

 

• Criteria for Valuing the Culture of the Signs of the Reappearance

 

If it is asked: "Why is delving into the knowledge of the signs of the reappearance valuable and important?" Three reasons can be given for the importance and value of the knowledge of the signs of the reappearance, and it can be said as follows:

 

First Criterion: Guiding from Knowing the Sign to Knowing the Sign-Bearer

 

It is perfectly clear that the existence of a sign for something indicates the existence of that thing; and many examples can be given in this regard; such as the existence of roadside signs that inform us of the existence of specific places like petrol

 

Al-Mahdi al-Montazar (The Awaited Mahdi)

1. Who is Imam Mahdi?

Imam Mahdi (عج) is the 12th Imam from the family of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

His full name is:

Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Askari

He was born in 255 AH (869 CE) and is still alive by the will of Allah.

He is in occultation (hidden) and will appear near the end of time to bring justice, peace, and true Islam to the world.

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2. Why is Imam Mahdi Hidden?

Imam Mahdi went into occultation to protect his life because:

• The Abbasid rulers wanted to kill him

• Previous Imams were imprisoned or poisoned

• His mission is very important

Allah hid him until the right time.

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3. Two Periods of Occultation

The occultation happened in two stages:

Minor Occultation (874–941 CE)

During this time, Imam Mahdi communicated through four special deputies.

Major Occultation (after 941 CE)

After the death of the fourth deputy, Imam Mahdi stopped direct contact.

Now, Muslims must follow qualified Shia scholars (Marjaʿ) for religious guidance.

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4. Signs of Imam Mahdi’s Reappearance

Before Imam Mahdi appears, many signs will happen, such as:

• Widespread injustice

• Moral corruption

• Wars and ظلم (oppression)

• ظهور السفياني (appearance of Sufyani)

• A heavenly call announcing the Mahdi

These signs prepare people for his arrival.

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5. Mission of Imam Mahdi

When Imam Mahdi appears, he will:

• Establish true justice

• End oppression

• Defeat false rulers

• Revive real Islam

• Unite Muslims

• Fill the Earth with peace

Abdullah Hashem (Aba al-Sadiq) idea of a so-called “Seventh and Final Covenant”

A detailed Shia Islamic refutation of the “Seventh Covenant” claim by Aba al-Sadiq (Abdullah Hashem). Using Qur’an, Ahlul Bayt (ع), and classical Shia scholarship, this article exposes the false Mahdi narrative, altered rituals, and fabricated jurisprudence.

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Introduction

According to Abdullah Hashem (Aba al-Sadiq) claim, Islam’s traditional laws, rituals, and beliefs are outdated and must be replaced by a new divine system.

From a Shia Islamic perspective, this narrative directly contradicts:

• The Qur’an

• The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

• The guidance of the Ahlul Bayt (ع)

• Classical Shia scholarship

This article provides a clear, academic, and human-readable refutation based on authentic Shia sources.

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1. Is There a “Final Covenant” After Islam?

Qur’anic Position

“Today I have perfected your religion for you…”

(Qur’an 5:3)

Islam is the final and complete religion. No new covenant can replace it.

Shia Scholarship

Imam Jaʿfar al-Sadiq (ع):

“There is no new religion after Muhammad.”

(Al-Kafi, vol. 1)

Refutation

The Mahdi (عج) revives Islam — he does not create a new religion.

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2. Can Islamic Law Be Abrogated?

The movement claims Islamic jurisprudence is outdated.

Qur’an

“Whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted from him.”

(Qur’an 3:85)

Imam Ali (ع)

“The halal of Muhammad is halal until the Day of Judgment.”

(Nahj al-Balagha)

Refutation

Is Abdullah Hashem the Divinely Appointed Leader?

Introduction

Abdullah Hashem (Aba Sadiq), claims to be:

• The divinely appointed representative of Imam Mahdi

• The fulfillment of end-time prophecies

• The bearer of a “seventh covenant”

• The only legitimate authority of God on Earth

He also teaches that:

• Most Sunni and Shia scholars are traitors

• Traditional Islamic law can be abandoned

• Rejecting him equals rejecting Allah

These are extremely serious claims.

In Shia Islam, such matters must be judged only through the Qur’an, the Ahlul Bayt, and authentic scholarship.

This article provides a clear, academic, and respectful Shia refutation of these claims.

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Does Islam Teach That Only God Appoints Leaders?

Yes. Shia Islam believes that true religious authority comes only from Allah.

“It is not for a believing man or woman to have a choice when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter.”

(Qur’an 33:36)

However, claiming divine appointment is not the same as proving it.

Imam Jaʿfar al-Sadiq (ع) said:

“Whoever calls people to himself while more knowledgeable people exist is a misguided innovator.”

(Al-Kafi, vol. 1, p. 168)

A real divine representative is recognized through clear, authentic evidence, not self-promotion.

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Does Rejecting Abdullah Hashem Mean Rejecting Allah?

Abdullah Hashem claims that rejecting him equals rejecting God.

This directly contradicts Shia theology.

Imam Ali (ع) said:

“There is no obedience to a creation if it means disobeying the Creator.”

(Nahj al-Balagha, Sermon 165)

Is Abdullah Hashem Really God’s Chosen Successor?

In a recent sermon, Abdullah Hashem (also known as Aba-Sadiq) presents himself as the divinely appointed successor of Imam Mahdi (عج) and the “Riser of the family of Muhammad.” He claims to be part of a seventh and final covenant from God and says that rejecting him is the same as rejecting Allah Himself.

He also accuses most Muslim scholars of betrayal, says a secret will of the Prophet names him by name, and claims to possess divine knowledge and miracles.

But how do these claims hold up when we examine them through Shīʿī Islamic teachings?

Let’s explore this calmly and thoughtfully.

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1. Yes, God Appoints Leaders – But Claims Need Proof

Shīʿī Muslims fully agree with one point Abdullah Hashem makes:

Only Allah appoints true leaders.

However, there is a big difference between:

• Being appointed by God

• Claiming to be appointed by God

Islam teaches us that divine leadership must be proven through:

• Clear evidence

• Consistency with the Qurʾān

• The teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt

• Recognized signs

Simply saying “I am chosen by God” does not make it true.

Throughout history, many people have made similar claims. The Imams warned us not to follow anyone who calls people to himself without solid proof.

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2. Is Rejecting Abdullah Hashem the Same as Rejecting Allah?

Abdullah Hashem says that rejecting him means rejecting God’s rule.

But in Shīʿī Islam, rejecting Allah means rejecting:

• The Qurʾān

• The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

• The Twelve Imams

• Islamic law (Sharīʿah)

A human being cannot place himself at the same level as divine guidance.

Especially when that person:

• Cancels prayer

• Cancels fasting

• Cancels hijab

• Changes Islamic practices

How can rejecting such changes be the same as rejecting Allah?

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3. The “Will of the Prophet” and the 12 Mahdis Claim

A major part of Abdullah Hashem’s message is based on a so-called will of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ that allegedly names:

• 12 Imams

• Followed by 12 Mahdis

• With “Ahmed” and “Abdullah” mentioned

Here’s the problem:

• This will does not exist in reliable Shīʿī sources

• Classical scholars never taught it

• It contradicts the belief in only 12 Imams

• It appeared only in recent times

Shīʿī Islam teaches that any narration must be checked against the Qurʾān and authentic teachings. This “will” fails that test.

Is Abdullah Hashem Really the Representative of Imam Mahdi?

 A Shīʿī Perspective on the “Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light”

In recent years, a group known as the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light has gained attention online. Its leader, Abdullah Hashem (also called Aba-Sadiq), claims to be the only representative of Imam Mahdi (عج) and says that obeying him is the same as obeying the Prophet Muhammad, Jesus, and Moses.

He also claims that anyone who does not pledge allegiance to him is misguided—even respected Sunni and Shīʿī scholars.

But how do these claims stand when we look at Shīʿī Islamic teachings?

Let’s examine this calmly and clearly.

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1. Yes, Leadership in Islam Is Divinely Appointed – But Claims Need Proof

Shīʿī Muslims believe that true leaders are chosen by Allah, not by themselves.

However, claiming divine appointment is not the same as proving it.

Throughout Islamic history, many people have claimed special status. The Imams taught us not to follow such claims blindly. Any real representative of Imam Mahdi must:

• Follow the Qurʾān

• Follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt

• Respect Islamic law (Sharīʿah)

• Be supported by authentic evidence

Simply saying “I am appointed by God” is not enough.

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2. Are Scholars Really the Enemy of Islam?

Abdullah Hashem says that most Sunni and Shīʿī scholars are dangerous and worse than Yazid’s army because they do not support him.

But Shīʿī Islam teaches the opposite.

During the occultation of Imam Mahdi, scholars are meant to guide the community using:

• Qurʾān

• Hadith

• Teachings of the Imams

They are not perfect, but they are not enemies of Islam either.

Calling all scholars corrupt is a classic cult tactic to isolate followers.

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3. The “Will of the Prophet” and the Name “Ahmed”

One of the main proofs used by this movement is a so-called “will” of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), which supposedly mentions a future leader named “Ahmed.”

Here’s the problem:

• This “will” does not exist in reliable Shīʿī sources

• Classical scholars never taught it

• It contradicts the belief in only 12 Imams

• It appeared very recently

Is Praying , Fasting and Wearing Hijab Necessary ?

Below is a Shīʿī doctrinal refutation of the claims made in the Yamani/Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light video, using Qurʾān, Ahl al-Bayt (ع) narrations, and established Imāmī theology.

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Refutation of the “Seventh Covenant” & Abandonment of Islamic Law

A Shīʿī Response to the Yamani / Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light

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1. The Finality of Islam & No New Sharīʿah After the Prophet ﷺ

The video claims that a “seventh covenant” has appeared with new laws, worship, and a new book, allegedly brought by “Qāʾim ʿAbdullāh Hāshim”.

This directly contradicts Qurʾān and Shīʿī creed.

Qurʾān: Finality of Prophethood

مَا كَانَ مُحَمَّدٌ أَبَا أَحَدٍ مِّن رِّجَالِكُمْ وَلَـٰكِن رَّسُولَ اللَّهِ وَخَاتَمَ النَّبِيِّينَ
“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.”
(Qurʾān 33:40)

No new covenant, prophet, or divine law can come after him.

Shīʿī Hadith

Imām al-Ṣādiq (ع) said:

حَلَالُ مُحَمَّدٍ حَلَالٌ إِلَى يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ، وَحَرَامُهُ حَرَامٌ إِلَى يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ
“The lawful of Muhammad is lawful until the Day of Judgment, and his unlawful is unlawful until the Day of Judgment.”
(Al-Kāfī, vol. 1, p. 58)

The Mahdī (عج) does not bring new laws. He revives the Qurʾān and the Sunnah.

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2. The Mahdī (عج) Does NOT Abolish Prayer, Fasting, or Hijab

The video claims that when the “Messiah” is present, he becomes the prayer and fasting, so rituals are no longer needed.

This is Christian theology, not Islam.

Qurʾān: Worship Is Permanent

وَاعْبُدْ رَبَّكَ حَتَّىٰ يَأْتِيَكَ الْيَقِينُ
“Worship your Lord until death comes to you.”
(Qurʾān 15:99)

No human being replaces worship.