Written by: Muhammad Jawad Habib
Various historical accounts and direct experiences in Islamic history testify to the fact that the role of youth in the reappearance and governance of Imam Mahdi (AJ) will be more significant and impactful than ever before. Through their sacrifices, devotion, and service, young individuals will contribute to achieving the goals of Imam al-Asr (AJ). This reality is also affirmed by the sayings of the infallible Imams (AS).
1. The Saying of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS):
Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS) states:
“When Imam Mahdi (AJ) reappears, young Shias will be asleep on the rooftops of their homes, but suddenly, in the middle of the night, without any prior arrangement, they will respond to his call and immediately set out for Mecca. By morning, they will have joined Imam (AJ).”
This hadith clarifies that young individuals will be the first to respond to Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) call, demonstrating their constant readiness and anticipation for his reappearance.
2. The First Young Envoy:
According to another saying of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS), at the time of his reappearance, Imam Mahdi (AJ) will send a young individual as his representative to Mecca, inviting people to support and follow him in establishing a global just government. This young envoy, known as Nafs Zakiyyah or Sayyid Hassani, will be a devout and righteous individual. Upon reaching Mecca, the ruling authorities will martyr him. After this event, the 313 chosen companions of Imam (AJ), all of whom will be virtuous and faithful young men, will be fully prepared to establish his universal government.
3. Sayyid Hassani and the 313 Companions of Imam Mahdi (AJ):
Sayyid Hassani, a descendant of Imam Hasan (AS), is described as a charismatic young leader who will initiate an uprising in the regions of Daylam (Gilan) and Qazvin before the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (AJ). His movement will be entirely in accordance with the principles of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings in sincerity, actions, speech, and character. Along with his followers, he will combat oppression and spread the laws of Islamic justice among the people.
4. The 313 Companions and the Key Role of the Youth:
At the time of Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) reappearance, the role of his 313 elite companions will be crucial. These individuals will be young, possessing immense faith, courage, and strength. Their responsibilities will be administrative, defensive, and organizational. According to Imam Ali (AS):
“The companions of Mahdi (AJ) will be young, with only a few elderly among them—just as kohl in the eyes or salt in the food, which exists in the smallest quantity.”
5. The Significance of Youth in Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) Movement:
The success of Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) revolution and movement will depend on the unwavering commitment and strong faith of these young individuals. Their belief, knowledge, strength, and wisdom will serve as the foundation for this global Islamic movement. The goal of this mission is not just to establish justice worldwide but also to lay the groundwork for a new global Islamic government that will inspire every young individual to embody these qualities.
6. The Youthful Appearance of Imam Mahdi (AJ):
The hadiths of the Imams emphasize the youthful appearance of Imam Mahdi (AJ). Imam Ali (AS) said:
“Mahdi will be a young man from the Quraysh, swift and skilled, and he will appear before reaching the age of thirty or forty.”
Similarly, Imam Husayn (AS) stated:
“When Mahdi (AJ) rises, people will reject him because he will appear in the form of a young man.”
These narrations indicate that the youthful appearance of Imam Mahdi (AJ) will be a significant test for the people.
Conclusion:
The role of youth in the government of Imam Mahdi (AJ) will be of fundamental importance. This will be a time when young individuals, through their faith, sacrifice, and service, will work alongside Imam (AJ) to establish justice and lay the foundations of a new world order. We must guide and prepare our youth so they can actively support Imam (AJ) and contribute to building his universal government.
May Allah grant us the ability to train and nurture our youth for this noble cause and make them a part of Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) mission. Ameen.