# Imam Mahdi (AJ): Introduction by Imam Hasan Askari (AS), Betrayal, Occultation, and Guardianship of the Jurist  

## Introduction of Imam Mahdi (AJ) by Imam Hasan Askari (AS)  

Imam Hasan Askari (AS), the 11th Shia Imam, lived under severe oppression by the Abbasid caliphate. Despite strict surveillance, he gradually introduced Imam Mahdi (AJ) to his closest companions, ensuring his safety through secrecy (Taqiyyah). This careful preparation was crucial for preserving the divine leadership of the Ahlul Bayt (AS).  

## The Martyrdom of Imam Hasan Askari (AS) and the Treachery of Ja'far al-Kadhab  

After Imam Hasan Askari (AS) was martyred in 260 AH, his brother, Ja'far al-Kadhab (the Liar), falsely claimed Imamate and collaborated with the Abbasids to hunt down Imam Mahdi (AJ). However, Allah protected the Imam, leading to the Minor Occultation (Ghaybat al-Sughra).  

## The Minor Occultation and the Four Deputies  

During the Minor Occultation (260-329 AH), Imam Mahdi (AJ) communicated with the Shia community through four appointed deputies:  

1. Uthman ibn Sa’id al-Amri  

2. Muhammad ibn Uthman al-Amri  

3. Husayn ibn Ruh al-Nawbakhti  

4. Ali ibn Muhammad al-Samuri  

These deputies conveyed religious rulings and guidance until the Major Occultation (Ghaybat al-Kubra) began in 329 AH.  

## The Major Occultation and the Role of Islamic Scholars  

In the absence of direct contact with Imam Mahdi (AJ), the Shia are instructed to follow righteous jurists (Fuqaha) who possess deep knowledge of Islam, justice, and piety. This concept is derived from hadiths, including:  

- *"As for the events that may occur, refer to the narrators of our traditions, for they are my proof upon you, and I am Allah’s proof upon them."* (Imam Mahdi AJ)  

## Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist)  

Wilayat al-Faqih is the Islamic doctrine that in the absence of the infallible Imam, a qualified jurist (Faqih) must lead the Muslim community. This system ensures:  

✔ Implementation of Islamic laws  

✔ Protection against oppression  

✔ Unity among Muslims  

Today, this concept is embodied in the Islamic Republic of Iran, where the Supreme Leader (a high-ranking Faqih) governs in accordance with Sharia.  

## Imam Hasan Askari’s (AS) Final Advice  

Before his martyrdom, Imam Hasan Askari (AS) advised the believers:  

- Follow knowledgeable scholars during the occultation.  

- Hold onto the Quran and Ahlul Bayt (AS) in times of confusion.  

- Pray for Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) reappearance and prepare for his return.  

### Conclusion: Awaiting the Savior  

As believers, we must:  

🔹 Support just Islamic leadership  

🔹 Strengthen our spirituality  

🔹 Strive for justice to pave the way for Imam Mahdi’s (AJ) return.  

"O Allah, hasten the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (AJ) and make us among his true followers!"