The month of Ramaḍān; An opportunity to cultivate the believers on Imam Mahdi
God has designated spring as a season of transformation for all beings in this world. Similarly, human beings, like all creatures of nature, need change and development. Believers benefit from the spiritual season for self-purification, which begins with the month of Rajab and culminates in the month of Ramaḍān. The Prophet Muhammad said:
"The month of Ramaḍān paves the way for the forgiveness of sins until the next Ramaḍān." [1]
All those who love Imam Mahdi aspire to be among his companions and supporters. However, if someone truly wishes to be listed among his followers, they must meet specific conditions and align themselves with the characteristics of Imam Mahdi’s companions through spiritual transformation. Given the unique attributes of the blessed month of Ramaḍān in nurturing and refining individuals, it can be said that Ramaḍān is the best time to train the supporters of Imam Mahdi.
Sheikh al-Ṣaduq, in his book Fada'il Shahr Ramaḍān (The Virtues of the Month of Ramaḍān), narrates from Imam al-Riḍā regarding the blessings of this month:
"Whoever smiles at their believing brother in this month, on the Day of Judgment, God will greet them with a smile and give them glad tidings of Paradise. Whoever helps a believer in this month, God will assist them in crossing the Sirat (bridge over Hell). Whoever restrains their anger in this month, God will withhold His wrath from them on the Day of Judgment. Ramaḍān is the month of blessings, mercy, forgiveness, and repentance." [2]
Ramaḍān’s spiritual and social effects
Sociological studies and observable evidence show that the spiritual effects of Ramaḍān and fasting manifest in society, leading to positive social behaviors. These changes—such as a relative decrease in crime and sin, an increase in adherence to civic rights, and the promotion of human dignity—resemble aspects of the ideal Mahdist society. Therefore, the Islamic community during Ramaḍān serves as a reflection of the Mahdist society in the era of Imam Mahdi’s appearance.
The individual and social spiritual impacts of Ramaḍān highlight its unique role in preparing the supporters of Imam Mahdi. Examining Quranic verses and narrations from the Ahl al-Bayt, along with contemporary evidence, shows that these effects closely align with the characteristics of Imam Mahdi’s companions. The attributes of his supporters, as mentioned in narrations, bear striking similarities to those of fasting individuals in Ramaḍān:
- Worship
Imam al-Ṣadiq said about Imam Mahdi’s supporters:
"They spend their nights in worship and fast during the day." [3] - Obedience
The Prophet described Imam Mahdi’s supporters, saying:
"They strive in obeying their Imam." [4] - Steadfastness
Imam al-Ṣadiq stated:
"They are men whose hearts are like pieces of iron." [5] - Patience
Imam Ali said about Imam Mahdi’s helpers:
"They are a group who do not regard their patience in God’s cause as a favor upon Him." [6] - Unity
Imam Ali described them:
"They are united in heart and harmonious in spirit." [7] - Piety
Imam Ali said:
"Imam Mahdi takes an oath from his followers that they will not hoard gold and silver, nor store wheat and barley." [8] - Supplication
In the supplications found in narrations regarding Ramaḍān, there are clear references to Imam Mahdi. Among them is the Du’a al-Iftitāḥ, which contains signs of his government and the characteristics of his supporters, presented as a prayer and plea to God. One of the key traits of Imam Mahdi’s true followers is frequent supplication for him. Ramaḍān is one of the times specifically recommended for praying for Imam Mahdi’s appearance, showing the deep connection between this month and his cause.
If the devotees of Imam Mahdi realize that Ramaḍān is an exceptional opportunity to attain the status of his supporters, they will undoubtedly approach it with a special perspective, making the most of this unique chance. They will strive to preserve its blessings in every moment of their lives. The Prophet Muhammad said:
"If a servant of God knew the virtues and blessings of Ramaḍān, they would wish for Ramaḍān to last the entire year." [9]
May thi sRamaḍān mark the beginning of a great transformation in the Islamic community and the preparation of Imam Mahdi’s supporters for his aid, God willing.
References:
[1] Al-Jami' al-Ṣaghir, Vol. 2, Hadith 4904.
[2] Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 96, p. 341.
[3] Ruzgar-e Rahāyee, p. 224.
[4] Ibid., p. 223.
[5] Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 52, p. 308.
[6] Ruzgar-e Rahāyee, p. 224.
[7] Ibid., p. 223.
[8] Muntakhab al-Athar, Chapter 6, Section 11, Hadith 4.
[9] Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 93, p. 344.
