The 15th of Sha’ban is a night of profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide, particularly within the Shia school of thought. It marks the auspicious birth anniversary of Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi (a.s.), the twelfth and final Imam, whose advent is prophesied to establish universal justice, peace, and the pure teachings of Islam across the globe.
The biography of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), his hidden existence (Ghaybat), the spiritual practices associated with the 15th of Sha’ban, and the profound hope his eventual reappearance brings to a world yearning for ultimate truth and equity.
1. Biography of Imam Mahdi (a.s.)
The life of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is unique among the Imams. Born in secret, he immediately went into a state of occultation (Ghaybat), yet his presence is a constant source of guidance and hope for his followers.
At a Glance: Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Askari |
| Titles | Al-Mahdi (The Guided One), Al-Qa’im (The Riser), Sahib al-Zaman (Master of the Age), Hujjatullah (Proof of Allah) |
| Father | Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.) (11th Imam) |
| Mother | Lady Narjis Khatoon (s.a.) (also known as Malika, daughter of a Byzantine Emperor) |
| Born | 15th Sha’ban, 255 AH (Samarra, Iraq) |
| Beginning of Ghaybat al-Sughra | 260 AH (Upon the martyrdom of his father) |
| Beginning of Ghaybat al-Kubra | 329 AH |
| Current Status | In Major Occultation (Ghaybat al-Kubra) |
| Reappearance | Unknown (Upon Allah’s command, to establish justice) |
The Secret Birth
Imam Mahdi’s (a.s.) birth was meticulously concealed due to the oppressive Abbasid caliphate, who were aware of prophecies regarding a child who would end their tyranny. He was born in Samarra, Iraq, into the home of his father, Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.). Only a select few, including Lady Hakima Khatoon (his paternal aunt), were present to witness this miraculous event. This secrecy was crucial for his survival and the fulfillment of his divine mission.
Lady Narjis Khatoon (s.a.): His Noble Mother
His mother, Lady Narjis Khatoon (s.a.), has a remarkable story herself. She was the granddaughter of a Byzantine Emperor, captured and brought to Baghdad, where she was specifically purchased by Imam Ali al-Hadi (a.s.) (the 10th Imam) for his son, Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.). Her lineage connected to the Christian tradition further signifies the universal nature of Imam Mahdi’s (a.s.) mission.
2. The Concept of Ghaybat (Occultation)
The Ghaybat of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is a core tenet of Shia Islam. It is not an absence, but a hidden presence, guided by divine wisdom.
Ghaybat al-Sughra (Minor Occultation: 260 AH – 329 AH)
This period lasted for approximately 69 years. During this time, Imam Mahdi (a.s.) communicated with his followers through four designated deputies, known as the “Four Special Deputies” (Nawwab al-Arba’a).
| Deputy | Period of Representation |
| Uthman ibn Sa’id al-Amri | 260 AH – 265 AH |
| Muhammad ibn Uthman al-Amri | 265 AH – 305 AH |
| Husain ibn Rawh al-Nawbakhti | 305 AH – 326 AH |
| Ali ibn Muhammad al-Samarri | 326 AH – 329 AH |
The purpose of the Minor Occultation was to gradually prepare the Shia community for the era of Major Occultation, ensuring the continuity of religious guidance while safeguarding the Imam’s life.
Ghaybat al-Kubra (Major Occultation: 329 AH – Present)
Upon the death of the fourth deputy, Ali ibn Muhammad al-Samarri, a letter from Imam Mahdi (a.s.) was delivered, declaring the beginning of the Major Occultation. In this period, there are no specific deputies, and direct communication with the Imam is suspended.
- Wisdom of Ghaybat al-Kubra:
- Divine Test: It serves as a test of faith and patience for believers.
- Protection of the Imam: To protect him from the plots of enemies.
- Preparation of the Ummah: To allow humanity to reach a state of readiness to accept universal justice.
- Universal Justice: To ensure that his revolution is truly global and not tied to specific political or geographical constraints.
3. The 15th of Sha’ban: A Night of Blessings and Hope
The night of the 15th of Sha’ban, known as Laylat al-Bara’at (Night of Absolution) or Laylat al-Qadr al-Thaniyah (Second Night of Power) in some traditions, holds immense spiritual value.
Significance of the Night
- Birth of Imam Mahdi (a.s.): It is the night the light of the final Imam entered the world.
- Bestowal of Blessings: It is believed that on this night, Allah (swt) decrees the destinies of people for the coming year, bestows abundant mercy, and forgives sins.
- Recommended Practices:
- Fasting: Fasting on the 15th of Sha’ban (the day) is highly recommended.
- Du’a (Supplication): Special prayers and supplications, particularly Dua Kumayl and Ziyarat Imam Hussain (a.s.) are encouraged.
- Salawat: Sending abundant blessings upon the Prophet (s.a.w.w.) and his family.
- Recitation of Quran: Especially Surah Yasin.
- Night Vigil: Staying awake and engaged in worship and remembrance of Allah (swt).
4. The Reappearance and Global Justice
The central tenet of belief in Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is not just his existence but his eventual reappearance (Zuhur). This event will mark the end of tyranny and the beginning of a golden era for humanity.
Signs of Reappearance
While the exact time of his reappearance is unknown, there are numerous signs mentioned in Hadith, both minor and major.
- Minor Signs: Widespread injustice, corruption, moral decay, natural disasters, and global conflicts.
- Major Signs: The appearance of Sufyani, the uprising of Yamani, the heavenly cry, the sinking of a land in Bayda, and the martyrdom of Nafs al-Zakiyyah.
- Place of Reappearance: Mecca, from the Kaaba.
- Companions: He will be accompanied by a chosen group of 313 loyal companions, likened to the companions of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.w.) at Badr.
The Reign of Justice
Upon his reappearance, Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will establish a global government based purely on Islamic justice and equity.
- Elimination of Oppression: All forms of tyranny, exploitation, and injustice will be eradicated.
- Universal Peace: Wars and conflicts will cease, replaced by global harmony.
- Economic Equity: Wealth will be distributed fairly, eradicating poverty.
- Flourishing of Knowledge: Science, wisdom, and spirituality will reach unprecedented heights.
- True Islam: The pure, unadulterated teachings of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.w.) will be implemented globally.
5. The Role of Awaiting (Intizar al-Faraj)
For believers, the Ghaybat of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is not a passive waiting but an active anticipation, known as Intizar al-Faraj.
Responsibilities During Ghaybat
- Self-Purification: Striving to be a righteous individual, embodying Islamic virtues.
- Knowledge Acquisition: Deepening understanding of Islamic teachings and the Ahlulbayt.
- Calling to Good and Forbidding Evil (Amr Bil Ma’ruf wa Nahy Anil Munkar): Working to establish justice in one’s own sphere of influence.
- Du’a for His Reappearance: Constantly supplicating for his swift advent.
- Preparation: Being mentally, spiritually, and intellectually ready to join his cause.
Conclusion: The Hope that Illuminates the World
The 15th of Sha’ban is more than just a birth anniversary; it is a renewal of hope, a reminder of Allah’s ultimate promise, and a call to prepare for the grandest transformation humanity has ever witnessed. Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is not merely a historical figure or a future leader; he is the living proof of Allah’s justice, the source of solace in a turbulent world, and the ultimate embodiment of humanity’s aspiration for a perfect society. His hidden presence is a constant challenge to us to strive for the perfection he will eventually bring.
