القَضِيَّةُ المَهْدَوِيَّةُ عِنْدَ المُفَسِّرِينَ – دِراسَةٌ مُقارَنَةٌ –

The Mahdist Issue According to Interpreters (A Comparative Study)

Abstract:
The research highlights the Mahdist issue, which is a prominent topic in Islamic thought, addressed by interpreters throughout Islamic history in various ways according to their intellectual and doctrinal approaches. This comparative study aims to shed light on how interpreters from different schools of thought have approached this issue, analyzing the differences and similarities in interpreting the verses related to Imam Mahdi (peace be upon him). The focus is on the importance of Imam Mahdi and his awaited role in establishing justice and spreading truth, relying on interpretive traditions passed down from the infallible Imams (peace be upon them). It also explains the philosophy of occultation, its reasons, and its spiritual and social dimensions. The study shows that while interpretations acknowledge some of the traditions related to Imam Mahdi, they sometimes offer different interpretations, often viewing him as a sign of the Last Day rather than an integral part of everyday doctrinal systems. The topic is often addressed from a broader perspective, linking Mahdi to eschatological events.
Imami interpreters rely on prophetic and traditional authoritative narratives to interpret the verses and analyze the Quranic texts. The study also covered the psychological, doctrinal, and physical preparedness required for the believers to support Imam Mahdi upon his appearance, emphasizing the importance of reliance on God, patience, and fostering hope for deliverance.