The Divine Benchmark: Conduct in the Presence of the Imam

In the annals of faith, we bear witness to a remarkable phenomenon: the emergence of courageous souls, driven by an unwavering devotion to their faith, who have embarked on journeys in many cases risking their safety and lives to spread the dawah. In all their efforts they expressed their deep desire to journey towards, or reach Aba Al-Sadiq. 

Their odyssey calls to mind the words of the Bhagavad Gita:

"For one who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his very mind will be the greatest enemy." (Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 6, Verse 6)

These believers have conquered their fears and doubts, transforming potential obstacles into stepping stones on their path, in order to reach their Imam. 

As these pilgrims of faith stand with fellow believers, they enter a new phase of their path as did those before them, and find themselves in the awe-inspiring presence of the proof of God. The hadiths describing the 313 offer a blueprint for how believers should conduct themselves in the presence of the divinely appointed leader, serving as a divine benchmark for believers to aspire to in their own conduct. 

While Islam places great importance on good conduct and manners in all aspects of life, its significance is magnified exponentially when interacting with a divinely appointed Imam. The Imam's status as a representative of Allah demands a level of respect that goes beyond ordinary norms. This echoes the Quranic verse regarding the believers in the presence of Prophet Mohammed, 

"O you who have believed, do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet, nor speak loudly to him as you speak loudly to one another, lest your deeds become worthless while you perceive not."(The Qur’an, Chapter 49 (Al-Hujurat), Verse 2)

This Quranic injunction serves as a cornerstone for understanding what is expected of us. This verse underscores the impact that our conduct can have on our spiritual state, warning that improper behavior can nullify one's good deeds unknowingly. In the context of the community of the Qaim Aba Al-Sadiq, this Quranic command takes on renewed significance. 

Prophet Mohammed said, “There are three things to respect so that God will protect your religion and worldly affairs. And if you disrespect them, God will not protect anything for you. These three things to respect are Islam, me and my Itrat (progeny).” (Al-Khisal, Book 4, Chapter 135, Hadith 1)

The 313 exemplify this principle through their unwavering devotion to the family of the prophet, as must we. We must heed the Quranic injunction to "listen and obey" (24:51). This obedience requires us to align our will with that of the Imam, recognizing that all his directives are in harmony with God’s will and the best interests of the community.

The importance of the Qaim in theology cannot be overstated, as he is the divinely guided leader who will bring justice and peace to the world. Thus, adherence to these principles is an obligation that reflects one's understanding of his exalted position and divine authority. The Quran reminds us of this when it states,

"It is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair." (The Qur’an , Chapter 33 (Al-Ahzab), Verse 36)

True faith lies in trusting the Imam completely, knowing that his guidance is divinely inspired and beyond any reproach or questioning.

This Quran addresses an important principle regarding faith and the relationship between believers and the divinely appointed guide. The appropriate response to receiving faith is thankfulness and gratitude to the Imam and to God who have guided us to the truth.

“They regard their acceptance of Islam as a favour to you. Tell them, O  Prophet, “Do not regard your Islam as a favour to me. Rather, it is Allah Who has done you a favour by guiding you to the faith, if indeed you are faithful.” (The Qur’an, Chapter 49 (Al-Hujurat), Verse 17)

Consequently, while making excuses for fellow believers is a command, the status of the divinely appointed leaders is of such elevated importance that any disrespect or doubt cast upon them is considered a grave offense, one that requires immediate and unequivocal condemnation. Given their exalted status, any doubt, disrespect, or offense towards the divinely appointed successors is seen as a direct challenge to divine authority and the core of faith. 

The Quran states that Allah’s anger aligns with His chosen guides:

"Whoever harms Allah or His Messenger, Allah has cursed them in this world and the Hereafter." (The Qur’an , Chapter 33 (Al-Ahzab), Verse 57)

Extending this principle to the Imams and the Mahdis, their displeasure reflects divine anger. In this context, any act of disrespect or harm directed towards these chosen guides is a transgression against divine will. Even if we do make excuses and take these matters lightly, God forbid, it is crucial to remember that God does not take such matters lightly. 

"Make no excuses; you have disbelieved after you had believed." (The Qur’an, Chapter 9 (At-Tawbah), Verse 66)

As we see, the state of awareness that represents the Imam’s 313 special companions, who are described as being "more obedient to him than a bondwoman to her master" highlights their commitment and devotion, and serves as a model for believers.  We must strive to emulate the 313 to be counted among them and to embody the highest standards, so that we may stand before the Imam in a manner befitting his exalted station and the profound spiritual reality he represents. By adhering to these principles of conduct, believers demonstrate their reverence not only for God's representative on earth but also for God Himself.