How Ayatollah Golpayegani Viewed Mahdism
This is according to Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, the head of Iran's seminary schools, who made the remarks in a seminar that focused late Ayatollah Safi Golpayegani’s thoughts on Mahdism. Here is a summary of what he said:
Mahdism in the teachings of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) has similarities with the beliefs in a savior and an end-time scenario that are common in human thought, religions, and especially the Abrahamic, monotheistic and Islamic traditions. The Mahdavi thought that we find in the texts of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) also shares some aspects with these human, religious, monotheistic and Islamic fields of thought, but it has some unique features as well.
Special features of Mahdism in Shia
One of these features is that Shia Mahdism is a specific and defined form of Mahdism with a plan and a clear goal, which is to establish the Mahdavi era at the end of time. Shia Mahdism is comprehensive, precise and well-planned, not just a general statement that there will be a great event at the end of time.
One of the best works on Mahdism is the book "Montakhab al-Asar" by Ayatollah Golpayegani, who drew a complete map of Mahdism during his time. The author carefully studied the works of both sides (Shia and Sunni), selected and compiled them in a beautiful and reliable way, and explained a comprehensive theory of Mahdism clearly and correctly.
Mahdism is not an ordinary theory, rather, it is a great event that is drawn and described in detail in Shia thought. Therefore, the complete drawing of Mahdism is an important section according to popular traditions. This is one of the significant points that distinguish this noble book, and its excerpts should be used in different fields professionally. Of course, this has been done in some cases.
Seventy years ago, when there was no news of the Islamic Revolution, this religious authority presented a lively, dynamic, active and social interpretation of Mahdism using original sources. His view of Islam is civilized and dynamic.
Wise and polite language can be seen in this book. When he discusses Shia and Muslim philosophers, he observes the etiquette of discussion and sometimes accept their opinions.
Ayatollah Safi Golpayegani is a role model and we should all respect his legacy.
