Grandpa sits serenely, his white beard glowing as he moves his prayer beads between gentle fingers. On the floor, Ryan and Salma are cross-legged, faces turned up with anticipation, eyes reflecting the afternoon sun. The quiet hum of the world outside seems far away, making this moment feel timeless and safe. "Grandpa, my teacher talked about Imam Mahdi today. She said he is our last Imam and that he will bring justice to the whole world. But… where is he now?" Salma hugs her stuffed toy close, her voice soft as she joins in. "Yes, Grandpa. If he’s alive, why don’t we see him?" Grandpa smiles, his eyes wise and reassuring, as if ready to unveil a precious secret.

Grandpa[/@ch_1]'s hands, dust motes swirling in the sunbeam like tiny stars. The children lean closer, their excitement blending with awe.] "My dear ones, you’ve asked one of the most important questions in the world. Imam Mahdi is our twelfth and final Imam—the promised one who will fill the earth with peace and justice after it has been filled with injustice." Grandpa closes his eyes for a moment, as if recalling a memory from deep within his heart. He opens them and continues, his words weaving magic. "Let me tell you his incredible story. Imam Mahdi was born on the blessed night of the 15th of Sha‘ban, in the year 255 Hijri, in the city of Samarra. His father was Imam Hasan al-Askari, and his noble mother was Bibi Narjes—pure, faithful, and chosen by Allah." Salma's eyes shine with wonder, her hands clasped tightly around her toy.

"Was his birth special, Grandpa?" Grandpa's voice becomes hushed, filled with reverence. "Very special. The moment Imam Mahdi entered this world, he did something no ordinary baby could do. He raised his tiny head, recited verses from the Holy Qur’an, and went into prostration—thanking Allah." Ryan's mouth falls open, eyes wide. "Whoa… a baby praising God?!" Grandpa chuckles softly, the sound like gentle bells. "Yes, my dear. It was a miracle—one that showed his divine mission from the very beginning."

Grandpa[/@ch_1] recounts the dangers that surrounded Imam Mahdi.] "But not long after, when Imam Mahdi was only five years old, his beloved father was martyred. The world around him was dangerous. The enemies of truth knew that a great leader had been promised—and they wanted to stop him." Salma hugs her toy tighter, her brow furrowed. "By Allah’s wisdom and mercy, Imam Mahdi was hidden from the eyes of people to protect him. This was the beginning of something we call Ghaybat—the Occultation." "Ghaybat? What does that mean?" "It means Imam Mahdi is alive, but we cannot see him. Allah has hidden him until the right time—when the world is ready for justice."

Grandpa[/@ch_1]'s hand, a soft symbol of faith.] Ryan sits up, curiosity turning to hope. "But did anyone ever talk to him?" "Yes. During the first part of his hidden life, called the Minor Occultation, Imam Mahdi communicated with people through four special and trusted representatives. They delivered his messages and guidance for seventy years." "And after that?" "After that came the Major Occultation—and that is the time we are living in now." Salma looks a little worried, the room quiets. "So no one can see him at all?" Grandpa places his hand kindly over his heart, his voice gentle and strong. "Though most people cannot see him, Imam Mahdi sees us. He prays for us, guides hearts, and helps those who sincerely turn to Allah. Some very pious people have been blessed to meet him—but even if we don’t, he has never left us."

"Then when will he come back?" Grandpa's eyes glimmer, his voice ringing with hope. "The Holy Prophet ﷺ told us that when the world is filled with injustice, cruelty, and oppression—Imam Mahdi will return. He will stand against the oppressors, protect the weak, and spread justice, kindness, and truth across the earth." Salma claps her hands, excitement sparkling in her eyes. "That sounds amazing! But Grandpa… what should we do while waiting?" Grandpa smiles proudly, his warmth filling the room. "That is the most important question of all. Waiting doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means preparing." He raises his fingers, counting gently. "We prepare by praying for him every day, being honest and kind, helping others, staying away from haram, and following Allah’s path." Salma beams, her spirit shining. "So we should be the best versions of ourselves—so Imam Mahdi will be proud of us!" Grandpa nods. "Exactly. The Prophet ﷺ said that Imam Ali is the banner of guidance—and Imam Mahdi will carry that banner forward, spreading truth and justice." Ryan stands up, a spark of determination in his eyes. "Grandpa, I want to be someone Imam Mahdi will be proud of." "Me too. Let’s pray for him together." Grandpa raises his hands, the children following, their voices gentle but full of hope. "Let’s say it together, my dear ones." All together, their voices unite in the golden evening. "Ya Mahdi, Adrikni."