SAEDNEWS: In a provocative and ideologically charged interview, prominent conservative cleric Alireza Panahian draws a direct connection between the 2021 Iranian presidential election and the prophesied reappearance of Imam Mahdi, the twelfth Shiite Imam.
According to Saed News, quoting Fars News Agency, the notion of awaiting the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance) encompasses multiple dimensions—among them, a political one. The Imam is expected to establish a global government that will eradicate oppression and injustice and instead institute equity and justice—a dream cherished by all humanity regardless of creed. This vision is fundamentally political.
As such, preparing the ground for the Imam’s return must involve deliberate political behavior. But where does this political engagement stand in comparison to the emotional and theological aspects of anticipation? To explore these issues, Fars News conducted an in-depth conversation with Hojjat al-Islam Alireza Panahian, a cleric and university professor known for his religious sermons. The interview aired as part of the “Montazeraneh” (Those Awaiting) program. Below is a translated account of the full discussion:
Is emotional and theological devotion sufficient for connecting with Imam Mahdi as God’s representative and conduit of divine grace?
Most of our relationships with God’s saints are primarily theological and secondarily emotional—which is commendable. But it should not end there. We must also establish a political relationship with the Imam (may our souls be sacrificed for him), just as we must clarify and even emphasize the political aspect of our connection with Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). Our emotional ties often revolve around the tragedies of the Ahl al-Bayt, which themselves were rooted in political conflict. Imam Hussein was not martyred because of his personal piety or prayerfulness.
No matter how strong our theological or emotional connections to the Imam are, if we lack a political relationship and do not view his reappearance as a political phenomenon, our relationship remains incomplete.
Naturally, when Imam Mahdi reappears, the most visible feature will be his governance and political leadership. He will seize power—not merely as a spiritual mystic (though his divine knowledge is unmatched), but as a global leader. Our anticipation is political: we long for his return to end his estrangement and begin his political reign.
Many in society lead ascetic lives focused on personal piety and avoid political involvement. Is their relationship with the Imam flawed?
Yes. Without a political connection, their relationship with the Imam is incomplete. In fact, only those who define their relationship with the Imam in political terms can claim a complete theological and emotional bond.
How can one cultivate this political relationship with the Imam?
A political connection is not only essential; lacking it can lead to deviation. Viewing the Imam merely as a personal spiritual figure—someone to meet in private or seek personal miracles from—risks reducing the anticipation of reappearance to self-serving mysticism. True anticipation includes longing for his rule, his appointed governors, and the global system of justice he will establish. This heightens emotional engagement and deepens theological commitment. Those focused only on mystical encounters without yearning for political justice are not only incomplete but potentially deviant in their approach—and they will not be among those who meet the Imam.
What should people do now to align themselves with the Imam’s political mission?
Since governance and justice are his central goals, even our calls for justice must be seen in a political light. If we want to prepare for his return or draw nearer to him, we must engage in political and social activism—particularly the kind of social work that leads to political change. Social work divorced from resistance to tyranny is insufficient. For instance, helping the poor in the U.S. without confronting the oppressive global system perpetuates that system.
So does that mean we shouldn’t help the needy in countries like the U.S.?
Helping the poor is necessary—but it must aim to uproot poverty and injustice. Aid that ignores political structures only sustains tyranny. Many young people ask how to become closer to the Imam. Praying on time, practicing piety, honoring parents, and avoiding personal oppression are necessary, even for those not awaiting him. But to truly serve and draw close to him—sometimes even before achieving personal piety—one must contribute to the political realm and help prepare the political landscape for his return.
Are political activities more important than personal acts of faith?
Yes. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sometimes sought political alliances even with tribes lacking full theological understanding, asking them to support his mission. He knew political power was essential to spreading Islam. Similarly, Imam Mahdi may accept service from someone who isn’t highly pious, if they offer political support for his cause. Of course, personal faith remains essential, but at times, serving the cause of reappearance politically can take precedence.
Given this political duty, how important are events like elections?
Upcoming elections offer a crucial opportunity to politically serve the Islamic Republic—through encouraging participation, reforming the process, and igniting public enthusiasm. This requires public engagement, awareness campaigns, and door-to-door dialogue, much like what Lady Fatimah (peace be upon her) did. She visited homes for 40 days—even those unlikely to respond positively—because the political mission required it.
Elections are a service to the Islamic Republic and to the cause of reappearance. They demand our involvement, dialogue, and public clarity.
Of course, the Quran says: “I will not take the misleaders as allies”—a verse recited by Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) to Ubayd Allah ibn al-Hurr. Despite Ubayd Allah’s poor record, the Imam still invited him to help, hoping to reform him through political engagement. When he refused, even offering only his sword, the Imam declined, stressing that misleaders cannot serve as allies. But the Imam's initial approach reflected his willingness to include people in the political cause of justice.
How does helping Imam Mahdi politically translate to our salvation?
A well-intentioned political act—such as a righteous vote or advocacy—can prevent unworthy officials from rising to power. No more corrupt representatives or appointees. No bloated oversight agencies chasing endless corruption. No idle bureaucrats. No widespread unemployment. These are all issues connected to Mahdism.
If the Imam reappears, will people’s lives improve?
Absolutely—through meaningful labor. Islam doesn't promise prosperity without effort. The Imam will eliminate unemployment through optimal governance and productivity. This is consistent with the Quran’s directive: “So that mankind may establish justice”—a task for people, not prophets. The Prophet and Imams guide us, but it is the people who must rise to institute justice. When that happens, the Imam will return and lead the movement—but a righteous, engaged society is a prerequisite.
I don’t know whether voting will still exist under Imam Mahdi’s rule—but voting now is a test. It proves whether our society deserves his return. Participating in elections can liberate not only our nation but the world. If a strong, principled people like the Iranians show up with integrity and make just, conscious choices, they may become the model society Imam Mahdi will use to expand his global mission.
Elections are more than tools for domestic improvement—they’re platforms for global liberation. A capable, visionary nation like Iran can become the Imam’s prototype. He doesn't need every nation to be righteous before he returns—just a core group of committed followers. Their example will transform the world through logic, morality, and purpose.
In this light, Mahdism is fundamentally a political doctrine. Efforts toward the Imam’s reappearance are political acts—like participating in elections. When done with sincere intention, such acts have profound spiritual rewards and can purify both the soul and society.
