Stagnation before the reappearance of the Qaim (atfs)

The Essence of Islam and Spiritual Growth Before and After the Imam’s Reappearance

1. Introduction: The Time of Occultation and Its Challenges

In the time leading up to the reappearance of the Imam (as), many Muslims believe that the true essence of Islam may seem absent, due to the lack of direct leadership and guidance from the living Imam. This sense of absence has led to various interpretations, with some considering this period to be devoid of the essence of Islam. However, this view overlooks the dynamic, evolving nature of Islam, which requires more than just the rituals and practices we often associate with it.

2. The Essence of Islam: Beyond Recitation and Rituals

Islam, at its core, is a living, breathing practice of spiritual and personal growth. While the Quran and its recitation are fundamental to Islam, they are not the entirety of its essence. True engagement with Islam goes beyond the mere repetition of verses—it involves a deep, transformative relationship with the divine that shapes one’s actions, thoughts, and spiritual journey. As Surah An-Nas teaches us, seeking refuge in Allah is a continuous process, a movement from one state to a higher state of spiritual purity. This constant movement is central to understanding the essence of Islam.

3. Spiritual Stagnation: The Perils of a Plateau

The metaphor of "a rolling stone gathers no moss" serves as a reminder that stagnation in spiritual life is dangerous. When we remain on a plateau, not moving forward in our faith, we lose the vitality that Islam promises. The soul, like a plant, must constantly grow; otherwise, it will wither and die. If we remain fixated on the external rituals without internal transformation, we risk a stagnation that may sever our deeper connection with Allah.

4. The True Meaning of ‘Following the Ways of Your Forefathers’

In Surah Ya-Sin, Allah advises against blindly following the ways of our forefathers. This is not merely about rejecting outward practices but about rejecting a passive, unexamined life that is spiritually stagnant. The true message here is that Islam demands active, continual progression in our spirit, not just in our intellect. Merely repeating what was passed down without allowing it to evolve with our personal understanding and spiritual growth is a form of stagnation. Islam calls for a dynamic, ever-deepening relationship with the divine, where each believer actively participates in their own spiritual transformation, rather than staying confined to the ways of old.

5. The Role of Abjad: Numerical Symbols in Spiritual Progress

In Islamic tradition, numbers have spiritual significance, as seen in the abjad system, which assigns numerical values to the Arabic alphabet. The number 5, in particular, is often seen as a symbol of movement and growth. This number, when analyzed through the lens of Islamic mysticism and spiritual philosophy, suggests that true spiritual progress requires constant action—not just intellectual pursuits but deep, transformative action of the heart and soul. As we progress in our faith, we align our actions with this principle of constant movement. To stay spiritually alive, we must continually strive for elevation in both knowledge and action, progressing higher in our relationship with Allah.

6. The Reappearance of the Imam (as): A Call to Continue Evolving

The return of the Imam (as) will not signal the end of spiritual growth. On the contrary, it will mark the beginning of a new phase in our spiritual journey. The Imam’s (as) reappearance will bring about profound transformation, guiding us to further levels of divine understanding and action. But the key point is that even with the Imam’s return, the essence of Islam will continue to require growth and movement. The Imam (as) will lead us to higher stages of spiritual maturity, calling us to evolve further, not to return to a state of stagnation.

7. Conclusion: Embracing the Continuous Journey

The essence of Islam lies in our ability to evolve spiritually and intellectually. It is not enough to simply adhere to rituals or memorize verses—we must actively seek growth and deepen our connection with the divine. The waiting period before the Imam’s (as) return is a challenge, but it is also an opportunity. During this time, we must continue to push forward, to elevate our understanding, and to keep moving, so that we are spiritually prepared for the reappearance of the Imam (as). Growth is the essence of life, and growth is the essence of Islam.