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A Sacred Legacy of Companionship Through Ink

An image of a modern classic inspiring writing corner next to a window. on the table is a hand drawn cover page of a journal to the living imam, the page has borders, is hand writen with the journal of the day and has hand drawn inspiring doodles of nature and ideas, sacred geometry in different colors, add vase with peace lillies, and writing inspirtation the corner is softly lit and warm and cozy add a cup of coffee in an inspiring modern classic mug
Reviving the Tradition of Writing to the Imam: From Tawqī‘āt to Today's Journals

Post 2: A Deeper Look into Writing with the Imam – Historical Precedents and Spiritual Significance

💫 A Sacred Legacy of Companionship Through Ink – From Tawqī‘āt to Today’s Journals

The act of writing with the Imam (atfs) is not a new innovation — it’s a revival of a deeply rooted tradition in Shi’a spirituality. By journaling today, we’re stepping into a timeless current of communication, longing, and presence. The written word has always served as a bridge between the seeker and the Divine Representative.

✍️ 3. Letters to the Imam During the Lesser Occultation (Tawqī‘āt)

During the Ghaybat al-Sughrā, believers wrote heartfelt letters to the Imam through his Four Deputies. These weren’t abstract prayers — they were specific, tangible writings, infused with personal concerns, griefs, hopes, and questions. In return, the Imam replied with tawqī‘āt — signed letters containing guidance, reassurance, and clarity.

🔹 What this means for us today: Though the line of deputies has ended, the act of writing remains. When we pick up our pen, we are spiritually participating in this sacred dialogue. The tradition shows us that writing to the Imam isn’t just expressive — it’s connective. It’s a thread that binds us to an ancient practice of being seen and spiritually responded to.

🕊 4. The Imam’s Awareness – Writing in His Presence

Shi’a belief teaches that the Imam is not absent in essence — only hidden from sight. His awareness of his followers’ emotional, spiritual, and physical conditions is part of his divine responsibility. This awareness transforms writing from a private act into one of presence.

When we write with the Imam in mind, we aren’t just journaling — we’re witnessing ourselves before someone who knows our struggles and can inspire real transformation within us.

💡 Think of it this way:

  • When you journal your pain, you are not alone.

  • When you express hope, it is received.

  • When you seek guidance, the act itself invites spiritual movement — whether through insight, clarity, or external shifts.

Even if we don’t see the reply, we feel it — in our focus, in our healing, and in our evolving state of being.

🌿 Writing as Supplication in Ink

When there is no deputy to carry our letter, the page becomes the deputy.
The ink becomes our prayer.
And the quiet act of writing becomes an offering — humble, sincere, and seen.

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