Divine Savior

This brief biography (Divine Savior) provides a focused overview of Imam al-Mahdi, an important religious figure in Twelver Shia Islam. As the text explains, Imam al-Mahdi is believed to be the twelfth and final Imam, who went into occultation after succeeding his father as leader at the young age of five. The book traces his lineage back to the Prophet Muhammad and examines the Lesser Occultation when he maintained contact with followers through appointed delegates, before the beginning of the Greater Occultation in 941 CE when he disappeared completely.

Throughout the summary, the abundant positive qualities of the Imam are emphasized, from his vast knowledge to his piety, generosity, patience and moral virtue. Reasons behind his prolonged disappearance are explored, as are the many prophecies in Shia tradition about signs that will precede his eventual return to usher in a new era. While coming from a faith perspective, the content helps illuminate why the Imam holds such importance in Shiism specifically.

The translation of the material reads clearly and concisely hits all the key biographical details about this figure which remains central to Shia belief and eschatology. As a primer on Imam al-Mahdi, this book would well serve both Shia adherents looking to strengthen their knowledge as well as those from outside the tradition hoping to better understand his significance and the role he occupies in prophecy. Overall, it delivers an accessible and informative overview firmly grounded within the primary sources and narratives of Twelver Shia Islam.