Overview of Traditional Islamic Beliefs Regarding the Mahdi

The concept of the Mahdi, meaning "The Rightly Guided One," is fundamental to Islamic eschatology and prophecy. Both Sunni and Shia traditions anticipate the arrival of the Mahdi as a divinely appointed leader who will restore justice, peace, and adherence to Islam's true teachings during the end times. Rooted in the teachings of the Quran and Hadith, the Mahdi's role is considered critical in preparing the world for the return of Prophet Jesus (Isa, peace be upon him) and leading the final confrontation with the Dajjal (Antichrist). Traditional Islamic sources have long outlined the Mahdi's characteristics, role, and lineage, serving as a clear framework for recognizing him when he appears.

However, the "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" (ARPL), under the leadership of Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem, deviates significantly from these established beliefs. By introducing alternative interpretations of the Mahdi's lineage, mission, and qualifications, ARPL's claims challenge the principles upheld in classical Islamic scholarship. These divergences raise questions about ARPL's legitimacy, as the traditional criteria for the Mahdi's identity and role are disregarded in favor of a self-appointed leadership model.

1. Lineage and Identity of the Mahdi

A central aspect of the Mahdi's identity, as established in traditional Islamic thought, is his lineage. Authentic Hadith state that the Mahdi will be a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through his daughter Fatimah and son-in-law Ali ibn Abi Talib. This lineage is crucial, aligning the Mahdi with the family of the Prophet (Ahl al-Bayt) and grounding his authority in direct connection to the prophetic legacy. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

Refutation of ARPL's Position: The "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" does not emphasize this lineage in their claims about Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem, thus contravening one of the core identifiers traditionally associated with the Mahdi. ARPL's disregard for this lineage requirement not only diverges from the expectations set by Hadith but also disregards the significance of the Ahl al-Bayt in Islamic history. By failing to establish a clear genealogical link to the Prophet, ARPL's leader lacks one of the primary qualifications traditionally required for someone to claim the title of Mahdi.

2. The Mahdi's Role as a Just Leader and Reformer

The Mahdi's role as a just ruler is well-established in Islamic tradition. He is expected to emerge at a time of widespread oppression and injustice, to restore balance, peace, and Islamic governance based on the principles of the Quran and Sunnah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) described the Mahdi's mission to eliminate oppression and establish justice:

Refutation of ARPL's Position: The "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" claims that Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem is the Mahdi and presents him as a reformer introducing new doctrines and interpretations. However, traditional Islamic sources emphasize that the Mahdi will not innovate in faith but will rather restore it to its original, authentic state.

3. Spiritual Revival and Return to Authentic Islam

The Mahdi's emergence is traditionally associated with a profound spiritual revival, whereby Muslims are led back to a faithful observance of Islam as it was practiced during the Prophet's time. This return to authenticity is meant to foster true piety, encouraging the Muslim community to purify their faith and renew their commitment to God.

Refutation of ARPL's Position: In contrast to this expectation, the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light introduces beliefs and practices that do not align with traditional Islamic teachings. Their doctrines promote reinterpretations that differ from the faith preserved by the Prophet's companions and early Muslim generations.

4. Unity of the Muslim Ummah

Traditional beliefs emphasize that the Mahdi will unify the Muslim Ummah under the banner of Tawhid (the oneness of God), transcending sectarian differences to form a cohesive and harmonious community.

5. Collaboration with Prophet Jesus (Isa) and the Final Battle Against the Dajjal

Islamic eschatology holds that the Mahdi will collaborate with Prophet Jesus (Isa, peace be upon him) in confronting the Dajjal (Antichrist).

Conclusion: Traditional Islamic Perspective on the Mahdi's Role

The traditional Islamic belief regarding the Mahdi is one of a divinely appointed figure who brings justice, restores faith, and unifies Muslims without altering the core teachings of Islam. This understanding is based on Quranic principles and prophetic traditions. The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, by introducing doctrines and claims that do not align with these foundations, diverges from what mainstream Islam has long upheld.