Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān (صاحب الزمان)
Definition and Context
Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān (صاحب الزمان), translated as “Lord of the Age,” is a title primarily used in Shīʿah Islam to refer to the Imām Mahdī, who is the awaited savior believed to establish justice and peace in the world. The title underscores his pivotal role as the divinely guided leader destined to guide humanity and eliminate wrongdoings.
Etymology
The term Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān is derived from Arabic:
- Ṣāḥib (صاحب): meaning “lord,” “master,” or “companion.”
- al-Zamān (الزمان): meaning “the age” or “the time.”
The full meaning, “Lord of the Age,” conjures the image of a divinely appointed leader whose influence transcends the constraints of time and societal epochs.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: صاحب الزمان (Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān)
- Turkish: Zamanın Sahibi
Historical and Theological Background
The concept of Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān is foundational in Shīʿah eschatology. The Imām Mahdī is recognized as the twelfth Imām in the line of descendants from Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatimah and son-in-law Ali. The Twelver Shīʿah branch, in particular, holds the belief that the Mahdī has been in occultation (ghaybah) since the 9th century and will reappear in the future to fulfill his divine mission.
Significance in Shīʿah Islam
In Shīʿah belief, the Imām Mahdī’s absence is not merely physical but carries profound spiritual and social implications. His eventual return is anticipated with hope and fervor, as he is seen as the one who will:
- Establish Justice: He will set right the injustices and eradicate corruption.
- Lead the Faithful: Guide the global community towards true Islamic teachings.
- Fulfill Prophecies: Realize the end-time prophecies and divine promises.
Comparative Insights
While the concept of the Mahdī is especially significant in Shīʿah Islam, Sunni Islam also holds a belief in the Mahdī who will come to lead Muslims and bring righteousness, although the details and interpretations of his attributes and lineage differ.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Awaited Savior: The Concept of Mahdism in Twelver Shīʿism” by Mohammad Ali Bahmani
- “Islamic Messianism: The Idea of Mahdī in Twelver Shīʿism” by Abdulaziz Abdulhussein Sachedina
- “The Mahdi: Islam’s Awaited Savior” by Timothy J. Furnish
Takeaways
- Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān is an essential title in Shīʿah Islam, deeply connected with the belief in the ultimate savior, the Imām Mahdī.
- The term signifies divine guidance and leadership across time.
- The reappearance of the Imām Mahdī is a cornerstone of Shīʿah eschatological hope.
Conclusion
Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān stands as a powerful symbol in Shīʿah thought, signifying hope and the eternal struggle for justice and righteousness. Through the lens of this title, the Shīʿah community envisions a future led by divine guidance that transcends temporal limitations.
Understanding Ṣāḥibu ʾz-Zamān offers deeper insights into the spiritual and historical fabric of Shīʿah Islam and its eschatological hopes.
