Ghair-i-Mahdī (غير مهدى)
Definition and Etymology
Ghair-i-Mahdī (غير مهدى) is a term derived from Arabic, where “Ghair” (غير) means “without” or “other than” and “Mahdī” (مهدى) refers to the “Guided One,” a prophesied eschatological figure in Islamic tradition. Therefore, Ghair-i-Mahdī literally translates to “Without Mahdī.”
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: غير مهدى
- Turkish: Mahdisizler
Overview
The Ghair-i-Mahdī is a small sect within Islam that diverges from the mainstream belief about the awaited Mahdī’s reappearance. This sect contends that the Imām Mahdī will not return. Instead, they assert that Saiyid Muḥammad of Jeypore was the real Mahdī, the twelfth Imām, and that he has now departed from the mortal world never to return again.
Beliefs
The critical belief of this sect revolves around the finality of the Imām Mahdī’s role through Saiyid Muḥammad of Jeypore. They venerate him vigorously, holding him in reverence equal to the Prophet Muhammad. This deviance sets them apart from both Sunni and Shi’a Muslims who await the return of the Mahdī.
Practices
A hallmark observance occurs on Lailatu ’l-Qadr, the Night of Decree during the month of Ramaẓān. On this sacred night, they come together to perform two rakʿah prayers. Post the prayers, they declare their core creed:
<p>“God is Almighty, Muḥammad is our Prophet, the Qurʾān and Mahdī are just and true. Imām Mahdī is come and gone. Whosoever disbelieves this is an infidel.”</p>
This declaration underscores their distinct identity and confirms their veneration for Saiyid Muḥammad.
Sect Characteristics
Notably considered a very fanatical sect, the Ghair-i-Mahdī view mainstream Muslims as unbelievers due to differing eschatological beliefs. Their intense dedication and doctrinal rigidity often position them at odds with the larger Islamic community.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Mahdī in Islamic Theology” by W. Montgomery Watt
- “Islamic Messianism: The Idea of Mahdi in Twelver Shiism” by Abdulaziz Abdulhussein Sachedina
- “Mahdī and Millenarianism in Islam” by Antonio Elorza
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Ghair-i-Mahdī sect exemplifies the diversity within Islamic Mahdism. Their belief in Saiyid Muḥammad of Jeypore as the final Mahdī, along with specific religious practices, highlights profound doctrinal divergences. Understanding such sects enriches the comprehensive study of Islamic theology and history, showcasing how eschatological expectations shape varied interpretations and religious fervor within the Muslim world.
Understanding the complexities and variances of these beliefs can provide insights into broader Islamic theological disputes, contributing to more nuanced interfaith and intrafaith dialogues.
