Mahdis

Mahdis refers to a concept found in Islamic eschatology, particularly prominent in Shia Islam. The term "Mahdi" itself translates to "the guided one." The belief centers around a future redeemer who will appear before the Day of Judgment to restore justice and righteousness to the world. While the core belief is shared across various Islamic traditions, the specific details and interpretations of the Mahdi's identity and role can differ.

In Shia Islam, the Mahdi is believed to be the twelfth Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, who is considered to be in occultation (hiding) and will reappear to bring about a new era of peace and justice. Sunnis also believe in the coming of a Mahdi, though they do not necessarily identify him as a specific historical figure already known or in hiding. For Sunnis, the Mahdi will be a righteous leader from the lineage of the Prophet Muhammad who will emerge at a time of great need.

The appearance of the Mahdi is often associated with signs and tribulations preceding his arrival. His reign is expected to be a period of universal peace, where Islam will triumph, and corruption will be eradicated. The concept of the Mahdi serves as a source of hope and reassurance for believers facing hardship and injustice, signifying a divine intervention to set the world right.