alMahdi

al-Mahdi, literally "the Guided One," is a prominent figure in Islamic eschatology. The term functions as a title rather than a fixed name and is used in various traditions to refer to a future leader who will restore justice before the Day of Judgment.

In Sunni Islam, al-Mahdi is a future Muslim leader who is expected to appear during a period of upheaval to reestablish true Islam and universal justice. He is often described as a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, through Fatimah and Ali, but there is no single universally accepted account of his exact lineage or the timing of his appearance. Hadith reports vary on how long he will rule and the circumstances of his arrival. In many traditions, Jesus will return during his reign to assist him.

In Twelver Shia Islam, al-Mahdi refers to the Hidden Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, the twelfth Imam. He is believed to have been born in the late 9th century and entered occultation in 874 CE, remaining hidden by God but not forgotten. During the Major Occultation he is said to guide the faithful through appointed deputies; at reappearance he will establish justice and equity, often together with Jesus, and rule for a period before the end of time.

The concept has shaped religious thought and political movements across Islamic history, with interpretations varying among communities.