The branch of astragalus gummifer and birds in love
“There will be an occultation for Sahib al-Amr (Imam Mahdi) in which holding one’s religion likens removing the thorns of the tree of astragalus gummifer with one’s hands. People should seek refuge to God and hold on to their religions.” (Imam Sadiq [PBUH])
Yes, and also in such a situation:
“The hearts of the pure and pious people, like the birds which are fond of the tree, are eagerly waiting to meet you (Imam Mahdi).” Imam Hassan Askari (PBUH).
The tree of Astragalus gummifer is a big tree with thorns which look like sharp pins. In Arab literature, doing difficult and arduous tasks is likened to touching the thorns of this tree. For instance, tolerating a special condition by someone is like removing the thorns of this tree by moving one’s hand from top to bottom. It is obvious that doing such an action lacerates one’s hand.
(Bihar al-Anwar, vol.52, p.1 and 101)
Be like the bee!
Amir Al-Mu'minin said to his followers: “Be among the people like the “bee” among the birds. All the birds deem it weak and unworthy! But if they knew what there is in its interiors, they would not treat it so!”
Socialize with people on the surface and stay away from their viewpoints and doings, indeed every one will be rewarded according to his doings and will be gathered with the ones, whom he loves on the day of Resurrection.
You will not achive what you love and what you hope until … No one of you will keep on this matter except like the“kohl in an eye” or like the“salt in food”! {To be Imam Mahdi’s devotee, we have to fulfill Ahla Al-Bayt’s recommendations precisely till we are one of his devotees}
(Al-Ghayba al-Nu'mani, P. 210)
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