Birthday of the Twelfth Imam

Twelfth Imam, Birthday of the

15th day of the Islamic month of Shaban

Among Shi'ite Muslims, Muhammad al-Mahdi holds distinction as a direct descendant of the prophet Muhammad and the 12th and last imam. More important, followers believe he achieved immortality during his earthly life in the late ninth century, and that after a long departure, he will return as the savior of the world.
Iran, a country with the largest Shi'ite population, holds birthday celebrations in various towns and cities. Typical festivities include picnics, firework displays, and outdoor concerts. Qom, considered the holiest of Iranian cities next to Mashhad, is a popular celebration site. Many worshippers visit the Jamkaran Mosque, located on the city's outskirts. According to local belief, Imam Mahdi delivered a prophecy in 974 locating his eventual return at this mosque site. A tradition has emerged in which visitors to the mosque leave their wishes and personal requests for the imam.

CONTACTS:
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Imam Khomeini Sq.
Tehran, Iran