Question No. 3266 31 August 2022 Official answer by Master Ali Saei (Abdullah Meshkat) verified Content level: Intermediate

Is a Physical Meeting with Imam Ali (AS) the Ultimate Expression of Devotion?

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Dear questioner, Master Ali Saei

Tracking code: #Q-3266

Dear Professor, if we were somehow able to meet the blessed person of our master, the Commander of the Faithful, Ali (AS), in this world, would that count as the ultimate expression of devotion and love for Imam Ali (AS), or not?
Is it a different matter altogether?

#Answer3268

Devotion and love have nothing to do with a physical meeting. A heartfelt connection with the Imam is essential to affirming love and devotion; it is not bound by time or place, but continues and endures. Knowledge of the Imam and following him are the very essence of the relationship between the Imam and his follower.

Subject category: Ethics and Spirituality Ahl al-Bayt and Islamic History Ethics and Spirituality

The essence and first answer at a glance (60-word summary)

A physical meeting with Imam Ali (AS) is not the ultimate expression of devotion and love for him. True devotion depends on a heartfelt connection, knowledge of the Imam, and following him—an ongoing bond unrestricted by time or place.

Answer by Master Ali Saei (Abdullah Meshkat)

Teacher and researcher in the intellectual tradition of wisdom and the Ahl al-Bayt | Soroush Bamdadān Cultural Center

Devotion and love have nothing to do with physical meetings. A heartfelt bond with the Imam is essential to affirming one’s love and devotion; it is not confined by time or place, but flows continuously. Knowing the Imam and following him are the very spirit of the relationship between Imam and follower.

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Is a Physical Meeting with Imam Ali (AS) the Ultimate Expression of Devotion?

The essence and first answer at a glance (60-word summary)

Answer by Master Ali Saei (Abdullah Meshkat)

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