Theology and Creed

Repentance will no longer be accepted at the time of the Imam of the Age’s (AJ) appearance, because the era of his appearance is a distinct, end-times state of being, and repentance then will be like repentance in the intermediate realm (barzakh), when it is no longer of any benefit. Repentance must take place before punishment comes and while there is still an opportunity to do so. This means that one must not treat repentance as license to sin recklessly; rather, one should turn to God while sin is still possible and before punishment arrives.

In this world, one may behold God through sudden leaps in spiritual understanding, an outpouring of love, the joy of worship, spiritual retreats, intimate supplication, prayer, fasting, repentance, practices that cultivate oneness with God, and a connection with the Infallible and Pure Household. These encounters prepare the way for meeting the Lord in the Hereafter. Those who attain such stations in this world will also behold God in the Hereafter.