An Investigation of the Relationship between "Waiting" (Intizar) and "Power" from the Perspective of Ayatollah Khamenei

One of the most important principles in Shi'a philosophy is the principle of "Intizar" (waiting). Intizar is the conviction in the final reemergence of the anticipated Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance) and the occurrence of a radical change in the flow of history. This argument is multi-dimensional in nature, with one of the most crucial being the interaction between Intizar and the notion of "power" in the political sphere. Through an analytical-descriptive approach, the article examines the problem through the eyes of Ayatollah Khamenei. The research findings indicate that, in his opinion, Intizar is given meaning by efforts and exertions for the realization of the supremacy of religion in every walk of life. In this case, Intizar is inherently related to the idea of "power" in the sense that seeking religious guidance and political authority is one of the essential aspects of genuine Intizar. The central aspiration of the waiting community during occultation (ghaybat) is to engage in a deliberate effort to fight against forces of falsity, thereby transforming the situation of social weakness (istid'af) into political power. It is achievable if one has a strong belief in the triumph of the front of truth (jebhe-ye haqq) and takes an active part in constructing the social foundations of power.