Forty men of creditable Shiites gathered in Imam Askari’s (pbuh) house, to ask him about the next Imam.

Uthman ibn Sa’id [1] stood up and said, “O son of God’s Messenger! I want to ask you about a point which you are more erudite about it.” Imam [Askari (pbuh)] stated, “Oh Uthman! Sit down.”

Uthman got upset and wanted to exit, but Imam stated, “Nobody should go out!” And no one went out. After some moments, the Imam called Uthman. So, he stood up.

Imam stated, “Would you like to hear why you have come here?” They answered, “O, son of God’s Messenger! Yes!”

Imam stated, “You have come to ask me about the [God’s] proof after me?” They answered, “Yes” At that time, a boy who looked like bright full moon entered.

Imam Askari (pbuh) stated:

“This boy is my successor and your Imam after me. Obey him and don’t be dispersed after me because [dispersion] will make your religion destroyed.”

Articles collection about Imam Mahdi (hgr) birth, Milad, P.51

۱٫      A companion of Imam Hadi, Imam Askari and Imam Mahdi (pbu th), who was also the first “special deputy” of Imam Mahdi (hgr) at the “Minor Occultation”.