This Is My Faith - Al-fatlawi, Ali - الصفحة ٢٩٠ - The Details of the Two Conceals (Al-Ghaibah)
· The Imam (AHHR) was concealed because he was afraid he was going to be killed; it is reported from Abu Abdullah (PBUH) that Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said: “The lad has to be concealed”. When he was asked why, he replied: “He fears to be killed”.
· Imam Al-Mahdi (AHHR) was concealed so he would not be having anyone’s pledge of allegiance (Bai’a) as it is reported from Abu Abdullah (PBUH): “The birth of the person in charge of this matter will be concealed from people so he would not be having anyone’s pledge of allegiance when he is revealed”.
Anwar: You said he was afraid! Does the Infallible Imam become afraid?
Hasan: When I say he was afraid, this does not mean he was a coward or afraid of dying; such a low quality cannot come from such a perfect person. The point here is that his death would cause corruption and evil in earth and among the people which is against the purpose of his existence and being in the first place.
Anwar: Very good explanation. May I ask another question?