Ma`rifat Siyasi

In recent decades, the discourse on Islamic civilizational renewal has emerged as a central strategic objective of the Islamic Revolution. Yet, the role of core doctrinal beliefs—particularly Mahdism (belief in the awaited savior)—in shaping this civilizational project has seldom been systematically explored within the framework of contemporary strategic documents. Addressing this scholarly gap, the present study revisits the concept of Mahdism and examines its direct connection with the vision of civilizational construction articulated in the Second Phase of the Revolution Statement. The primary aim of this research is to elucidate Mahdism as both a foundational identity and a motivational framework in the process of building a new Islamic civilization. Employing a qualitative methodology and textual content analysis, the study investigates the Second Phase Statement (2019) alongside relevant philosophical and theological sources. Findings reveal that the Statement frames Mahdism not merely as a theological conviction but as a Mahdawi-centered identity of the Islamic community, linking it to the tripartite project of self-cultivation, social engineering, and civilizational renewal. Furthermore, Mahdism is presented as the basis for cultivating active hope, fostering collective responsibility, and orienting scientific, ethical, and economic progress within the broader framework of Islamic civilization. The novelty of this research lies in its analytical exposition of Mahdism as a civilizational identity and an inspirational engine—an aspect largely neglected in previous scholarship. The study contributes to the advancement of contemporary Islamic theology (kalam) and offers practical implications for cultural policymaking and youth-oriented civilizational discourse.