Among the most dramatic and frequently discussed signs of the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (A.S.) is the emergence of the Black Banners from Khurasan. These mysterious flags symbolize an uprising that will play a pivotal role in preparing the world for the final divine savior.
This article explores the meaning and significance of the Black Banners — and also explains other important end-time signs, including the figures of Yamani and Sufyani, and addresses the vital question: When will Imam Mahdi appear?
The Black Banners: Prophecy from Khurasan
In Islamic eschatology, particularly in Shia traditions, it is narrated that black flags (banners) will rise from Khurasan — a historical region that includes parts of today’s Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
Prophetic Narration
One of the most well-known hadiths related to this sign states:
“When you see the black banners coming from Khurasan, join them, even if you have to crawl over snow. For indeed among them is the Caliph of Allah, al-Mahdi.”
This hadith indicates that the Black Banners are a clear and powerful sign that the time of Imam Mahdi’s (A.S.) reappearance is near. The people carrying these flags are often described as devoted believers who will support the Imam’s mission of global justice.
Story of Yamani and Sufyani in Mahdism
The appearance of the Yamani and Sufyani is deeply connected to the rise of the Black Banners and the movement toward Imam Mahdi (A.S.).
- Yamani is considered a divinely guided leader from Yemen who will rise to support Imam Mahdi (A.S.).
- Sufyani, in contrast, is an evil tyrant from the lineage of Abu Sufyan who will wage war against the Imam and cause great bloodshed in the Middle East.
These three movements — the Black Banners, the Yamani, and the Sufyani — will occur around the same period. While the Sufyani will spread corruption and terror, the Yamani and the followers of the Black Banners will prepare the ground for justice.
What is Yamani Sign?
The Yamani sign is one of the five certain signs before the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (A.S.). According to narrations, Yamani will rise from Yemen, calling people to the true path of Ahlul Bayt.
Key traits of Yamani:
- He is righteous and guided.
- He will forbid evil and call to truth.
- His flag is described as the most guided of all.
- It is haram to fight against him, as opposing him is equal to opposing truth itself.
The Yamani will align with Imam Mahdi’s mission and is seen as a sign of spiritual clarity and unity before the final appearance.
What is Sufiani Signs?
The Sufyani sign is another major sign of the end times. Sufyani is described as a tyrannical military leader who will emerge from Syria (Shaam) and be a bitter enemy of Imam Mahdi (A.S.).
Characteristics of Sufyani:
- He will be a descendant of Abu Sufyan, and filled with hatred for Ahlul Bayt.
- He will commit massacres in Iraq and Syria, particularly in Kufa and Damascus.
- He will fight the forces of Yamani and the Black Banners.
- Eventually, he will be defeated by Imam Mahdi’s army.
Sufyani represents the face of oppression, and his rise will signal that the world is moving into its final confrontation between truth and falsehood.
When will Imam Mahdi appear?
This is the question that has fascinated believers for centuries: When will Imam Mahdi (A.S.) appear?
The truth is that no one knows the exact time. Even in authentic traditions, it is stated that the timing is hidden — part of divine wisdom. However, we are told to look for clear signs, such as:
- The rise of the Black Banners from Khurasan.
- The appearance of Yamani and Sufyani.
- A heavenly cry heard around the world.
- The murder of a pure soul in the sanctuary of the Kaaba.
- Widespread injustice and global chaos.
These signs help believers remain alert, spiritually prepared, and socially responsible. Instead of waiting passively, we are encouraged to reform ourselves and support truth, so that when the Imam reappears, we will be counted among his helpers.
Misuse of the Black Banners by ISIS
In recent years, the extremist group ISIS (Daesh) falsely adopted the symbolism of the Black Banners to create religious legitimacy for their brutal agenda. Founded by a mix of ex-Ba’athist military officers and radical Wahhabi ideologues, ISIS was heavily supported in its early stages by covert intelligence networks and regional actors seeking to destabilize the Middle East, particularly Syria and Iraq.
Their use of black flags was a deliberate attempt to mimic the prophecy of the Black Banners from Khurasan, deceiving uninformed Muslims and the global public. However, scholars across both Sunni and Shia traditions have firmly rejected any connection between ISIS and the true prophetic black banners, emphasizing that ISIS represents chaos, corruption, and hatred — the very opposite of the justice and mercy that Imam Mahdi (A.S.) will bring.
Final Thoughts
The Black Banners from Khurasan are not just a political prophecy — they symbolize a spiritual revolution against corruption and tyranny. Along with the rise of Yamani and the opposition of Sufyani, this sign is meant to awaken our hearts and urge us to prepare for the arrival of the savior of mankind, Imam Mahdi (A.S.).
May we be among those who recognize the truth, uphold justice, and answer the divine call — no matter the cost.
