- Why didn’t the prophets and Imams use miracles for their own or society's worldly needs? Is it reasonable to expect them to perform miracles for our personal problems?
Answer: In the divinely crafted system of the universe, the world operates based on the principles of cause and effect, and everything is governed through means and intermediaries. Tawassul (seeking intercession) is the act of employing appropriate means to attain material or spiritual goals. This involves appealing to someone or something before God to act as an intermediary, drawing us closer to God and fulfilling our needs. Tawassul has a broad meaning, and the Quran and narrations mention various examples of it. The most prominent and emphasized form of tawassul is seeking intercession through the divinely chosen figures, such as the Prophet and the Imams. This is encouraged due to its benefits and profound effects. (1)
With this foundation in mind, let us address the question through several key points:
Point 1: The primary purpose of miraculous acts is to establish the legitimacy of the divine representatives. Miracles helped people identify the true Prophet or Imam, removing confusion and uncertainty. However, when this recognition was achieved through other means, such as the endorsement of a previous Prophet or Imam, there was no need for miracles. Similarly, if miracles proved ineffective—if people remained unmoved despite witnessing them—then further miraculous acts were not presented. This explains why Prophets and Imams occasionally declined requests for miracles or supernatural acts. (2)
Therefore, the rarity of miraculous acts often stemmed from their limited necessity, as they were performed only to establish proof (itmam al-hujjah). (3)
Point 2: The Imams were not only leaders but also role models for their followers. Hence, they lived in a way that allowed others to emulate them. If a Prophet or Imam resolved all their challenges through miracles or knowledge of the unseen, how could they serve as practical examples for ordinary people, calling them to patience, perseverance, and struggle?
A figure who wields a unique "weapon" (miraculous powers) that others do not possess and frequently uses it for personal advantage cannot effectively inspire others to endure hardships or strive. To be a practical guide and facilitate human growth, the Imams avoided extensive reliance on miraculous acts or knowledge of the unseen. (4)
Point 3: While the Imams did not use extraordinary means to address their own worldly needs, they were granted divine permission to fulfil certain requests from others, as aligned with God's wisdom and the world’s realities. This permission carries profound spiritual and educational benefits, falling under God's broader plan for guiding humanity.
By encouraging people to seek intercession through the Imams, God highlights their esteemed status and fosters a deep spiritual bond between the Imams and their followers. This connection aids individuals in learning from the Imams and adopting them as role models in life. In this way, tawassul acts as a compass, preventing people from losing their way amidst life’s challenges. (5)
Conclusion
God has granted the Prophets and Imams certain powers and expects specific responsibilities from them. These abilities, such as miracles and acts of divine grace, enable them to influence creation. However, they use these powers strictly within the limits of God's permission and for purposes that align with His will.
Therefore, these extraordinary acts are reserved for establishing proof (itmam al-hujjah) or alleviating people’s difficulties in ways that align with their interests and the realities of the world. The Imams do not use these powers to dominate their opponents, eliminate adversaries, or solve their own worldly problems. This deliberate restraint ensures that their lives remain relatable and exemplary for their followers.