Fourth essential: The Messenger predicted some future events that are recurring, as opposed to isolated events having a particular significance in human history. They also have numerous aspects, each of which is explained through a different Tradition. A reporter combines these aspects as if a single narration, thereby making the Tradition appear to be at variance with reality.

For example, many narrations about the Mahdi have different details and descriptions. But the truth of the matter is that God's Messenger, relying on Revelation, told of a Mahdi who would appear in every century to preserve believers' morale, prevent them from falling into despair over social upheavals, and secure their heart-felt devotion to members of the Prophet's Family (a most-illustrious lineage). He foresaw a Mahdi in every century similar to the Great Mahdi promised for the end of time. The 'Abbasid caliph al-Mahdi, for example, regarded as belonging to the Prophet's Family, had many of the Great Mahdi's characteristics. So, narrations about the Mahdi differ due to confusing the Great Mahdi's qualities with those great caliphs or saints who came before him.