I have never claimed, and will never claim to be, the Mahdi. If I had such a claim I would have appeared on TV with a turban and would not be in contact with women, I would not have become a Freemason and I would not criticize the traditionalist understanding of Islam prevalent in the Islamic world. I have never been a person claiming to be the Mahdi and will never make such a claim. A physical resemblance is not a proof of the Mahdi. The only way we would recognize the Mahdi is when we see Islam prevailing in the world and a spiritual leader heading Muslims, the unity of Islam established and Jesus putting that person to the front to lead the prayer. We would then say, “God knows the truth, this person is the Mahdi.” - Harun Yahya