Islamic eschatology, or the study of the End Times, is a significant part of Islamic belief. The Quran and Hadith contain numerous prophecies about the events leading to the Day of Judgment (Qiyamah). These signs are divided into minor and major events, marking the final period of human history.
Minor Signs of the End Times
The minor signs of Qiyamah are events that gradually unfold over time. Many of these have already occurred, while others continue to manifest. Some notable minor signs include:
- Moral and Social Decline – Increase in dishonesty, corruption, and widespread immorality.
- Disobedience to Parents – Children disrespecting and neglecting their parents.
- Widespread Ignorance – Loss of true knowledge, and scholars becoming rare.
- Increase in Wealth and Poverty – Extreme disparity between the rich and poor.
- Time Passing Quickly – A sense that days and years are moving faster.
- False Prophets – Individuals falsely claiming to be prophets.
- Frequent Natural Disasters – Earthquakes, floods, and other calamities increasing.
Major Signs of the End Times
Once the major signs begin, they will follow one another rapidly. The ten major signs include:
- The Appearance of Imam Mahdi – A righteous leader who will restore justice and lead Muslims before the final tribulations.
- The Emergence of Dajjal: A Key Event in the End Times– A deceiver who will perform false miracles and claim to be divine, leading many astray.
- The Return of Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him) – He will descend from heaven to defeat Dajjal and establish justice.
- The Appearance of Gog and Magog (Ya’juj and Ma’juj) – A corrupt nation that will cause widespread destruction before being divinely eliminated.
- Three Major Landslides – One in the East, one in the West, and one in the Arabian Peninsula.
- The Smoke (Dukhan) – A great cloud of smoke covering the earth.
- The Rising of the Sun from the West – A major cosmic event signifying the closure of repentance.
- The Beast of the Earth (Dabbat al-Ard) – A creature that will speak to people and distinguish believers from disbelievers.
- A Great Fire – A fire that will drive people towards their final gathering.
- The Blowing of the Trumpet – Angel Israfil will blow the trumpet, marking the end of life and resurrection for judgment.
The Final Judgment
After these signs, every soul will be resurrected for the Day of Judgment, where deeds will be weighed, and people will be rewarded or punished based on their actions. Paradise (Jannah) awaits the righteous, while Hell (Jahannam) is for those who rejected faith and committed evil.
Conclusion
Islamic teachings on the End Times serve as a reminder of accountability and the importance of righteousness. These prophecies urge believers to remain steadfast in faith and prepare for the Hereafter by leading a life of piety, justice, and sincerity.