The Antichrist according to the Prophet, Muhammad

The concept of the Antichrist, referred to as Al-Masih ad-Dajjal ("the False Messiah") in Islamic tradition, occupies a significant place in Islamic eschatology. Rooted in the sayings and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, Dajjal is depicted as a malevolent figure who will emerge before the Day of Judgment, spreading deceit, chaos, and corruption on Earth. This article delves into the Islamic understanding of the Antichrist, based on the Prophet Muhammad’s narrations, his characteristics, the trials associated with him, and the eventual triumph of truth over falsehood.

The Concept of Dajjal in Islam

In Islamic theology, Al-Masih ad-Dajjal is a false messiah who will claim divinity and lead people astray. The term Dajjal is derived from the Arabic root dajala, meaning "to deceive" or "to cover up the truth." Unlike the Christian conception of the Antichrist as a singular figure of ultimate evil, Islamic tradition provides detailed descriptions of Dajjal’s attributes, actions, and the trials he will bring upon humanity.

The Prophet Muhammad provided comprehensive teachings about Dajjal to warn his followers of his deceptive nature. These narrations, or ahadith, are recorded in major Islamic sources, including Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and Sunan Abu Dawood.

Physical Characteristics of Dajjal

According to the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, Dajjal will possess distinct physical traits that will make him easily recognizable:

1. One-Eyed: The most well-known description of Dajjal is that he will be blind in one eye. The Prophet stated, “Indeed, Allah is not one-eyed, but the False Messiah is blind in one eye, and his eye will resemble a floating grape” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

2. Prominent Forehead Mark: Another distinguishing feature is the word “Kafir” (unbeliever) written on his forehead. Believers will be able to read this mark regardless of their literacy.

3. Unusual Appearance: He is described as a man with a ruddy complexion, curly hair, and a powerful physique. These traits contribute to his intimidating presence.

The Emergence of Dajjal

The Prophet Muhammad emphasized that Dajjal will appear during a time of great turmoil, when faith and morality will be in decline. His emergence is considered one of the major signs of the End Times, along with the return of Jesus (Isa ibn Maryam) and other apocalyptic events.

Dajjal will come from the East, specifically from a region called Khurasan, as mentioned in Sunan Tirmidhi. He will travel rapidly across the Earth, spreading his influence and deceiving people with his miracles and false promises.

The Deception of Dajjal

The central theme of Dajjal’s mission is deception. He will claim to be a prophet and eventually proclaim himself as divine, exploiting people’s vulnerabilities and leading many astray. Among his deceptive powers are:

1. Control Over Nature: Dajjal will be able to perform seemingly miraculous feats, such as causing rain to fall, crops to grow, and wealth to appear. These abilities will test people’s faith and loyalty.

2. Manipulation of Reality: He will create illusions that appear real, such as turning barren lands into lush gardens and vice versa. Those without firm belief will succumb to his tricks.

3. Heaven and Hell: The Prophet Muhammad warned that Dajjal will carry with him what appears to be paradise and hell. However, his "paradise" will be an illusion, and his "hell" will be the true path to salvation.

The Prophet said, “Whoever hears of the Dajjal, let him keep away from him. By Allah! A man will come to him thinking himself to be a believer, but will follow him because of the doubts he will raise” (Musnad Ahmad).

The Trials (Fitnah) of Dajjal

The appearance of Dajjal will mark one of the greatest trials for humanity. The Prophet Muhammad described this period as a time of severe tests that will challenge even the most steadfast believers. Some of the trials include:

1. Widespread Deception: Dajjal’s ability to deceive will be unparalleled. He will exploit people’s desires and fears, leading many to forsake their faith.

2. Division Among People: Families and communities will be torn apart as individuals choose between truth and falsehood.

3. Global Influence: Dajjal’s reach will extend across the world, sparing no nation or group from his influence.

The Prophet urged Muslims to seek refuge in Allah from the trials of Dajjal and to recite specific prayers, such as the opening verses of Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18 of the Quran), for protection.

The Defeat of Dajjal

The Prophet Muhammad assured his followers that Dajjal will ultimately be defeated. His reign of terror will come to an end with the return of Jesus (Isa ibn Maryam), who holds a central role in Islamic eschatology. Jesus will descend from the heavens near a white minaret in Damascus, Syria, and join forces with the righteous.

The decisive battle between Jesus and Dajjal will take place near the city of Lydda (Lod) in present-day Palestine. Jesus will slay Dajjal, bringing an end to his deception and restoring justice to the world. Following Dajjal’s defeat, a period of peace and prosperity will prevail, as described in various ahadith.

Lessons and Warnings from the Prophet

The Prophet Muhammad’s teachings about Dajjal serve as both a warning and a guide for believers. Key lessons include:

1. Strengthening Faith: The Prophet emphasized the importance of unwavering belief in Allah and adherence to Islamic principles as a safeguard against Dajjal’s influence.

2. Seeking Knowledge: Recognizing Dajjal and understanding his tactics requires knowledge of Islamic teachings. The Prophet encouraged his followers to study and reflect on his warnings.

3. Unity and Vigilance: Facing the trials of Dajjal requires collective effort and mutual support among believers. The Prophet urged Muslims to remain united and vigilant.

Contemporary Relevance

While Dajjal has not yet appeared, the warnings about his trials carry timeless relevance. The prevalence of deception, materialism, and moral decline in today’s world echoes the conditions described by the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims are reminded to remain steadfast in their faith, uphold justice, and resist the temptations of falsehood.

Conclusion

The Antichrist, or Al-Masih ad-Dajjal, is a central figure in Islamic eschatology, symbolizing the ultimate test of faith and resilience. The Prophet Muhammad’s detailed descriptions of Dajjal’s characteristics, actions, and eventual defeat provide a comprehensive framework for understanding this apocalyptic figure. By adhering to the teachings of Islam and seeking refuge in Allah, believers are encouraged to prepare for the trials of Dajjal and remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth and righteousness.