The Antichrist according to Islam

In Islamic eschatology, the figure analogous to the Antichrist is known as the "Dajjal" (الدجّال). Here are the key aspects regarding the Dajjal according to Islamic teachings:

Name and Description: The term "Dajjal" comes from Arabic and can be translated as "the deceiver" or "the impostor." He is often referred to as "Al-Masih ad-Dajjal," meaning "the false Messiah."

Appearance and Characteristics:

The Dajjal is described as a one-eyed man, with his other eye being blind or defective. Some narrations mention that he will have the word "kafir" (unbeliever) written on his forehead, which true believers will be able to read.

He is said to be powerfully built, with a reddish complexion and curly hair.

Role and Mission:

The Dajjal's primary role is to mislead people and spread corruption on earth. He will claim to be a divine figure, performing miraculous deeds to deceive people into following him.

He will travel the world quickly, spreading his influence and testing the faith of believers. His period of influence is described as forty days, with the first day being as long as a year, the second day as long as a month, the third day as long as a week, and the remaining days as normal days.

Signs and Miracles:

The Dajjal will perform several supernatural feats, such as bringing rain to dry lands, reviving the dead, and making barren lands fertile. These miracles will be tests for the believers, distinguishing the faithful from the deceived.

Protection Against the Dajjal:

Muslims are encouraged to seek protection from the Dajjal by reciting specific supplications, such as the opening verses of Surah Al-Kahf (the 18th chapter of the Quran).

Another recommended practice is seeking refuge in Medina and Mecca, as it is believed that the Dajjal will be unable to enter these holy cities.

Defeat and End:

The ultimate defeat of the Dajjal will come with the return of Prophet Isa (Jesus), who is a significant figure in Islamic eschatology. Isa will descend from the heavens, confront the Dajjal, and kill him, thus bringing an end to his reign of terror.

These descriptions and beliefs about the Dajjal are derived from various Hadiths (sayings and traditions of the Prophet Muhammad) and form an essential part of Islamic teachings on the end times.

Surah Al-Kahf in the Quran

Surah Al-Kahf (The Cave) is the 18th chapter of the Quran, consisting of 110 verses (ayat). It is one of the most revered chapters and holds significant importance in Islamic tradition. The Surah derives its name from the story of the People of the Cave (Ashabu al-Kahf), which is narrated within its verses.

The Surah is divided into four main stories:

The People of the Cave (verses 9-26): The story revolves around a group of devout youths who sought refuge in a cave to preserve their faith and escape religious persecution.

The Owner of the Two Gardens (verses 32-44): This narrative illustrates the arrogance and ingratitude of a wealthy man who boasts about his gardens and belittles the poor.

Musa (Moses) and Khidr (verses 60-82): It recounts the encounter between the prophet Musa and Khidr, a mysterious and wise servant of God, wherein Khidr imparts important lessons to Musa about divine wisdom and the hidden workings of God's plans.

Dhul-Qarnayn (verses 83-98): The story of a righteous ruler, commonly believed to be Alexander the Great, who embarks on a journey and encounters various peoples, ultimately establishing justice and righteousness in the lands he visits.

Surah Al-Kahf is recommended to be recited on Fridays, as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to do so, as it contains blessings and protection from the trials of the Dajjal (the Antichrist) according to Islamic tradition. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, patience, humility, and righteousness in the face of worldly temptations and trials.