Antichrist (Masihu’d-Dajjal)
Definition
The Antichrist, commonly referred to in Islamic eschatology as Masihu’d-Dajjal (Arabic: المسيح الدجّال), is a deceptive figure who will appear before the Day of Judgment. He is considered to be the ultimate imposter, leading people astray by performing miracles and claiming divinity.
Etymology
The term “Antichrist” originates from the Greek word “ἀντίχριστος” (antichristos), meaning “opponent of the Messiah” or “false Messiah.” In Arabic, “Masihu’d-Dajjal” combines two words: Masih (مسيح) referring to the Messiah, and Dajjal (دجّال) meaning “the deceiver” or “the impostor.” The conjunction of these words highlights Dajjal as a false messianic figure.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: المسيح الدجّال (Masihu’d-Dajjal)
- Turkish: Deccal
Significance in Islam
Eschatological Role
In Islamic theology, Dajjal is a prominent sign of the approaching Day of Judgment. His emergence is one of the major eschatological events detailed in various Hadith literature. Dajjal is portrayed as a deceiver who will perform miraculous acts to convince people of his divinity and lead many into error.
Physical Description
According to Hadith traditions, the Prophet Muhammad provided specific descriptions of Dajjal: a physically marked individual with a defective eye, inscribed with the word “kafir” (unbeliever) on his forehead. These signs serve as warnings for believers to recognize and avoid him.
The Demise of Dajjal
Islamic tradition holds that Dajjal will ultimately be defeated by Jesus (Isa), who will return to earth to restore justice and truth. This defeat will signify a turning point in the eschatological narrative, leading to the final establishment of divine judgment.
Further Reading
To deepen your understanding of the concept of Masihu’d-Dajjal, the following books are recommended:
- “Islamic Eschatology: Seeing the Sun Rising from the West” by Imran N. Hosein
- “Introduction to Islamic Eschatology (Kitab al-Fitan)” by Nigal Turner
- “Signs of the End Times in Islam” by Harun Yahya
Takeaways
- Masihu’d-Dajjal refers to the Antichrist figure in Islamic eschatology, a major sign of the Day of Judgment.
- The term combines Arabic words for the Messiah and the deceiver, underscoring Dajjal’s false messianic role.
- Recognized through specific physical and behavioral traits, Dajjal’s emergence is a critical element of Islamic end-times narratives.
- His defeat by Jesus reinforces the ultimate triumph of divine truth and justice.
Conclusion
The concept of Masihu’d-Dajjal occupies a crucial place in Islamic eschatology. As the archetypal deceiver, his emergence is believed to test the faith and discernment of believers. Understanding this figure within Islamic theology offers insight into broader themes of truth, deception, and divine justice that permeate the Islamic narrative of the end of times.
