Signs of the Day of Judgment and Their Explanation

 

Introduction

Belief in the Day of Judgment is one of the fundamental tenets of Islam. It serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of this world and the eternal life of the Hereafter. The Quran and Hadith provide numerous descriptions of the signs that will appear before the Final Hour. These signs serve as warnings and guide believers toward righteousness.

Categories of the Signs of the Day of Judgment

The signs of the Last Day are divided into minor signs and major signs. Minor signs are events that gradually unfold over time, while major signs are extraordinary occurrences that will take place near the final Hour.

1. Minor Signs of the Day of Judgment

These signs have already appeared or are continuously unfolding in the world. Some of the significant minor signs include:

The Prophethood of Muhammad (ﷺ) – The final messenger was sent to guide humanity.

Widespread dishonesty and loss of trust – Truthfulness will disappear, and falsehood will prevail. (Sahih al-Bukhari 6496)

Increase in corruption and immorality – People will indulge in sinful activities without hesitation.

Disobedience to parents – Children will mistreat and neglect their parents.

Knowledge will decrease, and ignorance will rise – Religious scholars will diminish, and ignorance will spread. (Sahih al-Bukhari 80)

Wealth will become abundant, yet greed will increase – People will have more wealth but remain ungrateful. (Sahih al-Bukhari 7115)

The rise of false prophets – Many individuals will falsely claim prophethood after Muhammad (ﷺ). (Sahih Muslim 157)

People will compete in building tall structures – The poor and shepherds will compete in constructing high-rise buildings. (Sahih Muslim 8)

Murder and bloodshed will increase – Killing will become widespread without justified reasons. (Sahih Muslim 157)

2. Major Signs of the Day of Judgment

The major signs are extraordinary events that will mark the beginning of the final phase before the world ends. These include:

The Appearance of Dajjal (Antichrist) – A great deceiver who will mislead people with his false miracles. (Sahih Muslim 2937)

The Descent of Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him) – He will return to defeat Dajjal and establish justice. (Sahih Muslim 2897)

The Emergence of Gog and Magog (Ya’juj and Ma’juj) – A corrupt and destructive nation that will spread chaos. (Surah Al-Kahf 18:94-99)

The Sun Rising from the West – A clear sign that repentance will no longer be accepted. (Sahih Muslim 157)

The Beast of the Earth (Dabbatul Ard) – A creature that will speak to people about faith. (Surah An-Naml 27:82)

Massive Earthquakes and Natural Disasters – The world will experience severe tremors. (Surah Al-Hajj 22:1-2)

A Great Fire that Will Gather People for Judgment – A fire will drive people towards their final gathering place. (Sahih Muslim 2901)

Quranic and Hadith References

The Quran and Sunnah repeatedly emphasize the reality of the Day of Judgment and its signs:

"Indeed, the Hour is coming – I almost conceal it – so that every soul may be recompensed according to that for which it strives." (Surah Taha 20:15)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, "The Hour will not be established until ten major signs appear..." (Sahih Muslim 2901)

"And when the word befalls them, We will bring forth for them a beast from the earth who will speak to them because the people did not believe in Our signs." (Surah An-Naml 27:82)

Our Responsibility as Believers

The signs of the Day of Judgment serve as a reminder for us to strengthen our faith and prepare for the Hereafter. We must:

Stay firm in Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) and follow the teachings of Islam.

Repent sincerely before the doors of forgiveness are closed.

Engage in righteous deeds and avoid sinful behavior.

Increase knowledge and spread the true message of Islam.

Conclusion

The Day of Judgment is a certainty, and its signs are unfolding before our eyes. Allah has provided us with guidance through the Quran and Sunnah so that we may prepare for the Hereafter. It is our duty to stay mindful, seek knowledge, and remain steadfast on the path of righteousness. The signs are not just warnings but also a chance for us to turn back to Allah before it is too late.