Al-Masīḥu ʾd-Dajjāl: Unveiling the Islamic Antichrist
Definition
Al-Masīḥu ʾd-Dajjāl (المسيح الدجال), commonly known as ad-Dajjāl, is a prophetic figure in Islamic eschatology, equated to the Antichrist in Christian traditions. The term Al-Masīḥu signifies “false messiah,” while Dajjāl translates to “the deceiver.” He is anticipated to appear before the Day of Resurrection, performing deceptive miracles to lead believers astray, only to be ultimately defeated by Jesus (Isa) upon his second coming.
Etymology and Background
The compound title “Al-Masīḥu ʾd-Dajjāl” intertwines “Al-Masīḥ” (the Messiah) and “Dajjāl” (deceiver). Scholars suggest over fifty reasons for the term Al-Masīḥ being applied to the deceiver. One theory links the word ‘masaḥ’ (مَسَحَ) meaning “to touch” refering to his physical ailment rendering him blind in one eye, or ‘masīk͟h,’ implying a monstrous being.
Sale in his translation of the Qurʾān suggests that the Jews mistakenly name him Al-Masīḥ, confusing him with the anticipated Messiah who would restore the kingdom of Israel. Various Islamic traditions detail that ad-Dajjāl will be a man with disheveled hair and one eye, with the word ‘kafir’ (unbeliever) inscribed on his forehead.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Ad-Dajjāl’s concept shares similarities with the Antichrist in Christianity. Both figures emerge during End Times, perform deceptive miracles, and lead people astray, only to be defeated by Jesus. However, a distinctive element in Islamic tradition is that Jesus, upon his second coming, will declare war against ad-Dajjāl, restoring justice before the final Day of Judgment.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- False Messiah
- Deceiver
- Antichrist
Antonyms:
- Jesus son of Mary (Isa ibn Maryam) as the real messiah
- Believers (Mumin)
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Eschatology: The part of theology concerned with the final events of history or the ultimate destiny of humanity, including concepts of resurrection, Judgment Day, heaven, and hell.
- Isa ibn Maryam (Jesus): Prophet Jesus in Islamic belief, noted for his role in defeating ad-Dajjāl.
- Kāfir: Term for an unbeliever or disbeliever in Islamic tradition.
- Al-Mahdi: The prophesied redeemer of Islam who will rule before the Day of Judgment and alongside Jesus, ridding the world of injustice.
- As-Sa’a: The Hour or the End Times in Islamic eschatological context.
Exciting Facts:
- According to some hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad), ad-Dajjāl will perform miracles similar to those of previous prophets to deceive the masses.
- He will traverse throughout the earth except in Mecca and Medina, which are divinely guarded against him.
- Different Islamic traditions offer varying physical descriptions of ad-Dajjāl, emphasizing his deceptive nature.
Quotations from Notable Writers:
“The Resurrection will not be until the Grecians shall attack [various territories], and ad-Dajjāl will come out, until Jesus Son of Mary will come down to defeat him.” — Hadith from Mishkāt al-Masābīḥ
References and Suggested Literature:
- The Qurʾān (Al-Anʿām [6:158], Al-Kahf [18:83-101])
- Hadith Collections: Mishkāt al-Masābīḥ, Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim
- “Islamic Eschatology” by Imran N. Hosein
- “The End of Times: An Islamic Perspective” by Dr. Bilal Philips
- “Comparative Religious Eschatology” by Dr. Reza Azlan
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell:
Understanding profound and revered concepts like Al-Masīḥu ʾd-Dajjāl in Islamic thought enhances our grasp of diverse eschatologies, uniting us in our quest for knowledge and wisdom across different faiths and cultures.
Imran Youssef October 5, 2023
For a deeper understanding of humanity’s final frontier, dive into the profound texts and narratives about Al-Masīḥu ʾd-Dajjāl and embrace our collective effort to decode the mystical and the divine.
