As we navigate through our lives, it can be easy to become absorbed in the mundane and the immediate. However, the concept of the Day of Judgment, or Qiyamah, serves as an essential reminder for Muslims of the transient nature of this world and the cosmic reckoning that awaits us all. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) outlined specific signs that will herald the arrival of this critical day, urging us to reflect on our actions and strengthen our faith. In this article, we will delve into both the lesser and greater signs of the Day of Judgment, with a focus on the concern these teachings invoke and their implications for our lives today.

Regarding the Day of Judgment God states:
Verily We shall give life to the dead, and We record all that they send before and that they leave behind, and We have taken account of all things in a clear Book [of evidence]. (36:12)
And to every soul will be paid in full of its deeds, and He knows best all that they do. (39:70)

According to Islam, a person will be judged according to his or her life’s actions. People whose deeds and actions in life are mainly good will enter Heaven (also called Garden or Paradise). However, if one’s deeds or actions are mainly evil, he or she will enter Hell (also referred to as Fire). On the Day of Judgment, everyone will know the fate of everyone else.

Both Heaven and Hell have different levels. The worst of people will be in the lowest depths of Hell, while the best of people will be in the highest parts of Heaven.

Once, Prophet Jesus sent two messengers to the city of Antioch to call for monotheism and the worshipping of God. One of the men of that town embraced the faith and followed the messengers. The king of the land ordered him to be killed. As the righteous man was dying he said, “Verily I have believed in your Lord. So listen to me.” It was said to him when the disbelievers killed him, ‘Enter paradise.’ He said, “Would that my people knew what my Lord Allah has forgiven me for and made me one of the honored ones” (36:25-27).

Understanding the Lesser Signs of Qiyamah

The lesser signs signify the gradual approach of the Day of Judgment and serve as a gentle alarm, encouraging us to wake up from our spiritual slumber. Some of the notable lesser signs include:

  1. Moral and Ethical Decline: The Prophet foretold that knowledge would diminish while ignorance would prevail. We see echoes of this prophecy in today’s world, where misinformation thrives and moral decay seems ubiquitous. As society grapples with issues like corruption and ethical lapses, this decline serves as a call to arms for believers to educate themselves, uphold moral standards, and actively promote virtues such as honesty and compassion.
  2. Demographic Changes: The Hadith concerning the decrease in men and the increase in women presents not just a testament to societal transformation but also embodies a concern for communal stability. This demographic shift calls high attention to the need for social responsibility, security, and support within the Muslim community.
  3. Materialism and Disconnection from Spirituality: The Prophet spoke of a time when wealth would be abundant, but its pursuit would lead people away from God. In a world increasingly driven by consumerism and material gain, this warning cannot be ignored. We must strive to cultivate a balance between worldly pursuits and spiritual enrichment, ensuring that our hearts remain anchored in gratitude and mindfulness of God’s blessings.
  4. Natural Disasters and Unrest: The unpredictable surge of natural calamities and increasing societal unrest can evoke fear and anxiety. These events should prompt a reflection on our role within this world. Rather than merely viewing them as unfortunate occurrences, we should recognize these signs as opportunities for unity, compassion, and efforts to aid those suffering through resilience and support.
  5. Spiritual Confusion: Amid widespread confusion about religious beliefs, the call to seek knowledge and clarification has never been more urgent. Muslims should engage earnestly with their faith, striving to understand its tenets deeply and to embody the teachings of Islam in their actions.

Delving into the Greater Signs

The greater signs mark an intensifying of events that will unfold as the Day of Judgment approaches, demanding our attention and concern:

  1. The Arrival of the Mahdi: The Mahdi, a pivotal figure who will revive the faith and unite Muslims, symbolizes ultimate hope in a time of chaos. His coming is a call for believers to seek guidance and remain steadfast in their faith, nurturing unity within their communities in anticipation of turbulent times.
  2. The Dajjal (False Messiah): The emergence of the Dajjal is perhaps one of the most alarming signs. The deceptive nature of this figure highlights the importance of critical thinking and discernment in our lives. This warning prompts believers to cultivate strength in their faith so that they are not swayed by falsehoods. We must remain vigilant and firmly rooted in the truth of our beliefs.
  3. The Return of Jesus (peace be upon him): Jesus’ return signifies a restoration of justice and truth. This event not only draws together two of the major Abrahamic faiths but serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity and responsibility to uphold truth and justice in our communities.
  4. The Destructive Forces of Gog and Magog: The emergence of Gog and Magog is described as a significant and chaotic event. It serves as a warning to prepare ourselves, cultivating resilience, strength, and solidarity with one another to withstand any trials we may face.
  5. The Rising of the Sun from the West: This miraculous occurrence is a stark reminder that once certain signs manifest, repentance will no longer be effective for those who ignored the earlier signs. It underscores the urgency of sincere repentance and a return to faith before it is too late.
  6. The Beast of the Earth: The appearance of this mysterious creature will serve to distinguish right from wrong at a time when faith may be tested. This moment calls for us to reflect deeply on our actions and to reaffirm our commitment to righteousness.

A Call to Action

As we reflect on these prophetic signs, a powerful sense of urgency and concern resonates. The signs before the Day of Judgment are not mere predictions; they are heartfelt reminders that call us to assess our lives and recommit to our values.

It is a time for personal and communal reflection—a time to renew our relationship with Allah and to strive for a life imbued with faith, compassion, and kindness. As anxiety about the future may abound, let us channel that concern into proactive measures: educating ourselves, engaging in community support, fostering strong relationships, and embedding faith in our daily actions.

The Day of Judgment will come, but we have the power to shape our destinies and the destinies of those around us. By embracing the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we can prepare for the trials ahead, cultivate resilience, and remain hopeful amidst uncertainty. Let us heed the warnings, strengthen our faith, and uplift one another in these challenging times.