Ad-Dajjal The False Messiah and His Trial in Islamic Eschatology

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Al-Masih ad-Dajjal (Arabic: المسيح الدجال), meaning the "False Messiah," is a major figure in Islamic eschatology, known for his deception and his role as one of the greatest trials before the Day of Judgment. Al-Dajjal is described as a one-eyed, deceptive figure who will appear on Earth to test humanity's faith in Allah. His coming is considered one of the most significant events leading up to the end of the world in Islamic tradition, and his story is mentioned in various Ahadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) found in the Sahih collections.

Description of Al-Masih ad-Dajjal

In Islam, Ad-Dajjal is depicted as a man with a series of characteristics that make him easily recognizable to believers, yet capable of deceiving those who lack strong faith.

• One-eyed: The Dajjal is described as having only one eye; his left eye will be completely blind, and his right eye will be protruding like a floating grape.
• Forehead Inscription: The word كَافِر (Kafir), meaning "disbeliever," will be inscribed on his forehead, visible to all true believers, regardless of their literacy.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described him in the following Hadith:

 "The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "No prophet was sent but that he warned his followers against the one-eyed liar (Ad-Dajjal). Beware! He is blind in one eye, and your Lord is not so, and there will be written between his (Ad-Dajjal's) eyes (the word) Kafir (i.e., disbeliever)." (This Hadith is also quoted by Abu Huraira and Ibn `Abbas)."(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 7131; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2933)

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The Mission and Deception of the Dajjal

Al-Masih ad-Dajjal’s primary mission is to deceive humanity by claiming divinity. He will appear as a powerful figure, performing supernatural feats to lure people into following him. These acts of deception will include:

• Reviving the dead: He will allegedly raise the dead, which will increase his following.
• Controlling the weather: The Dajjal will bring rain and cause crops to grow, making it appear as if he controls the earth.
• Wealth and Power: The Dajjal will promise material prosperity, which will be tempting for many, especially those whose faith is weak.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned the believers about these trials, saying:

"He will come to people and invite them to follow him. He will promise them Heaven but will lead them to Hell. He will call upon them to believe in him, but those who follow him will be destroyed, while those who refuse will face severe trials."(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2935)

His main tactic is to mislead people into believing he is the Messiah or even a god, which is a major trial for believers.

Geographical Limitations and Protection

Despite his immense powers, Al-Masih ad-Dajjal will be confined to certain geographic areas, and his reach will have limits. There are specific places that he will not be able to enter, as they are protected by angels:

• Mecca: The holy city of Islam, which will be guarded by angels.
• Medina: Another holy city, which will also be protected from the Dajjal’s influence.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

"There will be no part of the earth left that he will not enter, except Mecca and Medina. He will not approach either of them because angels will be guarding them. There will be no gaps in Medina through which he can enter."(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 1881; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2943)

Protection Against the Dajjal

Islamic tradition emphasizes the importance of preparation to face the trial of Al-Masih ad-Dajjal. There are several recommended practices for Muslims to safeguard themselves:

• Reciting Surah Al-Kahf: The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged the recitation of the first ten and last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf, especially on Fridays, as a means of protection from the Dajjal’s deception.

"Whoever recites the first ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf will be protected from the Dajjal."(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 809)

• Seeking refuge in Allah: The Prophet ﷺ taught the following supplication to be recited in prayers for protection against the Dajjal’s trials: 

"O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave, the punishment of the Hellfire, the trials of life and death, and the trial of the Dajjal."(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 588)

•  Strengthening Faith: The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of strong belief in Allah and following the guidance of the Qur'an and Sunnah to resist the Dajjal’s fitnah (trial). 

The Defeat of the Dajjal

The ultimate defeat of Al-Masih ad-Dajjal is one of the key events in Islamic eschatology. According to authentic narrations, the Dajjal will be confronted and killed by Isa ibn Maryam (Jesus, peace be upon him), who will descend from the heavens. This will occur at Lydda (modern-day Lod, Palestine).

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated:

"The Mahdi and the prophet ʿĪsā will kill Ad-Dajjal at the gate of Ludd."(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2924a)

This moment marks the victory of truth over falsehood, and it will be followed by a period of peace and justice under the leadership of Isa (peace be upon him) before the final end of the world.

Lessons from the Dajjal’s Trial

The trial of Ad-Dajjal offers significant lessons for Muslims:

• The Importance of Faith: The Dajjal’s trial emphasizes the need for strong, unwavering faith in Allah. Those who remain firm in their belief will not be deceived by his allure.
• The Deceptive Nature of the World: The Dajjal’s miracles highlight how material wealth, power, and fame can be deceptive. Muslims are reminded to prioritize the Hereafter over worldly gains.
• Spiritual Vigilance: The coming of the Dajjal is a reminder of the importance of guarding one’s faith, maintaining regular worship, and seeking Allah’s protection from all forms of misguidance.

The story of Ad-Dajjal is one of the most powerful warnings in Islamic eschatology. It emphasizes the need for vigilance, strong faith, and reliance on Allah in the face of trials. The ultimate victory of truth, through the defeat of the Dajjal by Isa (peace be upon him), reassures believers that justice will prevail, and that falsehood will be vanquished. As we await the final signs of the Hour, it is essential to remain steadfast in our devotion to Allah, seek His protection, and prepare ourselves for the challenges that may lie ahead.

"Allah knows best, and His knowledge encompasses all things"

References

• Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 7131, 1881.
• Sahih Muslim, Hadith 169e, 2933, 2935, 2943, 2924a, 809, 588.
• Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Surah Al-Kahf, the fitnah of the Dajjal).
• Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4325.
• Riyad as-Salihin, Book of Supplications.

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