End of world

The End of the World in Islam

In Islam, the end of the world, known as Qiyamah (the Day of Judgment), is a fundamental belief. It marks the end of earthly life and the beginning of eternal life in the Hereafter. Both the Qur'an and the Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) provide detailed descriptions of this final event and its signs.

Belief in the Last Day

Belief in the Last Day is one of the six pillars of faith in Islam. Muslims believe that Allah (God) will bring the universe to an end at a time only known to Him. Following that, all human beings will be resurrected for judgment based on their deeds.

Signs of the Hour

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned two types of signs that will precede the Day of Judgment: minor signs and major signs.

Minor Signs:

Many of these have already occurred or are currently happening. Some examples include:

The coming of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself.

The widespread prevalence of dishonesty and loss of trust.

Increased wealth, but also increased poverty in some places.

People competing in constructing tall buildings.

Widespread immorality and loss of modesty.

Natural disasters, wars, and societal corruption.

Major Signs:

These are extraordinary events that will happen shortly before the world ends. They include:

The appearance of the Dajjal (Antichrist) — a false messiah who will lead many astray.

The return of Prophet Isa (Jesus), who will defeat the Dajjal and establish justice.

The release of Gog and Magog (Ya’juj and Ma’juj), two destructive tribes causing great chaos.

Three major landslides in the East, West, and Arabian Peninsula.

The rising of the sun from the West, a major cosmic event signaling that repentance is no longer accepted.

A beast (Dabbatul Ard) emerging from the earth, speaking to people about their lack of faith.

A thick smoke (Dukhan) covering the earth.

A great fire driving people to the place of gathering for resurrection.

The Destruction of the Universe

The end of the world will begin with a trumpet blast by Angel Israfil, as mentioned in the Qur'an and Hadith. The sound will cause all creatures to die. After a period only known to Allah, Israfil will blow the trumpet again, and all beings will be resurrected for judgment.

“The Trumpet will be blown, and all who are in the heavens and all who are on the earth will swoon away, except him whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown a second time, and behold they will be standing, looking on.” — Qur'an, Surah Az-Zumar (39:68)

The Day of Judgment

After resurrection, all humans will gather for the final judgment. Every individual will receive a record of their deeds, and they will be judged fairly by Allah. Even the smallest act, good or bad, will be accounted for.

The righteous will be rewarded with Paradise (Jannah) — a place of eternal peace and happiness. The evildoers will be punished in Hell (Jahannam) — a place of torment. However, Allah is also described as Most Merciful, and many sinners may be forgiven if they sincerely believed and repented.

Purpose of Belief in the End

Belief in the end of the world instills accountability and spiritual awareness. It reminds Muslims that life is temporary and that they will ultimately return to their Creator. It motivates them to live ethically, seek forgiveness, and do good.

Conclusion

Islamic teachings about the end of the world are not merely predictions of catastrophe. They are a call to reflection, repentance, and preparation. The end is inevitable, but it is also the beginning of the true and everlasting life. For Muslims, preparing for that day means following the path of righteousness, compassion, and faith.