In Islamic teachings, the trial of the Dajjal is one of the greatest trials that will occur in the days leading up to the Day of Judgment. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) repeatedly warned his followers to be vigilant against this tribulation due to the immense influence and trials it will bring upon humanity. Although discussions about the Dajjal often evoke fear or anxiety, scholars explain that understanding the tribulation of the Dajjal can actually serve as a reminder for Muslims to strengthen their faith, increase acts of goodness, and maintain their connection with Allah (SWT).
What Is the Fitnah of the Dajjal in Islam
In Islam, the Dajjal is a figure who will emerge in the end times and bring a massive fitnah or trial to humanity. The word Dajjal derives from the Arabic dajala, meaning to deceive, conceal the truth, or fabricate something.
The Dajjal is not mentioned directly in the Quran, but is extensively described in the authentic hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“There is no greater trial since Allah created Adam until the Day of Judgment than the trial of the Dajjal.”
(Narrated by Muslim)
This hadith indicates that the tribulation of the Dajjal is a massive trial in human history.
In another hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also described some of the Dajjal’s characteristics:
“Indeed, the Dajjal is one-eyed, whereas your Lord is not one-eyed.”
(Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim)
These hadiths serve as the primary source for scholars’ explanations regarding the Dajjal’s tribulation in Islamic eschatology (discussions about the end times).
Read Also: Understanding and Prayers to Avoid the Dajjal’s Tribulation
Why Is the Dajjal’s Tribulation Called a Great Trial
Scholars explain that the Dajjal’s tribulation is considered immense because he is described as capable of deceiving many people through various means. Several hadiths mention that the Dajjal will bring various forms of trials that make some people easily deceived.
Therefore, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught his followers to always seek protection from Allah against this fitnah. One of the recommended supplications to recite during prayer is the supplication for protection from the fitnah of the Dajjal.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“When any of you finishes reciting the final salutation (tahiyat), let him seek refuge with Allah from four things: from the torment of Hellfire, from the torment of the grave, from the trials of life and death, and from the evil of the fitnah of the Dajjal.”
(Narrated by Muslim)
The Wisdom of Understanding the Fitnah of the Dajjal
Studying the tribulation of the Dajjal is not merely to recognize the signs of the end times, but also to draw important lessons for life.
First, the tribulation of the Dajjal reminds humanity of the importance of strengthening faith and integrity. Since the Dajjal is described as a figure full of deceit, Muslims are taught to always hold fast to the truth and not be easily swayed by misleading influences.
Second, discussions about the Dajjal’s deception also serve as a reminder for people not to become overly attached to worldly matters. Many scholars explain that one of the major trials of the end times is the temptation of power, wealth, and influence, which can cause people to forget the values of truth.