Islamic Scholar Explains the Great Trial of Dajjal, Urges Spiritual Preparedness
Moulana Abdul Aleem Khateeb Nadvi details prophecies about history's greatest deceiver and stresses the need for firm faith as a shield against this end-times tribulation.
In a detailed Friday sermon at Jamia Masjid in Bhatkal, Islamic scholar Moulana Abdul Aleem Khateeb Nadvi addressed one of the most significant trials foretold in Islamic eschatology: the emergence of Dajjal, the False Messiah or “Great Deceiver.”
The scholar began by explaining that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) meticulously warned his followers about future trials so they could remain steadfast. Among these, the trial of Dajjal is described as the greatest tribulation humanity will ever face since the time of Prophet Adam. The very name “Dajjal” stems from the Arabic root for deception (dajl), meaning one who covers truth with falsehood.
“Every prophet warned his nation about him,” stated Moulana Nadvi, citing Hadith. He emphasized the gravity of this trial, noting the Prophet’s concern was so profound that he specifically sought refuge from Dajjal’s fitnah in his daily prayers and taught his followers to do the same.
The sermon recounted historical incidents that highlight the early Muslim community’s vigilance regarding Dajjal. One involved a figure known as Ibn Sayyad, a child in Medina whose unusual characteristics led some companions to suspect he might be Dajjal. The Prophet (PBUH) personally investigated him, testing his knowledge and ultimately leaving the matter ambiguous. Ibn Sayyad later claimed to be Muslim, further complicating his status.
A more definitive account, as narrated in Sahih Muslim, involves the Companion Tamim al-Dari. Before his conversion, he was shipwrecked on an island where he encountered a chained, gigantic man who claimed to be “Al-Masih al-Dajjal.” This entity inquired about landmarks in Arabia like the springs of Taybah and the palm groves of Baysan and asked about the emergence of a Prophet in Arabia (clearly referring to Muhammad). Upon hearing this detailed report, the Prophet (PBHU) confirmed its authenticity and used it to educate the companions about Dajjal’s reality.
Moulana Nadvi clarified that while the precise nature of Dajjal remains a divine mystery until his appearance, the prophetic descriptions serve a critical purpose: to arm believers with knowledge. He stressed that when Dajjal emerges, only those with deeply rooted, pre-existing faith and a record of good deeds will be able to withstand his overwhelming deception.
“Faith and good actions performed before his appearance will be a person’s protection,” the scholar explained. “The trial will be so severe that it will be exceedingly difficult for anyone encountering it anew to then embrace faith or perform righteous deeds.”
The sermon concluded with a practical exhortation. Rather than fostering fear or speculation, the knowledge of Dajjal should spur believers to strengthen their faith, increase in good deeds, and consistently seek Allah’s protection from this and all tribulations.
Source: Friday sermon at Jamia Masjid, Bhatkal, by Moulana Abdul Aleem Khateeb Nadvi.
