In Islamic eschatology, Al-Masih ad-Dajjal (المسيح الدجال), or "The False Messiah," stands as one of the most fearsome and deceptive figures whose emergence will signify a great tribulation for mankind. His trial (fitnah) will test the very essence of human faith, shaking the hearts of those weak in belief while reinforcing the certainty of the devout.
"No prophet was sent but that he warned his followers against the one-eyed liar (Ad-Dajjal)… He is blind in one eye, and your Lord is not so. Written between his eyes is 'Kafir' (disbeliever)."
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sahih al-Bukhari 7131)
The Dajjal is a specific individual—not merely a concept—whose deception is so profound that even some who pray, fast, and believe in Islam could be swayed by his miracles. He will emerge in a time of great turmoil, wars, droughts, and global instability. Humanity will be desperate for leadership and hope, and the Dajjal will provide it—but at a great cost: belief in him as a divine figure.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| One-eyed | His right eye will bulge out like a floating grape, while the left will be completely blind. |
| Inscription | The word "Kafir" (كافر) will be inscribed between his eyes, readable only by true believers. |
| Speech | He will claim divinity, misleading people into worshiping him as God. |
| Miracles | He will cause rain to fall, revive the dead, and distribute wealth—all to deceive. |
What makes the Dajjal’s fitnah so dangerous is not just his miracles, but the context in which they appear. In a world full of poverty, injustice, and despair, his promises of prosperity, healing, and peace will lure even the seemingly strong. He will declare, “I am your Lord,” and many will believe him—not because they studied, but because they followed desire and fear over faith.
"He will come to people and invite them to follow him. He will promise them Heaven but will lead them to Hell."
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sahih Muslim 2935)
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However, his influence will have limits. The Prophet ﷺ made it clear that there are sacred territories Dajjal cannot enter. Chief among them are the two holy cities: Mecca and Medina. Guarded by angels, these lands will remain untouched by his presence. People seeking safety must strive to be within spiritually protected places, even if physically distant.
| Sanctuary | Why Dajjal Can't Enter |
|---|---|
| Mecca | Guarded by legions of angels assigned by Allah |
| Medina | Protected by divine decree and surrounded by angels |
"There will be no part of the Earth that Dajjal will not enter except Mecca and Medina."
Sahih al-Bukhari 1881
- Recite the first and last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf every Friday
- Memorize and recite the du'a of protection from Dajjal in every prayer
- Strengthen your iman through Qur'an and Sunnah
- Distance yourself from materialism and vanity
- Educate your family and children about the signs of the Hour
"Whoever memorizes the first ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf will be protected from the Dajjal."
Sahih Muslim 809
Who is Al-Masih ad-Dajjal?
He is a major end-times figure in Islam who will claim divinity, mislead people with false miracles, and be ultimately defeated by Isa (AS).
What are the signs of Dajjal's coming?
A series of global trials, including wars, famine, injustice, and weakened faith among the masses.
How will Dajjal be defeated?
He will be killed by Prophet Isa (AS) near the gate of Ludd in Palestine, ending his fitnah.
How can we protect ourselves from Dajjal?
By reciting Surah Al-Kahf weekly, performing regular prayers, and seeking refuge from Dajjal in every salah.
Where will Dajjal appear from?
From the East, specifically from an area in Khurasan according to some hadiths.
"Indeed, the Hour is coming—so forgive with gracious forgiveness."
Qur'an 15:85
References:
Sahih al-Bukhari (7131, 1881), Sahih Muslim (809, 2933, 2935, 2943, 2924a), Sunan Abu Dawood (4325), Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Surah Al-Kahf)
