Ar-Raya: The Black Flag of Islam

Ar-Raya: The Black Flag of the Army of Islam

This article was received from the following individual via email. This article is primarily an analysis if the collection of sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) on the topic of "Mehdi & Dajjal".

Mehdi means, the 'rightly guided one', and Dajjal means, 'the anti-Christ'. In Islamic traditions, there are plenty of prophecies about the future events. "Mehdi & Dajjal" being one of those topics. This event is also tied with the prophesy of return of Prophet Isa (known as Jesus in Christiondom) - peace be upon him. In this article, wwe find the following predictions:

1. The wars of 'regime change' with the collaboration of Muslims and Christians.
2. Betrayal of Christians against Muslims by putting up of the cross (Christian missionary activities) after victory.
3. Declaration of war by the Christians against the Arab Muslims.
4. Emergence of Muslim armies with the "Black Flags".
5. Divisions of Arab armies (Sufiyannis, Mansooris, etc.)
6. Emergence of Imam Mehdi in Medina.
7. Flocking of Muslims from around the world to join the army of Mehdi.
8. Armies of Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan declaring their solidarity with the Mehdi.
9. Mehdi defeats the Christians and re-conquers Syria, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq.
10. Appearance of the Dajjal (anti-Christ, the one-eyed Jewish leader) in Israel.
11. Preparation of the Muslim army for final show down with the army of Dajjal.
12. Descending of Prophet Isa (pace be upon him) from the heaven.
13. Prophet Isa (peace be upon him) defeats Dajjal.
14. The "Kingdom of God" with peace, justice and happiness is re-established.

Date: Friday, May 2 2003 05:01 am
From: mohamed (imtiaz) bhikoo
Subject: "Mehdi & Dajjal" (from Al-Islaah publications)

When is the appearance of Imaam Mahdi and Dajjal ?

QUESTION: I have recently heard reports that the time of appearance of either Imam Mehdi or Dajjal will be approximately when there is a solar and lunar eclipse during a short space of time. Also that it will be when Ramadan will be more or less in the month of October. Having done research it was found that the next time sucha cosmic event will take place is in November 2003. The month of Ramadan will fall in October in
that year also. Can you enlighten me with any other knowledge that you may have on the appearance of either Imam Mehdi or Dajjal and whether the facts stated above are accurate. [Ashraf]

ANSWER: We have not come across any narration in which lunar or solar eclipse will occur when Ramadan falls in October. Nevertheless, the Hadith in which it is recorded that Imaam Mehdi will appear when lunar
and solar eclipse will occur in the month of Ramadan is not of a sound nature. It is regarded weak according to some Muhadditheen. Even if we had to accept the Hadith, there is no guarantee that it refers to 2003. It can also refer to sometime in the future. No one can put a specific date on the coming of Imam Mehdi. All we can say is that since many of the signs that have been foretold of his coming are apparent today, for example, rampant vice, his time has certainly drawn closer. Yet, no one can put a date to it. And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best.

Source: By Mufti Ebrahim Desai (courtesy http://www.Islam.tc)
Courtesy: http://www.everymuslim.com

Imaam Mahdi - [ PART 1 ]

The mentioning of Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi, has been afforded great importance throughout the annals of lslaamic history. The great Kitaabs of Hadith like; Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah etc, have all stipulated separate chapters regarding Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi. Besides them many other luminaries have made mention of Hadhrat 'Imaam' Mahdi. Amongst them are; Imaam Ahmed, Bazzaar, Ibn Abi Shaiba, Haakim, Abu
Ya'la etc ... There are numerous Ahaadith narrated regarding Hadhrat 'Imaam" Mahdi. Great Sahabah such as; Hadhrat Ali, lbn Abbaas, lbn Umar, Talha, Abdullaah bin Mas'ood, Abu Huraira, Anas etc. etc. (radhiallaahu
anhum ajmaeen), have narrated regarding Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi. Extrapolating from the numerous Hadith on the subject, Hadhrat Moulana Shah Rafee'ud Deen Dehlwi (rahmatullahi alaihi) states the following:..

Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi 's name, lineage and description:

Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi will be a Sayyid and from the family of Hadhrat Faatimah(radhiAllaahu anha). He will be tall in stature,his body will be agile and his face will resemble that of Nabi Muhammad (saliallahu alaihi wasallam). His character will also resemble that of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). His name will be Muhammad, his father's name will be Abdullaah and his mothers name will be Aamina. He will stammer slightly in his speech, and due to this he will strike his hand upon his thigh. He will have Ilim-e-Ladunni' (inspired knowledge). Sayyid Buzranji states in his Kitaab'Risaala lshaa'at' that even after searching the Hadith Kitaabs, he did not find the name of "Imaam" Mahdi's mother.

'Imaam' Mahdi's asppearance will be before the emergence of Sufyani:

Before the appearance of "Imaam" Mahdi, a person from the lineage of Abu Sufyaan will be born in the Arabian and Syrian peninsulas. This person will kill the family of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). His rule will
spread to Syria and Egypt. In between he will engage in battle with one group of the Christians and make peace with another group. The group that will be in battle will conquer Constantinople. The ruler of the Romans will flee to Syria and seek the assistance of the local Christians, and after a fierce battle they will be victorious. After the defeat of the enemy, a person will scream out that the cross was victorious and the victory was owing to it. Hearing this a person from the Muslim army will deny this and say that the Muslims will be victorious. These two will call upon their respective armies for assistance and they will meet in battle, and it will begin.

The Muslim ruler will be martyred and the Christians will gain control over Syria. There will be a treaty between the two Christian groups. The balance of the Muslims will go to Madinah Munawwarah. The Christian domain will spread to Khyber (which is close to Madinah Munawwarah). At that time the Muslims will be awaiting the arrival of "Imaam" Mahdi, so that they may remedy their predicament, and be freed from the clutches
of the disbelievers.

In Pursuit of "Imaam" Mahdi and pledging Allegiance at his hands:

Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi will arrive in Madinah Munawwarah and proceed to Makkah Muazzama. In order to avoid detection. The pious Auliyaa and Abdaals of that era will be looking for him. Some persons will even
falsely claim to be 'Imaam" Mahdi.

Hadhrat "Imaam' Mahdi will be making Tawaaf of the Kaaba-tullaah, and when he will be between the Rukn and Maqaam-e-Ebrahim, a group of believers will recognise him and take "ba'it" at his hands. At the time
of taking the "ba'it", a voice will be heard from the skies, saying: "This is Mahdi, the Khalifah of Allaah Ta'ala, you should obey him and follow him.' Everyone who will be present there, at that time will hear this proclamation.

At this time "Imaam" Mahdi's (alaihi salaam) age will be 40 years. When this news spreads, the Muslim army from Madinah Munawwarah will proceed to Makkah Muazzama. The Auliyaa of Syria, Iraq and Yemen will come into the company of "Imaam" Mahdi. Many persons from Arabia will join in the army. The treasure which is buried under the Kaaba, will be taken out and distributed amongst the Muslims.

The leaders of Khurasaan will send soldiers to assist "Imaam" Mahdi and the destruction of the Army of Sufyaan

When this news spreads around the world, a person from Khuraasaan will come to Madinah Munawwarah with a large army. On the way they will defeat many Christians and irreligious people. The person who will be
the leader of an army will be a person by the name of 'Mansoor', who will be a Sufyaani, one who is an enemy of the Ahle Bait. His maternal family will be the Banu Kalb. He will dispatch an army in opposition to 'Imaam" Mahdi. When this army reaches a valley between Makkah Mukarrama and Madinah Munawwarah, the earth will open up and all of them (good and bad alike) will be 'swallowed' into the earth. On the day of Qiyaamah,
they will be resurrected according to their beliefs and intentions. Only two persons will survive this tragedy, one of them will go and inform "Imaam" Mahdi and the other, the Sufyaan.

When the Christians hear of the accumulation of the Muslim Arabian army, they will also attempt to muster up a force. They will team up with the Romans and gather in Syria. In preparation of the army of "Imaam" Mahdi.

[Risaalat-e-Alaamaate Qiyaamah, Hadhrat Moulana Shah Rafee'ud Deen Dehlwi (rahmatullahi alaihi)]

(Source: The Role of "Imaam" Mahdi: Translated and Edited by Mufti A.H.Elias. Orignal by Moulana Badre Aalam Muhajir Madani.)

Imaam Mahdi - [ PART 2 ]

Clash of the Christians with the Muslims and Imaam Mahdi's Truimph

The(Christian) army will consist of 70 flags, and under each flag there will be 12,000 soldiers. In total there will be 840,000 soldiers. "Imaam" Mahdi will leave Makkah Muazzama and go towards Madinah Munawwarah. After visiting the blessed grave of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), he will proceed towards Syria. The two armies will meet at Damascus. At that juncture the army of 'Imaam" Mahdi will be split into three. The first will be those who will flee the battlefield, out of fear of the Christians. There Tawbah (repentance) will never be accepted by Allaah Ta'ala. Of those remaining, some will be martyred, and they will affain the rank of the martyrs of Uhud and Badr. The others will, by the Grace of Allaah Ta'ala, remain steadfast and they will always be saved from deviation and an evil ending.

Hadhrat 'Imaam' Mahdi will face the enemy the next day again. A group from amongst the Muslims will make this pact that they will either be victorious or martyred. All of them will be martyred. "Imaam' Mahdi will
return with a small army from the battlefield. On the next day another group will also make the pact as the previous day's group, and they too will be blessed with martrdom. In the eveining of that day, "Imaam"
Mahdi will return with an even smaller army, back to his camp. On the fourth day, "Imaam" Mahdi will advance with a very small army to face the enemy, and they will be victorious, with the Fadl of Allah Ta'ala. The Christians will be defeated, they will be thorougly humiliated and flee from the battlefield.

"Imaam" Mahdi will now concentrate upon mobilising an lslaamic system, and he will not rest upon the conquer of Constantinople. The Muslim army will proceed to what is today known as Istanbul. Here also the Muslims
will attain a victory, with the aid of Allaah Ta'ala. All this will take place in the course of 6 to 7 years from the time of the initial" ba'it" with "Imaam" Mahdi. "Imaam" Mahdi will occupy himself in the administration of the lslaamic state. Rumours that the Dajjaal has now made his appearance and started destroying the Muslims, will start spreading. When "Imaam" Mahdi hears about this he will make his way back to Syria. He will dispatch a group of 5 or 9 horsemen to investigate the whereabouts of Dajjaal. Regarding these horsemen, Nabi (saliallahu
alaihiwasallam) said that he knows their maternal and paternal families and also the colour of their horses. They will be from amongst the best persons on the face of the earth at that time. They will ride ahead of the army, in order to investigate whether the rumour of Dajjaal is true or not. "Imaam" Mahdi will reach Damascus before Dajjaal, and he will prepare the Muslim army.

The Descending of Hadhrat Isa (alaiyhis salaam):

The Mu'azzin will have given the azaan for the Asr Salaat, and the people will be preparing for the Salaat, when Hadhrat Isaa (alaihis salaam) will descend from the heavens, leaning upon two angels. They will descend at the east minaarat of the Damascus Jaami' Masjid. It will be announced: "Bring a stepladder!', and a stepladder will be produced. Hadhrat Isaa (alayihi salaam) will then come and meet Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi. 'Imaam" Mahdi will most humbly and happily ask Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) to lead the Salaat. Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) will instruct Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi to lead the Salaat, who will then lead the Salaat and Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) will be a follower.

After the Salaat, Hadhrat "Imaam"Mahdi will request Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) to prepare and lead the Muslim army, as he pleases. Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) will refuse saying that this is the specific duty and
honour of Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi, and that he (Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) had come especially to kill Dajjaal, as the destruction of Dajjaal is written at his hands.

The Reign of "Imaam" Mahdi, His Khilafah and Demise:

The entire world will be illuminated with the justice and equity of Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi. Oppression and injustice will be eradicated. All the inhabitants on earth will be engaged in the worship and lbaadat of Allaah Ta'ala. His (alaihi salaam)'s Khilaafat will last for 7, 8 or 9 years. Seven years will be in controlling the mischief of the Christians and in preparing the Muslim army. The eighth year will be in opposing Dajjaal, and the ninth year will be in the company of Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam). Therefore Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi's age will be 49 years at the time of his demise. Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) will perform the Janaaza Salaat and bury Hadhrat "Imaam" Mahdi. Thereafter all the responsibilities of administrating the Muslims will fall upon Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam).

[Risaalat-e-Alaamaate Qiyaamah, Hadhrat Moulana Shah Rafee'ud Deen Dehlwi (rahmatullahi alaihi)]

(Source: The Role of "Imaam" Mahdi: Translated and Edited by Mufti A.H.Elias. Orignal by Moulana Badre Aalam Muhajir Madani.)

Imaam Mahdi - [ PART 3 ]

Various Hadith Regarding Imaam Mahdi

Hadhrat Abdullaah ibn Mas'ood (radhiallaahu anhu) reports:'Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'The world will not come to an end, until such a time that a person from my family does not reign over Arabia. His name will be the same as mine."' [Tirmidhi Shareef ]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) said: 'Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasailam) said; 'If there was only one day left until the last day, then Allaah Ta'ala will make it last until a person from my family will reign over Arabia."' [Tirmidhi]

Abu Is'haaq reports that Hadhrat Ali (radhiallaahu anhu) said, whilst looking at his son, Hadhrat Hassan (radhiallaahu anhu): "My son will be a Sayyid, just as Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said. A person will
be born from his lineage, who will bear the same name as your Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). He will bear resemblance to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) in character, but not physical (resemblance)." Thereafter Hadhrat Ali (radhiallaahu anhu) narrated the just conditions that will prevail during that era." [Abu Dawood]

Hadhrat Ali (radhiallaahu anhu) reports from Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), that he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam): 'If there was only one day left for Qiyaamah, then Allaah Ta'ala would most certainly send a
person from my Ahle Bait to restore peace and justice to this world, just as it was saturated with injustice." [Abu Dawood]

Hadhrat Saeed bin Musayyib (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that they were with Hadhrat Umme Salma (radhiallaahu anha), and they were discussing about 'Imaam" Mahdi. When Hadhrat Umme Salma (radhiallaahu anha) said: 'I heard Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) say that Mahdi will be from amongst the offspring of Fatimah.' [Ibn Maajah]

Hadhrat Anas bin Maalik (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that he heard Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) say: "We, the children of Abdul Muttalib, will be the leaders in Jannat, (i.e. we are:) myself, Hamza, Ali, Ja'far, Hassan, Hussein and Mahdi." [Ibn Maajah]

Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said-, "Mahdi will be from my progeny, his forehead will be wide and his nose high. He will fill the world with
justice just as it will be filled with injustice. His reign will last for seven years." [Abu Dawood]

Hadhrat Buraida (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "After me there will be many armies. You should enlist yourselves in the army of Khuraasaan." [Ibn Adi]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)said:'Black flags (an army) will emerge from Khuraasaan. None will be able to turn them back, until they are planted -in Baitul Maqdis.' [Tirmidhi Shareef]

Hadhrat Saeed bin Musayyib (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullah (salilllahu alaihi wasallam) said: "From the west, black flags (an army) will emerge under the family of Abbas. They will wait until Allaah
Ta'ala desires. Then small flags will emerge, and they will fight with the family of Abu Sufyaan, until they become subservient to Mahdi."

Another narration states: "Black flags from the family of Abbas will emerge, then another army will emerge from Khuraasaan, their (headgear) and clothes will be white. Their leader will be a person by the name of Shuayb bin Saalih, from Tameem. He (and his army) will annihilate the companions of Sufyaani."

Hadhrat Umme Salma (radhiallaahu anha) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "After the demise of a Khalifah, a difference of opinion will arise and a person from the inhabitants of Madinah Munawwarah will go to Makkah Muazzama. Some of the inhabitants of Makkah Mukarrama will coerce him, and take the pledge of allegiance at his hands, between the Maqaam and the Rukn. An army will be dispatched from Shaam (Syria), to confront him, and they will be swallowed into the earth at a place between Makkah Mukarrama and Madinah Munawwarah. When news of this miracle spreads, the Abdaals of Shaam and
many groups from Iraq will go and pledge allegiance atthe hands of this person. A person from the Quraish will arise, his maternal family will be the Banu Kalb. He will also send an army to face this person ("Imaam"
Mahdi). Allaah Ta'ala will grant victory to him ("Imaam" Mahdi). This battle will be known as Banu Kalb. That person will be very unfortunate who does not have a share in the booty of Banu Kalb. After the victory
the wealth of the Banu Kalb will be distributed. He will rule in accordance to the Sunnat. During his reign lslaam will spread rapidly. He will remain alive (i.e. his reign) for seven years. When he passes away, the Muslims will perform his Janaaza Salaat." [Abu Dawood]

(Source: The Role of "Imaam" Mahdi: Translated and Edited by Mufti A.H.Elias. Orignal by Moulana Badre Aalam Muhajir Madani.)

Imaam Mahdi - [ PART 4 - Final ]

Various Hadith Regarding Imaam Mahdi

Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mas'ood (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that they were sitting in the company of Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), when some youngsters from the Banu Haashim came into his (sallallahu alaihi
wasallam) presence. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s eyes welled with tears and his Mubarak face changed colour. Hadhrat Abdullaah ibn Mas'ood (radhiallaahu anhu) says: 'I asked; ' How is it that we see a change in
your features?" Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihiwasallam) replied: 'Allaah Ta'ala has chosen the Hereafter for our family instead of this world. After me, my family will be faced with many difficulties and banishments. To such an extent that an army with black flags will emerge from the west, they will ask for peace which will not be granted to them. A battle will ensue and they will be defeated. They will then give what they have been asked for, but it will not be accepted. The flag will then be given to a person from my Ahle Bait. He will then fill the
earth with such justice, as much oppression as there was prior to this. If any of you meet up with that era, then you must surely join him, even though you have to be dragged in the snow." [ibn Maajah]

Hadhrat Thaubaan (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "in your old age, three persons from amongst the sons of your Khulafah will be martyred, then no one from their families will be given Imaarat (leadership). Then from the west black flags will emerge, and they will fight you and a battle will
ensue, as no other battle in the past." Thereafter, the narrator says that Nabi (saliallahu alaihi wasallam) said something which he could not remember. Then he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'when you see this
person then you must take "Ba'it" upon his hands, even though you have to be dragged through the snow, because he will be the Mahdi, the Khalifah of Allaah Ta'ala." [ibn Maajah]

Hadhrat Thaubaan (radhiallaahu anhu), the freed slave of Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) reports from Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) : "When you see black flags coming from Khuraasaan, then you must join them, even though you have to be dragged in the snow, because, Allaah Ta'ala's Khalifah, Mahdi, will be amongst them." [Ahmed / Baihaqi]

Hadhrat Abu Saeed Naaji (rahmatullahi alaihi) reports from Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (radhiallaahu anhu) that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "There will be a Mahdi from amongst my Ummat, who will reign for
about seven to nine years. During his time, my Ummat will live so comfortably, as they had never done before. The earth will yield all its (beneficial) crops and not withhold anything. Wealth will be stacked up in heaps, (so much so that) a person will stand up and say; 'Oh Mahdi, give me', and he will be told; 'Take! (To your heart's content) ... [Mustadrak]

Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that they asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) regarding the adversities which were to follow after his (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s demise. Rasulullaah
(sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "After me there will be a Mahdi, who will rule for five or seven or nine years (here the narrator of the Hadith, doubts the exact number of years mentioned by Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)". The Sahabah asked regarding the reason for mentioning this era. Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that the era will be so blessed that a person will come and ask; 'Oh Mahdi give me some (wealth), give me some!'. 'Imaam" Mahdi will give him as much wealth as he can carry. [Tirmidhi Shareef]

Hadhrat Ibn Mas'ood (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Mahdi will emerge towards the last era of my Ummat. Allaah Ta'ala will grant him plentiful rains and the earth will yield many crops. Wealth will be plenty and animals will be in abundance. The Ummat will attain great heights. He (Mahdi) will remain amongst the people for seven to eight, i.e. years.' [Mustadrak]

Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (radiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'I am giving you the glad tidings of Mahdi. He will emerge at such a time when there will be great differences and tremors in the Ummat. He will fill the world with such justice and equity, as there was injustice and oppression before it. The Angels in the heavens and the inhabitants on earth, all will be pleased with him. Wealth will be 'Sihaahan' (equally distributed).'The Sahabah asked regarding the meaning of the word, "Sihaahan'. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "Wealth will be distributed equally with fairness. The hearts of the Believers will be filled with independence. Justice will be widespread, to such an extent that it will be announced;
'Who has any need for wealth?' None will stand from the gathering except one person. This condition will prevail for seven years." [Ahmed / Abu Ya'la]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'Qiyaamah will never come until a person from amongst my family arises amongst them and fights them until they come onto the right path." The narrator says that he inquired regarding the time, as to how long it will last. He was told: "Five or two (more, i.e. seven)." He (the narrator) further asked: "Five or two, what? (i.e. years or months) ' He said : "I do not know." [Abu Ya'ala]

From previous narrations, years have been established:

Hadhrat Yusair bin Jaabir (rahmatullahi alaihi) reports that once a red wind blew from Kufa. A man came running and said; 'Oh Abdullaah Bin Mas'ood, Qiyaamah has arrived!" Upon hearing this, Hadhrat Abdullaah ibn Mas'ood (radhiallaahu anhu), who was relaxing upon a pillow, sat up, and said: "Verily, Qiyaamah will not come until inheritance is not distributed, and there will be an abundance in booty (war spoils)." Then he indicated with his hands towards Shaam and said: "The enemies of lslaam (Christians) will gather against the Muslims and the Muslims will gather against them." The narrator asked if he meant the Romans (Christians), and he replied in the affirmative. He, then said: 'There will be a battle. The Muslims will send forth an army, that will advance on the condition of being martyred (i.e. either they will return victorious or be martyred). The two armies will meet, and at nightfall they will return (to their camps), with neither side attaining a victory. Those who had resolved not to return except with victory, will all be martyred. The following day the two armies will again meet. On this day too, a group of the Believers will firmly resolve to be martyred or be victorious. At nightfall the two armies will once again return, without either side having scored a victory. Those who had made
the resolution, will all be martyred. On the third day, again a group of Believers will advance who will make the same resolution as the others of the previous days. On this day again the same will transpire. On the fourth day the remaining army of Muslims will advance. On this day Allaah Ta'ala will cause the defeat of the Kuffaar, and such a battle will ensue, the likes of which no one will ever see, or has anyone ever seen (here the narrator doubts the exact words). To such an extent that a bird will not be able to fly over the bodies without fearing itself dying (i.e. due to the multitude and condition of dead bodies). If the bodies of the family of a grandfather were to be counted, then 99 will be found dead and one surviving. Under such conditions, who will enjoy the booty, and who will there be to inherit? The Muslims will remain in this condition, when an even worse calamity will be announced. The announcement will be blazoned that Dajjaal has emerged amongst their children. They (the Believers) will leave whatever is in their hands and turn around. A group of ten horsemen will be sent to investigate the validity of this rumour. Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said (regarding these horsemen): 'I know the names of these ten horsemen, the names of their fathers and the colour of their horses. They will be the best horsemen on the face of the earth at that time."' [Muslim Shareef]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said:"Have you heard of such a city,which has on it's one side dryland and on the other a sea. The Sahabah replied in the affirmative. Qiyaamah will not come until an army from the Banu lshaq consisting of 70,000, will besiege it. When they enter it, neither will a sword be drawn nor an arrow shot, that one side of the city will fall (into their hands) merely by their reciting of the Takbeer." Hadhrat Thaur Ibn Yazid (one of the narrators of this Hadith) says that he thinks the person who told him this narration mentioned that it will be the coastal side of the city that will fall. The Takbeer will be recited for a second time and the other side of the city will fall into their hands. When the third Takbeerwill be recited, the doors of the city will be opened and they will enter it, and seize the booty. During this time an announcement will be made that The Dajjaal has emerged. They will leave everything and return." [Muslim]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'The Romans will dishonour a treaty (they have made) with a member of my family, whose name will be like mine (i.e. Muhammad). He will then engage them in battle in a place called- "Amaag". Approximately one third of the Muslim army will be made Shaheed (martyred). A same number of Muslims will be martyred on the second day. On the third day, the Romans will be defeated. Constantinople will also be conquered. Whilst they will be busy accumulating the booty, a caller will call out that The Dajjaal has appeared amongst their children."

Hadhrat Auf bin Maalik (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that he came into the presence of Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) during the expedition of Tabuk, whilst he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was in his tent. Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'You will have to contend with six things before Qiyaamah. (Firstly) My demise, then the conquest of Baitul Maqdis. Thereafter death will be common amongst you, like how a plague spreads amongst sheep. Then there will be an abundance of wealth, such that if a person is given 100 dinars, he will not be happy (excited). Thereafter there will be great Fitnah, such that no Arab abode will be saved therefrom. Then there will be a period of (peace) treaties, made between yourselves and the Romans. Thereafter, they will dishanour their pledge and attack you with 80 flags (armies). Beneath each flag there will be 12,000 soldiers." [Bukhari]

Hadhrat Zi Makhbar (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that he heard Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) saying: "You (Muslims) will sign a (peace) treaty with the Romans. Thereafter, you and they will (combine and) fight a common enemy, and you will be the victors. You (and the Romans) will then attain the booty. This army will ascend onto a hilly meadow, when a Christian person will raise the cross and say that the cross was victorious. A Muslim man will be angered by this and he will take the cross and break it. The Romans will then turn upon (betray) you (Muslims), and all of you will then prepare for a Great Battle." [Abu Dawood]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'What will be your condition when the son of Maryam (alaiha salaam) - i.e. Hadhrat lsaa (alaihi salaam), descends upon you, and your Imaam (for Salaat) at that time will be from amongst you." [Bukhari and Muslim Shareef]

Hadhrat Abdullaah ibn Umar (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam) is that person who will come after Mahdi, and he (Hadhrat lsaa (alaihi salaam)) will perform Salaat behind him ('Imaam" Mahdi). [Abu Nuaim]

Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'Amongst us will be a person, behind whom lsaa ibn Maryam will perform Salaat." [ibid]

Hadhrat Jaabir bin Abdullaah (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "One group from amongst my Ummat will continuously struggle for the Haqq, when lsaa bin Maryam will descend in the presence of Mahdi, at the time of Fajr in Baitul Maqdis. It will be said:'Lead us in Salaat, Oh Nabi of Allaah Ta'ala.'He will say that this Ummat (is such that) some are Ameer's over others (therefore you ("Imaam" Mahdi) should perform the Salaat)." [ibid] This narration also appears in Muslim Shareef, but the words "Isaa ibn Maryam will descend and their (Muslims) Ameer will say to him; 'Go forward and perform the Salaat for us."'

Hadhrat Huzaifa (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "When lsaa ibn Maryam descends, it will seem as though water is dripping off his head. Mahdi will turn towards him and
request him to lead the Salaat. He (Hadhrat lsaa (alaihi salaam)) will say; 'The lqaamat was given for you'. He will then read Salaat behind a man who will be from my offspring."

Hadhrat Jaabir (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Nabi (sallailahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Isaa ibn Maryam will descend and their (Muslim's) Ameer Mahdi will tell him to lead the Salaat. He (Hadhrat lsaa (alaihi salaam)) will say; 'Surely some of you are Ameers over others, and this is the honour bestowed upon this Ummat."' [Suyooti from Abu Nuaim]

Hadhrat lbn Sireen (rahmatullahi alaihi) said that Mahdi will be from amongst this Ummat. He is the one who will be the lmaam (in a Salaat) for Hadhrat lsaa (alaihi salaam). [ibn abi Shaiba]

Hadhrat Abu Umamah (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that once Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was giving a Khutbah, and he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) mentioned regarding Dajjaal. Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Madinah Tayyibah will expel filth from it just as a furnace expels filth from iron. That day will be known as "Yowrn-e- Khalaas" (day of separation - filth from purity). Hadhrat Umme Shareek (radhiallaahu anha) asked; 'Where will the Arabs be on that day, Oh Rasulullaah?' Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied that they will
be in the minority at that time. Most of them (Muslims) will be in Baitul Maqdis. Their leader will be Mahdi, who will be a pious person. As their lmaam is about to step forward to lead the Fajr Salaat, lsaa bin Maryam will descend upon them. This lmaam (Mahdi alaihi salaam) will step back, so that lsaa may move forward (and lead the Salaat). Isaa will place his hands between his ("Imaam" Mahdi alaihi salaam) shoulders and say; 'You proceed, surely the lqaamat was given for you.' Then their lmaam (Mahdi alaihi salaam) will lead the Salaat.' [ibn Maajah]

Hadhrat Abu Nadharah (radhiallaahu anhu) reports; 'We were sitting amongst Hadhrat Jaabir bin Abdullaah (radhiAllaahu anhu),when he said: 'Soon a time will dawn when the people of Iraq will receive neither grain nor money.' We asked as to who will be responsible for this. He replied; 'The Ajams (non-Arabs), they will prevent this (sanctions?)' Then he said: 'Soon the people of Shaam will receive neither grain nor money.' We asked him as to who will be responsible for this. He replied; 'The Romans.' Then he kept silent for a while, and said that Rasulullaah (sallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'There will be a Khalifah in the final era of this Ummat, who will disperse so much wealth, that it will not be able to be calculated."' It was asked from Abu Nadharah and Hadhrat Ala (radhiallaahu anhuma): "Do the two of you consider this person (Mahdi) to mean Umar bin Abdul Aziz?" They replied in the negative. [Muslim Shareef]

Hadhrat Jaabir (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Rasulullaah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'There will be such a Khalifah in the final era of my Ummat, who will distribute wealth with both his hands (owing to the large quantity), and it will not be able to be calculated." [Muslim Shareef]

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiallaahu anha) reports that Nabi(sallallahu alaihi wasllam) said: "It is astonishing that some people from amongst my Ummat will head for Baituilaah, in order to fight a person from amongst the Quraish, who had sought refuge in Baitullaah. When they reach "Baidaa", then all of them will be swallowed into the earth. Amongst them; those who came willingly, those who were forced to come and the travellers, all of them will be destroyed at once. Allaah Ta'ala will resurrect all of them on the day of Qiyaamah according to their intentions." [Muslim Shareef]

Hadhrat Abu Huraira (radhiallaahu anhu) reports that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Qiyaamah will not come until a Roman army descends at (a place called) "A'maaq" or "Bidaabiq". An army will advance from Madinah Tayyibah, which will comprise of the best of persons on the entire surface of the earth. When the two armies line up for battle, the Christians will say: 'Separate from those who made our families prisoners(and enslaved them), so that we may fight them (only).' The Muslims will say; 'Never! We take an oath that we will
never separate ourselves between you and our fellow Muslim brothers.'They will then engage in battle. One third of the Muslim army will flee the battlefield, and they will never be forgiven by Allaah Ta'ala. One third will be martyred, and they will be amongst the best of martyrs in the sight of Allaah Ta'ala. The other third (of the Muslim army) will be victorious, and they will be saved from any other Fitnah for the rest of their lives. They will conquer Constantinople. As they will be busy with the booty and their swords will be hanging upon the olive trees, shaitaan will call out that Dajjaal has emerged amongst their children and families. The Muslims will immediately leave and it will transpire that this is a rumour.When they arrive in Shaam, Dajjaal will emerge. As they will be preparing themselves for war, it will be the time for Salaat, and they will be lining up the saffs (rows) for Salaat. As the Iqaamat is given, Isaa bin Maryam will descend and his Imaamat will be made (i.e. he will be a normal Muqtadi and "Imaam" Mahdi will be the lmaam). When the enemy of Allaah Ta'ala (Dajjaal) sees him
(Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam)), he (Dajjaal) will melt, just as salt melts upon contact with water. If Dajjaal will be left, then he would melt down completely, but Allaah Ta'ala wanted Dajjaal to be killed at his (Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam))hands. The blood of Dajjaal will be visible on his (Hadhrat Isaa (alaihi salaam)) spear." [Muslim Shareef]

(Source: The Role of "Imaam" Mahdi: Translated and Edited by Mufti A.H.Elias. Orignal by Moulana Badre Aalam Muhajir Madani.)

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The return of Isa (Jesus)-alaiyhis salaam: The truimph of the Muslim Ummah

The Physical Features of Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) He will resemble the famous Sahabi (A.S.) Hadhrat Urwa bin Masoodi (R.A.). He will be of average height and red and white in colour. His hair spread to the shoulders, straight, neat and shining as after a bath. On bending his head, it will seem as if pearls are falling. He will have an armour on his body. He will be wearing two pieces of cloth light yellow in color.

His Descension

He will descend on a Jamaat (group) that will be righteous at the time and comprising of 800 men and 400 women. The people will be preparing for war at the time against Dajjal (the anti-Christ). It will be time for Fajr prayers, and Imam Mahdi will be the Amir (leader). From the darkness of the dawn, a sound will suddenly be heard that "one who listens to your pleas has come" -- the righteous people will look everywhere and their eyes will fall on Isa (A.S.). Briefly, at the time of Fajr, Isa (A.S.) will descend. When descending, Isa (A.S.)'s hands
will be on the shoulders of two angels (according to another source (Kab Abrar), a cloud will carry him). On their insistence Hadhrat Isa will introduce himself. He will inquire about their enthusiasm and thoughts on Jihad against Dajjal. Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will descend on the eastern side near the Minaret in Damascus (or in Baitul-Muqaddus by Imam Mahdi). At the time Imam Mahdi will have proceeded forward to lead the Fajr
Salaat. The Iqamat of the Salaat would have been said (already recited) and Imam Mahdi will call Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) for Imamat (to lead the prayer), but he (Hadhrat Isa (A.S.)) will instead tell Imam Mahdi to lead the prayer since the Iqamat of that Salaat has already been said for him. Thus Imam Mahdi will lead the prayer, and Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will follow him. After the ruku, he will make this statement: "Allah has killed Dajjal and the Muslims have appeared."

The Killing of Dajjal and the Victory of the Muslims After the completion of Fajr Salaat, Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will open the door behind him where Dajjal accompanied by 70,000 Yahudis (Jews)will be. He will indicate with his hand to move away between him (Hadhrat Isa (A.S.)) and Dajjal. Dajjal will then see Hadhrat Isa (A.S.). At that time every Kafir on whom the breath of Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will reach, will die. His breath will reach up to the distance of his eyesight. The Muslims will then come down from the mountains and break loose on the
army of Dajjal. There will be war, Dajjal will retreat, and Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will pursue Dajjal. Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will have two flexible swords and one shield with him and with these he will kill Dajjal at the Gate of Hudd. He will show the Muslims the blood of Dajjal which will get on his shield. Eventually the Yahudis will be selected and killed. The swine will be killed and the cross broken. People will revert to Islam. Wars will end, and people will return to their respective countries. One Jamaat (group) of Muslims will remain in his service and companionship.

Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will go to Fajr Rawha and perform Haj or Umrah (or both) from there. He will also go to the grave of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and present his greetings and Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) will reply. People will live comfortable lives. The wall of Yajooj and Majooj will then break.

The Blessings of Hadhrat Isa (A.S.):

1. Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will descend and stay on earth.
2. His descension will be in the last era of the Ummat.
3. He will be a just ruler and a fair judge.
4. His ummat will be the Khalifa (deputies) of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam).
5. He will act himself and instruct others on the Qur'an and Hadith (Shariat of Islam).
6. He will lead people in Salaat.
7. He will stay on earth for a period of 40 years after descending. This will be the best era of the Ummat after the first era of Islam.
8. Allah will protect his companions from Jahannam.
9. Those who will save the Deen of Islam by associating themselves with Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will be amongst the most loved by Allah Ta'ala.
10. During this period all other religions and mazhabs besides Islam will perish, hence there will be no kuffaars in the world.
11. Jihad will be stopped.
12. No Khiraaj will be taken.
13. Nor Jizya (protection) money from the kafirs.
14. Wealth and property will be in surplus to such an extent that there will be no one to accept the wealth of the other (everyone will be independent).
15. Receiving Zakaat and Saadaqa will be discarded.
16. The people will love the sajda (prostration) more than the world and what it consists of.
17. All types of Deeni and worldly blessings will descend on earth (many halaal (lawful) things will be created.
18. There will be peace, harmony and tranquility during the time of Hadhrat Isa (A.S.)'s stay in the world.
19. There will be no animosity for a period of seven years, even between two persons.
20. All hearts will be free from miserliness, envy, hatred, malice and jealousy.
21. For a period of forty years no one will fall ill or die.
22. Venom will be taken out of all venomous animals.
23. Snakes and scorpions will not harm anyone to the extent that if a child put his hand in its mouth, he will not be harmed.
24. Wild animals will not harm anyone.
25. If a man will pass a lion, he will not be troubled or harmed, or even if any girl will open its mouth to test if it will do anything.
26 The camels will graze among lions, cheetahs with cattle and the jackals with goats.
27 The fertility of the land will increase to such an extent that even if a seed is planted in a hard rock, it will sprout.
28 A pomegranate will be so huge that a jamaat will be able to eat it and the people will use its peel as shade.
29 There will be so much barakaat (blessing) in milk that a camel will suffice for a huge jamaat, a cow for a tribe and a goat for a family.
30 In short, life will be most pleasant after the descension of Hadhrat Isa (A.S.).

His Marriage, Death and Deputies:

After his descension on earth, Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will marry. He will have children, and he will remain on earth 19 years after marriage. He will pass away and Muslims will perform his Janaza Salaat and bury him next to Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). (Tirmidhi)

(From "Major Signs of Qiyamat":translated by M. Afzal Hoosein Elias from the original (with references): "Aalalaat-e-Qiyyamat aur Nuzul-e-Eesa.")

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