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Friday, March 29, 2024

GOG AND MAGOG IN SAHIH BUKHARI AND SAHIH MUSLIM (Predictions of the Prophet, Muhammad regarding the Ancestors of Today's Ashkenazic Jews and Founders of the Zionist Movement)

Narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri “The Prophet said “The people will continue performing the Hajj and ‘Umra to the Ka’ba even after the appearance of Gog and Magog.” . Narrated Shu’ba extra: The Hour (Day of Judgment) will not be established till the Hajj (to the Ka’ba) is abandoned. Volume 2, Book 26, Number 663.

Narrated by Zainab bint Jahsh, “That the Prophet once came to her in a state of fear and said, “None has the right to be worshipped but Allah. Woe unto the Arabs from a danger that has come near. An opening has been made in the wall of Gog and Magog like this,” making a circle with his thumb and index finger. Zainab bint Jahsh said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Shall we be destroyed even though there are pious persons among us?” He said, “Yes, when the evil person will increase.” Volume 4, Book 55, Number 565.

Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, “Allah has made an opening in the wall of the Gog and Magog (people) like this, and he made with his hand (with the help of his fingers). Volume 4, Book 55, Number 566.

Narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri, “The Prophet said, “Allah will say (on the Day of Resurrection), ‘O Adam.’ Adam will reply, ‘Labbaik wa Sa’daik’, and all the good is in Your Hand.’ Allah will say: ‘Bring out the people of the fire.’ Adam will say: ‘O Allah! How many are the people of the Fire?’ Allah will reply: ‘From every one thousand, take out nine-hundred-and ninety-nine.’ At that time children will become hoary headed, every pregnant female will have a miscarriage, and one will see mankind as drunken, yet they will not be drunken, but dreadful will be the Wrath of Allah.” The companions of the Prophet asked, “O Allah’s Apostle! Who is that (excepted) one?” He said, “Rejoice with glad tidings; one person will be from you and one-thousand will be from Gog and Magog.” The Prophet further said, “By Him in Whose Hands my life is, hope that you will be one-fourth of the people of Paradise.” We shouted, “Allahu Akbar!” He added, “I hope that you will be one-third of the people of Paradise.” We shouted, “Allahu Akbar!” He said, “I hope that you will be half of the people of Paradise.” We shouted, “Allahu Akbar!” He further said, “You (Muslims) (compared with non-Muslims) are like a black hair in the skin of a white ox or like a white hair in the skin of a black ox (i.e. your number is very small as compared with theirs).” Volume 4, Book 55, Number 567.

Narrated by Zainab bint Jahsh “That the Prophet came to her in a state of fear saying, “None has the right to be worshiped but Allah! Woe to the Arabs because of evil that has come near. Today a hole has been made in the wall of Gog and Magog as large as this.” pointing with two of his fingers making a circle. Zainab said, “I said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! Shall we be destroyed though amongst us there are pious people? ‘ He said, ‘Yes, if evil increases.” Narrated by Um Salama: The Prophet woke up and said, “Glorified be Allah: What great (how many) treasures have been sent down, and what great (how many ) afflictions have been sent down!” – Volume 4, Book 56, Number 797.

Narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri: The Prophet said, “On the day of Resurrection Allah will say, ‘O Adam!’ Adam will reply, ‘Labbaik our Lord, and Sa’daik ‘ Then there will be a loud call (saying), Allah orders you to take from among your offspring a mission for the (Hell) Fire.’ Adam will say, ‘O Lord! Who are the mission for the (Hell) Fire?’ Allah will say, ‘Out of each thousand, take out 999.’ At that time every pregnant female shall drop her load (have a miscarriage) and a child will have grey hair. And you shall see mankind as in a drunken state, yet not drunk, but severe will be the torment of Allah.” (22.2) (When the Prophet mentioned this), the people were so distressed (and afraid) that their faces got changed (in color) whereupon the Prophet said, “From Gog and Magog nine-hundred ninety-nine will be taken out and one from you. You Muslims (compared to the large number of other people) will be like a black hair on the side of a white ox, or a white hair on the side of a black ox, and I hope that you will be one-fourth of the people of Paradise.” On that, we said, “Allahu-Akbar!” Then he said, “I hope that you will be) one-third of the people of Paradise.” We again said, “Allahu-Akbar!” Then he said, “(I hope that you will be) one-half of the people of Paradise.” So we said, Allahu Akbar.” Volume 6, Book 60, Number 265.

Narrated by Ibn Abbas: Allah’s Apostle performed the Tawaf (around the Ka’ba while riding his camel, and every time he reached the corner (of the Black Stone) he pointed at it with his hand and said, “Allahu Akbar.” (Zainab said: The Prophet said, “An opening has been made in the wall of Gog and Magog like this and this,” forming the number 90 (with his thumb and index finger). Volume 7, Book 63, Number 215.

Narrated by Abu Said: The Prophet said, “Allah will say, ‘O Adam!. Adam will reply, ‘Labbaik and Sa’daik (I respond to Your Calls, I am obedient to Your orders), wal Khair fi Yadaik (and all the good is in Your Hands)!’ Then Allah will say (to Adam), Bring out the people of the Fire.’ Adam will say, ‘What (how many) are the people of the Fire?’ Allah will say, ‘Out of every thousand (take out) nine-hundred and ninety nine (persons).’ At that time children will become hoary-headed and every pregnant female will drop her load (have an abortion) and you will see the people as if they were drunk, yet not drunk;

But Allah’s punishment will be very severe.” That news distressed the companions of the Prophet too much, and they said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Who amongst us will be that man (the lucky one out of one-thousand who will be saved from the Fire)?” He said, “Have the good news that one-thousand will be from Gog and Magog, and the one (to be saved will be) from you.” The Prophet added, “By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, I Hope that you (Muslims) will be one third of the people of Paradise.” On that, we glorified and praised Allah and said, “Allahu Akbar.” The Prophet then said, “By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, I hope that you will be one half of the people of Paradise, as your (Muslims) example in comparison to the other people (non-Muslims), is like that of a white hair on the skin of a black ox, or a round hairless spot on the foreleg of a donkey.” – Volume 8, Book 76, Number 537.

Narrated by Zainab bint Jahsh: The Prophet got up from his sleep with a flushed red face and said, “None has the right to be worshipped but Allah. Woe to the Arabs, from the Great evil that is nearly approaching them. Today a gap has been made in the wall of Gog and Magog like this.” (Sufyan illustrated by this forming the number 90 or 100 with his fingers.) It was asked, “Shall we be destroyed though there are righteous people among us?” The Prophet said, “Yes, if evil increased.” – Volume 9, Book 88, Number 181.

Narrated by Zainab bint Jahsh: That one day Allah’s Apostle entered upon her in a state of fear and said, “None has the right to be worshipped but Allah! Woe to the Arabs from the Great evil that has approached (them). Today a hole has been opened in the dam of Gog and Magog like this.” The Prophet made a circle with his index finger and thumb. Zainab bint Jahsh added: I said, “O Alllah’s Apostle! Shall we be destroyed though there will be righteous people among us?” The Prophet said, “Yes, if the (number) of evil (persons) increased.” – Volume 9, Book 88, Number 249.

Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, “A hole has been opened in the dam of Gog and Magog.” Wuhaib (the sub-narrator) made the number 90 (with his index finger and thumb). – Volume 9, Book 88, Number 250.


Following are the hadith mentioned regarding Gog and Magog in the Sahih Muslim:

This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Jabir with the same chain of transmitters but with this addition that Gog and Magog would walk until they would reach the mountain of al−Khamar and it is a mountain of Bait−ul−Maqdis and they would say: We have killed those who are upon the earth. Let us now kill those who are In the sky and they would throw their arrows towards the sky and the arrows would return to them besmeared with blood. And in the narration of Ibn Hujr (the words are):” I have sent such persons (Gog and Magog) that none would dare fight against them. Bk 41, Number 7016.

Zainab bint Jahsh reported that Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) got up from sleep saying: There is no god but Allah; there is a destruction in store for Arabia because of turmoil which is at hand, the barrier of Gog and Magog has opened so much. And Sufyan made a sign of ten with the help of his hand (in order to indicate the width of the gap) and I said: Allah’s Messenger, would we be perished in spite of the fact that there would be good people amongst us? Thereupon he said: Of course, but only when the evil predominates. Bk 41, Number 6881.

Zainab bint Jahsh, the wife of Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him), reported that one day Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) came out in a state of excitement with his face quite red. And he was saying: There is no god but Allah; there is a destruction in store for Arabia because of the turmoil which is near at hand as the barrier of Gog and Magog has been opened like it, and he (in order to explain it) made a ring with the help of his thumb and forefinger. I said: Allah’s Messenger, would we be destroyed despite the fact that there would be pious people amongst us? He said: Yes, when the evil would predominate. -Bk 41, Number 6883.

Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) as saying: Today the wall (barrier) of Gog and Magog has been opened so much, and WUhaib (in order to explain it) made the figure of ninety with the help of his hand. -Bk 41, Number 6885.

Hudhaifa b. Usaid Ghifari reported: Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) came to us all of a sudden as we were (busy in a discussion). He said: What do you discuss about? They (the Companions) said. We are discussing about the Last Hour. Thereupon he said: It will not come until you see ten signs before and (in this connection) he made a mention of the smoke, Dajjal, the beast, the rising of the sun from the west, the descent of Jesus son of Mary (Allah be pleased with him), the Gog and Magog, and land−slidings in three places, one in the east, one in the west and one in Arabia at the end of which fire would burn forth from the Yemen, and would drive people to the place of their assembly. – Bk 41, Number 6931

Hudhaifa b. Usaid reported: Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) was in an apartment and we were beneath that that he peeped in and said to us: What are you discussing about? We said: (We are discussing about the Last) Hour. Thereupon he said: The Last Hour would not come until the ten signs dppear: land−sliding in the east, and land−sliding in the west, and land−sliding in the peninsula of Arabia, the smoke, the Dajjal, the beast of the earth, Gog and Magog, the rising of the sun from the west and the fire which would emit from the lower part of ‘Adan. Shu’ba said that ‘Abd al−’Aziz b. Rufai’ reported on the authority of Abu Tufail who reported on the authority of Abu Sariha a hadith like this that Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) did not make a mention of (the tenth sign) but he said that out of the ten one was the descent of Jesus Christ, son of Mary (peace be upon him), and in another version it is then lowing of the violent gale which would drive the people to the ocean. – Bk 41, Number 6932.

An−Nawwas b. Sam’an reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) made a mention of the Dajjal one day in the morning. He sometimes described him to be insignificant and sometimes described (his turmoil) as very significant rand we felt) as if he were in the cluster of the date−palm trees. When we went to him (to the Holy Prophet) in the evening and he read (the signs of fear) in our faces, he said: What is the matter with you? We said: Allah’s Messenger, you made a mention of the Dajjal in the morning (sometimes describing him) to be insignificant and sometimes very important, until we began to think as if he were present in some (near) part of the cluster of the date palm trees. Thereupon he said: I harbor fear in regard to you in so many other things besides the Dajjal. If he comes forth while I am among on, I shall contend with him on your behalf, but if he comes forth while I am not amongst you, a man must contend on his own behalf and Allah would take care of every Muslim on my behalf (and safeguard him against his evil). He (Dajjal) would be a young man with twisted, contracted hair, and a blind eye. I compare him to ‘Abd−ul−’Uzza b. Qatan. He who amongst you would survive to see him should recite over him the opening verses of Sura Kahf (xviii.). He would appear on the way between Syria and Iraq and would spread mischief right and left. O servant of Allah! adhere (to the path of Truth). We said: Allah’s Messenger, how long would he stay on the earth? He said… For forty days, one day like a year and one day like a month and one day like a week and the rest of the days would be like your days. We said: Allah’s Messenger, would one day’s prayer suffice for the prayers of day equal to one year? Thereupon he said: No, but you must make an estimate of time (and then observe prayer). We said: Allah’s Messenger, how quickly would he walk upon the earth? Thereupon he said: Like cloud driven by the wind. He would come to the people and invite them (to a wrong religion) and they would affirm their faith in him and respond to him. He would then give command to the sky and there would be rainfall upon the earth and it would grow crops. Then in the evening, their posturing animals would come to them with their humps very high and their udders full of milk and their flanks stretched. He would then come to another people and invite them. But they would reject him and he would go away from them and there would be drought for them and nothing would be left with them in the form of wealth. He would then walk through the waste, land and say to it: Bring forth your treasures, and the treasures would come out and collect (themselves) before him like the swarm of bees. He would then call a person brimming with youth and strike him with the sword and cut him into two pieces and (make these pieces lie at a distance which is generally) between the archer and his target. He would then call (that young man) and he will come forward laughing with his face gleaming (with happiness) and it would at this very time that Allah would send Christ, son of Mary, and he will descend at the white minaret in the eastern side of Damascus wearing two garments lightly dyed with saffron and placing his hands on the wings of two Angels. When he would lower his head, there would fall beads of perspiration from his head, and when he would raise it up, beads like pearls would scatter from it. Every non−believer who would smell the odor of his self would die and his breath would reach as far as he would be able to see. He would then search for him (Dajjal) until he would catch hold of him at the gate of Ludd and would kill him. Then a people whom Allah had protected would come to Jesus, son of Mary, and he would wipe their faces and would inform them of their ranks in Paradise and it would be under such conditions that Allah would reveal to Jesus these words: I have brought forth from amongst My servants such people against whom none would be able to fight; you take these people safely to Tur, and then Allah would send Gog and Magog and they would swarm down from every slope. The first of them would pass the lake of Tibering and drink out of it. And when the last of them would pass, he would say: There was once water there. Jesus and his companions would then be besieged here (at Tur, and they would be so much hard pressed) that the head of the ox would be dearer to them than one hundred dinirs and Allah’s Apostle, Jesus, and his companions would supplicate Allah, Who would send to them insects (which would attack their necks) and in the morning they would perish like one single person. Allah’s Apostle, Jesus, and his companions would then come down to the earth and they would not find in the earth as much space as a single span which is not filled with their putrefaction and stench. Allah’s Apostle, Jesus, and his companions would then again beseech Allah, Who would send birds whose necks would be like those of bactrin camels and they would carry them and throw them where God would will. Then Allah would send rain which no house of clay or (the tent of) camels’ hairs would keep out and it would wash away the earth until it could appear to be a mirror. Then the earth would be told to bring forth its fruit and restore its blessing and, as a result thereof, there would grow (such a big) pomegranate that a group of persons would be able to eat that, and seek shelter under its skin and milch cow would give so much milk that a whole party would be able to drink it. And the milch camel would give such (a large quantity of) milk that the whole tribe would be able to drink out of that and the milch sheep would give so much milk that the whole family would be able to drink out of that and at that time Allah would send a pleasant wind which would soothe (people) even under their armpits, and would take the life of every Muslim and only the wicked would survive who would commit adultery like asses and the Last Hour would come to them. – Bk 41, Number 7015

This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Jabir with the same chain of transmitters but with this addition that Gog and Magog would walk until they would reach the mountain of al−Khamar and it is a mountain of Bait−ul−Maqdis and they would say: We have killed those who are upon the earth. Let us now kill those who are In the sky and they would throw their arrows towards the sky and the arrows would return to them besmeared with blood. And in the narration of Ibn Hujr (the words are):” I have sent such persons (Gog and Magog) that none would dare fight against them. – Bk 41, Number 7016.

Predictions of the Prophet, Muhammad regarding Gog and Magog

In Islamic tradition, the figures of Gog and Magog (known as Ya’juj and Ma’juj in Arabic) are depicted as two powerful and chaotic forces that will emerge at the end of times. Their appearance is seen as one of the major signs preceding the Day of Judgment. These figures are mentioned in both the Qur'an and the Hadith literature, with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) offering vivid descriptions of their role in the eschatological events. The Prophet’s predictions regarding Gog and Magog have been a subject of interest for centuries, as they address themes of apocalyptic destruction, divine retribution, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

The Qur'anic Reference

The concept of Gog and Magog in Islam is first introduced in the Qur'an, particularly in Surah Al-Kahf (18:94-98) and Surah Al-Anbiya (21:96). These references focus on their destructive nature and their eventual release as a sign of the approaching end of the world. In Surah Al-Kahf, the Qur'an recounts the story of Dhul-Qarnayn, a powerful and righteous ruler, who encounters the tribes of Gog and Magog during his travels. According to the narrative, Dhul-Qarnayn comes across a group of people who are suffering at the hands of the destructive forces of these tribes. They request his help in building a barrier to protect them from Gog and Magog’s tyranny. Dhul-Qarnayn, with the help of his workers, constructs a massive wall made of iron and copper, which serves to imprison the two tribes.

The Qur'an indicates that this barrier will remain in place until the end of times, when Gog and Magog will break free. In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:96), it is mentioned that when the time is right, Gog and Magog will be released from their imprisonment, and they will spread corruption and destruction across the Earth. This event is considered one of the major signs of the impending Day of Judgment.

The Hadith Literature and Prophet Muhammad's Predictions

The most detailed accounts of Gog and Magog’s role in the end times come from the Hadiths—sayings and traditions attributed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Several Hadith collections, including Sahih Muslim and Sahih al-Bukhari, provide descriptions of their emergence, the chaos they will cause, and the eventual intervention of divine forces.

The Release of Gog and Magog

According to various Hadiths, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke of a time when Gog and Magog would be released from their confinement. These tribes are described as numerous and ferocious, their numbers so vast that when they emerge, they will spread over the Earth like a massive tidal wave, consuming everything in their path.

One famous Hadith narrated by Zaynab bint Jahsh mentions that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once awoke in a state of fear, his face pale, and he said: “None has the right to be worshiped but Allah. Woe to the Arabs from the evil that has drawn near. A gap has been made in the barrier of Gog and Magog like this,” and he made a circle with his thumb and index finger. The companions asked what this meant, and the Prophet replied: “I have just received news of the emergence of Gog and Magog.” (Sahih Muslim)

This Hadith indicates that the release of Gog and Magog will be a time of great turmoil, with the Prophet foretelling a catastrophic event. The "gap" refers to the weakening of the barrier built by Dhul-Qarnayn, signaling that the tribes are nearing their moment of release.

The Scale of Destruction

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also described the sheer scale of destruction that Gog and Magog will bring upon the Earth. In one Hadith, he explains that when they are set loose, they will begin to devastate the land, consuming all in their way, including the oceans, rivers, and even the livestock of the people. It is said that the tribes will be so numerous that when the first group passes by a body of water, they will drink it all up, leaving none for the others. They will then spread their evil throughout the world, causing widespread destruction.

One particular narration in Sahih Muslim mentions that when Gog and Magog emerge, they will be unstoppable, and they will wreak havoc for an extended period. They will overwhelm the Earth’s inhabitants, and the followers of Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him) will be forced to retreat to the mountains for safety. It is also said that the devastation they cause will be so extreme that the skies will become clouded with dust, and the Earth will shake under their fury.

The Role of Prophet Isa (Jesus, PBUH)

The ultimate resolution to the threat posed by Gog and Magog, according to Islamic eschatology, involves the intervention of Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him). As mentioned earlier, when Gog and Magog emerge, the followers of Isa (PBUH), who will have already been living during a time of great turmoil, will be pushed to retreat for protection. The Prophet will return to Earth, leading the believers in their final battle against the forces of evil.

In a famous Hadith, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) describes how Isa (PBUH) will descend from the heavens and confront the Gog and Magog tribes. He will lead a final battle against them, with the forces of good emerging victorious. In the end, the followers of Isa (PBUH) will call upon Allah to eliminate Gog and Magog, and Allah will send an insect that will destroy them, ending their reign of terror. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated: “When the Antichrist (Dajjal) is killed, and when the believers are victorious over the evil forces, then the world will experience peace and tranquility. Gog and Magog will be destroyed, and the Earth will be purified from all evil.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

The Significance of the Predictions

The predictions made by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) regarding Gog and Magog hold deep theological and eschatological significance within Islam. They highlight several key themes:

  1. The Final Struggle Between Good and Evil: The emergence of Gog and Magog represents a final battle between the forces of good, led by Prophet Isa (PBUH), and the forces of evil, embodied by the destructive power of Gog and Magog. This battle symbolizes the ultimate triumph of righteousness over chaos and tyranny.

  2. Divine Intervention: While the forces of Gog and Magog may seem unstoppable, the Hadiths emphasize that their destruction is ultimately in the hands of Allah. The intervention of Isa (PBUH) and the subsequent destruction of Gog and Magog by divine means underscore Allah’s ultimate control over the fate of the world.

  3. The Test of Faith: The time of Gog and Magog will be a test of faith for the believers. Their release will cause unprecedented challenges, forcing believers to choose between maintaining their faith in the face of overwhelming odds or succumbing to fear and despair.

  4. A Reminder of the Day of Judgment: The predictions regarding Gog and Magog serve as a reminder of the reality of the Day of Judgment. The events surrounding their emergence highlight the temporary nature of the world and the certainty of divine judgment.

Conclusion

The predictions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) regarding Gog and Magog provide a vivid depiction of the end times in Islamic eschatology. These predictions emphasize the vast scale of destruction that will occur when these tribes are released, as well as the eventual intervention of Prophet Isa (PBUH) and the destruction of Gog and Magog through divine means. For Muslims, these prophecies serve as a reminder of the transient nature of this world, the certainty of the Day of Judgment, and the ultimate victory of good over evil. As the signs of the end times unfold, the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in Allah’s mercy and justice.

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Gog and Magog in the Quran

In Islamic eschatology, the figures of Gog and Magog (Ya'juj and Ma'juj in Arabic) are portrayed as destructive, chaotic forces whose release marks one of the most significant signs of the Day of Judgment. These two tribes, though their names may not immediately invoke recognition, have an essential role in the Qur'an, where they are connected to themes of divine power, the struggle between good and evil, and the inevitable end of the world. The references to Gog and Magog in the Qur'an not only outline their apocalyptic emergence but also emphasize the larger theological and eschatological messages of Islam.

Qur'anic References to Gog and Magog

The Qur'an mentions Gog and Magog primarily in two key chapters: Surah Al-Kahf (18:94-98) and Surah Al-Anbiya (21:96). Each reference offers insight into their nature and the ultimate fate they will meet.

Surah Al-Kahf: The Story of Dhul-Qarnayn

The most prominent and detailed Qur'anic account of Gog and Magog is found in Surah Al-Kahf. The passage revolves around the story of Dhul-Qarnayn, a great ruler who traveled to different parts of the world in his quest to spread justice. One of his journeys took him to a region where the inhabitants were suffering from the tyranny of the destructive tribes of Gog and Magog. In response to their plea for help, Dhul-Qarnayn builds a mighty barrier to protect them.

The Qur'an recounts:

"They said, 'O Dhul-Qarnayn, indeed Gog and Magog are causing corruption on the land. So may we pay you tribute in exchange for you to make between us and them a barrier?' He said, 'That in which my Lord has established me is better [than tribute]. So help me with strength, and I will make between you and them a dam.'" (Qur'an 18:94)

The people ask Dhul-Qarnayn to build a barrier because of the immense threat posed by Gog and Magog. Dhul-Qarnayn agrees to help, but instead of accepting their material compensation, he chooses to build a mighty barrier out of iron and copper that would trap the two tribes behind it. The Qur'an describes how Dhul-Qarnayn successfully constructs a massive wall between two mountains to hold them back:

"So he made between them a barrier of iron. He said, 'Blow [with your bellows],' until when he had made it like fire, he said, 'Bring me that I may pour over it molten copper.'" (Qur'an 18:96)

The barrier, according to the Qur'an, remains intact until the time when Allah’s will allows it to collapse. This marks the beginning of Gog and Magog's final appearance in the world.

The Destruction and Release of Gog and Magog

In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:96), the Qur'an notes the eventual breaking of this barrier, which will lead to the release of Gog and Magog:

"Until, when the barrier is opened up and they rush forth from every mound." (Qur'an 21:96)

The verse indicates that at the end of time, the barrier that had contained Gog and Magog will be destroyed, and they will be unleashed upon the Earth. Their release is described as a chaotic event, with the tribes pouring out like a flood, bringing destruction and corruption to everything they encounter.

The Qur'anic narrative does not delve into the specifics of Gog and Magog’s behavior, but it is understood from the context that their emergence will cause significant chaos, turmoil, and suffering for humanity. The vastness of their numbers and the ferocity of their nature are emphasized in both the Qur'an and Hadith, where it is suggested that they will have an unstoppable momentum and devastate the world around them.

Theological Significance of Gog and Magog in the Qur'an

The references to Gog and Magog in the Qur'an carry multiple layers of meaning, both in terms of their eschatological role and their deeper theological implications.

1. The Power of Allah Over All Things

One of the primary themes conveyed in the Qur'anic narrative of Gog and Magog is the supreme power of Allah over all creation. While these tribes are depicted as nearly unstoppable in their destructive nature, they are ultimately contained by Allah’s decree. The story of Dhul-Qarnayn constructing the barrier serves to remind believers that all power—whether in the form of tyrannical rulers or destructive forces—is subject to Allah’s will. The Qur'an stresses that no force, no matter how powerful it seems, can overcome the divine plan.

The eventual release of Gog and Magog is also an act under the control of Allah. It is a reminder that even the most dangerous of forces are part of Allah's ultimate design, contributing to the unfolding of the eschatological events that will lead to the end of the world and the establishment of divine justice.

2. The Struggle Between Good and Evil

The emergence of Gog and Magog symbolizes the final and most intense struggle between good and evil. The Qur'an often portrays the world as a battleground where human beings must choose between righteousness and corruption. The appearance of Gog and Magog is one of the most significant markers of the final trial for humanity, when evil reaches its peak.

Their release coincides with a time of great tribulation, when the earth will be overtaken by corruption, and believers will be tested to their utmost limits. This ultimate trial is part of the wider struggle between those who follow the guidance of Allah and those who spread corruption on the earth. The appearance of Gog and Magog, then, is not just a warning of physical destruction but also a reminder of the moral and spiritual decay that will occur in the final days.

3. The End of Time and the Final Judgment

The references to Gog and Magog are intricately tied to the concept of the Day of Judgment in Islamic theology. Their emergence marks the nearness of the end of the world. In Islamic eschatology, this event signals the culmination of a series of apocalyptic signs that include the appearance of the Dajjal (Antichrist), the descent of Prophet Isa (Jesus), and the final battle between good and evil.

The Qur'an emphasizes that the forces of evil, represented by Gog and Magog, will ultimately be defeated by divine intervention. This reinforces the belief that despite the apparent triumph of evil in the world, it is only temporary. In the end, Allah's justice will prevail, and those who follow His guidance will be rewarded, while the forces of corruption and evil will face their due punishment.

4. A Reminder of Human Fragility and the Need for Faith

The story of Gog and Magog also serves as a reminder of the frailty of human beings. Despite Dhul-Qarnayn’s immense power and ability to build a massive barrier, the forces of Gog and Magog were not entirely within his control. This highlights the ultimate limits of human power and the need for reliance on Allah. Human beings cannot overcome the trials of life alone, but must place their trust in Allah’s wisdom and guidance.

The release of Gog and Magog serves as a reminder that humanity should always be prepared for the trials and tribulations that may arise, especially in the final days. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith and trust in Allah, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Conclusion

The depiction of Gog and Magog in the Qur'an is a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of Allah, the ultimate struggle between good and evil, and the eventual end of the world. Through the story of Dhul-Qarnayn and the release of these two destructive forces, the Qur'an teaches believers that no force, no matter how mighty it may seem, can stand against the divine plan. It is a powerful allegory of the fragility of human power and the necessity of placing trust in Allah’s will.

Gog and Magog are not just distant apocalyptic figures—they serve as symbols of the chaos and corruption that will dominate the world before the arrival of the Day of Judgment. Their story serves as a warning to humanity, urging believers to stay firm in their faith, remain patient in the face of trials, and ultimately trust in Allah’s justice, which will prevail in the end.

Friday, March 15, 2024

Are the Scythians Gog and Magog?

The enigmatic figures of Gog and Magog have been a subject of much speculation and debate in both historical and religious contexts. In the Qur’an, the Bible, and various cultural traditions, these two names are associated with chaotic, apocalyptic forces that will appear before the end of the world. Over time, various peoples and groups have been proposed as the identities of these mysterious tribes, with one of the most intriguing suggestions being that the Scythians, an ancient nomadic people from the Eurasian steppe, might be Gog and Magog. But is there a valid historical or textual basis for this theory? This article explores the connections between the Scythians and Gog and Magog, examining both the ancient and religious sources that have fueled this hypothesis.

Gog and Magog in the Bible and Qur’an

Before delving into the identification of Gog and Magog, it’s important to first understand who they are in the religious texts. Both the Bible and the Qur’an mention Gog and Magog, though the interpretations vary between the two.

Gog and Magog in the Bible

In the Hebrew Bible (specifically, the Book of Ezekiel), Gog is a leader of a coalition of nations that will come against Israel in the last days. Ezekiel 38:2-3 describes Gog as being from the land of Magog, which is often understood as a northern region or territory. The alliance of nations that follows Gog includes a wide array of groups, often symbolizing enemies of Israel. The prophecy of Gog and Magog's invasion is seen as a harbinger of the apocalyptic battles before the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom.

Similarly, in the Book of Revelation (20:7-9), Gog and Magog are mentioned as nations that will gather for the final battle against the forces of good after the millennium reign of Christ, only to be destroyed by divine intervention.

Gog and Magog in the Qur’an

In the Qur'an, the figures of Gog and Magog (Ya’juj and Ma’juj in Arabic) appear in Surah Al-Kahf and Surah Al-Anbiya. According to the narrative in Surah Al-Kahf, the two tribes were once contained behind a mighty barrier built by Dhul-Qarnayn, a righteous king. The barrier was designed to keep them from spreading corruption on the Earth. The Qur'an foretells that, at the end of times, the barrier will be broken, and Gog and Magog will be unleashed to wreak havoc before the Day of Judgment.

While the Qur’an does not provide detailed physical descriptions of these tribes, it emphasizes their destructive nature and the immense scale of their threat. Much like in the Bible, they are seen as agents of chaos and evil, whose ultimate defeat will signal the nearing of the final judgment.

The Scythians: A Historical Overview

The Scythians were an ancient nomadic people who lived in the vast regions stretching from the Pontic-Caspian steppe (modern-day Ukraine, southern Russia, and Kazakhstan) to parts of Central Asia. Known for their warrior culture, the Scythians played a key role in the early history of the Eurasian steppe, flourishing between the 8th and 4th centuries BCE. They were renowned for their skills in horseback riding and archery and were feared by many of the settled civilizations they encountered, including the Persians, Greeks, and Assyrians.

The Scythians had a reputation for being fierce, almost mythical warriors, often engaging in raids and invasions of neighboring lands. Their lifestyle, deeply tied to the steppe’s nomadic traditions, made them a difficult group to define and conquer, and they left behind a legacy of art, burial mounds, and historical records from the civilizations they interacted with.

The Scythians as Gog and Magog: Ancient Associations

The hypothesis that the Scythians are the same as Gog and Magog has deep historical roots. One of the earliest connections between the Scythians and these apocalyptic tribes comes from classical sources, particularly from Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian. In his Histories, Herodotus describes a people he refers to as the “Skythians” (a term that likely refers to the Scythians), who lived in the region beyond the Caucasus Mountains and beyond the known world of his time.

The Scythians’ fearsome reputation as a barbarian people, often invading more civilized and settled lands, made them ideal candidates for the role of Gog and Magog in various mythologies. Ancient peoples, particularly those in the Mediterranean, tended to associate distant and unknown tribes with apocalyptic forces, creating a connection between the Scythians' violent raids and the prophecy of Gog and Magog as the bringers of chaos and destruction.

Biblical and Qur’anic Parallels

Several aspects of the Scythians’ characteristics align with the descriptions of Gog and Magog in both the Bible and the Qur'an.

  1. Location and Origins: Both the Bible and Qur'an depict Gog and Magog as originating from a northern or far-off land. The Scythians’ homeland in the Eurasian steppes is geographically located to the north of the ancient civilizations of the Near East, aligning with the biblical and Qur’anic description of these tribes coming from the "north."

  2. Destructive Nature: In both the Bible and Qur'an, Gog and Magog are associated with widespread destruction and chaos. The Scythians, known for their raids and invasions of neighboring kingdoms, were often seen as a force of disorder and disruption, further reinforcing the idea that they could be the real-world counterparts of these apocalyptic tribes.

  3. Nomadic Lifestyle: The nomadic lifestyle of the Scythians bears similarities to the descriptions of Gog and Magog, who are often portrayed as wandering tribes with immense numbers. Their lack of a fixed settlement and their ability to move swiftly across the land made them a formidable and unstoppable force, much like the descriptions of Gog and Magog’s unstoppable march in the eschatological texts.

Scythians and the Identification of Gog and Magog in Later Traditions

The identification of the Scythians with Gog and Magog is not confined to ancient sources. Medieval Islamic scholars and Christian theologians often speculated about the identity of Gog and Magog, with some linking them to various nomadic groups in Central Asia, including the Huns, Turks, and, notably, the Mongols. During the medieval period, the destructive invasions of the Mongol Empire were seen by many as the fulfillment of prophecies concerning Gog and Magog, and this association further solidified the idea that ancient nomadic tribes from the East might be linked to these apocalyptic figures.

For instance, the Persian historian and Islamic scholar al-Tabari suggested that Gog and Magog were the ancestors of the Turkic and Mongolic tribes, many of whom shared the nomadic lifestyle of the Scythians. Similarly, the Mongol invasions of the 13th century led to widespread interpretations of the Mongols as the embodiment of Gog and Magog in both Christian and Islamic eschatology.

Conclusion: A Valid Connection?

The theory that the Scythians are Gog and Magog remains an intriguing possibility, though it is not definitively proven by historical or religious texts. The geographical, cultural, and behavioral parallels between the Scythians and the descriptions of Gog and Magog in the Bible and Qur’an make this identification plausible. The ancient Scythians, with their reputation for destruction, their nomadic lifestyle, and their origins in the northern lands, fit the archetype of Gog and Magog as portrayed in religious texts.

However, it is essential to recognize that the identification of Gog and Magog has evolved over time, with various other tribes and nations—such as the Huns, Turks, and Mongols—being suggested as their identities. Ultimately, the association between the Scythians and Gog and Magog may be more symbolic than literal, reflecting the cultural and political anxieties of ancient civilizations confronted by fearsome and unknown forces from the steppes. Whether the Scythians were truly Gog and Magog is less important than what these figures represent in both religious traditions and the collective imagination of humanity: the forces of chaos that precede the ultimate triumph of good.