According to an Authentic Hadith, Gog & Magog had already been released during the Lifetime of the Prophet, Muhammad

The narratives surrounding Gog and Magog (Ya'juj and Ma'juj) are among the most intriguing in Islamic tradition, intertwining elements of prophecy, eschatology, and moral admonition. According to authentic hadiths, these two tribes were released during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), marking a significant moment in Islamic history.​ Sunnah.com

The Prophetic Warnings

Several hadiths recount the Prophet's (peace be upon him) expressions of concern regarding the emergence of Gog and Magog. One such narration involves Zainab bint Jahsh, who reported:​

"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.' And he made a circle with his index finger and thumb." 

This hadith indicates that during the Prophet's time, a breach occurred in the barrier that confined Gog and Magog, symbolizing their impending release.​

The Breach of the Barrier

Another narration provides a more detailed account:​ Hadith Explorer

"Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) 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)." 

Here, the Prophet (peace be upon him) describes a specific opening in the dam, quantified by the gesture of his fingers, emphasizing the tangible nature of the event.​

Interpretations and Scholarly Views

The question arises: did these hadiths suggest that Gog and Magog were fully released during the Prophet's lifetime, or were they merely indicative of a partial breach without immediate emergence? Some scholars, such as Shaykh Imran Husain, propose that the barrier was indeed breached during the Prophet's era, allowing Gog and Magog to emerge and impact the region. This perspective aligns with the urgency and fear expressed in the Prophet's warning. ​

Conversely, other scholars argue that while the barrier's breach was a significant event, it did not result in the full emergence of Gog and Magog. Instead, it served as a precursor to their eventual release in the end times, a view that aligns with certain eschatological interpretations.​

Theological Implications

The release of Gog and Magog holds profound theological significance. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of worldly powers and the ultimate sovereignty of Allah. The Prophet's (peace be upon him) warning underscores the importance of moral vigilance and the need to uphold righteousness, especially in times of widespread corruption.​

Contemporary Relevance

In modern times, the narratives of Gog and Magog continue to captivate the Muslim ummah (community). They are often invoked as metaphors for forces that threaten societal and moral order. However, it's crucial to approach these narratives with a balanced perspective, avoiding speculative interpretations that lack strong evidential support.​

Conclusion

The hadiths concerning the release of Gog and Magog during Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) lifetime serve as both historical records and moral lessons. They remind believers of the challenges posed by disruptive forces and the importance of steadfastness in faith and ethics. While interpretations may vary, the core message remains clear: adherence to righteousness is paramount, especially in the face of adversity.​

Note: The narratives of Gog and Magog are complex and multifaceted. For a comprehensive understanding, it's recommended to consult scholarly works and seek knowledge from reputable Islamic scholars.