In a world increasingly gripped by geopolitical instability, many scholars and thinkers are turning their eyes toward ancient eschatological prophecies. A recent discussion between host Yasir Jajua and scholar Zaryab Hashmi delves deep into the Islamic concept of the End of Times (Akhir al-Zaman), the role of Imam Mahdi, and the mysterious entity known as Rijal-ul-Ghaib.
1. Rijal-ul-Ghaib: The Unseen Guardians
The conversation begins with the concept of Rijal-ul-Ghaib (Men of the Unseen). According to Sufi metaphysics, these are spiritual beings or hidden saints who maintain the cosmic order under Divine command. Hashmi explains that these entities exist in a hierarchy—including ranks like Ghaus, Qutub, and Abdal.
In the context of the End of Times, it is believed that these “hidden men” will form the primary spiritual army of Imam Mahdi. While they remain veiled from the common eye today, they are expected to manifest when the “Great Battle” begins.
2. The Identity and Emergence of Imam Mahdi
One of the most pressing questions in Islamic eschatology is: How will people recognize the Mahdi? Hashmi points out that while the Quran remains silent on the specific name of the Mahdi, the Hadith (prophetic traditions) provide a vivid map. The Mahdi is prophesied to emerge from the region of Khorasan—a historical belt encompassing modern-day Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan.
The signs of his emergence are tied to a period of extreme global corruption and a specific sequence of events:
- The abandonment of original religious teachings.
- The appearance of the Dajjal (Anti-Christ).
- A period of intense war known as Malhama al-Kubra (Armageddon).
3. The “Anti-Christ” and Modern Technology
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the Dajjal. Hashmi notes that every Prophet warned their nation about this “Great Deceiver.” In the modern context, some view the Dajjal not just as an individual, but as a system backed by immense power, technology, and weaponry designed to invalidate religious truths.
The current conflict involving Israel and Zionism is viewed by some through this lens. Hashmi argues that groups following a certain extremist ideology are actively paving the way for the Dajjal’s arrival by attempting to build the “Third Temple” and establishing a global rule based on material power rather than spiritual justice.
4. Geopolitics as a Fulfillment of Prophecy
Zaryab Hashmi suggests that we are already in the early stages of World War III. He highlights several key geopolitical shifts:
- The Spines of Resistance: The recent “Notice” served by Iranian leadership to Western powers to vacate military bases in the Middle East is seen as a sign of a shifting tide.
- The Khorasan Factor: The rising significance of the Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran corridor aligns with the prophecies regarding the “Black Standards” from Khorasan.
- The Malhama al-Kubra: Hadith literature suggests a massive war where a large portion of the global population will perish, eventually leading to the liberation of Constantinople (Istanbul) and Jerusalem.
5. The Link Between Medina and Jerusalem
The podcast concludes by referencing a pivotal Hadith: “The flourishing of Jerusalem will be the desolation of Medina, and the desolation of Medina will be the breakout of the Great War (Malhama).”
Hashmi posits that as Jerusalem becomes the center of global political attention and “flourishes” under Zionist ambition, the traditional centers of Islamic power may face a period of “desolation” or internal strife. This transition marks the final precursor to the appearance of the Mahdi and the subsequent return of Isa (Jesus) peace be upon him, who is prophesied to end the reign of the Dajjal.
Conclusion: A Call to Spiritual Vigilance
The discussion serves as a reminder that for many, these are not just political events but the unfolding of a Divine script. Whether one views these through a purely political or a deeply religious lens, the consensus remains that the next decade may fundamentally reshape the human experience.
Zaryab Hashmi encourages listeners to seek knowledge beyond the surface and to look at the Quran and Hadith as a compass for navigating these turbulent times.
Note: This article is based on the transcript of the Yasir Jajua Podcast featuring Zaryab Hashmi.