The Enigma of the Dajjal and a Contentious Connection

The Dajjal, an enigmatic figure in Islamic eschatology, represents the ultimate trial (fitna) before the Day of Judgment. His emergence is a pivotal sign of the End Times, prophesied to bring widespread deception and corruption to humanity.¹ The narratives surrounding the Dajjal are central to understanding the Islamic perspective on apocalyptic events and the challenges believers will face.

Within these complex eschatological narratives, a particular aspect that has garnered significant attention and, at times, controversy, is the perceived link between the Dajjal and the Children of Israel (Bani Israel). This connection, often rooted in prophecies concerning his followers, has unfortunately been subject to various misinterpretations, occasionally leading to problematic narratives. The purpose of this exploration is to delve into the authentic Islamic understanding of both the Dajjal and Bani Israel, to differentiate clearly between historical and prophetic narratives versus modern, often politically charged, interpretations, and to critically address the misconceptions that can arise. This report aims to provide a nuanced, academic perspective, grounded in scholarly analysis of primary Islamic sources, thereby fostering a more accurate and balanced understanding.

Eschatological narratives, while deeply rooted in religious texts and traditions, are not monolithic in their understanding. The historical record reveals a clear division between classical, often literal, interpretations of these prophecies and more modern, symbolic readings.² This divergence in understanding suggests that any perceived “controversy” surrounding the Dajjal and his followers is not solely about the figure himself, but profoundly shaped by how these prophecies are interpreted and applied. A thorough examination, therefore, necessitates an emphasis on hermeneutics—the theory of interpretation—to navigate the complexities of religious texts. This approach is fundamental for addressing and correcting misinterpretations, particularly those that might foster prejudice, by advocating for a balanced and scholarly engagement with sacred traditions.

II. Understanding the Dajjal: The False Messiah

The Dajjal is a figure of immense significance in Islamic eschatology, representing the ultimate deceiver who will test humanity’s faith before the Day of Judgment. His characteristics and powers are extensively detailed in Hadith literature, serving as warnings for believers.

Physical Characteristics and Deceptive Powers

The Dajjal is described in Hadith as a humanoid figure with distinct physical traits. He is typically portrayed as one-eyed, with his right eye being blind and protruding like a grape, while his left eye may appear green.¹ Beyond this prominent feature, he is also characterized by a thick neck, curly hair, a wide forehead, and a broad upper chest.³ A crucial identifying mark, according to prophetic traditions, is the Arabic word “Kafir” (disbeliever) inscribed between his eyes, which will be visible to every believer, regardless of their literacy.¹ This physical description serves both as a literal distinguishing feature and, for many scholars, a symbolic reminder of his inherently flawed nature and fraudulent claim to divinity.² The characteristic one-eye, for instance, is often interpreted symbolically as spiritual blindness, indicating his inability to perceive the immanent, subtle aspects of God’s presence and truth.¹

His powers are extensive and designed to deceive, mimicking divine attributes and even the miracles performed by prophets like Jesus (Isa). He can command the sky to send down rain, the earth to bring forth vegetation, make livestock prosper or die, and even halt the sun’s movement.¹ A particularly potent deception is his ability to present what appears to be paradise and hell, though their realities will be inverted: his hell will, in truth, be a form of paradise, and his paradise will be a tormenting hell.¹ These “miracles” are not inherent divine power but are said to be aided by demons (

shayatin).¹ Despite his vast influence, he is prophesied to travel rapidly across the world, like clouds driven by the wind, yet he is explicitly barred from entering the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which are divinely protected and guarded by angels.¹

Role as the Ultimate Trial (Fitna)

The Dajjal’s emergence is considered the greatest trial humanity will face, unparalleled since the time of Adam.² His reign is prophesied to last for 40 days, but with a unique temporal distortion: the first day will be as long as a year, the second a month, and the third a week, with the remaining days being normal in length.¹ This extended and distorted duration signifies the immense pressure, confusion, and deception he will exert upon humanity, making his period a profound test of faith and discernment. He will eventually proclaim himself as God, leading many astray due to his apparent control over worldly resources and his deceptive miracles.¹

Quranic vs. Hadith Presence and Interpretations

It is important to note that the Dajjal is not explicitly mentioned by name in the Quran. However, he is extensively described in the Hadith literature, which serves as the second most authoritative source in Islam after the Quran.¹ This distinction is crucial for understanding the nature of the prophecies.

Scholarly interpretations of the Dajjal’s nature vary significantly. Classical scholars generally adopt a literal interpretation, viewing him as a real, physical individual who will appear at the end of time.² In contrast, many modern Muslim thinkers lean towards a symbolic approach, interpreting the Dajjal as a metaphor for systemic injustice, spiritual misguidance, materialism, corrupt leadership, or exploitative technologies.² Some scholars reconcile these perspectives by distinguishing between “lesser Dajjals”—recurring forms of deceit and corruption throughout history—and the “greater Dajjal,” who represents the ultimate, climactic manifestation of this deception.²

The detailed descriptions of the Dajjal’s deceptive powers and his nature as the “ultimate trial” ² suggest that these prophecies serve a deeper purpose than mere predictive foresight. They function as a profound warning about the dangers of falsehood, the fragility of faith, and the critical importance of moral discernment.² This implies that Islamic eschatology, particularly concerning the Dajjal, acts as a dynamic moral and ethical framework. It urges believers to cultivate spiritual vigilance and critical thinking against deception in all its forms, whether literal or metaphorical, rather than simply awaiting a singular, physical figure. This understanding encourages active engagement with ethical principles in daily life as a form of preparedness.

Table 1: Key Characteristics and Powers of the Dajjal

This table serves as a concise reference, consolidating key information about the Dajjal’s physical traits, deceptive abilities, and limitations. It enhances readability and comprehension, allowing for a quick grasp of his core description before delving into the more intricate aspects of his prophesied followers.

III. The Children of Israel (Bani Israel) in Islamic Tradition

In Islamic tradition, the Children of Israel, or Bani Israel, hold a unique and significant position. Their narrative, extensively detailed in the Quran and Hadith, offers profound lessons for all humanity.

Esteemed Prophetic History and Divine Blessings

“Bani Israel” refers to the descendants of Prophet Yaqub (Jacob), who was also known by the title “Israel”.¹¹ The name “Israel” itself is often interpreted as “bounded to God by the covenant,” symbolizing a deep spiritual connection and a solemn agreement to uphold divine commandments.¹² The Quran frequently mentions Bani Israel, highlighting their esteemed prophetic history and the numerous divine blessings bestowed upon them. They were chosen to receive guidance, a long line of prophets—including Musa (Moses), Harun (Aaron), Dawud (David), and Sulayman (Solomon)—and divine scriptures like the Torah.¹¹ The Quran explicitly states, “And We did certainly give the Children of Israel the Scripture and judgement and prophethood, and We provided them with good things and preferred them over the worlds” (Quran 45:16).¹¹ This underscores their elevated status and the divine favors they received as a community entrusted with divine revelation and a covenant to worship Allah alone and do good to parents.¹¹

Trials, Transgressions, and Lessons

Despite these immense blessings and the direct guidance they received, the Quran also recounts Bani Israel’s repeated transgressions and disobedience. A significant incident highlighted is their worship of the Golden Calf shortly after being miraculously saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny, while Prophet Musa was receiving divine revelation on Mount Sinai.¹¹ Their reluctance to fully embrace the Torah’s teachings is also mentioned, with the Quran recounting how Allah raised Mount Sinai over them as a reminder of the seriousness of their covenant.¹¹

A particularly tragic and frequently cited aspect of Bani Israel’s history, as detailed in both the Quran and Hadith, is their persecution and even killing of many prophets sent to guide them.¹¹ This is presented as a severe sin and a cautionary tale, emphasizing that divine favor is not an unconditional guarantee of salvation but is contingent upon sustained obedience and gratitude.¹¹ Their story serves as a profound and timeless lesson for all communities, including the Muslim Ummah, on the dangers of ingratitude, the importance of fulfilling covenants, and the necessity of sincere repentance when one strays from the path of righteousness.¹¹

Crucial Distinction: Historical vs. Modern Interpretations

It is absolutely vital to distinguish between the historical and Quranic “Bani Israel” and modern political entities or ideologies, such as Zionism. Islamic scholars consistently emphasize that the Quranic narrative of Bani Israel refers to the ancient descendants of Jacob and their historical experiences and interactions with divine guidance, not the contemporary state of Israel or modern political Zionism.¹² Some contemporary Muslim scholars explicitly challenge the notion that modern Jewish identity, particularly as it relates to the state of Israel, represents the historical Israelites mentioned in the Quran. They argue that understanding these events through the lens of prophecy requires careful discernment to avoid misapplying ancient narratives to modern geopolitical conflicts.¹⁶ Historical accounts also show that Prophet Muhammad himself maintained good relations with Jewish communities during his time, denouncing racism and emphasizing respect for all people, regardless of their background.¹²

The detailed account of Bani Israel’s blessings and transgressions ¹¹ underscores that their narrative in the Quran is not merely a historical recounting but functions as a universal ethical framework. The emphasis on “lessons for today” ¹¹ implies that their story serves as a timeless guide for all communities, including the Muslim Ummah, regarding the principles of obedience, gratitude for divine favors, and the severe consequences of disobedience. This perspective shifts the focus from a narrow, ethno-religious interpretation to a broader moral and spiritual one, applicable to any community that receives divine guidance. It implicitly counters any notion of inherent superiority or inferiority based on lineage, stressing instead the importance of actions and consistent adherence to divine principles.

Table 2: Bani Israel: Blessings, Transgressions, and Lessons

This table offers a concise summary of Bani Israel’s significant role in Islamic tradition, highlighting both their privileged status and their historical failings. It reinforces the theological lessons derived from their narrative and, crucially, underscores the distinction between the historical/Quranic “Bani Israel” and modern political entities, a key point for understanding the “controversial link.”

IV. The Prophesied Connection: Dajjal and the Jews of Isfahan

A central point of discussion and, at times, controversy within Islamic eschatology arises from specific Hadith narrations that link the Dajjal to a particular group of Jewish followers.

Direct Hadith Narrations

The most prominent of these narrations is found in Sahih Muslim, attributed to Anas bin Malik, which states: “Seventy thousand of the Jews of Isfahan will follow the Dajjal, wearing Tayalisahs (Persian shawls)”.¹ This specific mention of “Jews of Isfahan” has often been the focal point of discussions regarding the Dajjal’s followers. Other narrations within Twelver Shia eschatology also mention 70,000 Jews following him, wearing green caps and considering him their promised savior due to animosity towards Muslims.¹ Some Shia Hadith even identify the Dajjal by name, Saeed bin Saeed, and state he will emerge from the Yahoodiya village of Isfahan.¹

Contextualizing within Islamic Eschatology

These prophecies are an integral part of the broader Islamic eschatological narrative, which outlines a series of major and minor signs preceding the Day of Judgment.¹⁸ The Dajjal’s appearance is unequivocally considered one of the “Greater Signs” of the Hour.¹ The Hadith literature also describes a diverse array of other groups who will fall prey to the Dajjal’s deception and join his ranks. These include weavers, magicians, half-castes, children of fornication, habitual drinkers, singers, musicians, bedouins, and women.¹ This broad composition indicates that the Dajjal’s appeal is not limited to any single ethnic or religious group but rather targets human weaknesses and susceptibility to his deceptive powers and worldly promises. The ultimate defeat of the Dajjal is prophesied to occur at the hands of Prophet Jesus (Isa), who will descend near the white minaret east of Damascus and kill the Dajjal at the gate of Lod (present-day Lod near Tel Aviv).¹

The explicit mention of “70,000 Jews of Isfahan” ¹ within the Hadith, when contrasted with the Dajjal’s broader appeal to “misguided individuals from all backgrounds” ⁹, highlights a significant tension in prophetic interpretation. The question naturally arises as to why this specific group is singled out. Scholarly analysis clarifies that this reference points to a “specific cult or fraction” ⁹ rather than encompassing all Jewish people. This distinction is crucial for understanding the nature of the prophecy. It underscores a critical interpretive principle in eschatology: not all specific mentions in prophecy should be generalized to an entire group. Instead, the emphasis is placed on the

nature of the followers—those who are deceived, misguided, and aligned with tyranny—rather than their collective ethnic or religious origin. This careful differentiation is essential for preventing the misapplication of religious texts and promoting a balanced understanding of prophetic narratives.

V. Navigating the Controversy: Misinterpretations and Antisemitic Narratives

The specific Hadith regarding the Dajjal and the Jews of Isfahan has, regrettably, been a source of significant misinterpretation, leading to the propagation of antisemitic narratives within certain circles.

Misuse of Hadith to Foster Antisemitism

Unfortunately, some interpretations of these Hadith, particularly the one concerning the Jews of Isfahan, have been misused by certain Muslim apocalyptic writers (e.g., Sa’id Ayyub) to propagate antisemitic sentiments.¹⁹ These interpretations often erroneously connect all global evils with Jews, identifying the Dajjal with Jewish actions, political Zionism, or even the entire Western world, thereby unfairly demonizing an entire people.¹⁹ Such narratives frequently claim that the messiah expected by Jews is, in fact, the Dajjal, a tactic that cunningly conflates religious figures to justify hostility and prejudice.¹⁹ This politicization of religious prophecy is a dangerous deviation from its original intent.

The mention of linking the Dajjal to “political Zionism, Israel, the Jews, secularism, communism” ¹⁹ represents a significant departure from classical interpretations of Islamic eschatology. This modern trend is explicitly refuted by mainstream Islamic scholars.¹⁹ This divergence highlights a profound danger: when eschatological narratives are politicized, they are stripped of their original moral and spiritual purpose and are instead weaponized as tools for division and hatred. It is therefore imperative to emphasize this peril and advocate for interpretations that uphold the universal ethical warnings inherent in the prophecies, rather than reducing them to specific geopolitical conflicts or contemporary biases.

Furthermore, the observation that some problematic interpretations have been influenced by “an influx of Western-based antisemitic ideas” ¹⁹ and the use of “Christian and Western secular material” ¹⁹ reveals a critical dynamic. This indicates that understandings of Islamic eschatology are not always developed in isolation but can be subtly or overtly shaped by external, often prejudiced, ideologies. This underscores the pressing need for intellectual vigilance within Muslim communities. It calls for a careful discernment between authentic Islamic scholarship and narratives that have been influenced by foreign, often hostile, ideologies, emphasizing the importance of returning to foundational texts and established scholarly methodologies to maintain intellectual purity and integrity.

Scholarly Refutations and Clarifications

The mainstream Islamic establishment, including prominent scholars from highly respected institutions like Al-Azhar University, has actively and consistently refuted these antisemitic interpretations.¹⁹ They emphasize that such problematic views often rely on Christian and Western secular conspiratorial materials, which hold no authority in authentic Islamic jurisprudence.¹⁹

Key points of scholarly refutation include:

• Specificity, Not Universality: The Hadith about the 70,000 Jews of Isfahan refers to a specific cult or a tiny fraction of Jews, not the global Jewish population.⁹ This particular group is identified by their specific actions and allegiance to the Dajjal’s tyrannical agenda, not by their inherent Jewish identity.¹⁰ The numerical figure of 70,000, if accurate, amounts to less than 0.5% of the global Jewish population, further emphasizing its limited scope and preventing any broad generalization.¹⁰
• Diverse Following: Prophetic traditions clearly state that the Dajjal’s followers will include misguided individuals from all backgrounds, including deviant or hypocritical Muslims (such as those from the Shi’a, Khawarij, or even Sunni sects), Bedouins, magicians, and others who are susceptible to his deceptions.⁹ This broad composition highlights that the Dajjal’s appeal is to human weakness, moral corruption, and susceptibility to deception, irrespective of religious or ethnic origin.
• Ethical Warfare: The apocalyptic battle described in eschatological texts is strictly against unjust combatants and evildoers, not innocent civilians or peaceful members of any faith community.¹⁰ Islam explicitly condemns violence against non-combatants and emphasizes the importance of peace if the enemy withdraws or offers it (Quran 5:32, 4:90).²⁰ The Quran states, “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely” (Quran 5:32).²¹
• Islam’s Condemnation of Antisemitism: Islam unequivocally condemns all forms of antisemitism, racism, discrimination, and xenophobia.²³ The life of Prophet Muhammad himself exemplified good relations with Jewish communities and a clear denouncement of racism.¹² Islamic teachings promote kindness, justice, and peaceful coexistence with people of all faiths.²⁰
• Critical Interpretation: Eschatological teachings are often esoteric and metaphorical, requiring careful, critical interpretation to prevent their misuse for hateful agendas.¹⁰ Muslim leaders and scholars bear the responsibility to forcefully denounce rhetoric that foments antisemitism and to guide their communities toward a nuanced understanding of religious texts.¹⁰

VI. Protection from the Dajjal’s Trials

Islamic tradition provides clear guidance for believers to fortify themselves against the Dajjal’s profound deception and trials. This protection extends beyond mere ritual, encompassing spiritual, intellectual, and moral development.

Spiritual Fortification through Surah Al-Kahf

A primary form of protection emphasized in Hadith is the recitation and memorization of specific verses from Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18 of the Quran). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that “Whoever commits ten verses from the beginning Sura al Kahf will be protected from the Dajjal”.²⁵ Some narrations also recommend the recitation of the last ten verses, or even the entire Surah, particularly on Fridays, for comprehensive protection.²⁵

This spiritual safeguard is not merely a magical charm, but rather stems from the profound comprehension and application of the Surah’s underlying meanings and lessons.²⁵ Surah Al-Kahf contains four main stories that directly address the core trials the Dajjal will present: trials of faith (the People of the Cave), wealth (the Owner of the Garden), knowledge (Musa’s meeting with Khidr), and power (Dhul-Qarnayn’s travels).²⁷ Regularly reflecting on these narratives helps believers discern truth from falsehood, resist the allure of materialism, and remain steadfast in their faith, thereby inoculating them against the Dajjal’s deceptions.

Strengthening Faith and Seeking Knowledge

Beyond specific recitations, the most fundamental protection against the Dajjal lies in strengthening one’s relationship with Allah (God) through unwavering faith (Iman).²⁸ This involves consistent adherence to authentic Islamic teachings, regular prayers (Salat), and frequent recitation of the Quran, allowing its principles to permeate one’s life.²⁸ Seeking forgiveness for sins and cultivating a deep sense of sincerity, avoiding hypocrisy, are also crucial elements of spiritual resilience that fortify the heart against deception.²⁷ The emphasis on knowledge and spiritual insight helps believers recognize the Dajjal’s false claims, as his physical mark of “Kafir” (disbeliever) will be discernable to those with true faith.¹

Practical Vigilance and Community Support

Prophetic guidance also includes practical measures for protection, such as avoiding places where the Dajjal is known to appear.²⁸ Furthermore, seeking Allah’s protection through constant supplication in daily prayers is highly recommended, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself frequently prayed for refuge from the Dajjal’s trial.²⁸

Surrounding oneself with righteous company and staying informed about authentic Islamic teachings helps to prevent doubt and reinforces collective spiritual strength.²⁸ This communal aspect is vital, as a strong, morally upright community can collectively resist widespread deception. The Prophet’s character, embodying kindness, honesty, humility, and justice, serves as a timeless model for Muslims to emulate in their daily lives.²⁹ These virtues, collectively known as

Adab and Akhlaq, are foundational to faith and character, fostering strong community bonds and ethical conduct.³⁶ They are the very qualities that naturally inoculate an individual and a society against deception, moral decay, and the allure of false promises.

This multifaceted approach indicates that protection from the Dajjal is not merely a ritualistic act but a holistic spiritual and moral endeavor. It requires internalizing Islamic ethics and developing a strong, upright character, which naturally resists deception and corruption. This understanding connects the eschatological warning to everyday moral living, emphasizing that true preparedness involves continuous self-improvement and adherence to divine principles.

VII. Conclusion: Discernment, Unity, and Vigilance

The relationship between the Dajjal and the Israelites in Islamic eschatology is a complex and often misunderstood subject. While prophetic narrations in Hadith do mention a specific group of Jewish followers from Isfahan, it is of paramount importance to interpret these texts with rigorous scholarly methods and to avoid generalizing them to encompass the entire Jewish people. Such broad generalizations are unsupported by mainstream Islamic scholarship and contradict the universal ethical principles of Islam.

Understanding the Dajjal’s characteristics and the signs of his emergence, as detailed in authentic Hadith, is essential for spiritual preparedness. He represents the ultimate test of faith, a figure of profound deception that will challenge humanity’s discernment and moral compass. However, equally important is the critical analysis of these texts to prevent their misuse for hateful or divisive agendas. Mainstream Islamic scholarship unequivocally refutes antisemitic interpretations, emphasizing that the Dajjal’s followers will come from all misguided groups, including those who claim to be Muslim. The true battle is against falsehood and tyranny, not against any specific ethnic or religious group.

The Dajjal tradition serves as an enduring ethical warning against falsehood, materialism, and spiritual misguidance. In an age characterized by increasing polarization, misinformation, and the blurring of truth, the lessons embedded in these prophecies call for heightened discernment, unwavering faith, and a steadfast commitment to universal Islamic values of justice, compassion, and respect for all humanity. Believers are urged to unite against all forms of deception, whether literal or metaphorical, and to embody the prophetic example of moral excellence. By doing so, individuals and communities can fortify themselves against the trials of the End Times, upholding the true spirit of Islam as a source of guidance and peace.