eschatology

Eschatology is a branch of theology devoted to the study of last things or end times, including questions about the destiny of humanity, the afterlife, and the ultimate fate of the universe. The term derives from the Greek eschatos, last, and logos, study.

Across religious traditions, eschatology addresses mortality, judgment, resurrection or renewal, heaven and hell, and the transformation or culmination of history. Interpretations range from literal future events to symbolic or spiritual visions of ultimate meaning.

In Christianity, eschatology centers on the Second Coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, the final judgment, and the creation of a new heaven and new earth; many traditions also articulate a period of tribulation and a millennial reign. The Book of Revelation and other prophecies shape these views, though interpretations vary.

In Judaism, ideas about the world to come (olam ha-ba), resurrection of the dead, and the coming of a messianic age appear in rabbinic literature and prophetic visions, with emphasis often placed on ethical action in the present.

Islam teaches a Day of Judgment when individuals are judged by God, with entry to Paradise or hellfire; signs of the Hour, resurrection of the dead, and the establishment of divine justice are central in Qur'anic and Hadith literature.

Hinduism presents cyclic time and eventual dissolution of the universe, with a future avatar such as Kalki sometimes described as restoring dharma. In Buddhism, eschatology is less unified; the cycle of birth and death continues until enlightenment, and some traditions anticipate a future teacher such as Maitreya.

Eschatology also informs secular thought and social movements, including apocalyptic literature and political ideologies that interpret history as moving toward a definitive ending, renewal, or utopian transformation.