zajjal

Zajjal, also transliterated as al-Dajjāl, is a figure in Islamic eschatology described as the deceiver or false messiah who will appear before the Day of Judgment. The name comes from Arabic al-Dajjāl, meaning “the deceiver” or “liar.”

In Islamic tradition, al-Dajjāl is a major sign of the End Times who will emerge during a period of widespread confusion and moral decline. He is said to travel extensively, performing apparent miracles to mislead people, and to claim divinity or a unique, exalted status. His advent is widely regarded as a test of faith for believers, with many traditions detailing the scope of his influence and the trials he will impose.

Description and signs attributed to him vary by narration, but several hadith describe him as a one-eyed man, with the right eye blind. In some reports a mark such as the word “kafir” (unbeliever) is said to be inscribed on his forehead. He is said to wield considerable worldly influence, presenting a counterfeit paradise to some and a counterfeit hell to others, to test the faith of those who follow him.

Confrontation and defeat: He is said to be unable to enter the sacred precincts of Mecca and Medina, which are protected by angels. He will ultimately be killed by Jesus (Isa) upon his return, with the aid of true believers; in many narrations, Jesus’ appearance is connected with the appearance of the Mahdi and the final defeat of Dajjal.

Interpretation and influence: The figure serves as a symbol of deception and moral testing in Islam. Dajjal is discussed in major hadith collections such as Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, and the concept has influenced Islamic literature, theology, and popular discourse as a reference to great impostors or misleading forces.