El-Sunan: Journal of Hadith and Religious Studies
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2025): April

The Dajjal in Islamic Prophetic Tradition: Between Literalism and Symbolic Interpretation

Zaini, Muhammad (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2025

Abstract

The figure of the Dajjāl has long stood as a compelling yet contested subject within Islamic eschatology. While numerous ḥadīths describe his characteristics and role in the end times, scholars remain divided over whether the Dajjāl should be understood as a literal being or as a symbolic representation of deception and corruption. This study examines a selection of Prophetic traditions concerning the Dajjāl, focusing on their textual meaning and contextual interpretation within Islamic thought. Drawing upon the six canonical collections of ḥadīth (Kutub al-Sittah), the analysis explores both the literal attributes attributed to the Dajjāl—such as his one eye and false claims to divinity—and broader readings that link him to ideological, civilizational, or moral threats in history. The study finds that while classical scholars tended toward literal interpretations, modern Muslim thinkers often adopt a symbolic approach, framing the Dajjāl as a reflection of systemic injustice and spiritual misguidance. Ultimately, the article argues that the Dajjāl tradition, whether interpreted literally or metaphorically, serves as an enduring ethical warning about the dangers of falsehood, the fragility of faith, and the importance of moral discernment in times of trial.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

El-Sunan

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Education Social Sciences Other

Description

El-Sunan: Journal of Hadith and Religious Studies is a binnual and peer-reviewed journal dedicated to publish the scholarly study of Hadith and Religious Studies from many different perspectives. Particular attention is paid to the works dealing with: Hadith Studies with various perspectives of law, ...