Introduction:
According to the Holy Quran and authentic hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Yajuj and Majuj, also known as Gog and Magog, are two mighty tribes that will emerge from the north in the end times, wreaking havoc and testing the faith of humanity. Their story is a powerful reminder of the trials that await humanity before the Day of Judgment. In this post, we will explore their origins, confinement, eventual release, and the profound consequences of their emergence as described in Islamic tradition.
Origins of Yajuj and Majuj
The origins of Yajuj and Majuj are deeply rooted in ancient history. They are mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 96, where Allah (SWT) says:
“Until, when Gog and Magog are let loose (from their barrier), and they swoop down from every mound.” (Quran, 18:96)
According to various hadiths, Yajuj and Majuj were originally one tribe but later separated into two. Some Islamic scholars believe they are the descendants of Noah (AS) through his son Yafith (AS), while others consider them a separate, primitive race of fierce, untamed people. Regardless of their exact lineage, they are known for their extreme strength, vast numbers, and isolation from mainstream human civilizations. Their physical descriptions often include features like thick, wild hair that resembles the tail of a horse, and a rugged, warrior-like appearance.
Confinement of Yajuj and Majuj
The story of how Yajuj and Majuj were confined is one of the most intriguing parts of their narrative. It is said that a righteous and powerful king, known as Dhul-Qarnayn, built a massive barrier to confine these destructive tribes behind two mountains. The Quran describes this in Surah Al-Kahf, verses 93-97:
“Then he followed a way, until when he reached [a pass] between two mountains, he found beside them a people who could hardly understand [his] speech. They said, ‘O Dhul-Qarnayn, indeed Gog and Magog are [great] corrupters in the land. So may we assign for you an expenditure that you might make between us and them a barrier?’… He said, ‘Bring me sheets of iron.’… So they were unable to pass over it, nor were they able [to effect] in it any penetration.” (Quran, 18:93-97)
Hadiths also provide vivid descriptions of their confinement. Ibn Abbas (RA) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“There is a people (Yajuj and Majuj) between the two mountains (al-Aswad and al-‘Aqab) who will neither come out for prayer nor pay zakat. They eat nuts and berries and their hair will resemble the tail of a horse.”
This barrier, made of iron and copper, has kept Yajuj and Majuj isolated from the rest of humanity for centuries, preventing them from unleashing their destructive force upon the world.
Release of Yajuj and Majuj
The eventual release of Yajuj and Majuj is a significant sign of the end times, marking one of the final stages before the Day of Judgment. In a hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA), the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“The son of Maryam (AS) will descend amongst you as a just ruler. Then after him, there will be thirty Dhu’l-Qadais, one after the other… Then Gog and Magog will come out. They will not come except that they will break the crosses, take the treasures, seize the spoils of war, and kill the people…”
This hadith highlights the chaotic and destructive nature of Yajuj and Majuj. Their emergence will follow the return of Isa (AS), and they will sweep across the earth, overwhelming nations with their sheer numbers and fierce aggression.
Consequences of the Release of Yajuj and Majuj
The impact of Yajuj and Majuj’s release will be devastating. Their unchecked rampage will spread chaos and destruction, pushing humanity to its limits. Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri (RA) narrated:
“The Prophet (PBUH) said, ‘There will be afflictions (calamities), one after the other, and there will be much death (epidemic)… Then Allah will send Salih (AS) against them who will say to them: ‘There is no slave of Allah but Allah is his Lord, Islam is his religion, and Muhammad is his Messenger.’ They will then differ amongst themselves and kill each other. Then those who are left will never be harmed by any people after them.'”
This hadith indicates that Yajuj and Majuj will cause severe tribulations, including widespread death and destruction, until a divine intervention brings an end to their terror.
Conclusion
The story of Yajuj and Majuj is a profound reminder of the trials and tribulations that humanity will face as the end of the world approaches. It serves as a stark warning about the dangers of unchecked power, ignorance, and disobedience to divine guidance. As Muslims, it is essential to remain steadfast in faith, seek refuge in Allah (SWT), and prepare for the trials that lie ahead. May Allah (SWT) protect us from the fitnah of Yajuj and Majuj and guide us on the straight path.
