Hadith Text

"From among the portents of the Hour are the following: Religious knowledge will be taken away; General ignorance (in religious matters) will increase; illegal Sexual intercourse will prevail: Drinking of alcoholic drinks will prevail. Men will decrease in number, and women will increase in number, so much so that fifty women will be looked after by one man."

Source Reference

Book: Sahih al-Bukhari - Wedlock, Marriage (Nikaah)

Hadith Number: Sahih al-Bukhari 5231

Commentary on the Signs

The disappearance of religious knowledge refers to the passing of scholars without adequate successors, while general ignorance signifies widespread unfamiliarity with Islamic rulings and principles.

The prevalence of illegal sexual intercourse indicates the normalization of zina and moral decay in society, often accompanied by the abandonment of marriage traditions.

The prevalence of alcoholic drinks demonstrates the open practice of prohibited matters and the weakening of religious commitment among people.

Demographic Imbalance

The significant decrease in men relative to women may result from frequent wars, epidemics, or other divine decrees. The ratio of fifty women to one man indicates severe demographic disruption where normal marital arrangements become impossible.

This imbalance serves as both a test and a punishment for communities that abandon Islamic principles and indulge in prohibited practices.

Scholarly Observations

Classical scholars note these signs appear gradually, not simultaneously. Their manifestation indicates the approaching Day of Judgment and serves as warnings for believers to rectify their conditions.

The preservation of religious knowledge through study and teaching, along with adherence to marital laws, constitutes the primary protection against these tribulations.