(When) the time would draw close to the Last Hour, knowledge would be snatched away, turmoil would be rampant, miserliness would be put (in the hearts of the people) and therewould be much bloodshed. They said: What is al-harj? Thereupon he said: It is bloodshed.
The Book of Knowledge - Sahih Muslim 157e
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim contains profound warnings about the signs preceding the Day of Judgment, as narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him).
Commentary on the Snatching of Knowledge
The "snatching away of knowledge" refers to the removal of religious understanding through the death of scholars, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Indeed, Allah does not take away knowledge by snatching it from the people, but He takes it away by taking the souls of scholars." This signifies a time when true Islamic knowledge becomes scarce and ignorance prevails.
Explanation of Widespread Turmoil
"Turmoil would be rampant" indicates the prevalence of fitan (trials and tribulations) that confuse people regarding their religion and worldly affairs. This includes political instability, social chaos, and religious confusion where truth becomes difficult to distinguish from falsehood.
The Nature of al-Harj
When the companions asked about "al-harj," the Prophet clarified it means "bloodshed." Scholars explain this refers to frequent killings without legitimate cause, where human life loses its sanctity. This includes civil wars, random violence, and the normalization of murder.
The Plague of Miserliness
"Miserliness would be put in the hearts" signifies the spiritual disease of greed and stinginess becoming widespread. People will hoard wealth, avoid charity, and prioritize material accumulation over spiritual development and helping others.
Contemporary Relevance and Warning
These signs serve as warnings for Muslims to hold firmly to knowledge, practice generosity, avoid bloodshed, and seek protection from Allah from such tribulations. They remind us to value scholars, preserve life, and purify our hearts from miserliness.