The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned extensively about the Dajjal (the Antichrist), emphasizing the severity of his trial and providing distinguishing characteristics to help believers recognize and avoid him.
Here's a summary of what the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said about the Dajjal, drawing from authentic Islamic traditions (hadith):
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A Universal Warning: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that no prophet before him had failed to warn his nation about the Dajjal, highlighting the importance of this warning across all divine messages. As reported, Allah's Apostle said, "Shall I not tell you about the Dajjal a story of which no prophet told his nation? The Dajjall is one-eyed and will bring with him what will resemble Hell and Paradise, and what he will call Paradise will be actually Hell; so I warn you (against him) as Noah warned his nation against him."
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Physical Characteristics: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the Dajjal's physical appearance, noting that he would be a young man with a ruddy complexion, curly hair, and one eye (the other being defective, described variously as blind or protruding). The traditions also mention that the word "Kafir" (disbeliever) would be written on his forehead, readable by all believers.
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The Fitnah (Trial) of the Dajjal: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stressed the severity of the Dajjal's trial, stating that it would be the greatest trial humanity has ever faced. He would possess supernatural powers, such as the ability to bring rain, revive the dead (seemingly), and command the earth to yield its treasures. He would use these powers to deceive people and lead them astray.
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The Dajjal's Claim and Duration: The Dajjal will claim to be God, and his reign of deception will last for a specific period, generally believed to be 40 days; the first day will be like a year, the second like a month, the third like a week, and the remaining days like normal days.
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Protection from the Dajjal: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised believers to seek refuge in Allah from the Dajjal's trial. He also recommended reciting the first or last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18 of the Quran) as a means of protection. He further advised believers to avoid the Dajjal, as his allure and deceptions would be potent.
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The Dajjal's Demise: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that the Dajjal will ultimately be killed by Prophet Isa (Jesus Christ, peace be upon him) upon his return to Earth. Prophet Isa will descend near the white minaret east of Damascus and pursue the Dajjal to Lod (Lydda), where he will slay him.
In summary, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provided detailed information and dire warnings about the Dajjal, equipping believers with the knowledge to recognize, avoid, and ultimately overcome this great trial.
