In this teaching, the Royal Ottoman Society reflects on a series of prophetic narrations that have long been recorded in classical Islamic sources. The reports speak of a pivotal horizon: after the year 1400 of the Hijri calendar the world would not pass beyond the year 1500. According to these traditions we are now in the year 1447, which means roughly 53 years remain until that foretold limit is reached.
The narrations divide this remaining span into two distinct periods. The first forty years correspond to the era traditionally associated with the return of Prophet ʿĪsā (Jesus) Aleyhisselām. After those decades only 13 years would be left for the final events that many scholars describe as the appearance of the Mahdi (Aleyhisselam) and a great confrontation known as Melhame‑i Kübra or the “Great Battle.” The tradition states that out of eight parts of humanity, seven will be consumed in this clash—an image some modern interpreters relate to the possibility of a worldwide nuclear conflict.
While only Allah subhanahu wa ta‘ala knows the exact moment of the Day of Judgment, the convergence of these narrations with contemporary developments invites sincere contemplation. The reports emphasize that no earthly power, whether two smaller states at odds or even the great powers of today, can halt such a cataclysmic event on their own. The ultimate safeguard, according to the tradition, will be the emergence of the Mahdi, whose divine guidance alone can restore balance and end the turmoil.
We invite all seekers to deepen their understanding of these signs through the Society’s rich collection of classical texts and contemporary commentaries. Further study materials are available in our digital library, where you may explore the sources that underpin this discussion and join fellow members in thoughtful reflection.
