Question
Kindly provide the reference for the following narration:
Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:
“People have entered into Islam in large groups. Soon a time will come wherein they will leave the fold of Islam in large groups”
Answer
Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration on the authority of Sayyiduna Jabir (radiyallahu ‘anhu).
(Musnad Ahmad, vol. 3, pg. 343. Refer: Majma’uz Zawaid, vol. 7, pg. 281)
Imam Hakim (rahimahullah) has also recorded similar words on the authority of Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah (radiyallahu ‘anhu). He has declared the Hadith authentic and Hafiz Dhahabi (rahimahullah) concurs.
(Mustadrak Hakim, vol. 4, pg. 496)
Disclaimer: In principle, the signs of Qiyamah are ambiguous and nuanced and only Allah Ta’ala Knows their precise timing and exact application. One should certainly take heed from such Hadiths and signs, despite their application to specific events being open to interpretation.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar