Few numbers in Islamic tradition are as startling as this one. 999 out of every 1,000. Part 6 of this series looks at that single ratio, and what it is meant to convey.
The Narration
According to a hadith narration, on the Day of Judgement a call will be made for people to be separated. From every thousand, nine hundred and ninety-nine will be taken.
The Companions are described in the narration as alarmed by this proportion. They asked who the one remaining person might be. That reaction underlines how shocking the figure was meant to sound.
A Picture of Multitude
Scholars explaining this narration have generally understood the number as a picture of sheer multitude. It is not a census to be calculated in advance.
The point, in this traditional reading, is scale. Yajuj and Majuj, known in English as Gog and Magog, will be so numerous that they overwhelm the scale compared with the rest of humanity.
Humanity as we ordinarily imagine it — nations, cities and generations — is presented as a small fraction beside their vast numbers. That is why the narration is often quoted when teachers describe why their emergence is considered such a momentous sign.
The Wider Story
This fits the wider story in the Quran and in Islamic tradition. Dhul-Qarnayn, a righteous ruler, built a barrier of iron and molten metal. It was built to restrain Yajuj and Majuj and to protect the people who lived behind it.
For a long age, that barrier holds. Their confinement becomes part of the background of history. Tradition teaches, however, that near the end times the barrier will be opened. They will surge out in great waves. Events of immense turmoil will follow, before God's final judgement brings everything to account.
Not a Reason for Despair
Part 6 invites reflection on this ratio. According to the traditional commentaries, it is not a reason for despair for believers. It is a reminder of the scale of God's knowledge and power. It is also a call to prepare for the Day of Judgement with faith and good deeds.
This is Daily Info Dose. One number, 999 out of 1,000, shows why this nation is described as unlike any other.
Watch the video: 999 Out of Every 1,000? The Terrifying Numbers (Gog and Magog) | Part 6 #Shorts on YouTube. This article is the full written version of the video, in simple English. See all articles on the Blogs page and more videos on the History Series page.