Will we see the Mahdi et al. in our lifetimes?

Question 3259

I have read many signs concerning the appearance of the Mahdi, Dajjal, Prophet Isa. Signs that the Holy Prophet ( ) predicted. These signs have amazed me because they have almost all come true, or are happening at this moment. Signs such as time will pass quickly, drinking wine will increase, fornication will increase, singing will be common.. and so many more.
My question is, is that do you think that the coming of any of the three people named above is close and may it occur in our lifetime?
Thankyou.

Answer

Praise be to Allah.

The appearance of these three signs, the Mahdi, the Dajjaal and the descent of ‘Isa (peace be upon him), will undoubtedly happen, as is indicated in the saheeh reports. These three signs will appear within a short space of time, as ‘Isa (peace be upon him) will pray behind the Mahdi, and will kill the Dajjaal, as was reported in the saheeh ahaadeeth. As for when this will happen, Allaah knows best about that. As to whether it will happen soon, the texts seem to indicate this, but the question of whether it will be in our lifetime or after is part of the Unseen, which no one knows except Allaah. The Muslim should seek refuge with Allaah from fitan (tribulations) in general, and from the fitnah (tribulation) of the Dajjaal in particular; he should pray to Allaah, openly and in secret, to help him remain steadfast in this world and the next.

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Will we see the Mahdi et al. in our lifetimes?

Question 3259

Answer