In the previous chapter, we discussed the various texts regarding the ascension and descent of Jesus (PBUH) to Allah. Before clarifying the position of Javed Ahmed Ghamidi, it is essential to outline the perspectives of scholars of the Muslim ummah. This will provide the background against which Javed Ahmed Ghamidi has presented his viewpoint.
In our scholarly tradition, the concept of the second coming of Jesus (PBUH) is discussed under the topic of “Descent of Jesus”. This concept is based on the belief that when the Israelites intended to crucify Jesus (PBUH) Allah took him into His protection and raised him to Himself. Since that time until now, he is alive in the heavens. Near the Day of Judgment, he will descend directly to Earth.
He will descend alongside angels at a minaret in Damascus and will lead the army of Muslims. He will then kill the Dajjal and his Jewish followers. Due to his supplication to God, Gog and Magog will also perish. The world will become a cradle of peace and tranquility, and Islam will be the only religion left on Earth.
Jesus (PBUH) will rule as a just leader over the Muslims for forty years, after which he will die. Muslims will perform his funeral prayer and bury him. Shortly after his death, the Day of Judgment will commence.
The position of the traditional scholars and their arguments on this matter are detailed under the following headings: