• As for the preamble, it comprises several sections:

The first section discusses the importance of belief in the Last Day and its effect on the conduct of individuals and society.

The second section explains that, in addition to the mention of its signs, one manifestation of the importance accorded to the Last Day is the frequency with which it is mentioned in the Quran under various names. I cite some of these names together with their supporting evidence from the Noble Quran.

The third section discusses the probative authority of solitary reports in matters of creed and other subjects. I explain that when a hadith is authentic, one must believe what it states.

The importance of this section lies in its response to those who reject solitary reports in matters of creed. I explain that their position necessarily entails rejecting hundreds of authentic hadiths and that it is a religious innovation unsupported by any proof or evidence.

The fourth section explains that the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—informed his nation of what had occurred and what would occur until the Hour. The signs of the Hour received the greatest share of this, which is why the hadiths concerning them are so numerous and have been narrated in different wordings.

The fifth section discusses knowledge of when the Hour will occur. I explain that Allah Most High has reserved this knowledge exclusively for Himself and cite the evidence for this. I then refute those who claim that the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—knew its appointed time, as well as those who claim to have determined the lifespan of this world. I explain that this view plainly contradicts the Quran and the Sunnah and cite a selection of scholarly statements refuting such claims.