I then mentioned the different views concerning the nature of this Beast and identified the strongest view.

I then described what this Beast will do when it appears.

Chapter Nine concerns the emergence of the Fire that will gather mankind. I discussed where it will emerge and the evidence for this, followed by how it will drive people to their place of gathering, likewise citing the relevant evidence.

I then discussed the land to which people will be gathered. Thereafter, I mentioned the virtues of the land of the Levant and the hadiths encouraging people to reside there, and refuted those who deny that the Levant will be the land of gathering.

I then explained that the gathering mentioned in the hadiths will take place in this world before the Day of Resurrection. I also mentioned the scholars’ disagreement concerning this matter and identified the strongest of their views.

— Conclusion: In it, I mentioned the most important findings I reached.

To proceed:

I praise and thank Allah, first and last, outwardly and inwardly, for making this work easy and facilitating it, and I ask Him for yet more assistance and success.

I do not claim to have covered every aspect of this study, for perfection belongs to Allah, Mighty and Majestic, while deficiency is inherent in human nature. Nevertheless, I have exerted my utmost effort. Whatever is correct in it is by the grace of Allah, Mighty and Majestic, and for whatever is otherwise, I seek Allah’s forgiveness. He is sufficient for me and the best Disposer of affairs.

“Glory be to your Lord, the Lord of Might, above what they ascribe to Him. And peace be upon the messengers,