Fundamental Principle Five: Belief in the Last Day

First: Belief in the Portents of the Hour

Introduction
...

Fundamental Principle Five: Belief in the Last Day
This principle includes:
First: Belief in the portents of the Hour.

Since the Last Day is preceded by signs that herald its nearness—known as the portents of the Hour—it is fitting that we list the most important of them, for belief in them is obligatory and lies at the very core of doctrine.

Allah the Exalted says, “The Hour has drawn near and the moon has split.” ⦗1⦘ He also says, “So what are they waiting for but the Hour to come upon them suddenly? Its portents have already appeared.” ⦗2⦘ That is: its signs and indications; each one is called a shart (with the rāʾ pronounced with a fatḥa), meaning “sign.”

Imam al-Baghawī said, “The Prophet’s being sent ﷺ was one of the portents of the Hour.”

Allah further says, “And what will make you realize? Perhaps the Hour is near.” ⦗3⦘ And He says, “Are they waiting for anything but the Hour, to come upon them suddenly while they are unaware?” ⦗4⦘