From Kalki to Maitreya: Last Avatars in Every Religion that Will Appear at the End of the World
- Pratha
- Apr 4
- 3 min read
As diverse as the world's religions are, many share a common thread when it comes to the concept of end times or a final judgment. Central to these narratives are the deities or divine figures who are believed to appear at the culmination of time. This article delves into the beliefs and prophecies surrounding the last avatars in major religions, including Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and others, providing a rich tapestry of spiritual expectations.
Hinduism: Kalki, the Tenth Avatar of Vishnu
In Hinduism, Kalki is prophesied to be the tenth and final avatar of Vishnu, who will appear at the end of the current age of darkness and corruption, known as Kali Yuga. Kalki is depicted as a warrior on a white horse named Devadatta, brandishing a blazing sword with which he will annihilate the forces of evil and restore dharma (righteousness). Texts like the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana predict Kalki's arrival at a time when evil and injustice are rampant. Kalki's role is to cleanse the world of wickedness and prepare it for a new cycle of creation, initiating the Satya Yuga, or the most virtuous Age of Truth. Besides the Puranas, Kalki's mention can also be found in some Sikh and Buddhist texts.
Christianity: The Second Coming of Christ
Christian theology revolves around the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, who will return to Earth to judge humanity and establish God's eternal kingdom. The New Testament, particularly the Book of Revelation, describes Jesus returning in glory, defeating the Antichrist, and ushering in a new heaven and earth. Christ's return signifies the final judgment, the resurrection of the dead, and the ultimate victory of good over evil.
Islam: The Arrival of Imam Mahdi and the Return of Isa (Jesus)
In Islamic theology, the end times are marked by the appearance of the Mahdi, a righteous leader and a descendant of Prophet Muhammad, who will lead Muslims and establish justice by eradicating all forms of tyranny. The return of Isa (Jesus) is also mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, who will arrive on Earth to defeat the false messiah (Dajjal) and reign for a period of peace before the Day of Judgment.
Buddhism: Maitreya, the Future Buddha
In all schools of Buddhism, Maitreya is regarded as the future and final Buddha who will appear when Dharma is no longer practiced. Texts like the Anagatavamsa predict Maitreya's advent when the teachings of the current Buddha, Gautama, have been forgotten. Maitreya will also rediscover the lost Dharma and teach it to humanity, leading to a new era of enlightenment and peace. He is also mentioned in some Hindu texts as the king of Shambala, which is also believed to be the birthplace of Kalki, the tenth avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Zoroastrianism: The Coming of Saoshyant
In Zoroastrianism, the Saoshyant is the savior who will remove evil and bring about the final renovation of the world. The Avesta, particularly Yasht 19, speaks of Saoshyant leading the forces of good against Angra Mainyu in a final battle. Saoshyant's victory will result in the restoration of the world to its original, perfect state, eradicating all evil and suffering.
Judaism: The Coming of the Messiah
In Jewish eschatology, the Messiah is a future Jewish king from the Davidic line who will be anointed and will rule during the Messianic Age. The Hebrew Bible contains various prophecies about the Messiah, particularly in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah. The Messiah will bring peace, rebuild the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, and gather all Jews back to the Land of Israel.
The concept of an ultimate savior or divine figure appearing at the end of times is a profound and common theme across many world religions. These figures symbolize the triumph of good over evil and the hope for a renewed world. By understanding these diverse beliefs, we can appreciate the rich spiritual tapestry that binds humanity together.
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Pratha Editorial Team
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