"Although apocalyptic visions and predictions have long been part of classical and contemporary Islam, this is the first scholarly work to cover the disparate but influential body of modern writings in this area. David Cook puts the literature in context by examining not only the ideological concerns prompting apocalyptic material but also its interconnection with the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Arab relations with the United States and other Western nations, and the role of violence in the Middle East." "By exposing the undergrowth of popular beliefs contributing to religion-driven terrorism, this book casts new light on today's political conflicts. As a result, it will be useful to a variety of audiences - not only to scholars in religion, Middle East studies, and political science but also to policymakers and general readers."--BOOK JACKET.

Classical Muslim apocalyptic literature -- Building a new vision of the future in the wake of the six days' war -- Interpretations of the present -- The controversy about dating the end of the world -- Quran 17:48 from Banu Israil to the state of Israel -- The mahdi and world conquest -- Prophecies of America, the Second Ad, and its downfall -- Apocalyptic predictions concerning Afghanistan and the Taliban -- The figure of the antichrist -- Problems with the texts and how they are overcome -- Conclusions.