Behind Which Tree Will the Jews Hide?

This hadith mainly comes from Sahih Muslim (Hadith number 2922), and it is also found in various narrations across other hadith compilations.

The summary of the hadith is: "The Day of Judgment will not come until the Muslims fight the Jews. During that time, the Jews will hide behind rocks and trees. Then the rocks and trees will say: 'O Muslim, O servant of Allah, there is a Jew hiding behind me, come and kill him.' However, the Gharqad tree (a type of shrub) will not say so, because it is the tree of the Jews."

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What is the Gharqad Tree?
The Gharqad tree (scientific name: Nitraria retusa) is a thorny shrub that grows mainly in the desert regions of the Middle East. In some Muslim communities, it is believed that Jews plant this tree extensively, thinking it will aid them based on the prophecy mentioned. However, this is a religious belief; it has not been scientifically or historically proven.

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• As a Prophecy:
  Many Islamic scholars interpret this hadith as referring to a future specific battle or event. It might also have been spoken in the political-religious context of the Prophet’s time.

• Literal or Metaphorical?
  Many Islamic scholars believe that this hadith may not be literal — rather, it could be metaphorical, implying that during the ultimate conflict between truth and falsehood, even nature itself will testify in favor of the truth.

• Contemporary Political Usage:
  Unfortunately, this hadith is sometimes used in modern times to incite political hatred or enmity. However, the core teachings of Islam emphasize peace, justice, and respect for humanity. Hating any religion or nation contradicts the fundamental teachings of Islam.

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Islam’s Perspective:
The Qur'an says:
"Let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just — that is nearer to righteousness."
(Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:8)

During his lifetime, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) maintained treaties, trade relationships, and mutual respect with the Jews — as seen in the Constitution of Medina, where the rights and responsibilities of Muslims and Jews were clearly defined.