“What does Muhammed mean by “The Hour” in the first passage? In other words, what is this volcanic event supposed to signify? Many “prophets” throughout history have predicted spectacular natural phenomenon, but it seems that Muhammed is saying that this event was/will be significant somehow.”
The “Hour” refers to the Day of Judgment. It’s not supposed to signify anything except that it is a Sign (one of many Minor Signs) to remind that the Day of Judgment is near. Of course, “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone”
Minor Signs of the Day of Judgment span a long time, the 1st being the Death of the Prophet Muhammad(saw) and some of them general things that happen over and over again in higher frequences (as mentioned in some of the earlier posts by others).
Major Signs of the Day of Judgment such as, the Anti-Christ, the 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ(as), Gog and Magog all happen right before the Hour one after the other.
“Many “prophets” throughout history have predicted spectacular natural phenomenon, but it seems that Muhammed is saying that this event was/will be significant somehow.” "
Can you give an example of someone else who you would not consider to be a genuine prophet predict something 600 years in advance that came true with such specific details? It’s not about a volcano exploding or natural phenomenon, it’s the fact that Muhammad(saw) gave the prediction with such accurate details.
As to the second prophecy, although I don’t deny that there are many secular institutions and individuals in this world that profit from interest, there are many millions in this world that do not receive usury. In my own humble opinion, I think that the second prophecy is rather vague. Also, what is the “vapour of usury?” I must admit, the second one does remind me of one of Nostradamus’ infamous quatrains; vague enough to fit many events after they have taken place.
You are absolutely correct that there are millions in this world who do not receive usury. But they are definitely affected by it, hence the term “it’s vapour will reach him.” You might not have gotten subprime loan and might have even paid cash for your house. But because bankers made bad loans that went into default your house lost value because of squatters in the foreclosed home in your neighborhood. You are affected as the “vapour of usury” reached you. Average citizens of 3rd World countries do not pay or receive interest. But they are affected because their Government’s took loans and the fruits of their labor are used to pay off those loans and the “vapour of usury” reaches them too. Etc, etc.
It’s also not referring to “one specific event,” rather Muhammad(saw) said “A TIME is coming to mankind.” It’s referring to a time in our history. If you think it’s “vague enough to fit many events”, can you give another time in history that the whole of mankind has been affected by such a system that we have in the 20th and 21st centuries?
