Quran and Hadith Studies

Quran and Hadith Studies

A Reconsideration of the Issue of Dhū al-Qarnayn’s Barrier According to the Holy Qurʾan

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Abbas Esmaeelizadeh 1
Seyede Fateme Nikookar 2
1 Associate Professor, Department of Qur'an and Hadith Studies, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2 MA Student of Qur'an and Hadith Studies, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
10.22067/jquran.2025.92565.1819
Abstract
The issue of Dhū al-Qarnayn’s barrier and its ultimate fate has long been a subject of debate in Qurʾanic exegesis. The narrative presented in verses 83–99 of Surah al-Kahf recounts three journeys of Dhū al-Qarnayn, the third of which involves the construction of a uniquely described barrier. The Qurʾanic depiction of this barrier has prompted numerous theories and attempts throughout history to identify its geographical location. Employing a descriptive–analytical approach based on library research method, this study categorizes and critically examines exegetical views on these verses, aiming to present an interpretation grounded in textual coherence. The findings indicate that neglecting the discontinuity of verse 99 from the preceding context has led to the assumption that the barrier will remain until the Day of Resurrection, an interpretation sometimes supported by verse 96 of Surah al-Anbiyāʾ. However, structural analysis of Surah al-Kahf and its seven thematic contexts reveals that verse 99 initiates an independent context and is disconnected from the continuation of Dhū al-Qarnayn’s story. Accordingly, the Qurʾan remains silent regarding the final fate of the barrier, and claims of its persistence until the end of time stem from a misreading of the textual context.
Keywords
Contexts of surahs
Dhū al-Qarnayn’s barrier
Surah al-Kahf
Gog and Magog
Subjects
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Quran and Hadith Studies
Volume 57, Issue 2 - Serial Number 115
Autumn & Winter 2025-2026
February 2026
Pages 9-40

  • Receive Date 15 March 2025
  • Revise Date 14 May 2025
  • Accept Date 27 May 2025