Apparently annoyed that the Bible Decoders are getting all the attention, the folks at the Wall Street Journal have decided to try looking into the crystal ball:
In Islam, as in Judaism and Christianity, there are certain beliefs concerning the cosmic struggle at the end of time--Gog and Magog, anti-Christ, Armageddon, and for Shiite Muslims, the long awaited return of the Hidden Imam, ending in the final victory of the forces of good over evil, however these may be defined. Mr. Ahmadinejad and his followers clearly believe that this time is now, and that the terminal struggle has already begun and is indeed well advanced. It may even have a date, indicated by several references by the Iranian president to giving his final answer to the U.S. about nuclear development by Aug. 22. This was at first reported as “by the end of August,” but Mr. Ahmadinejad’s statement was more precise.
What is the significance of Aug. 22? This year, Aug. 22 corresponds, in the Islamic calendar, to the 27th day of the month of Rajab of the year 1427. This, by tradition, is the night when many Muslims commemorate the night flight of the prophet Muhammad on the winged horse Buraq, first to “the farthest mosque,” usually identified with Jerusalem, and then to heaven and back (c.f., Koran XVII.1). This might well be deemed an appropriate date for the apocalyptic ending of Israel and if necessary of the world. It is far from certain that Mr. Ahmadinejad plans any such cataclysmic events precisely for Aug. 22. But it would be wise to bear the possibility in mind.
All I’ve got to say is that if Iran does bring about the end of the world on August 22nd then I’ll be severely pissed off. That’s 3 days before my 39th birthday for crying out loud! I don’t get new video games on a regular basis like I did when I was young and single so this makes my birthdays and Christmas very important holidays for me. It’s highly annoying to think anyone would consider ending the world just days before I get some new toys. Dammit!
Posted on 08/14/2006 at 10:19 AM 
Posted on 08/14/2006 at 05:24 PM 
It’s like they said back in the ‘80s: One little nuclear war can ruin your whole day.
I would suggest sending the Iranians an e-mail (a telegram would be more effective, but I don’t know if anyone actually has a telegraph service anymore) asking them to delay armageddon until after your birthday, but, you know, they have a schedule to keep. Plans have been set in motion. The problems of three little people don’t matter a hill of beans in this crazy mixed-up world. Much less yours. Sorry, that’s just the facts, jack.
If the world doesn’t end, I think you should ask the WSJ and the Iranians for an apology for trying to ruin your birthday.