Eschatology is a branch of theology concerned with the final events in the history of the world or of humanity. It is derived from the Greek word eschaton, meaning “last” or “final.” Eschatological doctrines attempt to explain the ultimate destiny of humanity, the universe, and the relationship between the two. Eschatology can be divided into two main branches: individual eschatology, which deals with the destiny of individual souls after death, and cosmic eschatology, which deals with the destiny of the universe as a whole.
Eschatology is an important part of many religious and philosophical traditions. In Christianity, for example, eschatology is concerned with the Second Coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment. In Islam, eschatology is concerned with the Day of Judgment, when all people will be judged by Allah and sent to either heaven or hell. In Buddhism, eschatology is concerned with the end of the cycle of rebirth and the attainment of nirvana.