South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela has announced that the Rapture will take place on October 12-13, 2026. This is not his first prediction, as he previously forecasted the event to occur on September 23-24, 2025, and October 7-8, 2025. Both previous predictions failed to materialize. Mhlakela claims that his visions, which began in 2018, have guided him to pinpoint the correct date.
Mhlakela's earlier predictions led to significant reactions from his followers. Some reportedly sold their homes and cars, and quit their jobs in anticipation of the Rapture. His new prediction has drawn criticism from other Christians, who argue that setting a specific date for the Second Coming contradicts biblical teachings. The Bible states that no one can know the day or hour of the Second Coming.
According to Mhlakela, his previous predictions were not mistakes but rather a deliberate delay by God to give more people time to repent. He claims that this fulfills a biblical promise that the "Tribulation" period would be shortened for believers. Mhlakela's new calculation is based on a vision involving two moons and a belief that Passover should fall under the sign of Aries rather than Pisces.
Mhlakela's predictions have garnered significant attention, particularly in Nigeria. His claims have been reported by various news outlets, including Pulse Nigeria. The pastor has stated that October 12-13, 2026, is the true feast of trumpets, and he will meet his savior face-to-face on that day.
The Bible does not place the sun under Aries during the Exodus; this detail comes from later historical writings, not the original account. Mhlakela's predictions have sparked debate among Christians, with some questioning the validity of his claims. Others have expressed concern about the impact of his predictions on his followers.
Mhlakela has stated that his October 12-13, 2026, prediction will be his final one. He has urged his followers to prepare for the Rapture, which he believes will occur on those dates. The pastor's claims have generated significant interest and discussion, particularly among Christians.
The Rapture prediction has sparked a renewed conversation about biblical prophecy and the Second Coming. While some Christians believe that Mhlakela's predictions are valid, others argue that they contradict biblical teachings. As the predicted date approaches, many will be watching to see if Mhlakela's prophecy comes to pass.
Key points
- Pastor Joshua Mhlakela predicts the Rapture will occur on October 12-13, 2026.
- Mhlakela's previous predictions, in 2025, failed to materialize.
- The pastor's claims have drawn criticism from other Christians, who argue that setting a specific date for the Second Coming contradicts biblical teachings.
