As social media buzzes over claims that the Christian Rapture could happen this week, curiosity and scepticism are spreading online. The latest prediction comes from South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela, who said in a dream that Jesus will return on September 23 and 24, 2025, to take believers to heaven. The announcement has sparked viral videos, memes, and discussions about how to prepare or whether to even take it seriously.

What is the Christian Rapture?

The Rapture is a belief held by some Christians about the end times, when Jesus Christ will return to Earth to gather all believers — both living and dead — and take them to heaven. This event is often depicted as the first phase of Christ’s Second Coming, followed by a period of tribulation and then his eventual reign on Earth, according to the Austin American-Statesman.

The two phases of Christ’s return

According to Christian teachings, the Rapture precedes the Second Advent, or Christ’s Second Coming.Phase 1 – The Rapture: Believers will be taken up into the air to meet Christ, a phenomenon said to be unseen by nonbelievers. Those left behind will face seven years of tribulation.Phase 2 – The Second Coming: After this period of affliction, Christ will appear on Earth with his raptured followers. He will defeat his enemies and establish a 1,000-year reign. At the end of the millennium, nonbelievers will face judgment, while believers will live eternally in a renewed creation, free from death, sorrow, or pain.

Biblical basis

While the English word “Rapture” does not appear in the Bible, passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 are often cited as references. Some argue, however, that the timing of the Rapture cannot be predicted, pointing to verses like Matthew 24:36: “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father”.

Recent predictions and viral attention

In 2025, South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela gained attention for claiming in a dream that the Rapture will occur on September 23 and 24, coinciding with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. “The Rapture is upon us, whether you are ready or you are not ready,” Mhlakela told CettwinzTV.His prediction has sparked a surge of social media content under the hashtag #RaptureTok, ranging from serious preparations to humorous takes. Some believers are selling homes, quitting jobs, and even sharing “Rapture tips” for ascending into the air.

Pets, social media and public reaction

Online discussions have even focused on whether pets will be taken during the Rapture, with commenters expressing hope for their animals to be saved alongside them. Others are mocking the idea, creating satirical videos about how to behave or what to bring.While predictions like Mhlakela’s often draw attention, similar prophecies in the past, such as Harold Camping’s failed May 21, 2011, prediction, demonstrate that no date for the Rapture has been confirmed by scripture.