Every few years, bold predictions about the “end of the world” spark waves of attention online, and this week is no different. As September 23 approaches, social media has lit up with viral videos and personal stories of people preparing for a life-changing event. Some individuals claim to have sold their cars, left their jobs, or even packed special “after-rapture kits,” convinced that major global changes will begin on that date. Whether viewed as faith, fear, or curiosity, the movement has captured the imagination of thousands and created a storm of debate across TikTok and YouTube.
The latest predictions come from Joshua Mhlakela, a South African preacher who shared his belief that September 23 and 24 would bring divine intervention coinciding with the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah. He suggested that the earth would “shake with such power” and that believers would be taken to safety. His message spread rapidly online, fueling what some now call “RaptureTok,” where people openly discuss their hopes, fears, and even lighthearted questions such as whether pets might come along.
Not everyone is convinced, of course. Comedian Kevin Fredericks and other critics have raised questions about the timing, pointing out that countless similar predictions in history—from the Mayan calendar in 2012 to other religious forecasts—have come and gone without incident. Skeptics argue that the viral attention often says more about human psychology, online culture, and the power of community storytelling than about real-world events. Still, the passion of believers has kept the topic trending across platforms, attracting millions of views.
One TikTok user, Tilahun Desalegn, even admitted to selling his five-year-old car, saying he wouldn’t need it after September. At the same time, he acknowledged that if nothing happened, he would apologize to his followers and reconsider his views. This mix of conviction, doubt, and online spectacle highlights why these prophecies continue to resonate: they blend faith, uncertainty, and the power of digital connection. Whether or not September 23 passes quietly, the conversations around it have already left a mark on social media culture.