An American end-times conspiracy theorist and author known for his doomsday predictions based on biblical numerology.
David Meade is an American author and self-proclaimed “Christian numerologist” who has become infamous for his multiple failed doomsday predictions, which blend astronomical alignments with biblical numerology. Writing under a pseudonym, Meade’s theories frequently involve the mythical planet Nibiru, also known as Planet X, which he claims will cause catastrophic disasters on Earth.
Meade first gained substantial media attention in September 2017, predicting that a series of natural disasters triggered by Nibiru would signify the end of the world. His theory linked specific alignments of the Sun, Moon, and planets, particularly highlighting the role of the constellation Virgo, which he associated with verses from the Book of Revelation. He suggested these alignments marked the rapture and the onset of the end times. This prediction and others, such as the catastrophic events slated for April 23, 2018, did not materialize. After the dates passed without incident, Meade often adjusted his timelines, extending the period of expected tribulation and shifting the focus of his prophetic claims.
In addition to Nibiru, Meade has suggested that other apocalyptic events could occur, such as a nuclear attack by North Korea on the Yellowstone Caldera or a flood event mirroring the Genesis flood narrative. He also linked the appearance of Comet Ison with the biblical Wormwood star associated with Nibiru.
Meade’s methods and conclusions have been widely debunked and criticized by experts across various fields. Astronomers, including those from NASA, have confirmed that the threat of a planet like Nibiru is a hoax. Religious scholars and Christian leaders have critiqued his interpretation of biblical texts as speculative and not aligned with mainstream Christian theology. Notable critics include Ed Stetzer of Christianity Today and Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, who have dismissed Meade’s credentials and theories. Other prominent figures like British journalist Nick Pope and Brazilian astronomer Duília de Mello have criticized Meade for lacking critical thinking and basing his predictions on baseless theories.
Overall, David Meade’s approach to prophecy and end times, focusing on cosmic signs, typifies fringe theories that merge pseudoscientific concepts with religious prophecy to generate sensationalist predictions. His works have drawn comparisons to other notorious doomsday predictors like Harold Camping and Nostradamus, often highlighting a pattern of sensationalism without scientific or theological validity.
image via BBC