St. Malachy's prophecy on the end of the world?

St. Malachy's prophecy does not directly state the end of the world, but it does suggest a significant event related to the papacy that could be interpreted as a precursor to the end times:

1. **The Prophecy**: St. Malachy's Prophecy of the Popes includes a list of 112 short, cryptic phrases in Latin, which were used to predict the Catholic popes, including an alleged final pope, "Peter the Roman," whose pontificate will precede the destruction of the city of Rome.
2. **Interpretation**: The phrase "Peter the Roman" and the mention of the destruction of Rome have led to speculation that this final pope will play a role in a great tribulation or the end of the world. However, the prophecy itself does not explicitly state the end of the world.
3. **Historical Context**: The prophecy has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, with some seeing it as a guide to the popes' identities and others believing it to be a mystical representation rather than a literal prediction.
4. **Catholic Perspective**: The Catholic Church does not officially endorse the prophecy as authentic or reliable. Anura Guruge, a papal historian, states that the prophecy is not worth paying attention to, as more likely it is a forgery created in the 16th century to influence the papal election of 1590.

In summary, while St. Malachy's prophecy does not directly state the end of the world, it does suggest a significant event related to the papacy. However, the prophecy's authenticity and interpretation are subject to debate, and the Catholic Church does not base its teachings on these prophecies.