Al Isra Wal Miraj​

The miraculous journey of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It represents a profound moment in Islamic history when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was granted an extraordinary journey by Allah (SWT). This event not only reaffirms the Prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH) but also serves as a source of spiritual guidance and inspiration for Muslims.

What is Al-Isra’ Wal Mi’raj?

Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj refers to the two parts of the miraculous night journey undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The event is mentioned in the Quran and elaborated upon in authentic Hadith.

The Night Journey (Al-Isra’)

The first part of the journey, Al-Isra’, refers to the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) travel from Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem on the heavenly steed, Al-Buraq. Allah says in the Quran:

“Glory be to Him Who took His servant by night from Al-Masjid Al-Haram to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Surah Al-Isra:1)

At Masjid Al-Aqsa, the Prophet (PBUH) led all the previous Prophets in prayer, signifying his leadership and the universality of his message.

The Ascension (Al-Mi’raj)

The second part of the journey, Al-Mi’raj, refers to the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) ascension to the heavens. During this ascension, the Prophet met various Prophets, including Adam, Ibrahim, Musa, and Isa (peace be upon them all). He was also shown the wonders of Paradise and the torments of Hell.

One of the most significant outcomes of this journey was the commandment of the five daily prayers, gifted directly by Allah (SWT) to the Ummah.

Context of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj is one of the most significant events in Islamic history, marking the miraculous night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This event is believed to have occurred during a challenging period in the Prophet’s life, known as the Year of Sorrow (Aam al-Huzn). During this time, the Prophet experienced profound personal and communal hardships, including the deaths of his beloved wife Khadijah (RA) and his supportive uncle Abu Talib. These losses left the Prophet in immense grief, while the rejection and persecution by the Quraysh in Makkah intensified.

In this period of sorrow and isolation, Allah (SWT) granted the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) an extraordinary experience to console him, reaffirm his faith, and demonstrate his honored status. This journey symbolizes hope, spiritual elevation, and the profound connection between Allah and His Messenger.

Incidents of Al-Isra and Al-Mi’raj

1. Al-Isra: The Night Journey

  • The Beginning of the Journey:
    The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was awakened by Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) and brought a heavenly creature called the Buraq – a swift, white, winged steed.
  • Travel to Masjid Al-Aqsa:
    The Prophet (PBUH) traveled from the Kaaba in Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem in an instant.
  • Prayers with Previous Prophets:
    At Masjid Al-Aqsa, the Prophet led all the previous Prophets in prayer, signifying his status as the leader of all Prophets and the unity of the divine message.
  • Significance of Masjid Al-Aqsa:
    The mosque became the first Qibla (direction of prayer) and remains a symbol of spiritual significance in Islam.

2. Al-Mi’raj: The Heavenly Ascension

  • Journey Through the Seven Heavens:
    From Masjid Al-Aqsa, the Prophet ascended through the heavens accompanied by Angel Jibreel.

    • First Heaven: Prophet Adam (AS)
    • Second Heaven: Prophets Isa (AS) and Yahya (AS)
    • Third Heaven: Prophet Yusuf (AS)
    • Fourth Heaven: Prophet Idris (AS)
    • Fifth Heaven: Prophet Harun (AS)
    • Sixth Heaven: Prophet Musa (AS)
    • Seventh Heaven: Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
  • Sidrat al-Muntaha:
    The Prophet reached the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary (Sidrat al-Muntaha), a place beyond which no creation can pass.
  • Divine Revelation of Salah:
    Allah (SWT) gifted the Prophet and his followers the obligation of five daily prayers (Salah), which were originally fifty but reduced after the Prophet consulted with Prophet Musa (AS).
  • Witnessing Paradise and Hell:
    The Prophet (PBUH) was shown glimpses of Paradise and Hell and the rewards and punishments awaiting people based on their deeds.

3. Return to Earth

  • The Prophet (PBUH) returned to Makkah by the same route and shared the details of this miraculous journey with the Quraysh.
  • Test of Faith:
    Many disbelievers mocked him, but the firm believers, especially Abu Bakr (RA), accepted his account without hesitation, earning him the title As-Siddiq (The Truthful).

Significance of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

The event of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj holds immense spiritual, theological, and moral significance for Muslims worldwide. It symbolizes not just a physical journey but also a profound spiritual elevation of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

  1. Affirmation of Prophethood:
    • Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj reaffirmed the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) role as the Seal of the Prophets and the leader of all Prophets, emphasized by his leadership in prayer at Masjid Al-Aqsa.
  2. The Gift of Salah (Prayer):
    • One of the most significant outcomes of the journey was the divine gift of the five daily prayers (Salah), highlighting the importance of maintaining a constant connection with Allah (SWT).
  3. Strengthening Faith in Times of Hardship:
    • The journey occurred during a time of immense personal and social difficulty for the Prophet, offering him divine reassurance, hope, and spiritual strength.
  4. Unity of the Prophets and Divine Message:
    • The gathering of all Prophets at Masjid Al-Aqsa emphasizes the unity and continuity of Allah’s message throughout human history.
  5. Spiritual and Moral Lessons:
    • The glimpses of Paradise and Hell serve as reminders of accountability, consequences of actions, and the mercy of Allah.

Virtues of the Night of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

  1. A Night of Divine Connection:
    • It was the night Allah (SWT) directly communicated with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), elevating his status and solidifying his role as the final Messenger.
  2. The Blessing of Salah:
    • The five daily prayers, gifted during this night, remain a key form of worship and spiritual connection for Muslims.
  3. Spiritual Reflection and Repentance:
    • The night encourages Muslims to reflect on their faith, strengthen their worship, and seek Allah’s forgiveness.
  4. Symbol of Hope and Resilience:
    • The miraculous nature of the journey serves as a reminder that Allah’s help is always near, even during life’s most challenging times.
  5. A Night of Mercy:
    • Muslims believe this night is filled with divine mercy and blessings, making it an opportune time for extra prayers, supplications, and seeking closeness to Allah.

Lessons from Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

The miraculous journey of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj carries profound lessons for Muslims, offering spiritual, moral, and practical guidance. Here are the key takeaways from this extraordinary event:

1. The Importance of Salah (Prayer)

  • A Divine Gift: The five daily prayers were given directly to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the ascension.
  • A Lifeline for Muslims: Salah serves as a direct link between a believer and Allah (SWT).
  • Discipline and Spiritual Growth: Regular prayers instill discipline, humility, and spiritual awareness in a Muslim’s daily life.

2. Patience and Perseverance in Hardship

  • Facing Challenges: The journey occurred during one of the most difficult periods in the Prophet’s life (The Year of Sorrow).
  • Divine Consolation: It highlights Allah’s mercy and support during times of distress.
  • Trust in Allah: Even in the darkest times, unwavering faith in Allah leads to ultimate relief and guidance.

3. The Unity of Prophets and the Universal Message of Islam

  • Leading the Prophets in Prayer: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) led all previous Prophets in prayer at Masjid Al-Aqsa, symbolizing the unity of Allah’s message across time and nations.
  • Continuation of a Single Message: Islam is not a new religion but a continuation of the same monotheistic faith preached by all Prophets.

4. The Significance of Masjid Al-Aqsa

  • A Sacred Site: The journey emphasizes the spiritual importance of Masjid Al-Aqsa as a holy place in Islam.
  • Responsibility to Protect It: The event reminds Muslims of their duty to respect and protect this sacred mosque.

5. Spiritual Elevation and Personal Growth

  • Focus on the Hereafter: Glimpses of Paradise and Hell during the journey highlight the consequences of one’s actions in the hereafter.
  • Moral Integrity: The journey reinforces the importance of leading a righteous life, filled with integrity and accountability.

6. Faith Over Rationality

  • A Test of Faith: The miraculous nature of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj tested the faith of the early believers.
  • Example of Abu Bakr (RA): His immediate belief earned him the title As-Siddiq (The Truthful).
  • Submission to Allah’s Will: Faith sometimes requires belief in matters beyond human comprehension.

7. Allah’s Infinite Mercy and Compassion

  • Reduced Number of Prayers: The initial command of fifty prayers was reduced to five, demonstrating Allah’s compassion and understanding of human limitations.
  • Hope in Allah’s Mercy: No matter the challenges, Allah’s mercy and guidance are always accessible.

8. Accountability and Awareness of the Afterlife

  • Visions of Paradise and Hell: The Prophet (PBUH) was shown the rewards for the righteous and the punishments for the wrongdoers.
  • Accountability: Every Muslim is accountable for their actions, and the hereafter is a reality that cannot be ignored.

9. Strengthening the Believer’s Connection with Allah

  • Direct Communication: The journey emphasizes the unique relationship between Allah and His Messenger.
  • Salah as a Personal Mi’raj: Every Muslim’s prayer is seen as their own spiritual ascension to connect with Allah.

10. The Power of Faith and Conviction

  • Overcoming Skepticism: Despite mockery from the Quraysh, the Prophet (PBUH) remained steadfast in his account of the journey.
  • Inspiration for Believers: Faith in Allah’s wisdom and power can help overcome societal pressure and doubt.

Celebrating Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

  1. Diverse Observances Across the Muslim World:
    • Different Muslim communities mark the night with prayers, Quran recitation, and gatherings where the story of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj is narrated.
  2. Focus on Worship and Reflection:
    • Many Muslims spend the night in voluntary prayers (Tahajjud), making Dua (supplications), and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
  3. Educational Programs and Sermons:
    • Mosques and Islamic centers often host lectures and sermons to educate the community about the spiritual lessons of the event.
  4. Scholarly Opinions on Celebration:
    • While some scholars encourage commemorating the night with worship and reflection, others advise focusing on daily obligations like Salah rather than formal festivities.
  5. Personal Connection with the Event:
    • Muslims are encouraged to reflect on the lessons of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj and strengthen their bond with Allah through worship and spiritual growth.

Conclusion

The story of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj offers profound lessons about faith, devotion, and the mercy of Allah (SWT). It serves as a reminder of the importance of prayer, spiritual connection, and perseverance in the face of hardship.

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FAQs

The event of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj is deeply rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith literature. Below are key references from both sources that highlight the significance of this miraculous journey.

1. Qur’anic Ayat Related to Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

Surah Al-Isra (17:1)

“Glory be to Him Who took His servant by night from Al-Masjid Al-Haram to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:1)

  • Significance: This verse directly references the Night Journey (Al-Isra’), emphasizing the miraculous nature of the event and Allah’s power.

Surah An-Najm (53:13–18)

“And he certainly saw him in another descent, at the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary, near it is the Garden of Refuge – when there covered the Lote Tree that which covered [it]. The sight [of the Prophet] did not swerve, nor did it transgress [its limit]. He certainly saw of the greatest signs of his Lord.”
(Surah An-Najm, 53:13–18)

  • Significance: These verses describe the heavenly ascension (Al-Mi’raj), including the Prophet’s vision of Sidrat al-Muntaha (The Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary) and the divine signs he witnessed.

2. Hadith Related to Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

Hadith 1: The Gift of Salah (Prayer)

Narrated by Anas ibn Malik (RA):

“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: On the night of my Isra (Night Journey), fifty prayers were made obligatory upon me. I kept returning to my Lord, asking for a reduction until He said, ‘O Muhammad, they are five prayers every day and night, but each prayer counts as ten, so that makes fifty prayers.'”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 349; Sahih Muslim, 162)

  • Significance: This hadith highlights how the five daily prayers (Salah) were gifted during the Mi’raj, symbolizing the importance of prayer in Islam.

Hadith 2: The Journey to Masjid Al-Aqsa

Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA):

“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: I was brought the Buraq, a white animal, larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule. I mounted it, and it carried me to Masjid Al-Aqsa.”
(Sahih Muslim, 162a)

  • Significance: This hadith provides a vivid description of the Buraq and its role in the Night Journey (Al-Isra’) to Masjid Al-Aqsa.

Hadith 3: The Meeting with Prophets

Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA):

“The Prophet (ﷺ) said: I met Musa (AS) on the night of my Isra, and he asked me, ‘What has your Lord enjoined upon your followers?’ I said, ‘Fifty prayers.’ Musa (AS) said, ‘Go back to your Lord and ask for a reduction, for your followers will not be able to bear it.’ So I returned, and it was reduced to five prayers.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 7517)

  • Significance: This hadith highlights the encounter between Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Prophet Musa (AS), showing Prophet Musa’s concern for the Ummah and Allah’s mercy in reducing the prayer obligations.

Hadith 4: Faith and Abu Bakr (RA)

Narrated by Aisha (RA):

“When the Prophet (ﷺ) was taken for the Night Journey to Masjid Al-Aqsa, the people began to doubt him. Abu Bakr (RA) said: ‘If he said this, then he has spoken the truth.'”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 3598)

  • Significance: This hadith emphasizes Abu Bakr’s unwavering faith, earning him the title As-Siddiq (The Truthful).

Hadith 5: The Prophet’s Description of Heaven and Hell

Narrated by Anas ibn Malik (RA):

“During the Mi’raj, I passed by people who had fingernails made of copper, and they were scratching their faces and their chests. I asked, ‘O Jibreel, who are these people?’ He said, ‘These are the people who ate the flesh of others (gossiped) and attacked their honor.'”
(Abu Dawood, 4878)

  • Significance: This hadith serves as a stark warning against backbiting and gossiping, highlighting accountability in the afterlife.

Stories and Reflections from Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

The miraculous journey of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj is filled with inspiring stories and reflections that carry profound lessons for Muslims. These events are not just historical records but timeless guidance for faith, worship, and personal growth.

1. The Story of the Buraq: Trusting Allah’s Plan

  • The Event: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was given Buraq, a celestial creature, to travel from Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa. The creature was described as larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule, with incredible speed.
  • Reflection: Just as the Prophet trusted Allah (SWT) when he mounted the Buraq, Muslims are reminded to trust Allah’s plan even when situations seem extraordinary or difficult.

Lesson: Trust Allah in every journey of life, no matter how impossible it seems.

2. The Meeting with Prophets: Unity of the Divine Message

  • The Event: At Masjid Al-Aqsa, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) led all previous Prophets in prayer, including Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Musa (AS), Isa (AS), and others.
  • Reflection: This moment symbolizes the unity of all Prophets and the universal message of monotheism. It emphasizes the shared purpose of every Prophet: to guide humanity towards worshiping One Allah.

Lesson: Islam builds on the foundations of earlier revelations, uniting believers across time and nations.

3. The Gift of Salah: A Lifelong Connection with Allah

  • The Event: During the ascension (Mi’raj), Allah (SWT) initially commanded fifty daily prayers, later reduced to five daily prayers after Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) consulted Prophet Musa (AS).
  • Reflection: This exchange shows Allah’s mercy and understanding towards human limitations. Salah is a direct connection with Allah, serving as a spiritual lifeline.

Lesson: Prayer is not a burden but a gift—a moment of spiritual intimacy with Allah (SWT).

4. The Vision of Paradise and Hell: Actions Have Consequences

  • The Event: During his ascension, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was shown glimpses of Paradise and Hell. He saw the rewards for those who did good and the punishments for those who engaged in sinful acts like backbiting, neglecting Salah, and consuming interest.
  • Reflection: This vision serves as a vivid reminder of the reality of the Hereafter and the consequences of our actions in this world.

Lesson: Every action has a consequence, and accountability before Allah is inevitable.

5. The Reaction of Abu Bakr (RA): Faith Without Doubt

  • The Event: When the Prophet (PBUH) narrated the details of his journey to the Quraysh, many people mocked him. However, Abu Bakr (RA) immediately believed him without hesitation, earning the title As-Siddiq (The Truthful).
  • Reflection: Abu Bakr’s unwavering trust teaches Muslims about the importance of faith and conviction, even when faced with skepticism or ridicule.

Lesson: True faith means trusting Allah and His Messenger without hesitation.

6. The Sidrat al-Muntaha: The Final Boundary

  • The Event: At Sidrat al-Muntaha, a majestic Lote Tree marking the boundary beyond which no creation can pass, the Prophet (PBUH) experienced an intimate moment with Allah (SWT).
  • Reflection: This moment reflects the unparalleled honor and closeness bestowed upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Lesson: There are moments in worship where a believer can feel a deep closeness to Allah—seek those moments in Salah and Dua.

7. Spiritual Resilience in Hardship: Year of Sorrow

  • The Event: The journey of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj occurred during the Year of Sorrow, marked by the deaths of Khadijah (RA) and Abu Talib, and the rejection at Ta’if.
  • Reflection: Despite these immense trials, Allah blessed the Prophet with an experience of immense spiritual elevation.

Lesson: Hardships are often followed by divine relief and blessings; patience and trust in Allah bring ultimate success.

8. Allah’s Infinite Mercy: The Reduction of Salah

  • The Event: The original command of fifty daily prayers was reduced to five while keeping the reward of fifty.
  • Reflection: This exchange shows Allah’s mercy, compassion, and understanding of human limitations.

Lesson: Allah is always willing to ease our burdens if we turn to Him in humility and prayer.

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