prophet muhammad journey to the seventh heaven

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Isra and Miraj: Story of the Prophet’s (S.A.W.) Miraculous Journey

Isra and Miraj is a very important and significant event for Muslims around the world. It is considered one of the most sacred of miracles of Allah and is a great source of inspiration and guidance for all of humanity.

When is Isra and Miraj 2023?

This year, Muslims around the world will commemorate the event on the night of Friday, February 17th, 2023 (in some countries, it will be on Saturday, February 18th, 2023).

Prophet’s (S.A.W.) Journey

Prophet’s (S.A.W.) miraculous journey of Miraj took place in two parts. First Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) went from Masjid Al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa and then he (S.A.W.) ascended to heaven by the will of Allah.  

(Ref: Surah Al-Isra 17:1)

Through ascension to the heavens, Prophet (S.A.W.) stopped by all seven layers of heaven and met Prophet Adam (A.S.) on the 1st heaven, Prophet Isa (A.S.) and Prophet Yahya (A.S.) on the 2nd, Prophet Yusuf (A.S.) on the 3rd, Prophet Idris (A.S.) on the 4th, Prophet Haroon (A.S.) on the 5th, Prophet Musa (A.S.) on the 6thand Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) on the 7th heaven. 

(Ref: Sahih Bukhari: 3207)

The Prophet (S.A.W.) was carried to Sidrat al-Muntaha (Large Lote-Tree that marks the end of Heaven). Sidrat Al-Muntaha is the limit beyond which no creation of Allah is allowed to cross. Jibrael (A.S.) stopped at this tree, but only Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) was allowed by Allah to pass this boundary.

After Prophet (S.A.W.) crossed Sidrat Al-Muntaha, he (S.A.W.) was then presented to the Divine Presence of Allah. Allah gave him three gifts during this blessed journey:

Ordination of Five daily Prayers (equal to the reward of 50 daily Prayers). (Sahih Bukhari: 7517)

Allah's promise to the Prophet (S.A.W.) that the sins of his Ummah will be forgiven except for those who died in shirk. (Sahih Muslim: 173)

Last Two Verses of Surah Al-Baqarah.

After completing this blessed journey, Prophet (S.A.W.) mounted Al-Buraq and returned to Makkah. The whole journey of Isra and Miraj took place in one night.

Should we Celebrate this Night?

Even though this journey has religious significance in Islam, neither the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) nor any of his Companions (R.A.) ever observed it. However, we can remember this historic event by praising Allah, seeking His favour, helping the needy, and carrying out the good deeds that Allah and His Messenger (S.A.W.) have taught us to do.

Overall, the Night Journey teaches us many important lessons about faith, prayer, unity, and patience. It reminds us of the importance of these values in our daily lives and our spiritual journey.

The Quran, written centuries ago, contains profound hints at future discoveries. It includes scientific facts that surpass the knowledge of anyone who lived in the 7th century. This serves as compelling evidence of the divine nature of the Quran.

This year, Nisf Shaban (Shab-e-Barat) will start after the sunset of Tuesday, March 7th, 2023.

Isra and Miraj (The Night Journey) is miraculous journey that Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) took in one night from Makkah to Bait al-Maqdas and then an ascension to the heavens.

We can learn many lessons from the life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) which include how to be honest, humble and resourceful in any situation that we face9.

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Al-Isra' wal-Mi'raj: The Story of the Ascension to the Skies

'He [saw] certainly saw some of his Lord’s greatest signs'.

[The Noble Qur’an, 53:18]

What is the Mi'raj?

You can read our blog post on the first half of the Prophet's miraculous night journey here.

We now turn our attention to the miraculous Ascension – Al-Mi'raj of the Prophet (saw). The word Al-Mi'raj is a noun of instrument in Arabic morphology, which literally means ‘an instrument you use to ascend’. The question is what did this divine instrument or ladder look like?

Let us mention a couple of descriptions we have for it from reliable Islamic sources:

The Prophet (saw), 'saw the wide-eyed maidens of Paradise at the left of the Rock [at the Dome of the Rock Masjid ] . He greeted them and they returned his greeting. Then he asked them something and they replied with an answer that cools the eyes. Then the Prophet (saw) was brought the ladder by which the spirits of the children of Adam (as) ascend. Creation never saw a more beautiful object. It had alternate stairs of silver and gold and came down from the Highest and Amplest Garden of Paradise, Jannat al-Firdaws. It was encrusted with pearls and surrounded with angels on its right and left'.  [The Prophet’s Night Journey and Heavenly Ascent by Sayyid Muhammad ibn Alawi al-Maliki]

The Messenger of Allah (saw) also said that, 'a ladder was brought to me finer than any I have ever seen. It was that to which the dying man looks when death approaches'. [The Life of Muhammad (saw) Ibn Ishaq]

Now let’s see what happened when the Prophet (saw) accompanied by Jibril (as) ascended into the layers of sky.

The First Sky

Allah ascended the Prophet (saw) from the Dome of the Rock through the skies, where he not only saw many miraculous sights and numerous angels, he also met the past Prophets (as). Along the way, he (saw) was greeted with excitement and delight, as his arrival had been much-anticipated.

It is hard to imagine how he (saw) must have felt upon meeting his brothers (as), all of whom had gone through trials and difficulties, as they met him with the warmth and love his own tribe had isolated him from. He was greeted with the words, 'Welcome O pious Prophet and pious brother!' (Bukhari). (Adam (as) and Ibrahim (as), however, welcomed him as a 'pious son').

The Messenger of Allah (saw) said: 'Then he ascended with us to the heaven [first layer of the sky and end of the known universe]. Jibril [as] then asked the (gate of heaven) to be opened (by knocking on one of its doors). [Bukhari]

It was said, "Who are you?" He said, "Jibril [as]".

It was said, "And who is with you?" He said, "Muhammad [saw]".

It was said, "Has he been sent for?" He said, "He has indeed been sent for".

And it (the door of the heaven) was opened for us and suddenly I was with (the Prophet) Adam [as]. Then he welcomed me and supplicated for good for me'. [Muslim]

(In other narrations it mentioned the angelic gatekeepers rejoiced at the arrival of the beloved Prophet (saw) and proclaimed, 'Welcome unto him! What an amazing arrival has come!'  [Muslim] and 'He is most welcome and amongst family!'  [Bukhari]).

In other narrations we gain more details of the meeting of the Prophet (saw) and the Prophet Adam (as):

'There we saw a man sitting with some people on his right and some on his left. When he looked towards his right, he laughed and when he looked toward his left he wept. Then he said, " Welcome O pious Prophet and pious son!"  (or in another narration, " Welcome you are amongst family, O my son! What an amazing son you are!"  [Bukhari]).

I asked Jibril [as], "Who is he?" He replied, "He is Adam [as] and the people on his right and left are the souls of his offspring. Those on his right are the people of Paradise and those on his left are the people of Hell and when he looks towards his right he laughs and when he looks towards his left, he weeps"'. [Bukhari]

The Second to Sixth Sky

Then the Prophet (saw) continued to ascend the layers of sky with Jibril (as). Again, permission was sought to enter, and the angelic guards were delighted and welcomed the Messenger of Allah (saw).

At the second sky, he met the maternal cousins, the Prophets Isa (as) and Yahya (as).

At the third sky, the Prophet (saw) met the Prophet Yusuf (as) whom he described as having 'been given half of (world) beauty' [Muslim]. The Messenger of Allah (saw) had himself been blessed with all beauty, ma sha' Allah!

At the fourth sky, the Prophet (saw) met the Prophet Idris (as) whose soul was taken there, and he is praised in the Qur’an: 'We raised him to a lofty position'. [The Noble Qur’an, 19:57]

At the fifth sky, he met the Prophet Harun (as); and in the sixth sky, he met Prophet Harun's younger brother, the Prophet Musa (as).

Some narrations mention that Musa (as) was seen crying and a voice was heard saying, 'What makes you cry?' He said, 'My Lord, this is a young man whom You have sent after me (as a Prophet) and his Ummah will enter Paradise in greater numbers than my Ummah '. [Muslim]

At each one of these levels, these Prophets (as) welcomed the Prophet (saw) and supplicated good for him saying, 'Welcome O pious Prophet and pious brother!'  [Bukhari]

The Seventh Sky

At the seventh sky, the Prophet (saw) met his greatest ancestor, the Prophet Ibrahim (as) who was 'reclining his back against al-Bait al-Ma‘mur. And there enter into it seventy thousand angels every day, never to return to it (again)'. [Muslim]

(Bait al-Ma'mur literally means 'the much-visited House'. It is the heavenly Ka‘bah directly above the one on earth).

Like Adam (as), Ibrahim (as) greeted the Prophet (saw) saying, 'Welcome O pious Prophet and pious son!'  [Bukhari]

In another narration, Ibrahim (as) conveyed his salaams to the Ummah of the Prophet (saw) and advised us that, 'Paradise has pure soil and delicious water, and that it is a flat treeless plain, and that its seeds are (saying), SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (All praise belongs to Allah), La ilaaha ill-Allah (There is no god but Allah), and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)'. [Tirmidhi]

The Lote Tree

The Prophet (saw) carried on his journey, reaching the Furthest Lote Tree. The Arabic word for this is Sidrah al-Muntaha [The Noble Qur’an, 53:14]. The Prophet (saw) described this vast tree in great detail!

• '[Its] leaves were like elephant ears and its fruit like big earthenware vessels'. [Muslim]
• 'Then when it was covered by the Command of Allah, it underwent such a change that none amongst the creation has the power to praise its beauty'. [Muslim]
• 'A rider will travel in the shade of one of its branches for a hundred years,’ or ‘a hundred riders will seek to shade themselves with its shade'. [Tirmidhi]
• The tree is surrounded with 'golden butterflies'. [Tirmidhi]
• He further said: 'many a colour had covered it which I do not know (i.e. the colours of this tree were indescribable)'. [Muslim]
• He also stated that, 'There terminates everything that ascends from the earth, and everything that descends from above'. [Tirmidhi]

SubhanAllah, the Prophet (saw) witnessed a truly amazing sign from Allah!

The Divine Meeting

At the end of this journey, the Prophet (saw) was brought into the Divine Presence, the ultimate source of strength and relief. It is impossible to imagine the beauty of this scene, or how loved, honoured and humbled the Prophet (saw) must have felt.

We do not know a great about what was privately discussed between Allah and His beloved (saw), with Allah simply stating, 'Then Allah revealed to His servant [saw] what He revealed' . [The Noble Qur’an, 53:10].

The Prophet (saw) mentioned, 'Then Allah revealed to me what he revealed to me and then He made obligatory for me fifty prayers every day and night'.  [Muslim]

It was here that Allah gave this Ummah the gift of compulsory Salah, a daily source of strength to Muslims because it gives us the opportunity to communicate with Allah and draw closer to Him - it is the believer's ascension! We know through the Prophet Musa’s (as) intervention and advice that fifty prayers were eventually reduced to five, but still rewarded as fifty, subhanAllah!

As we approach the anniversary of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi‘raj, let us take the time to deeply appreciate the gift of Salah and increase our voluntary prayers and night prayers.

Returning Home

Finally, the Prophet (saw) was taken back down to the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa and returned to Makkah on the Buraq.

As he was transported home, he saw various caravans heading towards Makkah, which he would later describe to the Quraish as proof that he really had made this miraculous journey. Allah even displayed Bait al-Maqdis to the Prophet (saw), while the Quraish were cross-examining him in the Hijr of the Ka‘bah [Bukhari]. The entire journey had taken place in a small portion of a night , and there were many who would mock the Prophet (saw) for making such a claim.

For the Muslims, however, the story was a source of wonder and hope, as it continues to be for us today. On this night, the best of creation (saw) was given the honour of travelling to various blessed places on earth, then ascending the levels of sky and being finally welcomed into the Divine Presence! All this to honour the beloved Prophet (saw) and 'to show him some of Our signs!' [The Noble Qur’an, 17:1]

Before you go…

This year, the 27th night of Rajab - which was divinely chosen for the miraculous Night Journey - will fall on Friday 17th February 2023 , at Maghrib. We have an INCREDIBLE Sadaqah Jariyah opportunity for you on this significant anniversary!

We’re illuminating the Dome of the Rock Masjid! Sitting majestically at the centre of the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa complex, it is believed to be the exact site where the Prophet (saw) was ascended into the heavens on Al-Isra wal-Mi’raj!

SubhanAllah, gifting light to Masjid Al-Aqsa - which includes the Dome of the Rock Masjid - carries the reward of praying there - worth 1,000 prayers!

This hadith shows the wisdom of the Prophet (saw) and the generosity of Allah! Obviously, not all Muslims will be able to pray in Masjid Al-Aqsa, not just because of the difficulties and cost of travel, but also because of various conflicts that have occurred around it throughout history. However, we have been granted a beautiful way to gain the same reward as praying there - sending some oil to light its lamps!

The modern equivalent of this is, of course, contributing to the cost of its electric lighting. And Allah has granted us the opportunity to illuminate the Dome of the Rock Masjid , alhamdulillah!

You can give this beautiful Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of yourself or a loved one. We urge you not to miss out on this chance to serve the site of Al-Isra wal-Mi’raj!

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The Prophet’s Ascension

In this verse of the Holy Quran, Allah[swt] has mentioned about the Prophets[saw] Ascension (MERAJ). On the night of 27th Rajab, Allah[swt] sent Angel Jibraeel to take the Prophet[saw] on a journey to the seven skies on BURAQ. This journey is called MERAJ.

On the night of 27th Rajab Angel Jibraeel came and woke the Prophet[saw] upon Allah[swt]’s command and conveyed Allah[swt]’s message. He[saw] perform ablution (Wudhu), came out of His house, ascend on the Buraq and first visited the Holy Kaaba and from there to the Aqsa Mosque. Where 124,000, all the messengers of Allah[swt] prayed behind the Prophet[saw]. From Aqsa Mosque they went towards the sky. They passed all the seven steps of the skies and reached the place called “SIDRAT-UL-MUNTAHA”. Then Angel Jibraeel told the Prophet[saw] that he could not accompany him any further. If he took even a step forward he would burn. The Prophet[saw] travelled alone until the Burag reached the destination and stopped.

Then an enlighted platform “RAF RAF” came and the prophet[saw] sat on it and reached a place called “QAAB-A-QAUSAIN-O-ADNA”. Here he[saw] also saw heaven and hell. He[saw] visited the different levels of Heaven and saw the different kinds of punishments given to the wrong doers in hell. On his[saw] return from MERAJ Allah[swt] made prayers five times a day obligatory on all the prophet’s[saw] followers.

The night of 27th Rajab is an auspicious night where the muslims spend the whole night offering prayers and fast during the day. Fasting on this day has many rewards according to one Riwayat, fasting on 27th Rajab is equivalent to fasting for 70 years.

Events In Rajab

Hadhrat Bilal Ibn Haritha  brought a congregation of four hundred men named Banu Muzeena in the presence of the holy prophet.

They all embraced Islam, in the year 5 A.H

The Battle of tabook took place in the year 9 A.H. This was the last battle which the Holy prophet participated in.

Imam Abu Hanifa [ranhu] passed away on the 15th of Rajab 150 A.H

Imam Shafi’ee [ranhu] passed away on the 14th Rajab 204 A.H

Imam Muslim [ranhu] passed away on the 24th of Rajab 261 A.H

Imam Nawawee [ranhu] passed away on teh 14th of Rajab 677 A.H

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The Prophet’s Night Journey and Ascension

Shaykh muhammad hisham kabbani.

سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي أَسْرَى بِعَبْدِهِ لَيْلاً مِّنَ الْمَسْجِدِ الْحَرَامِ إِلَى الْمَسْجِدِ الأَقْصَى الَّذِي بَارَكْنَا حَوْلَهُ لِنُرِيَهُ مِنْ آيَاتِنَا إِنَّهُ هُوَ السَّمِيعُ البَصِيرُ

17:1: “Praise be to God Who has enraptured His servant by night from the Sacred mosque (Mecca) to the Farthest Mosque (Jerusalem).”

33:56: “Lo! God and His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe; ask blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.”

53: 1-18: “By the star when it setteth, Your companion erreth not, nor is deceived: Nor doth he speak of his own desire. It is naught save an inspiration that is inspired, Which one of mighty powers hath taught him, One vigorous; and he grew clear to view When he was on the uppermost horizon. Then he drew near and came down Till he was distant two bows’ length or even nearer, And He revealed unto His slave that which He revealed. The heart lied not in seeing what it saw. Will ye then dispute with him concerning what he seeth? And verily he saw him yet another time By the lote-tree of the utmost boundary, Nigh unto which is the Garden of Abode. When that which shroudeth did enshroud the lote-tree, The eye turned not aside nor yet was overbold. Verily he saw one of the greater revelations of his Lord.

Then He said to Gabriel: “Increase the light of the moon with the light of the sun, and increase the light of the stars with the light of the moon.” Gabriel asked: “O God, has the Day of Resurrection dawned?” God said: “No, but tonight We are calling to Our presence the Prophet, the last Messenger who came after Jesus to reveal to him a secret that pertains to Us.” Gabriel said: “O God, what is that secret?” God said: “O Gabriel, the secret of kings cannot be given to the servants. Go with My order and don’t ask.”

The Buraq (Heavenly Beast)

The Buraq had the body of a horse but the face of a human being, with big black eyes and soft ears. His color was that of a peacock whose plumage was set with red rubies and corals, on which sat a white head of musk on a neck of amber. His ears and shoulders were of pure white pearls attached with golden chains, each chain decorated with glittering jewels. His saddle was made of silk lined with silver and gold threads. His back was covered with green emerald and his halter was pure peridot.

The speed of the Buraq is according to his sight. His legs reach wherever his eyes can see. Gabriel said: “O Prophet, this night is your night, and your turn has come to shine in the sky of creation. You are the sun of ancient and recent knowledges, you are the moonlight of the beauties of the worlds, the happiness of creation and the adornment of the lands of human beings and angels. You are the cup of love from the river of milk and honey. The River of Kawthar in Paradise overflows in anticipation of seeing you. O Joy of all creation, O Pride of Paradise, the tables are ready and the Palaces of heaven are waiting for your coming!”

– “O Muhammad, I came with a message from your Lord to give you a secret.”

– “What does the Lord of Generosity want to do with me?”

– “He wants to shower you with His mercy and all human beings that accept you.”

– “Give me a moment to prepare myself.”

– “I brought you water of paradise and a turban with a message enscribed: ‘Muhammad the servant of God; Muhammad the prophet of God; Muhammad the beloved of God; Muhammad the Friend of God.'”

– “O Gabriel, tell me more about that turban.”

– “God created a turban from his light and he entrusted it to Ridwan, the angel-custodian of Paradise, and the praising of Ridwan’s host of angels belonged to the owner of that turban before heaven and earth were created. Tonight, when the order came for your visit, Ridwan took the turban from Paradise, and all forty thousand angels said with him: ‘O our Lord, you have ordered us from time immemorial to praise the owner of that turban. Honor us tonight with his sight and permit us to walk before him.’ And God granted them what they asked. Then God ordered me, Gabriel, to hand Michael the precious jar of the pure water of Salsabil, and Michael to give to Azra’il, and Azra’il to give it to Israfil, then Israfil to Ridwan, then Ridwan sent that water another time to the Highest Paradise: Jannat al-Firdaws, where all the beautiful maiden-angels washed their faces with that water and shone even more brightly. Then they sent back that water to me, and I am giving it to you.”

The Journey to the Far-Distant Mosque

In the blink of an eye they again passed through space until they stopped a second time, and Gabriel told the Prophet to come down and pray.

– “This is Sinai, where Moses used to speak with God.”

Then the Buraq moved in space another time until he reached a third place where Gabriel ordered him to pray.

– “And now, where are we, O Gabriel?”

– “You are in Bethlehem, where Jesus was born and from where he spread the message of the King of heavens and of the earth.”

Then another angel appeared to him and offered him three cups to drink: one of water, one of milk, and one of wine. He took the cup of milk and drank, and Gabriel said: “You have chosen the cup of fitra: innocence.” Then a maiden-angel appeared and offered the Prophet three suits of cloth, one green, one white, and one black. He took the first two. Gabriel said: “White is the color of believers and green is the color of Paradise. All of your followers are going to be believers in this world and all are going to enter Paradise in the next.”

The Rock from which the Prophet (s) Ascended © 1992 Said Nuseibeh Photography

Adam spoke saying:

Then Noah said:

Then Abraham said:

And Moses said:

And David said:

And Solomon said:

And Jesus said:

And Gabriel said:

The Ascent – al-Mi’raj

Another voice came from an angel called Ishmael, saying:

The Seven Gardens of Paradise and The Ultimate Ascent

The first paradise, the second paradise, the third paradise, the fourth paradise, the fifth paradise, the sixth paradise, the seventh paradise, the furthermost lote-tree.

Source: Angels Unveiled .

[…] 0.0.0.0.1 The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem © 1992 Said Nuseibeh Photography […]

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Isra Miraj: The Night Journey Of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Isra Miraj is one of the most notable events in the religious history of Islam, in which Isra and Miraj are two chapters of the night journey taken by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) around the year 621. Certain events that took place during Isra and Miraj are explained in brief in the Quran.

The Story of Isra and Miraj

In Isra – the first part of the night , Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) journey began when he was in the Great Mosque in Makkah where angel Jibreel and angel Mikal came to him and brought Buraq (a creature in Islamic tradition said to be a transport for certain prophets). The Prophet travelled to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Buraq within a second. Anas Ibn Malik narrates that angel Jibreel offered Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) a glass of milk and a glass of wine, setting eyes on what he would choose. The Prophet drank milk which resulted in passing the special test as he chose the drink that was healthy and pure for him rather than the one that is prohibited on earth.

In Miraj, the second part of the Journey , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to seven stages of heaven with the angel Jibreel. In each stage, the Prophet met and spoke to different prophets. At the first stage, he met Adam who is described as a tall and handsome man with long hair by Ibn Ishaq. In the second stage, he met Yahya (John the Baptist) and Isa (Jesus) ; after that he met Yusuf (Joseph) in the third stage who is described to be winsome like the moon. Then the Prophet met Idris (Adris) in the fourth stage, and after that Harun (Aaron) in the fifth stage who was described as the most beautiful man that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encountered. In the sixth stage, he met Musa (Moses) who is described to be distinctive from other prophets. Lastly, he met Ibrahim (Abraham) in the seventh stage who resembled Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) pointing up to be his father who was seen leaning on the lote tree known as Sidrat-Al-Muntaha.

Suggested Read: Life After Death In Islam: The Concept And The 14 Stages Of Afterlife

What is Sidrat-Al-Muntaha?

It is a huge Sidr tree as well as the end of the seventh heaven. According to Islamic beliefs, this is the boundary no one ever passed except Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) along with angel Jibreel. This is where Allah told Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that Muslim believers were to enrol in prayers 50 times a day. The Prophet accepted the offer but as he was going back to the earth, he met Prophet Moses who advised that 50 prayers were too much for a day. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) went back to Allah and requested to reduce 50 prayers as it was too much. Allah reduced 5 prayers and made it 45 prayers a day. But according to Prophet Moses, it was still too much. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) took nine trips between Moses and Almighty Allah and after that, it was finally reduced to 5 times prayers a day. Prophet Moses continued to ask for the reduction in numbers, but Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that he was too guilt-ridden. Moreover, he is grateful for 5 prayers a day.

Suggested Read: 4 Types Of Prayers In Islam: Fard, Wajib, Sunnah, And Nafl

What is Lailat al Miraj?

Celebrated on the 27th of Rajab, Lailat-Al-Miraj is a Muslim holiday in the event of Isra and Miraj. It is also known as Mehraj-Ul-Alam and Shab-e-Miraj . Lailat-Al-Miraj meaning and history recognize it as the day when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to all the seven stages of heaven. It is believed that this was the day when an angel visited and Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) chest was opened and it was purified with Zamzam water . Later his heart was filled with sagacity and belief. The day is celebrated differently by various Muslim countries. Most Muslims do not fast on this day since the exact day is not known. Food and treats are served after Salah (prayers performed by the Muslims).

How to celebrate Lailat al Miraj?

Lailat al Miraj is the day when Muslims remember the holy night of Isra Miraj. It is marked by congregation prayers in mosques. Prayers can be performed at home as well, followed by celebration meals. Some Muslims also light candles to mark this special day. At home, elders of the family share the story of Isra and Miraj with the young to ensure that the legend as well as the tradition is passed on to the generations to come. Some people also recite night time prayers for Shab-e-Miraj. Fasting on Lailatul-Miraj is optional but not common. It is said that if someone fasts on this day, they will be safe from Qabr ka Azab, which means the azab of the grave. They will also be safe from Dozakh, or the fire of hell. Hence, Huzur Sallalahu Alaihi Wa Salam recommended fasting on the two days of Shab E Meraj.

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Spiritual Experience

Isra and Mi’raj represent a profound spiritual experience for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It consists of two parts: the night journey (Isra) and the ascension (Mi’raj).

The Isra marked the physical journey of the Prophet from Mecca to Jerusalem, highlighting his unique position as Allah’s chosen messenger.

The Mi’raj signifies the ascension through the heavens, where the Prophet met various prophets and ultimately stood in the presence of Allah.

This spiritual journey reinforced the Prophet’s mission, emphasizing the significance of his role as a bridge between humanity and the divine.

Lessons and Teachings

Isra and Mi’raj offer several important lessons and teachings for Muslims:

Faith and Belief: These events reinforce the importance of unwavering faith and belief in the unseen, as the journey involves supernatural elements.

Spiritual Ascent: They symbolize the concept of spiritual ascent and the potential for personal growth and closeness to Allah through devotion and worship.

Prophetic Mission: Isra and Mi’raj underscore the role of Prophet Muhammad as the final messenger and his unique connection with Allah.

Prayer and Worship: The night is a reminder of the significance of prayer and worship in the life of a Muslim.

Commemoration and Celebration

The night of Isra and Mi’raj is commemorated by Muslims on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. Muslims may engage in various activities to commemorate this event, including:

Night Prayers (Qiyam-ul-Layl): Many gather at mosques for special night prayers, recitation of Quranic verses, and supplication.

Reflection and Remembrance: Muslims take time for introspection, seeking to strengthen their faith and connection with Allah.

Recitation of Quran: It is common to recite and reflect upon Quranic verses that pertain to the themes of faith, the Prophet’s mission, and spiritual growth.

Commemorating Isra and Mi’raj is a time for spiritual rejuvenation and an opportunity to draw closer to Allah through prayer and reflection. It serves as a reminder of the Prophet’s extraordinary journey and the enduring lessons it imparts.

Isra Miraj Hadith

Anas ibn Malik reported: Fifty prayers were obligated upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, when he was taken on his night journey. Then, it was reduced until it was set at five and an announcement was made, “O Muhammad, My word is never changed, so these five prayers will be counted as fifty.”

Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 213

Ibn Mas’ud reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “I met Abraham on the night of my Ascension and he said: O Muhammad, greet your nation with peace from me. Tell them Paradise has pure soil and delicious water, that it is a level plain and its plants grow with declarations of the glory of Allah, the praise of Allah, the oneness of Allah, and the greatness of Allah.”

Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 3462

Abu Huraira reported: On the night of the Ascension, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was presented with two vessels, one full of wine and the other full of milk. The Prophet looked at them both and he chose the vessel full of milk. The Angel Gabriel, upon him be peace, said, “All praise is due to Allah who has guided you to that which is natural, for had you selected the wine your nation would have been led astray.”

Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 4432, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 168

Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “I passed by Moses during my night journey near the red mound; he was praying in his grave.”

Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2375

Malik ibn Sa’sa’ah reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, told them about his Night Journey, saying, “We ascended until we reached the second heaven where Gabriel asked for the gate to be opened, but it was said: Who is it? Gabriel said: I am Gabriel. It was said: Who is with you? Gabriel said: It is Muhammad. It was said: Has he been called? Gabriel said yes. When we reached beyond the second heaven, I saw John and Jesus who are cousins. Gabriel said: These are John and Jesus, so greet them with peace. I greeted them with peace and they returned my greeting, saying: Welcome, O righteous brother and prophet.”

Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 3247, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 164

Isra Miraj is one of the key events in the religious history of Islam. Lailat-Al-Miraj is an important day for Muslims and is observed differently. And the fact that it is explained in such detail in the hadiths makes it an important day for Muslims around the world.

Isra Miraj FAQs

What is the meaning of the word isra.

The word Isra is an indirect Quranic name for girls which means Night Journey. In the history of Islam, it refers to the journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from the Great Mosque in Makkah to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalen within a second.

What is the meaning of the word Miraj?

The word is from Arabic, which means Ladder. Its religious significance comes from the holy journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to the seven stages of heaven along with the angel Jibreel.

What is Shab-e-Miraj?

Shab-e-Miraj is another name for Lailat-Al-Miraj, just like Mehraj-Ul-Alam. It is Muslim holiday observed on the 27th of Rajab in the Islamic calendar each year. It is an important event that marks the day when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended through all the seven stages of heaven to reach Sidrat Al Muntaha.

From where did the Night Journey start?

The Prophet’s night journey of Isra started from Mecca - the holiest city in Islam.

When did Isra and Miraj take place?

Though the exact date of Isra Miraj is unknown, a majority of Islamic scholars believe that it is observed on the 27th day of Rajab.

What is the difference between Isra and Miraj?

Isra is the journey that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) conducted from Al Haram Mosque in Makkah to Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Whereas, Miraj is the ascension of the Prophet from Jerusalem to Heavens.

How long did the journey of Isra and Miraj last?

The real number of days the journey lasted is unknown as the focus is given more on the miraculous nature of the journey rather than its duration.

What is Isra and Miraj, and what do the terms mean?

Isra is the journey that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) took from Makkah to Jerusalem. While Miraj is the ascension of the Prophet from Jerusalem to Heaven.

The event of Isra and Miraj is not mentioned in the Quran. However, there are many hadiths relating to the journey.

How is the Isra and Miraj event celebrated or commemorated by Muslims?

Muslims gather at the mosque and read Quranic verses while reflecting on their lives on the night of Isra and Miraj.

Are there any lessons or teachings that Muslims derive from the Isra and Miraj story?

Yes the story highlights and tells us about the importance of faith and belief, spiritual ascent that we all can go through, mission of the Prophet, and prayers.

Dr Omar Ayoub

Dr. Omar Ayoub is a tech enthusiast and a part time researcher and accounts authorship of several international publications. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from USA and has an experience of more than 10 years in Saudi Arabia working in tourism, hospitality, education, technology and retail sector. His interests include traveling, writing, and exploring trending technologies.

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The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 3 of 6): The Ascension

Description: the prophet muhammad’s journey through the heavens..

• By Aisha Stacey (© 2008 IslamReligion.com)
• Published on 09 Jun 2008
• Last modified on 13 Jul 2008
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In the English language, we generally use the word heaven to mean the spiritual plane of eternal happiness, the reward for a righteous life and the opposite of hell, the place of eternal punishment.  However, this was not always the case; the word heaven comes from the Old English word heofon, [1]  used to denote the sky, which is the area above the earth where the celestial bodies are.  Eventually, heaven lost its original meaning and came to imply Paradise.  In Arabic, however, there have always been two separate words used, sama and jennah .  The word sama is used for the skies above us, and they are part of the temporary world which will be destroyed on the Day of Judgement.  The word jennah , however, denotes Paradise, the land of eternal bliss, the permanent home of the righteous believers, and the opposite of Hell.

“Then He completed and finished from their creation as seven heavens in two Days and He made in each heaven its affair.  And We adorned the nearest heaven with light sources to be an adornment, as well as to guard.  Such is the Decree of Him the All-Mighty, the All-Knower.” (Quran 41:12)

“Their Lord gives them glad tidings of a Mercy from Him, and that He is pleased, and of Gardens ( jennah ) for them wherein are everlasting delights.  They will dwell therein forever.  Verily, with God is a great reward.” (Quran 9:21-22)

The Wonders of God

Prophet Muhammad ascended into the heavens from the rock now housed in the familiar golden dome that has become the symbol for Jerusalem.  This is a journey that no other human had ever made or has made since.  It demonstrates God’s ability to bring the seemingly impossible into being.  Here, the concepts of time and space as we know them do not apply, and it is beyond our human capabilities to understand the true omnipotence of God.  In his sayings and traditions, Prophet Muhammad described the size of the heavens; the first heaven, as compared to the second, is similar to a small ring in the desert, and he continued this narrative until he described the sixth heaven as being the size of a ring in the desert compared to the seventh heaven.  The magnitude of this is unimaginable.  Our earth, and what we call the universe, is contained within the first heaven.  Even with the scientific knowledge of the 21 st century, we have no idea how big this is, how far the universe extends, or what wonders it contains.

Prophet Muhammad travelled with the Angel Gabriel up into the heights of the heavens.  Together they came to the gate of the first heaven, where Angel Gabriel sought permission to enter.  The gatekeepers asked, “Who is it?”  to which Gabriel replied, “It is I, Gabriel”.  The gatekeepers then asked who was accompanying him; when they were told it was Muhammad, they asked if he had been given his mission to guide all of mankind to the worship of One God.  Angel Gabriel answered in the affirmative, so the angels welcomed Prophet Muhammad, called his arrival a pleasure, and opened the gate.

Greeting the Prophets

Prophet Muhammad tells us that he saw his father Adam, the father of all of mankind.  He greeted him with the greeting of all Muslims, - Assalamu alaikum (may peace be upon you).  Adam returned the greeting and expressed his faith in Muhammad’s prophethood.  He called him his pure son, the pure prophet.  Imagine the pleasure that this meeting must have given to both men.  After thousands of years, Adam was able to see his son Muhammad, the greatest of his descendents.  Muhammad was able to look into the eyes of the father of mankind.  The wonders however were only just beginning.  Angel Gabriel and Prophet Muhammad then ascended to the second heaven.

At the gate, Angel Gabriel again sought permission to enter.  When the gatekeepers learned Prophet Muhammad had been given his mission and was trying to enter, they welcomed him and opened the gate.  There Prophet Muhammad saw the two cousins, Prophet John (known in Christian traditions as the Baptist ) and the Messenger of God, Prophet Jesus;  Prophet Muhammad exchanged greetings with them.

Prophet Muhammad and Angel Gabriel ascended once more to the gates of the third heaven.  At each gate, the same exchange took place.  When the gatekeepers had established that it was Angel Gabriel in the company of Prophet Muhammad, who had indeed been given his mission, they gave permission to enter.  Here, in the third heaven, Prophet Muhammad met Joseph and described him as an embodiment of half of all beauty.

As Prophet Muhammad met the Prophets in each heaven, he exchanged greetings with them, and this was always Assalamu alaikum, the greeting of peace used by all those in submission to the One True God.  In the fourth heaven, Prophet Muhammad met Prophet Idris, whom God described in Quran (19:57) as being elevated to a very high level.  In the fifth heaven, he met Prophet Aaron, the brother of Moses.  At each meeting, the Prophets expressed their faith in Muhammad’s prophethood.  In the sixth heaven, Prophet Muhammad met Moses.

Whenever Prophet Moses is mentioned in the Quran or in the narrations of Prophet Muhammad, we know that something important is about to be described.  After the two Prophets had exchanged greetings and Prophet Moses had expressed his faith in Muhammad’s prophethood, Moses started to weep.  When he was asked why, he replied: “A young man has come after me, and more of his followers will enter paradise then my followers”.

Until the advent of Islam, Prophet Moses had had the largest following of any Prophet.  Moses cried, and from this, we can understand that there was a type of rivalry between the Prophets; but it was not a competition filled with jealousy or envy. Rather, it was filled with compassion.  As we move further into the journey, we will see the love and compassion Prophet Moses had for Muhammad and his followers.  Prophet Muhammad and Angel Gabriel then ascended into the seventh heaven.

[1] Webster’s Online dictionary.

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The Night Journey – Why Exclusively For Prophet Muhammad?

Sunshine follows the rain.

Very often in life we go through periods of trial or great sadness, only to look back on them later and see that they were followed by great happiness or periods of growth.

There is a saying in English that “sunshine follows the rain”.

The Night Journey - A Journey Like No Other (Indepth)

In the tenth year after the first revelation of the Quran, Prophet Muhammad suffered greatly. First of all, his uncle Abu Talib died. He had loved the Prophet dearly and had protected him from the attacks and the ridicule of the Quraish.

To Muhammad , it was a very severe blow.

Then another tragedy followed. His beloved wife, Khadijah died. Muhammad was grief stricken at such a loss.

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It was after both of these events that Allah Almighty granted His Prophet an extraordinary favor. Out of the darkness of loss, Muhammad was given a great joy and a great confirmation of his role as Messenger.

In the Quran we read what means:

  Glory to Allah who did take His Servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Furthest Mosque whose precincts We did bless, in order that We might show him some of Our Signs. For Allah hears and sees all things.  ( 17:1 )

In Arabic we call this al-Isra’ and al-Miraj (The Night Journey and Ascension). It is one of the most extraordinary events to have happened.

Allah took Prophet Muhammad on a night journey from the Ka’bah in Makkah to Jerusalem and then led him through the seven heavens almost to the very throne of Allah Himself.

Muslims celebrate this blessed favor on the 27th night of the month of Rajab .

It began when the Angel Jibreel ( Gabriel ) descended and woke Muhammad from sleep with Buraq , an animal which could reach the farthest horizon in just one stride.

They traveled to the mosque in Jerusalem and Muhammad tethered the animal outside the mosque. Muhammad then entered the mosque to find assembled there all the former prophets who had ever lived, and he led them in prayer. What a moment of special honor, that Muhammad should stand in front of such an assembly and lead them.

The Ascension

Take time to ponder on god's names and attributes.

Jibreel then led him from the place we now call the Dome of the Rock and they began to ascend through the seven heavens, encountering former prophets along the way.

In the first level of heaven, Muhammad met Prophet Adam , who greeted him with As-salamu alaykum . Muhammad replied Wa alaykum as-salam and Adam confirmed that Muhammad was indeed the Messenger of Allah. He also looked to his right and smiled and then looked to his left and wept. Those on his right were the believers and those who caused him to weep were the unbelievers.

They then moved on to the second level of heaven, where Jibreel asked for the door to be opened and met prophets Yahya (John the Baptist) and his cousin Jesus who greeted them. Muhammad once again returned their greeting and they confirmed that he was the Messenger of Allah.

On the third level Muhammad met Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) who greeted him.

On the fourth level he met Prophet Idris who greeted him.

On the fifth level of heaven he met Harun (Aaron) who greeted him, the brother of Musa (Moses). He returned their greetings and all three Prophets confirmed that Muhammad was the Messenger of Allah.

On the sixth level of heaven Muhammad met Prophet Moses who greeted him with a sign of peace and testified that he was the Messenger of Allah. After this, Moses began to weep. He said that he was sad because a younger man had been commissioned as a prophet after him and that man’s followers would enter heaven in greater numbers than his own.

Fear or Love God? How to Balance Between the Two?

When Muhammad reached the seventh heaven he met Prophet Abraham, who declared that Muhammad was the Messenger of Allah. Abraham was resting against Al-Bayt Al-Mamur , a House of Worship around which circumambulate seventy thousand different angels every day.

After this, Muhammad reached the most beautiful tree in heaven: Sidrat Al-Muntaha , whose leaves were the size of elephants’ ears and which was covered by golden moths.

In the Presence of God

The final part of this extraordinary revelation was the greatest of all. No man can look upon the face of Allah Almighty, since He is so great and beyond our comprehension, but Muhammad was taken to within a very close distance to the throne of Allah Himself.

Allah Almighty informed His servant that it was now obligatory on all Muslims to perform prayers fifty times a day. After this, Muhammad was led away by Jibreel, no doubt staggered by all that had been revealed to him.

As he was being led away, the Prophet was stopped by Moses, who asked what he had been told by Allah.

When Moses was told about the obligation to perform fifty prayers, he said that this was too much and was beyond the capacity of any man, so Muhammad should go back and ask that the number of prayers be made less.

Prophet Muhammad returned to the throne of Allah and asked if the number of prayers could be made less. Allah granted his request and said that the number of prayers obligatory each day should be ten. Moses again said that this was too many and urged Muhammad to return and ask that the obligation be made less.

This time, Allah Almighty reduced the number of obligatory prayers to five each day. Upon seeing Moses again, Moses urged him to ask that the obligation be lightened even more, since the Children of Israel were unable to fulfill their obligations.

Prophet Muhammad declared that he felt ashamed to ask more from Allah. At that moment, he heard a voice declares:

I have enforced My obligation and made it light for My servants. He who prays these five prayers will be rewarded as if he had prayed fifty. What I decree cannot be changed.

The Return Home

How can we forgive like prophet muhammad.

With this the Night Journey and Ascension were over. Muhammad returned to Makkah the next morning and narrated all that had happened to him. When some of the Quraish heard what he said they laughed out loud, calling him a madman.

Those who had visited Jerusalem asked him to describe it, trying to catch him out, but he was able to describe the place perfectly. He was able to tell them of a caravan which he had seen traveling from Jerusalem to Makkah, with exact details.

The very same caravan arrived in Makkah when he said it would, but even this was not enough to persuade those who refused to believe.

For ourselves, we can take the words of Abu Bakr as an explanation of what had happened.

“If he said so, it must be true.”

These words of total trust in Prophet Muhammad earned Abu Bakr the title As-Siddiq , one who believes. It is enough for us, too, to accept from our Prophet what he tells us to be true. If only we were as prompt in listening to what he tells us.

Let us rejoice that we have been given the gift of five prayers each day, and that we receive the reward of praying fifty prayers if we perform them well.

And let us resolve to listen attentively to whatever our Prophet says. If he said so, it must be true.

(From Discovering Islam’s archive )

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Home » Hanafi Fiqh » Muftisays.com » Was Prophet Muhammad’s ascension spiritual or physical?

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Was Prophet Muhammad’s ascension spiritual or physical?

Was Prophet Muhammed’s SAW ascension to the heavens a spiritual or physical trip. Please quote quranic ayats or ahadeeth

This answer was collected from MuftiSays.com , based in London (UK). It is one of the fruits of Darul Uloom London . Many ‘ulama are involved in answering the Q&A on the site, including: Shaikul Hadeeth Mufti Umar Farooq Sahib, Mufti Saifur Rahman Sahib, Mufti Abdullah Patel Sahib, Maulana Qamruz Zaman Sahib, Mufti Abu Bakr Karolia Sahib.

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