The Night Journey and the significance of Isra and Miraj for Muslims worldwide
![The Dome of the Rock, in the Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound [jennifer.stahn / Flickr]](http://i0.wp.com/www.ukc4c.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/37103785325_48612c2c5b_k-2.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=95&strip=all&ssl=1)
Isra and Miraj, the miraculous Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is one of Islamic history’s most profound and spiritually significant events. This sacred journey is a powerful reminder of Allah’s mercy, the importance of prayer, and the boundless nature of divine connection.
Isra and Miraj are observed with devotion, reflection, and prayers. Muslims worldwide recount the details of this miraculous journey, recite the Quran, and offer extra acts of worship, such as night prayers (Tahajjud) and giving to charity.
The Night Journey is marked on the 27th of Rajab (on the Hijri calendar), which is expected to fall on the night of January 27, 2025.
Let’s take a look at why this day is so significant to Muslims.
The journey of Isra and Miraj
The events of Isra and Miraj occurred in a single night and are narrated in the Quran and Hadith. It is believed to have occurred during a period of deep sorrow for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) following the loss of his beloved wife, Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her) and his uncle Abu Talib.
- Isra – The Night Journey:
The journey began in Makkah, where the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) with Buraq, a celestial steed. The Prophet was transported from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, a place of immense spiritual significance and Muslims’ first Qiblah (direction of prayer).At Masjid al-Aqsa, the Prophet (peace be upon him) led all the prophets in prayer, symbolising the continuity of divine guidance and unity of all Abrahamic faiths. - Miraj – The Ascension to the Heavens:
From Jerusalem, the Prophet (peace be upon him) ascended through the seven heavens. In each heaven, he met various prophets, including Adam, Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Ibrahim (Abraham) (peace be upon them all). The journey culminated at Sidrat al-Muntaha, a divine realm beyond which no creation has ever passed.During this ascension, Allah gave the Muslim Ummah five daily prayers (Salah). Initially fifty, the number was mercifully reduced to five, and the reward was equivalent to fifty prayers.
Lessons and reflections
The Isra and Miraj carry profound lessons for Muslims worldwide:
- Faith in Allah’s Plan: The miraculous nature of this journey reminds believers of Allah’s limitless power and mercy, urging them to maintain steadfast faith during trials.
- The centrality of Salah: The establishment of daily prayers underscores their importance as a direct connection between the believer and Allah. Salah is not just a ritual but a spiritual ascension for Muslims daily.
- Unity of Prophets and Messages: The gathering of prophets at Masjid al-Aqsa highlights the shared message of monotheism and righteousness across all divinely revealed religions.
- Spiritual Connection: Isra and Miraj remind us that Allah’s guidance is ever-present for those who seek it sincerely despite earthly challenges.
Masjid al-Aqsa: A place of enduring significance
Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem remains a focal point of spiritual and historical importance in Islam.
Among other significant events, such as being a place where Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon) built his place of worship or where Maryam, mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus) took shelter, Al Aqsa is revered as the site of the Prophet’s ascension and revelation of the five daily prayers for Muslims.
In Islamic tradition, it is believed that every civilisation and every people throughout the ages received at least one prophet from Allah. During this Night Journey, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) led the salah of these thousands of prophets, further signifying the importance of the Al-Aqsa mosque compound to Muslims worldwide.
The Dome of the Rock – the golden-domed mosque built on top of the “rock” inside the Al-Aqsa mosque compound – is said to be the place where the Prophet Muhammed performed his ablution (wudu) before leading the prayer of all prophets.
A timeless message
Isra and Miraj offer timeless guidance for humanity, reminding us of the importance of perseverance, trust in Allah’s wisdom, and prayer’s central role in nurturing the soul. As we reflect on this miraculous journey, let us embrace its lessons and deepen our commitment to a life of devotion and gratitude.
May the story of Isra and Miraj continue to inspire us to draw closer to Allah, uphold righteousness, and seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives.
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