Isra and Miraj

Isra and Miraj, two significant events in Islamic history, hold profound importance in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. These events, as described in the Quran and authentic Hadith, recount the miraculous night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to the heavens. The phrase “Isra and Miraj” refers to the Night Journey and Ascension, showcasing the unparalleled connection between the Prophet and Allah.

Isra – The Night Journey:

The journey began when the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) brought the celestial steed Buraq to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Mecca. The Prophet mounted Buraq and, accompanied by Angel Jibreel, embarked on a celestial journey. The Quran describes this extraordinary event in

Surah Al-Isra (17:1):

“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”

The “farthest mosque” is commonly interpreted as Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, emphasizing the sanctity of the city in Islam.

Miraj – The Ascension:

Following the Night Journey, the Miraj refers to Prophet Muhammad’s ascension through the heavens. This aspect of the journey is highlighted in the Quran as follows:

“For he certainly saw of the greatest signs of his Lord. Have you considered Al-Lat and Al-Uzza? And Manat, the third – the other one? Is the male for you and for Him the female? That, then, is an unjust division.”

Surah Al-Najm (53:13-18)

These verses underscore the Prophet’s witnessing of divine signs and reinforce the oneness of Allah.

Authentic Hadith on Isra and Miraj:

The Hadith literature provides further details about this miraculous journey. One such narration is found in Sahih al-Bukhari, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recounts the events, describing the encounters with other prophets and the breathtaking sights in each heaven.

Hadith on the Night Journey:

Narrated by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:”Then I was made to ascend to the lowest heaven, and asked for the gate to be opened, but it was asked, ‘Who is it?’ I said, ‘Muhammad.’ It was said, ‘Has he been called?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ When I reached the gate, it was said, ‘Who is it?’ I said, ‘Muhammad.’ It was said, ‘Has he been called?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ The gate was opened for me, and I saw Gabriel, who said, ‘This is your brother, Gabriel.'”

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 54, Hadith 429

Hadith on the Ascension:

Narrated by Anas bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him), Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:”Then the group of prophets came and I saw Moses, Jesus, and Abraham, and I was told about the other prophets between them and me. Then I was raised up to the second heaven, and Gabriel asked for the gate to be opened, but it was asked, ‘Who is it?’ Gabriel answered, ‘Gabriel.’ It was asked, ‘Who is accompanying you?’ Gabriel replied, ‘Muhammad.’ It was said, ‘Has he been called?’ Gabriel said, ‘Yes.’ When we reached over the second heaven, I saw Yahya (John) and Isa (Jesus) who were cousins. Gabriel said, ‘These are John and Jesus, so greet them.’ I greeted them and they returned the greeting saying, ‘Welcome, O Pious Brother and Pious Prophet!'”

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 54, Hadith 429

Conclusion:

Isra and Miraj stand as a testament to the Prophet Muhammad’s unique and honorable position in Islam. The events symbolize the Prophet’s closeness to Allah and serve as a source of inspiration and reflection for Muslims worldwide. The Night Journey and Ascension reinforce the importance of faith, prayer, and submission to the divine will, offering believers a spiritual journey that transcends the earthly realm.

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