The story of Isra and Miraj is one of the most inspiring events in Islamic history. It is a journey that takes us beyond the limits of human imagination. On this blessed night, Allah granted the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ a miracle unlike any other. The journey happened in two parts. The first part, Isra, was the night travel from Makkah to Jerusalem. The second part, Miraj, was the ascension through the heavens. Together, this journey showed the honor of the Prophet ﷺ and reminded believers of the greatness of Allah.
The Beginning of the Night Journey
The event of Isra began when the angel Jibreel came to the Prophet ﷺ in Makkah. The Prophet ﷺ was taken from the Kaaba to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem on a special creature called Buraq. This creature was faster than the eye could follow. In Jerusalem, the Prophet ﷺ led all the earlier prophets in prayer. This moment showed that Islam is the continuation of the same message given to previous prophets. It united the message of faith across time and nations.
The Ascension Through the Heavens
After Isra, the Prophet ﷺ was taken on the Miraj, the heavenly journey. Jibreel accompanied him as they rose through the seven heavens. In each heaven, the Prophet ﷺ met earlier prophets. He met Prophet Adam, Prophet Isa, Prophet Yusuf, Prophet Idris, Prophet Haroon, Prophet Musa, and Prophet Ibrahim. These meetings were filled with respect and honor, and they showed the connection of the Prophet ﷺ with the long chain of messengers before him.
The Gift of Prayer
The most important gift given during Isra and Miraj was the command of five daily prayers. At first, fifty prayers were ordered. But through the request of Prophet Musa and the mercy of Allah, the number was reduced to five, while the reward remained equal to fifty. This showed the kindness of Allah toward His servants and the importance of prayer in a Muslim’s life. Today, the daily prayers are the heart of worship, a direct link between the believer and Allah.
A Lesson in Faith and Trust
The story of Isra and Miraj also became a great test of faith. When the Prophet ﷺ told the people of Makkah about his journey, many found it hard to believe. They mocked and rejected the story. But Abu Bakr, the closest companion of the Prophet ﷺ, believed without hesitation. This is why he earned the title “As-Siddiq,” the truthful. His example teaches us to trust Allah and His Messenger ﷺ, even when things seem beyond human understanding.
The Symbol of Hope
Isra and Miraj happened during a very difficult time in the life of the Prophet ﷺ. He had lost his beloved wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib. Both were his greatest supporters. The people of Makkah increased their rejection of him. In this time of sadness, Allah gave him this miraculous journey as a source of comfort and strength. For Muslims today, it is a reminder that after hardship comes ease, and that Allah never leaves His servants alone in struggle.
The Importance of Jerusalem
Another key lesson from the Night Journey is the importance of Jerusalem. Al-Aqsa Mosque was the first qiblah (direction of prayer) before it was changed to the Kaaba in Makkah. The journey from Makkah to Jerusalem connected the sacred lands of Islam. It reminds Muslims that Jerusalem is a blessed place that holds deep spiritual meaning. Protecting and honoring it is part of our faith.
Lessons for Today’s Muslims
The event of Isra and Miraj is not just a story of the past. It carries lessons for every Muslim today. This teaches us the power of prayer, the value of faith, and the mercy of Allah. It shows that Islam is connected with all prophets and that the message of worshiping one God is the same across time. It also teaches us patience, hope, and trust in difficult times. By remembering this journey, we can strengthen our connection with Allah and follow the path of the Prophet ﷺ with greater love and dedication.
A Spiritual Reminder
The night of Isra and Miraj is remembered every year by Muslims around the world. It is a time to reflect, to pray, and to thank Allah for His mercy. This reminds us that the Prophet ﷺ was chosen for this honor, and that his example is the best guide for our lives. It is also a chance to renew our commitment to prayer, to truth, and to trust in Allah’s plan.
Conclusion
The story of Isra and Miraj is more than history. It is a living lesson of hope, faith, and the mercy of Allah. It shows the honor of the Prophet ﷺ and the gift of prayer that every Muslim holds dear. By learning about this journey, we deepen our love for the Prophet ﷺ and grow closer to Allah.
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