The revered night commemorating the miraculous journey of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), known as Lailat al Miraj, is also widely referred to as Shab-e-Miraj. This profound spiritual voyage, celebrated by Muslims worldwide, marks two distinct yet interconnected events: the Isra' (the Night Journey) and the Miraj (the Ascension).

Understanding Isra' and Miraj

Lailat al Miraj, typically observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab, is not merely a historical remembrance but a deeply significant occasion in Islamic theology. It showcases the immense favor bestowed upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and underscores the boundless power of Allah (SWT).

The Isra': A Miraculous Night Journey

The first part of this extraordinary event, the Isra', describes Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) miraculous nocturnal journey from the Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque) in Mecca to the Al-Haram As-Sharif (the Noble Sanctuary) in Jerusalem. This incredible journey was accomplished atop a mythical steed called Buraq, a creature swifter than lightning. The destination, Al-Haram As-Sharif, is a site of immense sanctity in Islam, revered for housing the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. Here, the Prophet (peace be upon him) is believed to have led all the previous prophets in prayer, signifying his leadership and the culmination of divine messages through him.

The Miraj: An Ascent Through Heavens

Following the Isra', the Miraj commenced. This was Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) celestial ascent through the seven heavens. Each heaven presented a unique spiritual encounter, with the Prophet (peace be upon him) meeting various prophets who preceded him:

• In the **first heaven**, he met Prophet Adam (peace be upon him).
• In the **second heaven**, he encountered Prophets Isa (Jesus) and Yahya (John the Baptist) (peace be upon them both).
• The **third heaven** saw him meet Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (peace be upon him).
• In the **fourth heaven**, he was greeted by Prophet Idris (Enoch) (peace be upon him).
• Prophet Harun (Aaron) (peace be upon him) resided in the **fifth heaven**.
• The **sixth heaven** was the abode of Prophet Musa (Moses) (peace be upon him).
• Finally, in the **seventh heaven**, he met Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (peace be upon him) at Al-Bayt Al-Ma'mur (the Frequented House), a celestial replica of the Kaaba.

The journey continued beyond the seventh heaven, past the Sidrat al-Muntaha (the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary), a point beyond which no creation can pass. It was here, at the highest conceivable point, that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had the unparalleled honor of being in the divine presence of Allah (SWT). It is important to note, as the original text clarifies, that he did not see Allah in a physical form, but rather experienced His divine light and presence – a profound and ineffable encounter.

The Gift of Salat: Five Daily Prayers

A pivotal outcome of the Miraj was the divine commandment of the five daily prayers (Salat) for Muslims. Initially, fifty prayers were prescribed, but through the Prophet's (peace be upon him) intercession, guided by Prophet Musa (peace be upon him), this number was mercifully reduced to five, yet with the reward of fifty. This emphasizes the supreme importance of Salat as a direct connection between the believer and their Creator.

Significance and Celebration

The Night Journey and Ascension is a testament to the spiritual height and unique status of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Islam. It serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence, the unseen realities of the heavens, and the profound spiritual blessings bestowed upon humanity through the Prophet (peace be upon him). Muslims often observe this night with increased prayer, remembrance of Allah (dhikr), and reflection on the miracles and lessons embedded within the Isra' and Miraj narrative.

What is Lailat al Miraj?

Lailat al Miraj, also known as Shab-e-Miraj, is the night when Muslims commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) miraculous Night Journey (Isra') from Mecca to Jerusalem and his Ascension (Miraj) through the seven heavens to the divine presence of Allah (SWT).

When is Lailat al Miraj celebrated?

It is traditionally observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. The exact Gregorian calendar date varies each year as the Islamic calendar is lunar.

What happened during the Isra' part of the journey?

During the Isra', Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) traveled miraculously from Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to Al-Haram As-Sharif (Jerusalem), riding the Buraq. There, he led prayers with earlier prophets.

What happened during the Miraj part of the journey?

The Miraj involved the Prophet's (peace be upon him) ascent through the seven heavens, where he met various prophets. He ultimately reached the divine presence of Allah (SWT) beyond the Sidrat al-Muntaha, where the five daily prayers were enjoined upon Muslims.

What is the main significance of Lailat al Miraj?

Its significance lies in confirming Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) high status, demonstrating Allah's (SWT) boundless power, and establishing the five daily prayers (Salat) as a fundamental pillar of Islam.