Isra’ and Mi’raj, also known as the Night Journey, is a cornerstone of Islamic faith, signifying a transformative experience for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This two-part journey, believed to have occurred roughly a year before the Hijrah (migration), holds immense significance for Muslims, serving as a powerful testament to the Prophet’s unwavering faith and a wellspring of inspiration.

The Journey Unfolds: Unveiling Isra’ and Mi’raj through Hadith

While the Quran doesn’t explicitly mention the event, it finds rich detail in Hadith collections, considered the sayings and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Here’s a deeper exploration from two of the most revered Sahih collections:

• Sahih Bukhari: Delving into Sahih Bukhari narrations, we discover that the Prophet (PBUH) was miraculously transported on a winged creature called Buraq from the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem (“the farthest mosque”) in one night. This miraculous journey, known as Isra’, is seen as a sign of Allah’s (SWT) infinite power and a comforting gesture during a challenging period for the Prophet (PBUH).
• Sahih Muslim: Sahih Muslim narrations elaborate on the second part of the experience, the Mi’raj, or ascension. The Prophet (PBUH) is believed to have ascended through the heavens, encountering various prophets like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all) and witnessing awe-inspiring celestial wonders. This ascent is interpreted as a spiritual elevation and a preparation for the revelation of the five daily prayers, a cornerstone of Islamic practice.

The Quran and the Night Journey: Unveiling the Cryptic Verse

Although not directly mentioned by name, the Quran offers a cryptic yet intriguing verse that many scholars interpret as referring to the Night Journey:

“Glory be to He (Allah) Who took His servant (Muhammad) by night from the Sacred Mosque (Makkah) to the Farthest Mosque (Jerusalem) – whose surroundings We have blessed – to show him some of Our signs…” (Quran 17:1)

This verse, from Surah Al-Isra, has led many Islamic scholars to connect the “servant” and the night journey with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the events of Isra’ and Mi’raj. The reference to “the farthest mosque” is widely understood to be the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, further strengthening the connection.

Beyond the Journey: The Enduring Significance of Isra’ and Mi’raj

The Night Journey holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. Let’s delve deeper into its meaning:

• Divine Favor: The event is seen as a reassurance and a sign of Allah’s (SWT) special connection with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It signifies Allah’s (SWT) power to transport His chosen servant beyond the limitations of the physical world.
• Spiritual Elevation: Mi’raj represents a spiritual ascent, where the Prophet (PBUH) witnesses wonders beyond human comprehension. It signifies his closeness to Allah (SWT) and his unique position as the recipient of divine revelations.
• Establishment of Prayer: The Night Journey is believed to be when the five daily prayers were ordained, becoming a fundamental pillar of Islam. This highlights the importance of prayer as a direct connection between a believer and Allah (SWT).
• Universal Message: The journey to Jerusalem emphasizes the importance of the city for Muslims and its connection to the Abrahamic tradition. It signifies the universality of Islam’s message, encompassing prophets and followers from various locations throughout history.

Conclusion: A Night of Wonders and Enduring Legacy

Isra’ and Mi’raj are a cornerstone of Islamic belief, a testament to the Prophet’s (PBUH) faith, and a reminder of the unseen realm. The details and interpretations of the event may vary across different Islamic schools of thought, but its core message of divine favor, spiritual growth, and the importance of prayer resonates deeply with Muslims around the world.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for consulting with qualified Islamic scholars for deeper understanding.