Al Isra Wal Miraj: The Night Journey and Ascension

23 Sep 2025

Introduction

In Islamic tradition, Al Isra Wal Miraj is one of the most significant and miraculous events in the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This sacred journey, which occurred in a single night, symbolizes the deep spiritual connection between the Prophet and Allah.

Muslims around the world commemorate Al Isra Wal Miraj not only as a historical event but also as a reminder of faith, patience, and divine guidance.

This article explores:

What Al Isra Wal Miraj means
The story of the Night Journey and Ascension
Hadith references that describe it
Lessons Muslims can learn today

What is Al Isra Wal Miraj?

The term “Al Isra Wal Miraj” comes from two Arabic words:

Isra (الإسراء): Refers to the Prophet’s miraculous night journey from Makkah to Jerusalem.
Miraj (المعراج): Refers to the Prophet’s ascension from Jerusalem through the heavens, meeting prophets and receiving divine revelations.

Together, Al Isra Wal Miraj marks a journey of both earth and heaven, symbolizing the Prophet’s unique status as Allah’s final messenger.

The Story of Al Isra Wal Miraj

Al Isra – The Night Journey

According to Islamic tradition and hadith, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was taken by the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) from the Kaaba in Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, riding the miraculous steed called Buraq.

At Al-Aqsa, the Prophet ﷺ led a prayer in congregation with earlier prophets such as Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them all.

This moment symbolized the unity of the Abrahamic faiths and confirmed the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ leadership among the prophets.

Al Miraj – The Ascension

From Jerusalem, the Prophet ﷺ ascended to the heavens, guided by Angel Jibreel. During this journey:

He met various prophets at different levels of heaven.
He was shown the realities of Paradise and Hell.
He ultimately entered into the Divine Presence of Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala).

It was during this ascension that the five daily prayers (Salah) were prescribed as an obligation for Muslims — a gift and responsibility that remains central to Islamic practice today.

Al Isra Wal Miraj in Hadith

Several authentic hadiths describe this miraculous event, including narrations found in Sahih Al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. These hadiths provide detailed accounts of the Prophet’s ﷺ journey, the prophets he met, and the commandment of Salah.

One narration mentions that the Prophet was initially instructed with fifty daily prayers, but through divine mercy, the number was reduced to five — while still carrying the reward of fifty.

The Meaning of Al Isra Wal Miraj

The event holds multiple layers of meaning:

Spiritual elevation: It highlights the honor given to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The gift of Salah: Prayer is a direct link between a Muslim and Allah.
Strength during hardship: The event occurred after the Year of Sorrow (when the Prophet lost his wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib), symbolizing hope and divine support.
Unity of prophets: Emphasizing Islam’s continuation of the message of earlier prophets.

Lessons from Al Isra Wal Miraj

Faith and patience: Even in times of struggle, Allah provides strength.
Centrality of prayer: Salah is not just ritual, but a spiritual ascension for every Muslim.
Unity and brotherhood: The Prophet’s leadership in prayer at Al-Aqsa highlights the connection among prophets and believers.
Hope and resilience: Trials are followed by divine mercy and guidance.

FAQs

1. What is Al Isra Wal Miraj?
It is the Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Jerusalem and then through the heavens.

2. Where is Al Isra Wal Miraj mentioned?
It is referenced in the Qur’an (Surah Al-Isra, 17:1) and detailed in authentic hadiths.

3. What happened during Al Isra?
The Prophet ﷺ traveled miraculously from Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.

4. What happened during Al Miraj?
He ascended through the heavens, met prophets, and was given the command of five daily prayers.

5. Why is Al Isra Wal Miraj important?
It shows the Prophet’s honored status, the gift of Salah, and serves as a source of faith and strength for Muslims.

6. Is there a specific date for Al Isra Wal Miraj?
It is generally commemorated on the 27th night of Rajab, though opinions differ on the exact historical date.

Conclusion

The story of Al Isra Wal Miraj is more than a miraculous event — it is a reminder of Allah’s mercy, the central role of Salah, and the importance of patience and faith.

For Muslims today, reflecting on this journey is a way to strengthen one’s connection with Allah, renew commitment to prayer, and find hope in life’s challenges.

Al Isra Wal Miraj stands as a timeless lesson in resilience, devotion, and spiritual elevation.

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