Among the most profound and spiritually uplifting events in Islamic history is Isra wal Miʿraj, the miraculous Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This extraordinary event holds deep meaning for Muslims, not only because of its miraculous nature, but because it established one of the core pillars of Islam: the five daily prayers (ṣalāh).
For beginners, reverts, and anyone curious about Islam, Isra wal Miʿraj offers a beautiful window into Islamic spirituality, the honor of the Prophet ﷺ, and the intimate relationship between worship and divine mercy.
2. What Is Isra wal Miʿraj?
Isra wal Miʿraj refers to two connected events that occurred in a single night:
- Isra: The miraculous journey of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.
- Miʿraj: The ascension from Jerusalem through the heavens, where the Prophet ﷺ met earlier prophets and was brought into divine presence by Allah’s permission.
This journey occurred physically and spiritually, according to mainstream Sunni scholarship.
3. Historical Context: A Time of Trial
The event of Isra wal Miʿraj took place during what is known as ʿĀm al-Ḥuzn (the Year of Sorrow). The Prophet ﷺ had recently lost:
- His beloved wife Khadījah (raḍiyallāhu ʿanhā)
- His uncle and protector Abū Ṭālib
He also faced rejection, ridicule, and persecution in Makkah and was violently driven out of Ṭāʾif. Isra wal Miʿraj came as divine comfort, reassurance, and honor after immense hardship.
4. The Journey of Isra (Makkah to Jerusalem)
Allah describes the first part of this journey in the Qur’an:
“Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs.”
(Qur’an 17:1)
https://quran.com/17/1
The Prophet ﷺ was transported by a heavenly steed called Burāq, accompanied by the Angel Jibrīl (Gabriel). In Jerusalem, he led all previous prophets in prayer, symbolizing his role as the final messenger and the unity of all divine revelation.
5. The Ascension of Miʿraj (Through the Heavens)
From Masjid al-Aqsa, the Prophet ﷺ ascended through the seven heavens. Along the way, he met several prophets, including:
- Adam (ʿalayhi as-salām)
- ʿĪsā (Jesus) and Yaḥyā (John)
- Yūsuf (Joseph)
- Idrīs
- Hārūn (Aaron)
- Mūsā (Moses)
- Ibrāhīm (Abraham)
He eventually reached Sidrat al-Muntahā, a boundary beyond which no creation may pass. There, Allah honored the Prophet ﷺ with divine communication.
6. The Gift of the Five Daily Prayers
One of the greatest outcomes of Isra wal Miʿraj was the command of ṣalāh.
Initially, 50 daily prayers were prescribed. After consultation with Prophet Mūsā (ʿalayhi as-salām), the number was reduced to five daily prayers, while retaining the reward of fifty.
This highlights:
- Allah’s mercy
- The central importance of prayer
- Prayer as a direct link between the believer and Allah
7. Qur’anic and Hadith Evidence
Qur’an
- Surah al-Isra 17:1
https://quran.com/17/1
Hadith
The detailed narration of Isra wal Miʿraj is recorded in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī and Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim:
These narrations confirm the authenticity and miraculous nature of the event.
8. Spiritual Lessons from Isra wal Miʿraj
Isra wal Miʿraj teaches many timeless lessons:
- Hardship is followed by divine support
- Prayer is a gift, not a burden
- The Prophet ﷺ holds a unique and honored status
- Masjid al-Aqsa is sacred in Islam
- Faith sometimes requires trust beyond logic
For believers, it strengthens hope and reliance on Allah during difficult times.
9. How Muslims Remember Isra wal Miʿraj Today
Muslims may:
- Reflect on the story
- Increase prayer and gratitude
- Attend educational lectures
- Read Qur’an and make duʿāʾ
Cultural observances vary, but learning and reflection are universally encouraged.
10. Conclusion
Isra wal Miʿraj is not just a miraculous story—it is a reminder that Allah is near, that prayer is sacred, and that after every hardship comes divine elevation. For new Muslims and seekers, it beautifully illustrates the mercy, honor, and spiritual depth at the heart of Islam.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Did Isra wal Miʿraj happen in one night?
Yes, it occurred in a single night by Allah’s power.
Q2: Why is Masjid al-Aqsa important in Islam?
It was the first qiblah and the site of Isra and Miʿraj.
Q3: Are five daily prayers connected to this event?
Yes, ṣalāh was commanded during Miʿraj.
Q4: Is belief in Isra wal Miʿraj mandatory?
It is part of believing in authentic prophetic events.
References & Further Learning
Qur’an
- Surah al-Isra 17:1
https://quran.com/17/1
Hadith
- Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī – Isra wal Miʿraj
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:7517
