Isra and Meraj - Shab e Miraj 2023

Estimated: Monday, 20 Feb, 2023

When is Shab e Miraj 2023:

Join us in commemorating the profound journey of Isra and Meraj on the anticipated night of Friday, February 17th, 2023*. This remarkable event, also known as Shab e Meeraj, Isra, and Meraj, holds immense spiritual importance for Muslims worldwide. While the exact date is contingent upon the sighting of the moon of Rajab, 1444, we are eagerly preparing to observe this occasion.

What is Isra and Meraj?

Isra and Meraj, observed on the 27th day of Rajab, the 7th month of the Islamic Calendar, mark the Night Journey undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). The significance of Shab e Meeraj, or the Night of Ascent, lies in its celebration of the night when the Prophet (S.A.W.) ascended to the Heavens from Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah. This sacred journey also marked the institution of obligatory Prayer (Fardh Salah) for Muslims, a divine gift from this extraordinary night.

A Source of Inspiration for All

The Night Journey offers a wellspring of inspiration and lessons for humanity at large, akin to other pivotal events in the life of our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.).

Profound Background

Isra and Meraj took place a decade to twelve years after the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) received divine revelations from Allah. This period was characterized by deep sorrow following the loss of his cherished wife Khadijah (R.A.) and his uncle Abu Talib. Amidst these trying times, the Prophet (S.A.W.) was graced with a direct and sacred connection to Allah through this exceptional journey.

As we approach the potential date of this blessed event, we invite you to join us in reflecting upon its profound spiritual teachings and significance. May the lessons from the Night Journey illuminate our hearts and guide us on a path of greater understanding and devotion.

Story of Shab e Miraj:

The extraordinary journey of Isra and Miraj, a divine event of profound significance, occurred in two remarkable parts. It commenced with the Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) embarking from Makkah's sacred Kaaba to Jerusalem's Masjid Al-Aqsa. Subsequently, under the will of Allah, he ascended to the heavens, marking a transcendent night that holds eternal lessons for believers.

Isra: The Night Journey to Jerusalem

The momentous night commenced with the archangel Jibrael (A.S.) appearing before the Prophet (S.A.W.). Guided by divine presence, Jibrael (A.S.) escorted Mohammad (S.A.W.) from the revered Masjid Al-Haram to Jerusalem's Masjid Al-Aqsa. This portion of the journey is poignantly recounted in the Quran:

"Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing." (Surah Al-Isra 17:1)

An ethereal creature, Al-Burraq, akin to a celestial horse, was the celestial transport provided by Allah from Jannah (Paradise). Mohammad (S.A.W.) traversed from Masjid Al-Haram to Masjid Al-Aqsa in the blink of an eye. In Jerusalem, the Prophet (S.A.W.) united with preceding Prophets, including Ibrahim (A.S.), Isa (A.S.), Musa (A.S.), and others, leading them in prayers.

Meraj: Ascension to the Heavens

The second phase of Isra and Miraj unveiled as Jibrael (A.S.) accompanied the Prophet (S.A.W.) on an ascension through the heavens' seven layers. At each celestial tier, Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) encountered distinguished Prophets:

First heaven: Prophet Adam (A.S.)

Second heaven: Prophet Isa (A.S.) and Prophet Yahya (A.S.)

Third heaven: Prophet Yusuf (A.S.)

Fourth heaven: Prophet Idris (A.S.)

Fifth heaven: Prophet Haroon (A.S.)

Sixth heaven: Prophet Musa (A.S.)

Seventh heaven: Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.)

Divine Encounters and Insights

During this celestial journey, the Prophet (S.A.W.) was privileged to witness Al-Bait Al-Mamur, Allah's House above the heavens, and was introduced to the remarkable Sidrat Al-Muntaha, a boundary no creation can cross. Although the Prophet (S.A.W.) came closest to Allah's Divine Presence, he did not behold Allah with his eyes, as affirmed in the Quran:

"No vision can grasp Him." (Surah Al-Anaam 6:103)

Ordination of Prayer and Blessings

In Allah's presence, the Prophet (S.A.W.) received the ordinance of fifty daily prayers, which was later reduced to five upon Prophet Musa's (A.S.) counsel. These five prayers carry the reward of fifty, showcasing Allah's boundless mercy.

Gifts of Isra and Miraj

The Prophet (S.A.W.) was bestowed with three invaluable gifts during this mystical odyssey:

Five daily prayers (equaling fifty rewards)

Concluding verses of Surah Al-Baqarah

Forgiveness of sins for the Ummah, except those associating partners with Allah

Revelations of Paradise and Hell

In a transformative revelation, the Prophet (S.A.W.) was granted visions of both Jannah (Paradise) and Jahannum (Hell), imparting insight into the rewards and consequences of deeds.

A Legacy Sealed

The journey concluded with the Prophet's (S.A.W.) return to Makkah, where he shared the extraordinary experience. Abu Bakr's unwavering belief solidified his title of "As-Siddiq," the Truthful.

As we approach the commemoration of Isra and Miraj, let us reflect on the spiritual profundities of this miraculous journey. May its lessons guide our lives and strengthen our devotion.

Conclusion:

Shab e Miraj, known as the Night of Ascension, holds immense importance in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. Revered as one of Allah's most sacred miracles, it was uniquely granted to Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.), signifying a divine connection of unparalleled significance.

Despite its profound religious significance in Islam, it's noteworthy that the Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) neither celebrated this event nor directed his Ummah to commemorate it through specific rituals. However, this remarkable occasion can be respectfully observed in ways that align with Islamic teachings.

Commemoration with Meaningful Acts

As believers, we can honor the essence of Shab e Miraj by engaging in acts that reflect the spirit of the event. While the Prophet (S.A.W.) didn't prescribe celebratory practices, we can mark this occasion with actions that exemplify compassion, generosity, and devotion to Allah.

1. Seeking Blessings Through Prayer:

Invoke Allah's blessings upon this sacred event, seeking His mercy and guidance for ourselves and the Ummah.

2. Charity and Compassion:

Reflecting the Prophet's (S.A.W.) teachings, extend a helping hand to the needy and marginalized, embodying the spirit of compassion and empathy.

3. Good Deeds and Worship:

Dedicate the day to increased worship and good deeds. Uphold the principles of Islam through acts of kindness, honesty, and integrity.

4. Learning and Reflecting:

Use this occasion to deepen your understanding of the Prophet's (S.A.W.) life and teachings, reflecting upon the lessons derived from the Night of Ascension.

5. Gratitude and Supplication:

Express gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. Engage in heartfelt supplications, seeking His forgiveness and guidance.

While Shab e Miraj isn't marked by festive celebrations, its commemoration through meaningful actions is a testament to our devotion and connection to Allah's grace. Let us honor this event by embodying the values of Islam, sharing kindness, and fostering unity within the Ummah.

Isra and Meraj - Shab e Miraj 2023

Isra and Meraj - Shab e Miraj 2023

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