The Miraculous Night Journey: Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj is one of the most miraculous and spiritually significant events in the life of the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم. It took place during a time of immense sorrow and hardship—the Year of Sorrow (‘Aam al-Huzn)—when the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم had lost both his beloved wife Khadijah (RA) and his protector, Abu Talib.

A Divine Gift After Hardship

In the midst of grief, Allah جل جلاله granted His beloved صلى الله عليه وسلم a profound spiritual
journey. As the Qur’an mentions:
“Glory be to the One Who took His servant by night from Al-Masjid al-Haram toAl-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, All-Seeing.”
— Surah Al-Isra (17:1)
This verse highlights the first part of the journey: Al-Isra’, from Makkah to
Jerusalem.

From Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa

While resting in Makkah, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم was awakened by Angel Jibril (AS), who brought the celestial steed Buraq—faster than lightning. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم was taken to Masjid Al-Aqsa, where he led all the previous Prophets in prayer. This symbolizes the spiritual unity and leadership of our beloved Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم over all messengers.

Ascension to the Heavens – Al-Mi’raj

From Jerusalem, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم ascended through the heavens. At each level, he met previous Prophets—Adam (AS), ‘Isa (AS), Yusuf (AS), Idris (AS), Harun (AS), Musa (AS), and Ibrahim (AS)—until he reached the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary (Sidrat al-Muntaha). There, he was granted a private audience with Allah جل جلاله. It was during this divine encounter that the five daily prayers (Salah) were made obligatory for the Muslim Ummah.
“The coolness of my eyes is in Salah.”
— (Musnad Ahmad)

The Ultimate Lesson: With Hardship Comes Ease

This journey serves as a powerful reminder that spiritual elevation often follows worldly trials. Allah says:
“Indeed, with hardship comes ease.”
— Surah Ash-Sharh (94:6)
And from Hadith:
“I was shown Al-Buraq, a white animal, smaller than a mule and bigger than a donkey… It would place its hoof at a distance equal to the range of vision.”
— (Sahih Muslim)

A Night of Hope

The Night Journey wasn’t just a miracle; it was a message of hope, patience, and divine connection. Even in the darkest times, Allah جل جلاله reminds us of His closeness and mercy. Through Salah, we too ascend spiritually, reconnecting with our Creator daily.
Let us honor this blessed night by increasing in prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the gift of guidance.