In the profound history of Islam, there are events that transcend human understanding, offering a glimpse into the divine and the extraordinary resilience of faith. Among these, the night journey known as Isra and Mi'raj stands out as a pivotal moment in the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is an event that reaffirms the message of hope, the importance of patience, and the boundless mercy of Allah subhana wa ta'ala (Glory be to Him).
A Test of Faith and Promise of Ease
Allah has promised in the Holy Qur'an that with every hardship comes ease. This divine assurance was profoundly manifested in the life of the Prophet (peace be upon him) following the most challenging periods he faced. After enduring immense trials, he was blessed with what many scholars regard as one of his greatest miracles—the extraordinary journey known as Isra and Mi'raj.
The Night Journey—Isra
Isra, which means "night journey," refers to the miraculous travel of the Prophet from the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to the Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. This was a journey both in body and spirit, undertaken in a portion of a night, defying the conventional bounds of time and space. It is a testament to the power and might of Allah, who says in the Qur'an, "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." (Qur'an 17:1)
The Ascension—Mi'raj
Following Isra, came the Mi'raj, or the ascension, where the Prophet was taken up to the heavens. This was not merely a physical elevation but also a spiritual ascension, a journey to experience the signs and the vastness of Allah's creation. Here, he met various prophets, prayed with them, and was finally brought before the presence of Allah.
The Divine Appointment
It was in the heavens that the Prophet received the gift of Salah, the five daily prayers, initially ordained as fifty but mercifully reduced to five with the reward of fifty. This significant commandment was so vital that it was not delivered through Angel Gabriel, as revelations typically were, but directly to the Prophet during this heavenly meeting. Salah became the spiritual connection between a believer and the Creator, a testament to the importance of worship and remembrance of Allah.
Did the Prophet See Allah?
A subject of scholarly debate is whether the Prophet saw Allah during Mi'raj. While some believe he did, the stronger opinion, supported by authentic hadiths, is that he did not see Allah but was in His presence, shielded by a veil of light. The Prophet himself, when asked whether he saw his Lord, replied, "There was light; how could I see Him?" (Sahih Muslim)
The Skepticism and the Testimony
Upon returning to Mecca, the Prophet faced skepticism and mockery when he recounted his journey. However, his detailed description of Jerusalem, verified by those who had been there, and his foretelling of the arrival of caravans, which came to pass exactly as described, served as a testament to the truth of his experience. Abu Bakr, later known as "As-Siddiq" (The Truthful), affirmed his unwavering belief in the Prophet's account without hesitation, further solidifying his position as a trusted companion.
A Journey of Faith and Miracles
The Isra and Mi'raj were not just a miraculous odyssey; they were a journey of faith, a night that encapsulated the entire message of Islam. The Prophet witnessed the eternal truth of the Hereafter, the reality of heaven and hell, the importance of Salah, and the magnitude of divine mercy. These events served to strengthen his resolve and to comfort him with the knowledge that Allah's wisdom and decrees surpass all human comprehension.
This miraculous night is a reminder for all believers of the limitless power of Allah, the importance of steadfastness in the face of trials, and the ultimate mercy that encompasses every moment of hardship. It teaches us that no matter the struggles we face in this world, there is always hope and a promise of divine ease and reward for those who remain patient and keep faith in Allah's plan.
The Night of Ascension will fall on the evening of Wednesday, 27 Rajab or 7th February 2024.
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