the night journey in islam

Isra Miraj: The Night Journey Of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Isra Miraj is one of the most notable events in the religious history of Islam, in which Isra and Miraj are two chapters of the night journey taken by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) around the year 621. Certain events that took place during Isra and Miraj are explained in brief in the Quran.

The Story of Isra and Miraj

In Isra – the first part of the night , Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) journey began when he was in the Great Mosque in Makkah where angel Jibreel and angel Mikal came to him and brought Buraq (a creature in Islamic tradition said to be a transport for certain prophets). The Prophet travelled to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Buraq within a second. Anas Ibn Malik narrates that angel Jibreel offered Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) a glass of milk and a glass of wine, setting eyes on what he would choose. The Prophet drank milk which resulted in passing the special test as he chose the drink that was healthy and pure for him rather than the one that is prohibited on earth.

In Miraj, the second part of the Journey , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to seven stages of heaven with the angel Jibreel. In each stage, the Prophet met and spoke to different prophets. At the first stage, he met Adam who is described as a tall and handsome man with long hair by Ibn Ishaq. In the second stage, he met Yahya (John the Baptist) and Isa (Jesus) ; after that he met Yusuf (Joseph) in the third stage who is described to be winsome like the moon. Then the Prophet met Idris (Adris) in the fourth stage, and after that Harun (Aaron) in the fifth stage who was described as the most beautiful man that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encountered. In the sixth stage, he met Musa (Moses) who is described to be distinctive from other prophets. Lastly, he met Ibrahim (Abraham) in the seventh stage who resembled Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) pointing up to be his father who was seen leaning on the lote tree known as Sidrat-Al-Muntaha.

Suggested Read: Life After Death In Islam: The Concept And The 14 Stages Of Afterlife

What is Sidrat-Al-Muntaha?

It is a huge Sidr tree as well as the end of the seventh heaven. According to Islamic beliefs, this is the boundary no one ever passed except Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) along with angel Jibreel. This is where Allah told Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that Muslim believers were to enrol in prayers 50 times a day. The Prophet accepted the offer but as he was going back to the earth, he met Prophet Moses who advised that 50 prayers were too much for a day. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) went back to Allah and requested to reduce 50 prayers as it was too much. Allah reduced 5 prayers and made it 45 prayers a day. But according to Prophet Moses, it was still too much. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) took nine trips between Moses and Almighty Allah and after that, it was finally reduced to 5 times prayers a day. Prophet Moses continued to ask for the reduction in numbers, but Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that he was too guilt-ridden. Moreover, he is grateful for 5 prayers a day.

Suggested Read: 4 Types Of Prayers In Islam: Fard, Wajib, Sunnah, And Nafl

What is Lailat al Miraj?

Celebrated on the 27th of Rajab, Lailat-Al-Miraj is a Muslim holiday in the event of Isra and Miraj. It is also known as Mehraj-Ul-Alam and Shab-e-Miraj . Lailat-Al-Miraj meaning and history recognize it as the day when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to all the seven stages of heaven. It is believed that this was the day when an angel visited and Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) chest was opened and it was purified with Zamzam water . Later his heart was filled with sagacity and belief. The day is celebrated differently by various Muslim countries. Most Muslims do not fast on this day since the exact day is not known. Food and treats are served after Salah (prayers performed by the Muslims).

How to celebrate Lailat al Miraj?

Lailat al Miraj is the day when Muslims remember the holy night of Isra Miraj. It is marked by congregation prayers in mosques. Prayers can be performed at home as well, followed by celebration meals. Some Muslims also light candles to mark this special day. At home, elders of the family share the story of Isra and Miraj with the young to ensure that the legend as well as the tradition is passed on to the generations to come. Some people also recite night time prayers for Shab-e-Miraj. Fasting on Lailatul-Miraj is optional but not common. It is said that if someone fasts on this day, they will be safe from Qabr ka Azab, which means the azab of the grave. They will also be safe from Dozakh, or the fire of hell. Hence, Huzur Sallalahu Alaihi Wa Salam recommended fasting on the two days of Shab E Meraj.

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Spiritual Experience

Isra and Mi’raj represent a profound spiritual experience for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It consists of two parts: the night journey (Isra) and the ascension (Mi’raj).

The Isra marked the physical journey of the Prophet from Mecca to Jerusalem, highlighting his unique position as Allah’s chosen messenger.

The Mi’raj signifies the ascension through the heavens, where the Prophet met various prophets and ultimately stood in the presence of Allah.

This spiritual journey reinforced the Prophet’s mission, emphasizing the significance of his role as a bridge between humanity and the divine.

Lessons and Teachings

Isra and Mi’raj offer several important lessons and teachings for Muslims:

Faith and Belief: These events reinforce the importance of unwavering faith and belief in the unseen, as the journey involves supernatural elements.

Spiritual Ascent: They symbolize the concept of spiritual ascent and the potential for personal growth and closeness to Allah through devotion and worship.

Prophetic Mission: Isra and Mi’raj underscore the role of Prophet Muhammad as the final messenger and his unique connection with Allah.

Prayer and Worship: The night is a reminder of the significance of prayer and worship in the life of a Muslim.

Commemoration and Celebration

The night of Isra and Mi’raj is commemorated by Muslims on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. Muslims may engage in various activities to commemorate this event, including:

Night Prayers (Qiyam-ul-Layl): Many gather at mosques for special night prayers, recitation of Quranic verses, and supplication.

Reflection and Remembrance: Muslims take time for introspection, seeking to strengthen their faith and connection with Allah.

Recitation of Quran: It is common to recite and reflect upon Quranic verses that pertain to the themes of faith, the Prophet’s mission, and spiritual growth.

Commemorating Isra and Mi’raj is a time for spiritual rejuvenation and an opportunity to draw closer to Allah through prayer and reflection. It serves as a reminder of the Prophet’s extraordinary journey and the enduring lessons it imparts.

Isra Miraj Hadith

Anas ibn Malik reported: Fifty prayers were obligated upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, when he was taken on his night journey. Then, it was reduced until it was set at five and an announcement was made, “O Muhammad, My word is never changed, so these five prayers will be counted as fifty.”

Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 213

Ibn Mas’ud reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “I met Abraham on the night of my Ascension and he said: O Muhammad, greet your nation with peace from me. Tell them Paradise has pure soil and delicious water, that it is a level plain and its plants grow with declarations of the glory of Allah, the praise of Allah, the oneness of Allah, and the greatness of Allah.”

Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 3462

Abu Huraira reported: On the night of the Ascension, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was presented with two vessels, one full of wine and the other full of milk. The Prophet looked at them both and he chose the vessel full of milk. The Angel Gabriel, upon him be peace, said, “All praise is due to Allah who has guided you to that which is natural, for had you selected the wine your nation would have been led astray.”

Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 4432, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 168

Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “I passed by Moses during my night journey near the red mound; he was praying in his grave.”

Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2375

Malik ibn Sa’sa’ah reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, told them about his Night Journey, saying, “We ascended until we reached the second heaven where Gabriel asked for the gate to be opened, but it was said: Who is it? Gabriel said: I am Gabriel. It was said: Who is with you? Gabriel said: It is Muhammad. It was said: Has he been called? Gabriel said yes. When we reached beyond the second heaven, I saw John and Jesus who are cousins. Gabriel said: These are John and Jesus, so greet them with peace. I greeted them with peace and they returned my greeting, saying: Welcome, O righteous brother and prophet.”

Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 3247, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 164

Isra Miraj is one of the key events in the religious history of Islam. Lailat-Al-Miraj is an important day for Muslims and is observed differently. And the fact that it is explained in such detail in the hadiths makes it an important day for Muslims around the world.

Isra Miraj FAQs

What is the meaning of the word isra.

The word Isra is an indirect Quranic name for girls which means Night Journey. In the history of Islam, it refers to the journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from the Great Mosque in Makkah to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalen within a second.

What is the meaning of the word Miraj?

The word is from Arabic, which means Ladder. Its religious significance comes from the holy journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to the seven stages of heaven along with the angel Jibreel.

What is Shab-e-Miraj?

Shab-e-Miraj is another name for Lailat-Al-Miraj, just like Mehraj-Ul-Alam. It is Muslim holiday observed on the 27th of Rajab in the Islamic calendar each year. It is an important event that marks the day when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended through all the seven stages of heaven to reach Sidrat Al Muntaha.

From where did the Night Journey start?

The Prophet’s night journey of Isra started from Mecca - the holiest city in Islam.

When did Isra and Miraj take place?

Though the exact date of Isra Miraj is unknown, a majority of Islamic scholars believe that it is observed on the 27th day of Rajab.

What is the difference between Isra and Miraj?

Isra is the journey that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) conducted from Al Haram Mosque in Makkah to Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Whereas, Miraj is the ascension of the Prophet from Jerusalem to Heavens.

How long did the journey of Isra and Miraj last?

The real number of days the journey lasted is unknown as the focus is given more on the miraculous nature of the journey rather than its duration.

What is Isra and Miraj, and what do the terms mean?

Isra is the journey that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) took from Makkah to Jerusalem. While Miraj is the ascension of the Prophet from Jerusalem to Heaven.

The event of Isra and Miraj is not mentioned in the Quran. However, there are many hadiths relating to the journey.

How is the Isra and Miraj event celebrated or commemorated by Muslims?

Muslims gather at the mosque and read Quranic verses while reflecting on their lives on the night of Isra and Miraj.

Are there any lessons or teachings that Muslims derive from the Isra and Miraj story?

Yes the story highlights and tells us about the importance of faith and belief, spiritual ascent that we all can go through, mission of the Prophet, and prayers.

Dr Omar Ayoub

Dr. Omar Ayoub is a tech enthusiast and a part time researcher and accounts authorship of several international publications. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from USA and has an experience of more than 10 years in Saudi Arabia working in tourism, hospitality, education, technology and retail sector. His interests include traveling, writing, and exploring trending technologies.

Related Posts

15 Islamic New Year Wishes 2023 For Family, Friends And Colleagues

Islamic New Year 2023: Significance, Traditions, and Important Dates

RCU To Develop Tram Network Connecting Al Ula Landmarks

E-Draw Conducted As Hajj Registration For Domestic Pilgrims Closes

Leave a reply, we use cookies.

Zamzam.com uses cookies for proper & secured functioning of the site, and personalizing its content & advertising to ensure a superior user experience. Know more.

Information for Travellers During COVID-19

• 2 doses of Pfizer BioNTech
• 2 doses of Oxford AstraZeneca
• 2 doses of Moderna
• 1 dose of Johnson and Johnson
• A visitor must enter their immunization data into the Saudi vaccination registration system “Muqeem” before arrival into Saudi Arabia. The vaccination registration website address is: https://muqeem.sa/#/vaccine-registration/home .
• Visitors arriving in Saudi Arabia are also required to provide a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and an approved paper vaccination certificate, issued by the official health authorities in the issuing country.
• Visitors are advised to check the current entry requirements with their chosen airline before purchasing a ticket.

• 0115 911 7222

Explore Muslim Hands

Al-Isra' wal-Mi'raj: The Story of the Miraculous Night Journey

Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj (the Night Journey & Ascension) is a miracle second only to the revelation of the Qur’an , and it is therefore important that we don’t let this night slip by without reflecting on its lessons and its significance.

Many of us only know the basic story of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj - that the Prophet (saw) was transported from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa , from where he (saw) ascended to heaven. In fact, there were many stops along this incredible journey, and the story is packed with wonders and miracles. This blog will narrate the first half of the Miraculous Journey and we have included as much detail as we could. Enjoy!

Context of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj

Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj took place during a time when the Prophet (saw) was facing intense hardship and pain. The Quraysh, who were his tribe and his family, constantly ridiculed, humiliated and oppressed the Prophet (saw) and his followers. Moreover, the Prophet (saw) had just faced the Year of Sorrow (‘Aam al-Huzn) , during which he (saw) lost his beloved wife Khadijah (ra), and his uncle Abu Talib, who was his protector and ally.

In addition to all these burdens, when the Prophet (saw) had travelled to Ta’if to spread the Islamic message, the people of Ta’if had rejected him in the most cruel way , sending their children into the streets to stone him until he left the city.

Having gone through so much grief and suffering, the Prophet Muhammad (saw) was given a truly beautiful and comforting gift. He was transported not only to the Sacred Sanctuary and through the skies, but ultimately into the Divine Presence, the source of all comfort and hope. One of the most important lessons of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj, therefore, is that ‘with every hardship [there will be] ease’ (The Noble Qur’an, 94: 5).  

Al-Isra’: From the Ka’bah to Al-Aqsa

When the Prophet (saw) was sleeping in the house of Umm Hani (ra) in Makkah he said, ‘the roof of my house was opened and the Angel Jibril [as] descended’ (Bukhari). Scholars reconciling between various narrations, say the Prophet (saw) was then taken to the Hijr, the semi-circular wall of the Ka‘bah, where the Prophet (saw) said that Jibril (as), ‘opened my chest, and washed it with Zamzam water. Then he brought a golden tray full of wisdom and faith, and having poured its contents into my chest, he closed it’. [Bukhari]

The Prophet (saw) continued, ‘I was then brought a white beast which is called al-Buraq [from the Arabic word barq, meaning lightning], bigger than a donkey and smaller than a mule. Its stride was as long as the eye could reach’. [Muslim]

It is narrated by Anas (ra) that Buraq was, ‘saddled and reined, but he shied from him (saw). So Jibril [as] said to him, “Is it from Muhammad [saw] that you do this? For nobody has ridden you who is more honourable to Allah than him!” He said, “Then he started sweating profusely”’. [Tirmidhi]

At several points along the journey, Jibra’eel (as) stopped Buraq and told the Prophet (saw), ‘Dismount and pray’. The first stop was at ‘the place of emigration’ i.e. Madinah - and soon after this night the Prophet (saw) would meet the Ansar and migrate to Madinah. The second stop was at Mount Sinai , where Allah (swt) revealed the Torah to Musa (as). The third stop was at Bethlehem , where ‘Isa (as) was born.

The fourth stop was the grave of Musa (as),  ‘I happened to pass by Musa [as] on the night of my Night journey by the red sandhill whilst he was standing praying in his grave’ (Muslim). We know that his grave is located, ‘a stone’s throw’ away from the holy land of the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa (Bukhari). This incident clearly shows us an example of what the Messenger of Allah (saw) said about Prophets (as) after they pass away that, ‘The Prophets are alive in their graves praying’ (Abu Ya‘la).

Arriving at Al-Aqsa

Finally, the Messenger of Allah (saw) arrived in the holy city of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and he said, ‘When we reached Bait al-Maqdis [literally ‘the holy house’ another name for the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa] Jibril (as) pointed with his finger causing a crack in the rock, and he tied the Buraq to it [at the western wall of the noble sanctuary]’ (Tirmidhi). Waiting inside were all 124,000 Prophets (as). Jibra’eel (as) led the Prophet (saw) to the front, and he (saw) led them all in prayer in this blessed space.

Some narrations indicate that the Prophet (saw) prayed ‘two units of prayer’ (Muslim) to greet the Masjid (known as Tahiyyat al-Masjid). This is one of the first examples of this established Sunnah of the Prophet (saw). It is also mentioned that Jibril (as) called the Adhan (call to prayer) before this practice was even established later in Madinah and that the angels from the heavens descended to pray behind all the Prophets in this sacred place – Subhan-Allah!

When the Prophet (saw) completed the prayer, he said, ‘someone said, “Here is Malik (as), the keeper of the Hell, so convey Salams to him”. So, I turned to him, but he preceded me in Salams’ (Muslim).

The Messenger of Allah (saw) also said, ‘The Prophets were presented to me, and Musa (as) was a thin man, it was as if he was from the men of Shanu’ah [a Yemeni tribe]. And I saw ‘Isa ibn Maryam (as), and the closest of the people in resemblance to him from those I have seen, is ‘Urwah ibn Mas‘†d (ra). And I saw Ibrahim (as), and the closest of the people in resemblance to him, from those I have seen, is your companion [meaning himself]. And I saw Jibril [as], and the closest of the people in resemblance to him, from those I have seen, is Dihyah (ra)’ (Tirmidhi).

Part of what the Prophets (as) discussed after praising Allah was about ‘the Hour’. Both Ibrahim (as) and Musa (as) stated that they ‘did not have any knowledge of it’. Whilst ‘Isa (as) ‘mentioned the Dajjal (anti-Christ) and said,

“I will descend and kill him, then the people will return to their own lands and will be confronted with Gog and Magog, who will, “swoop down from every mound” [Qur’an, 21:96]”’. [Ibn Majah]

Following this, the Prophet (saw) said, ‘Then I came out and Jibril (as) brought me a vessel of wine and a vessel of milk. Then I chose the milk, and Jibril (as) said, “You have chosen the natural state (Fitrah)”’ (Muslim).

The dominant opinion is that the Prophet (saw) alongside Jibril (as) then proceeded to the Noble Rock (as-Sakhrah al-Musharrafah) that is currently housed by the holy Dome of the Rock Masjid at the centre of the noble sanctuary (al-Haram ash-Sharif) of the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa. He (saw) ascended into the heavens for the next part of this incredible journey, the Mi‘raj, the Ascension!

Find out what happened next in our latest blog !

20 May 2024

Download Now: An Interactive Map of Madinah

15 May 2024

Press Release: Charity to relaunch £1 million Qurbani appeal to support those impacted by conflict, climate change and the cost-of-living crisis

01 May 2024

Empowering street children with a government ID

07 April 2024

Walk for the Children of War

05 April 2024

Divine Connections Between the Blessed Lands

29 March 2024

Your Guide to Worship During the Last 10 Nights of Ramadan

28 March 2024

Virtues of the last 10 Nights of Ramadan

Virtues of Yemen

Established in 1993, Muslim Hands is an aid agency and NGO helping those affected by poverty, conflict and natural disaster in over 20 countries worldwide.

• Evidence Islam is Truth
• The Benefits of Islam
• Beliefs of Islam
• How to Convert to Islam
• Worship and Practice
• The Hereafter
• Stories of New Muslims
• Comparative Religion
• The Holy Quran
• The Prophet Muhammad
• Current Issues
• Islamic History
• Systems in Islam

Evidence Islam is Truth 159 articles

• The Scientific Miracles of the Holy Quran 15 articles
• The Scientific Miracles of the Prophet Muhammad Sayings 2 articles
• Muhammad in the Bible and Other Scriptures 4 articles
• The Authenticity and Preservation of the Holy Quran 21 articles
• Evidence of Muhammad’s Prophethood 29 articles
• Logical Proofs 45 articles
• The Existence of God 62 articles

The Benefits of Islam 62 articles

• The Door to Eternal Paradise 3 articles
• Salvation from Hellfire 1 articles
• True Happiness and Inner Peace 28 articles
• Forgiveness for All Previous Sins 1 articles
• Benefits to Society 15 articles
• Benefits to Science and Civilization 7 articles
• What Others Say about Islam, Muhammad, and the Quran 7 articles

Beliefs of Islam 211 articles

• What is Islam 21 articles
• The Six Pillars of Faith and Other Islamic Beliefs 49 articles
• About God 63 articles
• The Purpose of Life 22 articles
• Stories of the Prophets 64 articles

How to Convert to Islam 13 articles

• How to Convert to Islam and Become a Muslim 13 articles

Worship and Practice 115 articles

• The Five Pillars of Islam and Other Acts of Worship 49 articles
• Islamic Morals and Practices 66 articles

The Hereafter 35 articles

• Paradise 8 articles
• Hellfire 9 articles
• The Journey after Death 12 articles
• The Day of Judgement and Its Signs 9 articles

Stories of New Muslims 277 articles

• Men 98 articles
• Women 132 articles
• Priests and Religious Figures 20 articles
• Personalities 32 articles

Comparative Religion 160 articles

• Jesus 59 articles
• The Bible 21 articles
• Christianity 26 articles
• Mary 10 articles
• Judaism 20 articles
• Hinduism 5 articles
• Buddhism 2 articles
• Sikhism 2 articles
• Scientology 2 articles
• Tolerance in Islam 6 articles
• Uncommon Faiths 17 articles

The Holy Quran 234 articles

• The Authenticity and Preservation of the Holy Quran 26 articles
• Structure and Attributes of the Quran 17 articles
• Selected Topics from the Quran 25 articles
• A Summary of the Quranic Chapters 123 articles
• Essential Verses in the Quran 28 articles

The Prophet Muhammad 124 articles

• Pearls from His Sayings 19 articles
• His Characteristics 22 articles
• His Biography 19 articles
• Evidence of His Prophethood 29 articles
• About His Sayings 15 articles
• Stories of His Companions 22 articles

Current Issues 92 articles

• Human Rights 14 articles
• Jihad and Terrorism 2 articles
• Women 39 articles
• Islam and Non-Muslims 23 articles
• Sects Attributed to Islam 14 articles

Islamic History 25 articles

• In Brief 15 articles
• In Detail 10 articles

Systems in Islam 77 articles

• Family 18 articles
• Politics 3 articles
• Economy 11 articles
• Justice 6 articles
• Crime and Punishment 7 articles
• Health and Nutrition 19 articles
• The Environment 13 articles
• Islamic Songs (Nasheed)
• New Muslims
• Short Videos About Islam

Evidence Islam is Truth 122 videos

• The Scientific Miracles of the Holy Quran 17 videos
• The Scientific Miracles of the Prophet Muhammad Sayings 2 videos
• Muhammad in the Bible and Other Scriptures 2 videos
• The Authenticity and Preservation of the Holy Quran 25 videos
• Evidence of Muhammad’s Prophethood 6 videos
• Logical Proofs 33 videos
• The Existence of God 38 videos

The Benefits of Islam 102 videos

• The Door to Eternal Paradise 3 videos
• Salvation from Hellfire 6 videos
• True Happiness and Inner Peace 36 videos
• Benefits to Society 39 videos
• Benefits to Science and Civilization 13 videos
• What Others Say about Islam, Muhammad, and the Quran 6 videos

Beliefs of Islam 176 videos

• What is Islam 43 videos
• The Six Pillars of Faith and Other Islamic Beliefs 37 videos
• About God 53 videos
• The Purpose of Life 24 videos
• Stories of the Prophets 15 videos

How to Convert to Islam 8 videos

• How to Convert to Islam and Become a Muslim 8 videos

Worship and Practice 16 videos

• The Five Pillars of Islam and Other Acts of Worship 7 videos
• Islamic Morals and Practices 8 videos

The Hereafter 17 videos

• Paradise 3 videos
• Hellfire 2 videos
• The Journey after Death 5 videos
• The Day of Judgement and Its Signs 8 videos

Stories of New Muslims 235 videos

• Men 180 videos
• Women 34 videos
• Priests and Religious Figures 5 videos
• Personalities 18 videos

Comparative Religion 123 videos

• Jesus 65 videos
• The Bible 20 videos
• Christianity 27 videos
• Mary 2 videos
• Judaism 6 videos
• Tolerance in Islam 9 videos

The Holy Quran 51 videos

• The Scientific Miracles of the Holy Quran 9 videos
• The Authenticity and Preservation of the Holy Quran 31 videos
• Jewels from the Quran 7 videos
• A Summary of the Meanings of Its Verses 1 videos

The Prophet Muhammad 71 videos

• Pearls from His Sayings 2 videos
• His Characteristics 32 videos
• His Biography 21 videos
• Evidence of His Prophethood 9 videos
• About His Sayings 1 videos
• Stories of His Companions 5 videos

Current Issues 64 videos

• Human Rights 14 videos
• Jihad and Terrorism 30 videos
• Women 20 videos
• Islam and Non-Muslims 10 videos

Islamic History 21 videos

• In Brief 3 videos
• In Detail 18 videos

Systems in Islam 25 videos

• Family 4 videos
• Politics 1 videos
• Economy 2 videos
• Justice 13 videos
• Crime and Punishment 2 videos
• Health and Nutrition 3 videos

Islamic Songs (Nasheed) 14 videos

• NBN Band 1 videos
• Zain Bhikha 1 videos
• Ahmad Bukhatir 2 videos
• Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) 2 videos
• Kamal Uddin 2 videos
• Labbayk 1 videos
• TalkIslam 2 videos

New Muslims 148 videos

• Merits of Islam 8 videos
• Islamic Beliefs 11 videos
• Acts of Worship 27 videos
• Islamic Lifestyle, Morals and Practices 23 videos
• The Holy Quran 11 videos
• Prophet Muhammad 32 videos
• Social Interaction 22 videos
• Increasing faith 23 videos

Short Videos About Islam 26 videos

• Islam in 3 Minutes 18 videos
• Understanding Islam By Yusuf Estes 8 videos

Islam at a Glance

• Intro E-books

The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 1 of 6): The Night Journey

Description: the setting of the start of the journey, and some details about the prophet muhammad’s early life, may the mercy and blessings of god be upon him..

• By Aisha Stacey (© 2008 IslamReligion.com)
• Published on 02 Jun 2008
• Last modified on 19 Feb 2023
• Printed: 1,615
• Viewed: 148,635
• Rating: 2.6 out of 5
• Rated by: 85
• Commented on: 2

“Glorified be He Who took His slave on a journey by night from Al-Masjid-al-Haram [1]  to the Masjid-al-Aqsa [2] , the neighborhood whereof We have blessed, in order that We might show him of Our signs [3] .  Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.” (Quran 17:1)

It was a physical journey  and all the events about to be described took place in one night.

This series of articles will use the word masjid instead of its English translation, mosque.  The reason for this is that the word masjid implies much more than the recognisable building where Muslims pray.  The word masjid comes from the root “ sa-ja-da ” meaning to prostrate, therefore a masjid is any place of prostration.  The Prophet Muhammad told us “this earth was made a Masjid for me.” [4]  This gift from God was given only to the nation of Muhammad.

A Muslim can pray in any place that is not impure (with a few exceptions).  There are buildings specifically for prayer, but any place a Muslim prays is a masjid, in the literal sense – a place of prostration.  The act of prostration is the most honourable part of the prayer.  When a Muslim’s forehead touches the ground, he or she is very close to God.  Prayer establishes the connection between the believer and his Lord, and it was on this miraculous night that the five daily prayers were instated.

In the story to follow you will learn some more about this man called Muhammad and come to understand a little about why Muslims love him.  You will also discover why Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem is one of the three Holy Masjids in Islam.  God refers to Jerusalem in the Quran as “the neighbourhood we have blessed” .  The Dome of the Rock, part of the precinct of Masjid al-Aqsa, is the most recognizable symbol of Jerusalem and holds a special place in the hearts of every Muslim.  On this journey we are about to undertake you will learn why.  So let us travel back through time, to 7 th century Arabia, to the city of Mecca and accompany Prophet Muhammad on his night journey and ascension.

The Journey Commences

Approximately ten years after Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran, he suffered two grave losses.  One was the death of his uncle Abu Talib, the man who had supported and loved him from the time he was a young orphan, and then only two months later, Muhammad’s beloved wife, Khadijah, died.  This year became known as the Year of Sorrow.

In the years leading up to these sad events, the new Muslims, especially Prophet Muhammad, were persecuted, ridiculed and abused.  The strength and loyalty of his uncle combined with the love and compassion shown to him by Khadijah helped him to remain strong and continue spreading the message in the face of grave adversity.  However, he now felt alone and extremely overwhelmed by his sadness.

When one has truly surrendered to God, the pains and sorrows of this life form part of a test of faith, and these tests are always followed by relief.  In chapter 94 of the Quran, called Solace , God assures Prophet Muhammad that with every hardship comes relief, and He repeats it a second time with emphasis - with every hardship comes relief.  After this extremely difficult year, Prophet Muhammad felt his relief in the form of a major blessing, the Night Journey and Ascension.

“So verily, with hardship, there is relief. Verily, with hardship, there is relief.” (Quran 94:5-6)

Even though it was dangerous and he risked attack by the Pagans of Mecca, Prophet Muhammad often spent the night in prayer at the Holy Masjid in Mecca.  On this particular night, he was lying close to the Ka’ba (the black cube in the middle of the Masjid) in a state between wakefulness and sleep.  An angel came and cut open his chest from the throat to the below the stomach.  The angel removed Prophet Muhammad’s heart and placed it in a golden bowl filled with faith, the heart was purified, filled and returned to its place. [5]

This was not the first time that an angel had come down and extracted Muhammad’s heart.  As a small child, Muhammad lived in the deserts of Arabia with a foster family according to custom, for the desert environment was known to be much healthier and more suitable for proper cultivation than the cities.  When he was four or five years old and playing in this wilderness with his young friends, the Angel Gabriel appeared, removed Muhammad’s heart and extracted from it a portion, referring to it as “a part of Satan”.  The Angel Gabriel washed the heart with the water of zamzam (the well of Mecca which sprung to quench the thirst of Ishmael) and returned it to its place.  The other children ran away screaming, thinking Muhammad was being murdered, but by the time they returned with help, he was alone, scared and white, but with only a small mark from the ordeal. [6]

Prophet Muhammad’s mission was to guide all of humanity to the worship of the One True God, thus every aspect of his life formed part of God’s plan to prepare him for this great responsibility.  As a child, the part of Satan was removed from his heart, and as an adult, about to undertake the building of the Muslim nation, his heart was purified and filled with pure faith.  The next part of this miraculous night then commenced.

Prophet Muhammad was presented with a white animal he described as being smaller than a horse but larger than a donkey, it was known as al-Buraq .  This animal, he said, could take a stride as far as it could see.  With one leap, al Buraq could cover an incredibly vast distance. [7]   The Angel Gabriel told Prophet Muhammad to mount the animal, and together they travelled more than 1200 km. to the furthest masjid – Masjid al-Aqsa.

Prophet Muhammad was on the back of al-Buraq while the animal’s stride reached towards the horizon, and the stars glittered in the night sky over the deserts of Arabia and beyond.  He must have felt the wind on his face and been aware of his newly filled heart thumping in his chest.  Imagine what signs and wonders of God Prophet Muhammad must have seen on that miraculous journey by night!

[1] The holy mosque in the sanctuary of Mecca

[2] The furthest mosque in Jerusalem

[3] Ayaat , the word in Arabic, has multiple connotations: proofs, evidences, verses & lessons.

[4] Saheeh Al-Bukhari

[6] Saheeh Muslim

[7] Saheeh Al-Bukhari

The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 2 of 6): Masjid Al-Aqsa

Description: prophet muhammad reaches the masjid al-aqsa and meets some of the previous prophets of god..

• Last modified on 13 Jul 2008
• Printed: 1,525
• Viewed: 101,067
• Rating: 2.4 out of 5
• Rated by: 78
• Emailed: 10
• Commented on: 0

Another Miracle Occurs

Prophet Muhammad walked into the Masjid – the place of prostration - to be met by a group of the previous Prophets; he then had the great honour of leading them in prayer.  God rewarded His Messenger and caused him to understand that the Prophets before him also went through difficult times preaching to their people.  They stood behind Prophet Muhammad and acknowledged him as their leader.  This was another indication of his importance and excellence as well as the nature of his message.

Before the advent of Prophet Muhammad, all the Prophets delivered their message of submission to One God to their own people; Muhammad, however, had come for all of mankind.  God refers to him as a mercy.  God says in Quran:

“He listens to what is best for you; he believes in God; has faith in the believers; and is a mercy to those of you who believe.” (Quran 9:61)

The message was international, and this communication distributed worldwide was Islam.  The Prophets of God stood behind the newest and final Messenger of God and supported him when his need was greatest.  Prophet Muhammad mentions in his sayings that all of the Prophets are brothers. [1]  This congregation standing behind Prophet Muhammad was a sign of real and everlasting brotherhood.

The Significance of Al-Aqsa

The fact that this momentous occasion took place in Jerusalem is also of significance.  This is the land of the Prophets of God; this is the land of Abraham, Isaac, Moses and Jesus. God was forging a link between his Holy House in Mecca and Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.  God was also linking the so-called cradle of religion, the Holy Land around Jerusalem, with the land of Arabia, the birthplace of the religion designed by the Creator, for all of humanity - Islam.

God established Al-Aqsa as one of the three Holy Masjids in Islam.  The Holy Masjid in Mecca, the Prophet Muhammad’s Masjid, yet to be established in Medina, and this Masjid in this blessed neighbourhood of Jerusalem.  It is only to these three Masjids to which Muslims can travel for the purpose of worship. [2]   One prayer in Masjid Al-Aqsa is worth 250 prayers elsewhere, excluding the Prophet’s Masjid where one prayer is the equivalent of 1,000 prayers and the Holy Masjid in Mecca where one prayer contains the reward of 100,000 prayers. [3]  God emphasized the significance and sacredness of Masjid Al-Aqsa, and for this reason it plays an important role in a Muslim’s life.   Therefore it is guarded and protected zealously.

Al-Aqsa was the first qiblah (the direction in which a Muslim turns to pray) in Islam, but this direction was later changed to Holy Masjid in Mecca.  Establishing the exact date for this change is difficult, but from the evidence, we can discover approximately when this occurred because the mission of Prophet Muhammad is divided into two distinct periods.  The Meccan period, defined by calling the people to the religion of Islam, and the Medinan period, defined by the establishment of the Muslim state.  Prophet Muhammad and the majority of his followers migrated to the city of Medina in the 14 th year of Prophethood.

The Night Journey and Ascension took place late in the Meccan period, while the qiblah changed to Mecca around 15 months after the Prophet’s migration to Medina.  From this, we can infer that the Muslims faced Al-Aqsa when praying for approximately three years before God changed the direction to Mecca.  This by no means diminished the significance of Jerusalem or Masjid Al-Aqsa, it merely represented another step in the establishment of the message for all of humanity.  The Holy Masjid in Mecca was fixed as the central point in Islam.

The Journey and Miracle Continues

While still in the sacred precincts of Masjid Al-Aqsa, the Angel Gabriel presented Prophet Muhammad with two cups.  One was filled with milk, the other with wine, and both offered to the Prophet.  Prophet Muhammad chose and drank the milk.  Angel Gabriel then said to him “Thanks be to God, who guided you to the fitrah ;if you had taken the wine, your followers would have gone astray”. [4]   It is difficult to translate the Arabic word fitrah into English; it denotes the natural and pure state in which one is born, an innate feeling that guides one to do the “right” thing.  Prophet Muhammad instinctively chose right over wrong, good over evil, and the Straight Path rather than the crooked path to Hell.

It was from the Holy city of Jerusalem, in the sacred precincts of Masjid Al-Aqsa [5] that Prophet Muhammad commenced the next stage of his miraculous Night Journey.  Prophet Muhammad ascended to the lowest heaven from a rock.  This rock can be found inside the Dome of the Rock, the most famous symbol of Jerusalem.  It should not be confused with the actual Masjid building, which is on the other side of the Al-Aqsa compound.  The entire precinct is the masjid, but many separate buildings exist there.  It is important to remember that although the Dome of the Rock is inside the Masjid compound, it is not Masjid Al-Aqsa and it is not the place of prostration where Prophet Muhammad led the previous Prophets in prayer.  From the rock, now covered by the familiar golden dome, Prophet Muhammad ascended to the lowest heaven in the company of Angel Gabriel.

[1] Saheeh Al-Bukhari

[2] Saheeh Al-Bukhari and Muslim

[3] Saheeh al-Hakim

[4] Saheeh Bukhari

[5] The compound is also known as “Temple Mount” in the West, after the temple that Solomon built there.

The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 3 of 6): The Ascension

Description: the prophet muhammad’s journey through the heavens..

• Published on 09 Jun 2008
• Printed: 1,464
• Viewed: 147,543
• Rated by: 79

In the English language, we generally use the word heaven to mean the spiritual plane of eternal happiness, the reward for a righteous life and the opposite of hell, the place of eternal punishment.  However, this was not always the case; the word heaven comes from the Old English word heofon, [1]  used to denote the sky, which is the area above the earth where the celestial bodies are.  Eventually, heaven lost its original meaning and came to imply Paradise.  In Arabic, however, there have always been two separate words used, sama and jennah .  The word sama is used for the skies above us, and they are part of the temporary world which will be destroyed on the Day of Judgement.  The word jennah , however, denotes Paradise, the land of eternal bliss, the permanent home of the righteous believers, and the opposite of Hell.

“Then He completed and finished from their creation as seven heavens in two Days and He made in each heaven its affair.  And We adorned the nearest heaven with light sources to be an adornment, as well as to guard.  Such is the Decree of Him the All-Mighty, the All-Knower.” (Quran 41:12)

“Their Lord gives them glad tidings of a Mercy from Him, and that He is pleased, and of Gardens ( jennah ) for them wherein are everlasting delights.  They will dwell therein forever.  Verily, with God is a great reward.” (Quran 9:21-22)

The Wonders of God

Prophet Muhammad ascended into the heavens from the rock now housed in the familiar golden dome that has become the symbol for Jerusalem.  This is a journey that no other human had ever made or has made since.  It demonstrates God’s ability to bring the seemingly impossible into being.  Here, the concepts of time and space as we know them do not apply, and it is beyond our human capabilities to understand the true omnipotence of God.  In his sayings and traditions, Prophet Muhammad described the size of the heavens; the first heaven, as compared to the second, is similar to a small ring in the desert, and he continued this narrative until he described the sixth heaven as being the size of a ring in the desert compared to the seventh heaven.  The magnitude of this is unimaginable.  Our earth, and what we call the universe, is contained within the first heaven.  Even with the scientific knowledge of the 21 st century, we have no idea how big this is, how far the universe extends, or what wonders it contains.

Prophet Muhammad travelled with the Angel Gabriel up into the heights of the heavens.  Together they came to the gate of the first heaven, where Angel Gabriel sought permission to enter.  The gatekeepers asked, “Who is it?”  to which Gabriel replied, “It is I, Gabriel”.  The gatekeepers then asked who was accompanying him; when they were told it was Muhammad, they asked if he had been given his mission to guide all of mankind to the worship of One God.  Angel Gabriel answered in the affirmative, so the angels welcomed Prophet Muhammad, called his arrival a pleasure, and opened the gate.

Greeting the Prophets

Prophet Muhammad tells us that he saw his father Adam, the father of all of mankind.  He greeted him with the greeting of all Muslims, - Assalamu alaikum (may peace be upon you).  Adam returned the greeting and expressed his faith in Muhammad’s prophethood.  He called him his pure son, the pure prophet.  Imagine the pleasure that this meeting must have given to both men.  After thousands of years, Adam was able to see his son Muhammad, the greatest of his descendents.  Muhammad was able to look into the eyes of the father of mankind.  The wonders however were only just beginning.  Angel Gabriel and Prophet Muhammad then ascended to the second heaven.

At the gate, Angel Gabriel again sought permission to enter.  When the gatekeepers learned Prophet Muhammad had been given his mission and was trying to enter, they welcomed him and opened the gate.  There Prophet Muhammad saw the two cousins, Prophet John (known in Christian traditions as the Baptist ) and the Messenger of God, Prophet Jesus;  Prophet Muhammad exchanged greetings with them.

Prophet Muhammad and Angel Gabriel ascended once more to the gates of the third heaven.  At each gate, the same exchange took place.  When the gatekeepers had established that it was Angel Gabriel in the company of Prophet Muhammad, who had indeed been given his mission, they gave permission to enter.  Here, in the third heaven, Prophet Muhammad met Joseph and described him as an embodiment of half of all beauty.

As Prophet Muhammad met the Prophets in each heaven, he exchanged greetings with them, and this was always Assalamu alaikum, the greeting of peace used by all those in submission to the One True God.  In the fourth heaven, Prophet Muhammad met Prophet Idris, whom God described in Quran (19:57) as being elevated to a very high level.  In the fifth heaven, he met Prophet Aaron, the brother of Moses.  At each meeting, the Prophets expressed their faith in Muhammad’s prophethood.  In the sixth heaven, Prophet Muhammad met Moses.

Whenever Prophet Moses is mentioned in the Quran or in the narrations of Prophet Muhammad, we know that something important is about to be described.  After the two Prophets had exchanged greetings and Prophet Moses had expressed his faith in Muhammad’s prophethood, Moses started to weep.  When he was asked why, he replied: “A young man has come after me, and more of his followers will enter paradise then my followers”.

Until the advent of Islam, Prophet Moses had had the largest following of any Prophet.  Moses cried, and from this, we can understand that there was a type of rivalry between the Prophets; but it was not a competition filled with jealousy or envy. Rather, it was filled with compassion.  As we move further into the journey, we will see the love and compassion Prophet Moses had for Muhammad and his followers.  Prophet Muhammad and Angel Gabriel then ascended into the seventh heaven.

[1] Webster’s Online dictionary.

The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 4 of 6): The Seventh Heaven

Description: prophet muhammad meets prophet abraham, and witnesses the realm wherein the angels are most densely arrayed in worship.

• Printed: 1,363
• Viewed: 122,473
• Rating: 2.5 out of 5
• Rated by: 83
• Commented on: 1

The Angel Gabriel and Prophet Muhammad continued their miraculous ascension through the heavens.  This journey was far beyond the wildest imagining of any human being.  It began in the deserts of Arabia and spanned the reaches of the known universe and beyond.  At the gate of the seventh heaven, they exchanged the same questions and answers as in the previous heavens, and the angels declared their pleasure at meeting Prophet Muhammad.  Permission to enter was given and the Prophet of God, accompanied by Gabriel, the angel trusted with the revelations of God, moved into the final heaven.

The seventh heaven is an expression used by Christians to denote extreme happiness or bliss, as in “I am in the seventh heaven”.  In Islam, the seventh heaven is where Prophet Mohammad met Prophet Abraham; and indeed, he (Muhammad) must have been extremely happy and in a state of bliss, having been honoured with this journey of wonders.  Both Prophets exchanged greetings by saying Assalamu alaikum (may peace be upon you) and, as every other prophet had done, Prophet Abraham expressed his belief and faith in Prophet Muhammad’s mission.

Through his son, Ishmael, Abraham is the father of the Arabs and the ancestor of Prophet Muhammad; he is an ancestor of the people who became the Children of Israel (followers of Prophet Moses) through his son Isaac.  In Jewish traditions, Abraham is called the father of the Jews.  However, Islam rejects this idea, for the Quran clearly states that he was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but a believer in pure monotheism (belief in One God).

“Why do you dispute about Abraham, while the Torah and the Gospel were not revealed until after him?  Have you then no sense?  Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was a true Muslim Hanifa. ” [1] (Quran 3:65 & 67)

Muslims are required to believe in all of the Prophets of God; Abraham, however, holds a special place as one of the important messengers of God and has the unique honour of being called, in both Islamic and Christian [2]  traditions, the beloved servant of God.  Together, Abraham and his son Ishmael built the Kaaba (the black cubical building in the middle of the Holy Masjid in Mecca).

“And remember when Abraham and Ishmael were raising the foundations of the House, saying, Our Lord!  Accept this from us.  Verily!  You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” (Quran 2:127)

Muslims turn their faces towards the Kaba many times every day whilst performing their prayers, and in every prayer, they ask God to bless Abraham and his family.

The World of Angels

While in the seventh heaven, Prophet Muhammad was shown the building known as the much-frequented house, or al Bayt al-Mamoor in Arabic.  It is fitting that Prophet Abraham was here with this house, as it is the heavenly equivalent of the Kaaba in Mecca.  Each year at the time of pilgrimage (Hajj), more than 2 million Muslims from all over the world flock to Mecca to follow in the footsteps of Prophet Abraham and perform certain rites including circling the Kaaba.  Every day 70,000 angels visit this much-frequented house in the seventh heaven to worship God.  Prophet Muhammad informed us that, once the angels have visited Bayt al-Mamoor, they never return.  God swears by this house in the Quran.

“And by the Bayt al-Mamoor .” (Quran 52:4)

Seventy thousand angels every day!  What are the implications of this?  Think about it and wonder for how many thousands or even millions of years has this been happening?  How many of these beings, created by God from light, are there?  This was another wonder that Prophet Muhammad was privileged to see and made able to describe to us.  In his traditions, he also informs us that the heavens above us are moaning, every space as big as the width of four fingers is occupied by an angel worshipping God.

The Uppermost Boundary

Prophet Muhammad then moved through the seventh heaven to the uppermost boundary, to Sidrat al-Muntaha , a lote tree.

“Near Sidrat al-Muntaha (lote-tree of the utmost boundary.  Near it is the Paradise of Abode.” (Quran 53:14-15)

He described its fruits like jugs and its leaves as big as elephant ears.  Four rivers originated from the lote tree’s roots.  When he asked about them, Prophet Muhammad was told that two of the rivers originated in Paradise.  Nothing has reached us about the names or significance of these two rivers from the narrative of the ascension.  However, he was told that the other two rivers were replicas of the Nile and the Euphrates, two rivers that are especially blessed in this world of mankind.

Sidrat al-Muntaha is called the uttermost boundary because everything that comes up from the earth or the heavens stops there, and everything that comes down stops there, [3]   and because the knowledge of the angels stops at that point.  No one has gone beyond it except Prophet Muhammad. [4]   Beyond this point, we leave the heavens and move into the realm of the hereafter, the realm that contains Paradise and the Throne of God.  As Prophet Muhammad continues his miraculous journey, he moves into this realm and stands in the presence of God Almighty.

[1] The word Muslim denotes a man who submits to God alone, whilst Hanifa connotes purity, truth and sincerity.  The Arabic dictionary assigns the word orthodox as one of the denotations of Hanifa , but it is more than orthodoxy.  It is n untaught orthodoxy; a sense of the true nature of things that is instinctual and natural.

[2] Isaiah 41:8 & 2.

[3] Saheeh Muslim

[4] Imam Al-Nawawi

The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 5 of 6): In the Presence of God

Description: in the presence of his lord, muhammad receives the commandment of establishing the five daily prayers..

• Published on 16 Jun 2008
• Last modified on 16 Jun 2008
• Printed: 1,477
• Viewed: 131,917
• Rated by: 80

The word miraculous does not go far enough in describing what a wonder this must have been for Prophet Muhammad.  It is beyond description and beyond imagining. However, the Prophet Muhammad did not see God with his eyes, as God tells us in the Quran

“No vision can grasp Him.” (Quran 6:103)

One of the companions asked Prophet Muhammad directly if he saw God, to which he answered,

“He is veiled by light, how could I see him.” ( Saheeh Muslim )

The fact remains however, that Muhammad Prophet of God, stood in the presence of God.

The Importance of Prayer

God spoke to Prophet Muhammad and we have no details of the exchange except that God enjoined the daily prayers upon Prophet Muhammad and his followers.  From this, we immediately understand the importance of prayer.  It is the only command which God ordained in the heavens; all other decrees originated on earth.  Prayer is a gift from God to those who truly believe in His Oneness.  God bestowed this gift upon Prophet Muhammad who in turn gave it to the followers of Islam.  It is a gift full of great blessings and bounties.  It establishes and maintains our connection to God.  God has no need of our prayers but we, as helpless human beings, are in great need of feeling connected to Him.  In fact, the Arabic word for the five daily prayers is salah, which come from the root word meaning “connection”.

“Guard strictly five obligatory prayers especially the middle prayer ­.  And stand before God with obedience.” (Quran 2:238)

God enjoined 50 prayers on Prophet Muhammad and his followers.  As Prophet Muhammad was descending he passed by Prophet Moses who requested to know what had been enjoined.  When Prophet Muhammad explained that he had been ordered to prayer 50 times per day, Moses felt astonished and immediately said, “Go back to your Lord and ask for a reduction”.  When God prescribed 50 prayers, Prophet Muhammad accepted it, Moses, having had been a great prophet himself, knew what from his followers what people could and could not handle in regards to religious obligations. He was sure that the followers of Muhammad would not be able to perform that many prayers.  Prophet Muhammad had knowledge. but Prophet Moses at this time had more experience.

Prophet Muhammad accepted the advice of his older brother/prophet, went back into the presence of God, and asked for a reduction.  God reduced them by ten to forty prayers.  Prophet Muhammad descended again; Prophet Moses asked him what happened.  When he heard that the reduction was only ten, Prophet Moses sent him back to ask again for a further reduction.

This exchange continued until the number of obligatory prayers became five.  Prophet Moses suggested a further reduction saying, “O Muhammad, I know people, your nation will not be able to handle it, go back and ask for the burden on your people to be relieved.”   Prophet Muhammad answered “No.”  He felt ashamed to ask for another reduction and said he was satisfied with five daily prayers.  A voice rang out, saying, “The prayers have been reduced to five but they will be rewarded as though they were fifty.”  God makes it clear to us that even praying these five prayers can be difficult for some people, but that those who establish the connection and trust that they will one day meet their Lord will find it easy.

“And seek help in patience and the prayer: and truly it is extremely heavy and hard except for the true believers in God. Those who obey God with full submission, fear much from His Punishment, and believe in His Promise (Paradise, etc.) and in His Warnings (Hell, etc.).  (They are those) who are certain that they are going to meet their Lord, and that unto Him they are going to return.” (Quran 2:45–46)

Mercy, Love and Compassion

This miraculous night concluded with this sign of the mercy of God.  Imagine how hard it would be to pray 50 times a day.  Although we learned during this journey that Moses cried when he realised Prophet Muhammad would have more followers then he on the Day of Judgement, we also learn how eager Prophet Moses was to give advice to Prophet Muhammad, and how keen he was to make the practice of Islam easy upon the believers.  The competition between the Prophets was one of love and compassion, and from this we should learn how to treat each other.  Although God tells us to compete with one another in doing deeds of righteousness, we should encourage and enable one another to do this easily.

“...so strive as in a race in good deeds.  The return of you (all) is to God; then He will inform you about that in which you used to differ.” (Quran 5:48)

Prophet Muhammad then descended back to the Holy Mosque in Mecca.  The companions of the Prophet were now about to face the biggest test to their faith so far.  Muhammad, the Prophet of God, was about to reveal that he had returned from an overnight journey to the farthest Masjid in Jerusalem, a journey that normally took more than one month.  He was also about to say he had travelled where no man had gone before, through the heavens and into the presence of God.  This was a miraculous journey by night, but would his companions believe him and how would his enemies react?

The Night Journey and the Ascension (part 6 of 6): The Return

Description: this great miracle and honour becomes a chance for the disbelievers to attack islam as well as a test of faith for the muslims..

• Last modified on 04 Oct 2009
• Printed: 1,581
• Viewed: 88,321
• Rating: 2.7 out of 5
• Rated by: 90
• Emailed: 23
• Commented on: 6

Prophet Muhammad travelled on the back of Al-Buraq all the way to the farthest Mosque in Jerusalem.  He ascended through the seven heavens and marvelled at wonders unimaginable.  He looked into the faces and exchanged greetings with many of his fellow Prophets, and the final slave and Messenger of God, Muhammad, stood in the presence of God Himself.  On the same night, only several hours after he had commenced his journey, Prophet Muhammad returned to Mecca. 

This miraculous journey was about to become a weapon against Prophet Muhammad and his followers by his enemies, and equally it would be an extreme test of faith for the believers.  Upon his homecoming, Prophet Muhammad made his way to Umm Ayman and told her of his miraculous journey.  She responded, “O Messenger of God, do not tell anyone about this.”  Umm Ayman had perfect faith in Prophet Muhammad and believed his account of the journey, but she was afraid of how others would respond.

Prophet Muhammad described Umm Ayman as “my mother after my own mother”.  She was the faithful servant of his mother Aminah and remained with Prophet Muhammad through the deaths of his mother and grandfather.  Prophet Muhammad and Umm Ayman had always been very close, and at the completion of this wondrous journey, he went to Umm Ayman’s home, perhaps for comfort and ease while he contemplated this miracle, and decided his next move.

Prophet Muhammad responded by saying that he would tell the people about the wondrous night.  He considered it his responsibility before God to convey the message, no matter the response or consequences; God was responsible for the outcome.  He left the house quietly with sombre contemplation, and made his way to the Holy Mosque.  He met people along the way, and slowly the news of the night journey spread amongst the people.

The Response

While Prophet Mohammad was sitting silently in the Mosque, Abu Jahl approached him and asked casually, “O Muhammad is there anything new?”  Known as one of the greatest enemies of Islam Abu Jahl was responsible for the torture, punishment, murder and harassment of the new Muslims throughout the early days of Islam.  Even though he was aware of the animosity and hatred  Abu Jahl felt towards him, Prophet Muhammad answered truthfully and said, “This past night I have travelled to Jerusalem and back.”

Abu Jahl, being unable to contain his amusement, responded by requesting Muhammad to repeat these words in front of the people of Mecca.  Prophet Muhammad responded in the affirmative, and Abu Jahl left the Mosque running, calling out to the people as he ran through the streets.  When sufficient people had gathered in the Mosque, at Abu Jahl’s request Prophet Muhammad said, for all to hear, “I have been to Jerusalem and back.”

The crowd of people started to laugh, whistle, and clap.  They treated it as a big joke and fell against one another laughing.  This was the response expected by Abu Jahl and he was thrilled.  The disbelievers in the crowd saw a chance to put an end to Islam.  They ridiculed and belittled Prophet Muhammad’s claim.  Among the crowd were people who had travelled to Jerusalem and they asked Prophet Muhammad to describe what he had seen.

The Prophet of God began to describe his journey but he became irritated.  He spent only a brief amount of time in Jerusalem, and the miraculous nature of this travels had meant that he did not remember small details and descriptions.  However, Prophet Muhammad tells us that God showed him the details “right in front of his eyes” and he described what he had seen “stone by stone, brick by brick”.  The travellers confirmed his descriptions.  (Saheeh Bukhari)

There is another narration [1]  that says that whilst travelling back to Mecca, Prophet Muhammad passed over a caravan. He was able to describe clearly.  The caravan had lost a camel, and Prophet Muhammad called from the sky telling them the whereabouts of the camel. He also drank from their water supply.

The people of Mecca immediately dispatched some one to meet the caravan before it entered the city to ask questions about the previous night.  They confirmed that a strange voice called out the location of the lost camel and that part of their water supply had disappeared.  Still these confirmations were not enough.  The people jeered and laughed and disbelieved the words of the Prophet of God.  This miraculous event was such a test of faith that even some of the new Muslims disbelieved and turned away from the faith of Islam.

The Sweetness of Faith

To those whose faith was strong and true, the Power of God was obvious.  Some of those who found the whole story difficult to believe went to see Abu Bakr, the best friend and loyal supporter of Prophet Mohammad.  They asked him if he believed Prophet Muhammad travelled overnight to Jerusalem, and back to Mecca.  Without hesitation Abu Bakr replied, “If the messenger of God said so, then it is true”.  It was because of this occasion that Abu Bakr earned the title As-Siddeeq (the foremost believer).  This was a turning point for many Muslims; after already facing the physical torture and abuse of the disbelievers, they now had to grapple with a concept beyond their wildest imaginings.  Some failed, but many soared to new heights and were able to taste the sweetness of true submission to the One God.

The journey by night, from the Holy Mosque in Mecca to the farthest Mosque in Jerusalem, and the ascension through the heavens and into the presence of Almighty God was a miracle granted by God to His final slave and Prophet, Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, and one of the greatest of honours bestowed upon any human.

[1] The Biography of Prophet Muhammad by ibn Hisham.

Parts of This Article

Add a comment

• Country: Select Country Afghanistan Albania Antarctica Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Azerbaijan Argentina Australia Austria Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Armenia Barbados Belgium Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia, Plurinational State of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil Belize British Indian Ocean Territory Solomon Islands Virgin Islands, British Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Myanmar Burundi Belarus Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Sri Lanka Chad Chile China Taiwan, Province of China Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Mayotte Congo Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia Benin Denmark Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Ethiopia Eritrea Estonia Faroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Fiji Finland Åland Islands France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Djibouti Gabon Georgia Gambia Palestine Germany Ghana Gibraltar Kiribati Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Côte d'Ivoire Jamaica Japan Kazakhstan Jordan Kenya Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Lebanon Lesotho Latvia Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Monaco Mongolia Moldova, Republic of Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Oman Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Curaçao Aruba Sint Maarten (Dutch part) Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba New Caledonia Vanuatu New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Norway Northern Mariana Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Micronesia, Federated States of Marshall Islands Palau Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Guinea-Bissau Timor-Leste Puerto Rico Qatar Réunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Anguilla Saint Lucia Saint Martin (French part) Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Viet Nam Slovenia Somalia South Africa Zimbabwe Spain South Sudan Sudan Western Sahara Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Eswatini Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tajikistan Thailand Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago United Arab Emirates Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine North Macedonia Egypt United Kingdom Guernsey Jersey Isle of Man Tanzania, United Republic of United States Virgin Islands, U.S. Burkina Faso Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Wallis and Futuna Samoa Yemen Zambia

(Not shown to the public)

Your comment will be reviewed and should be published within 24 hours.

Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.

Article Categories

Video categories, most viewed, editor’s pick, list contents, most popular, your favorites.

Your favorites list is empty. You may add articles to this list using the article tools.

Your History

Your history list is empty.

Retrieve Your Password

Forgot your password? No problem. Just let us know your email address and we will email you a password reset link that will allow you to choose a new one.

Registration

Why register? This web site has several customizations made specifically for you, such as: your favorites, your history, marking articles you have previously viewed, listing articles published since your last visit, changing font size, and more. These features are based on cookies and will work correctly only when you use the same computer. To enable these features from any computer, you should login while browsing this site.

The field(s) below are optional

• Sirah - Prophetic Biography Spirituality Fiqh

The complete and authentic story of Al-Isra wal Miraj - The Night Journey and Ascension

• Naushin Abid
• 29 Oct 2021

Jump To Section :

The definition of isra and miraj:.

Useful Links:

• Refund Policy
• Privacy Policy

Stay updated with our weekly newsletters!

Get free islamic reminders & be a better muslim.

Sign in/up with Google

Sign in/up with Facebook

Sign in/up with Linkedin

Sign in/up with Apple

Sign in/up with Twitter

This field, is required.

You have not accepted the "Terms & Conditions".

• TIES - The Islamic Education Schools
• Weekday - Full-time Schools
• Weekend - Part-time Schools
• TIES Contacts
• تعريف الجمعية
• Our Schools
• AICP Events
• AICP Affiliated Websites
• AICP Affiliated Schools
• Misc. Links
• مولد النبي صلّى اللهُ عليهِ وسلّمَ
• الهجرة النبوية
• Al-Isra' and Al-Mi^raj
• Birth of the Prophet
• Creed/Belief
• Factions/Groups
• Jurisprudence
• Refutations
• Pilgrimage (Hajj)
• Prayer Schedules
• Announcements
• Donate to AICP
• Contact AICP

The miracle of Al Isra and Al-Mi^raj (The night journey and the ascension of prophet Muhammad)

(The night journey and the ascension of prophet Mu h ammad)

Praise be to All a h , the Lord of t he Worlds, the One Who exists without a place. To Him belong the endowments and proper commendations. May All a h raise the rank of Prophet Mu h ammad and his kind A l and Companions and protect his nation from what he fears for them. May the Lord of Heavens and Earth grant us the sincere intentions and guide us to the acceptable deeds.

Thereafter, Al la h sent the prophets as a mercy to the slaves and supported them with miracles to indicate the truthfulness of their message. Of all the prophets, our Prophet, Mu h ammad , was blessed with the most miracles. Al-Isr a ' and al-Mi^r a j are among the many miracles of Prophet Mu h ammad .

The miracle of al-Isr a ' is confirmed in the Q ur' a n . In S u rat al-Isr a ', A yah 1 , All a h said:

which means: [Praise be to All a h Who enabled His slave, Mu h ammad , to make the journey at night from Masjid al- H ar a m in Makkah to Masjid al-A qsa in Jerusalem, which is surrounded by a blessed land.] This journey is also confirmed in the s a hih h ad i th . As such, there is scholarly consensus (ijm a ^) Prophet M u hammad journeyed in body and soul the night of al-Isr a ' from Masjid al- H ar a m in Makkah to Masjid al-A qsa in Jerusalem. Moreover, these scholars indicated the person who denies al-Isr a ' is a blasphemer for belying the explicit text of the Q ur' a n .

Before the Prophet took this night journey, the ceiling of the house in which he was staying was opened, and Jibr i l descended. He cut open the chest of Prophet Mu h ammad and washed that open area with Zamzam water. Then he emptied something from a container into the chest of the Prophet to increase his wisdom as well as the strength of his belief. This was done to prepare the Messenger of All a h for that which he had yet to see in the upper world from among the wonders of the creation of All a h .

After the Prophet performed the Evening Prayer (^Ish a '), Jibr i l came to him with a white animal, slightly larger than a donkey yet smaller than a mule. This animal was the bur aq ,--one of the animals of Paradise. Jibr i l held the bur aq by his ear and told the Prophet to mount it. When the bur aq was mounted, the Prophet set forth.

The bur aq is a very fast animal; the length of the bur aq 's stride is the farthest distance it's eye can see. The Prophet and Jibr i l arrived to a land with palm trees. Jibr i l told the Prophet to dismount and pray, so the Prophet dismounted the bur aq and prayed two rak^as . Jibr i l asked him, "Do you know where you prayed?" and the Prophet answered, " All a h knows best." Jibr i l told him, "This is Yathrib ; this is T aybah . "." (These are two names for the city of al-Mad i nah .) Before the Prophet emigrated to al-Mad i nah , it was called T aybah and Yathrib . It earned the name al-Mad i nah after the Prophet emigrated to it.

The bur aq continued with the Prophet and Jibr i l until they reached another place. Again Jibr i l told the Prophet to get down and pray. The Prophet dismounted there and prayed two rak^as . Jib r il informed the Prophet of the name of that place; it was Tu r S i n a ' .

Once again the bur aq took off with the Prophet and Jibr i l . Once again it stopped, and the Prophet dismounted and prayed two rak^as . This was in Bayt La h m , where Prophet ^ I s a (Jesus) was born. Then the bur aq continued with the Messenger of All a h until they entered the city of Jerusalem. There the Prophet went to Masjid al-A qsa . Outside was a ring used by the Messengers of All a h to tie their animals. The Prophet tied his bur aq to this ring. Then the Prophet entered the masjid where Al l ah assembled for him all the Prophets--from A dam to ^ I s a . Prophet Mu h ammad moved forward and led them all in prayer. This is an indication the Prophet is higher in status than all the rest of the prophets and messengers.

1- On Prophet Mu h ammad's journey from Masjid al- H ar a m to Masjid al-A qsa , All a h enabled him to see some of His wondrous creations. All a h enabled the Prophet to see the world (duny a ) like an old woman. However, this old woman was wearing a great deal of jewelry, and in this there is an indication signifying the reality of the world.

2- All a h enabled the Prophet to see Ib l i s. The Prophet saw something on the side of the road which did not dare to stand in his way or speak to him. What the Prophet saw was Ibl i s . Originally, Ibl i s was a believer and lived with the angels in Paradise. When Al l ah ordered the angels to prostrate (suj u d) to Prophet A dam , Ib l is was ordered to prostrate to him as well. The angels prostrated to A dam in obedience to All a h , because angels do not disobey All a h . However, Ibl i s did not obey, and he objected to the order of All a h . He said, "You created me out of fire, and You created him out of clay. How do You order me to prostrate to him?" So this objection by Ibl i s to the order of All a h was the first blasphemy he committed.

3- On his journey, the Prophet smelled a very nice odor. He asked Jibr i l about this pleasant scent and Jibr i l informed him this good smell was coming from the grave of the woman whose duty used to be to comb Pharaoh's daughter's hair. This woman was a good, pious believer. One day, as she was combing Pharaoh's daughter's hair, the comb fell from her hand. At this she said, ""Bismil l ah. "Pharaoh's daughter asked her, "Do you have a god other than my father?" The woman said, "Yes. My Lord and the Lord of your father is All a h ." Pharaoh's daughter told her father what had happened. Pharaoh demanded this woman blaspheme and leave Isl a m , but she refused. At that, Pharaoh threatened to kill her children. He brought a great pot of water and built a great fire under it. When the water boiled, Pharaoh brought her children and started to drop them into that pot one after the other. Throughout all this, the woman remained steadfast to Isl a m , even when Pharaoh reached her youngest child--a little boy still breast feeding--but she felt pity for him. At that, All a h enabled this child to speak. He said to his mother, "O Mother, be patient. The torture of the Hereafter is far more severe than the torture of this life, and do not be reluctant, because you are right." At this the woman requested Pharaoh collect her bones and the bones of her children and bury them in the same grave. Pharaoh promised her that--then dropped her into that boiling water. She died as a martyr. The good odor the Prophet smelled coming from her grave is an indication of her high status.

4- During his trip, the Prophet saw people who were planting and reaping in two days. Jibr i l told the Prophet, "These were the people who fight for the sake of All a h (mu j ahi d un). ")."

5- The Prophet also saw people whose lips and tongues were clipped with scissors made of fire. Jibr i l told the Prophet, "These are the speakers of sedition (fitna) who call people to misguidance."

6- He also saw a bull which exited a very small outlet, then was trying in vain to return through that small outlet. Jibr i l told the Prophet, "This is the example of the bad word--once spoken, it cannot be returned."

7- The Prophet saw people grazing like animals, with very little clothing on their private parts. Jibr i l told the Prophet, "These are the ones who refused to pay z ak a t . "."

8- The Prophet saw angels smashing some people's heads with rocks. These heads would return to the shape they had been, and then the angels would smash their heads again--and so on. Jibr i l told the Prophet, "These are the ones whose heads felt too heavy to perform prayer--the ones who used to sleep without praying."

9- On his journey the Prophet saw people who were competing to eat some rotten meat--ignoring meat that was sliced and unspoiled. Jibr i l told the Prophet, "These are people from your nation who leave out that which is permissible ( h al a l), and consume that which is forbidden ( ( ha r am). "This reference was to the fornicators, that is, the ones who left out the permissible (marriage) and committed sins (fornication).

10- Also, the Prophet saw people who were drinking from the fluid coming from the bodies of the fornicators, (water mixed with blood). Jibr i l indicated to the Prophet these were the ones who were drinking the alcohol which is prohibited in this world.

11- The Prophet saw people scratching their faces and chests with brass finger nails. Jibr i l said, "These are the examples of those who commit gossip ( (g h ibah) . ")."

Al-Mi^r a j

1- After the Prophet took this night journey from Masjid al- H ar a m to Masjid al-A qsa , he ascended to the upper heavens. The Prophet ascended to the heaven on stairs, called al-mir qa t , in which one step is made of gold and the next of silver, and so on. These stairs are veiled from us. The Prophet ascended these stairs until he reached the first heaven. When the Prophet and Jibr i l arrived at the first heaven, Jibr i l requested the gate to be opened. The angel assigned to that gate asked Jibr i l , "Who is with you?" Jibr i l answered, "It is Mu h ammad ." The angel asked Jibr i l , "Was he dispatched? Is it time for him to ascend to the heaven?" Jibr i l said, "Yes." So, the gate was opened for him, and Prophet Mu h ammad entered the first heaven.

There, Prophet Mu h ammad saw Prophet Ada m. To A dam's right, the Prophet saw some bodies, and to A dam’s left, other bodies. If A dam would look to his right he would laugh, and if he would look to his left he would cry. A dam was seeing the souls of his descendants. Those on his right were his descendants who would die as believers and those on his left were his descendants who would die as non-believers.

Then the Prophet ascended to the second heaven. In this second heaven was where Prophet Mu h ammad saw Prophets ^ I s a and Ya h y a . ^ I s a and Ya h y a are cousins; their mothers were sisters. They welcomed the Prophet and made supplication (du^ a ') for him for good things. The Prophet ascended to the third heaven, where he found Prophet Y u suf . Prophet Y u suf was extremely handsome. All a h bestowed half the beauty on Y u suf. Y usu f received the Prophet with a warm welcome and made supplication (du^ a ') for him for good things.

Then the Prophet ascended to the fourth heaven, where he found Prophet Idr i s . Idr i s welcomed the Prophet and made supplication (du^ a ') for him for good things. In the fifth heaven, the Prophet encountered H a r u n , the brother of Prophet M u s a . In the sixth heaven, he encountered Prophet M u s a . Each of these Prophets received Prophet Mu h ammad with a warm welcome and made supplication (du ^ a')') for him for good things.

Then the Prophet ascended to the seventh heaven, and that is where our Messenger saw Prophet Ibr a h i m . Prophet Ibr a h i m is the best of the prophets after our prophet, Mu h ammad . The Prophet saw Prophet Ibr a h i m with his back against al-Bayt al-Ma^m u r . To the inhabitants of the skies, al-Bayt al-Ma^m u r is like the Ka^bah is to us, the inhabitants of the earth. Every day 70,000 angels go there; then exit from it, and never return. The next day another 70,000 angels go, come out, and never return. This will continue until the Day of Judgment. In this, there is an indication as to the greatness of the numbers of the angels--their numbers are far more than the numbers of the humans and the jinns together.

In the seventh heaven, Prophet Mu h ammad saw Sidrat al-Muntah a --a very big tree of sidr . Each of the fruits of this tree is as large as a big jar. The leaves of this tree are similar to the ears of the elephants. Sidrat al-Muntah a is an extremely beautiful tree. It is visited by butterflies made of gold. When these butterflies gather on this tree, its beauty is beyond description.

Then the Prophet ascended to what is beyond the seven skies; he entered Paradise. He saw examples of the inhabitants of Paradise and how their situation would be. He saw most of the inhabitants of Paradise are the poor people .

The Prophet saw other things on the night of his ascension. He saw M a lik , the angel in charge of the Hellfire. M a lik did not smile at the Prophet when he saw him, and the Prophet asked why. In answer to the Prophet's question, Jibr i l said, " M a lik did not smile since the day All a h created him. Had he smiled for anyone, he would have smiled for you."

In Paradise, the Prophet saw some of the bounties All a h prepared for the inhabitants of Paradise. He saw the Hu r ul-^ I n : females All a h created who are not humans or jinn . They are in Paradise and will be married to those men All a h willed them to marry.

The Prophet saw the wildan ul-mukhallad u n : creations of All a h who are not human, jinn, or angels. They are a very beautiful creation of All a h whose appearance is like laid-out pearls. They are servants of the inhabitants of Paradise. The least in status of the People of Paradise will have 10,000 wildan ul-mukhallad u n to serve him. Each one of them would carry a tray of gold in one hand and a tray of silver in the other hand.

The Prophet saw the Throne (^Arsh) , which is the ceiling of Paradise. The Throne is the largest creation of All a h in size; All a h did not create anything bigger in size than it. The seven heavens and the earth in comparison to the Kursiyy, are like a ring thrown in a desert, and the Kursiyy in comparison to the Throne, is like a ring thrown in a desert. The seven heavens and the earth in comparison to the Throne are like a seed of mustard compared to the ocean. All a h created the Throne as a sign of His Power and He did not create the Throne to sit on it.

All a h created the Throne to show His Power. It is carried by four angels, and on the Day of Judgment, it will be carried by eight. The Prophet said he was permitted to speak about one of these angels who carry the Throne. In describing this angel, the Prophet told us the distance between his ear lobe and shoulder is the distance a fast-flying bird would cover in 700 years.

Then the Prophet ascended beyond Paradise. He reached a place where he heard the creaking of the pens used by the angels who are copying from the Preserved Tablet. It is at that location Prophet Mu h ammad heard the Ka l am of All a h , which is an attribute of the Self of All a h . He heard the Kal a m of All a h which does not resemble our speech--so it is not something that occurs bit after bit. It is not letter after letter or a word that comes after another word. Rather, it is an attribute of All a h which is eternal and everlasting. It does not resemble our attributes. The Kal a m of All a h has neither silence nor interruptions. It is an attribute of All a h , and it does not resemble the attributes of the creation.

The Prophet understood several things from hearing this Kal a m of All a h . He understood the obligation of the five Obligatory Prayers. At first, All a h obligated fifty prayers. When Prophet Mu h ammad encountered M u s a , M u s a told him to make supplication (du^ a ') to his Lord to ease the obligation of fifty (50) prayers, because his nation could not handle that. M u s a said, "I have experience with the people of Israel, and I know your nation cannot bear that." So the Prophet asked his Lord to lessen these prayers for his people. Five prayers were eliminated. Once again, M u s a told the Prophet to ask All a h to lessen the number of prayers. All a h did. Nine times the Prophet made supplication to All a h to lessen these prayers--until these prayers were lessened to five Obligatory Prayers. So Prophet M u s a was a great benefit to us. Had we been obligated to pray fifty prayers a day, this would have been a difficult matter for us.

From the Kal a m of All a h , the Prophet also understood that a good deed would be written for the person who intends to do a good deed, even if he did not do it. Also, the good deed performed would be registered for he who performs it as at least ten good deeds--up to 700 good deeds. For some people, All a h would multiply the reward of their deeds more than that. Additionally, if one performs a bad deed, it is registered for him as one bad deed; yet for he who inclines towards committing a bad deed and then refrains from committing it, a good deed would be registered for him. Here one should note the difference between two matters. If a thought crossed a person's mind about doing something sinful, and this person wavered in this thinking, i.e., considered whether he should do it or not, then he refrained from doing this for the sake of All a h , this is written as a good deed. However, if a person has the firm intention in his heart that he wants to commit a sin, it would be written for him as a sin, even if he does not do it.

The Prophet Returns to Makkah

After all these matters took place with the Prophet, he returned to the city of Makkah . Some scholars said the Prophet's journey took about one-third of the night, i.e., his journey from Makkah to Jerusalem, then to the heavens and what is above them, and then back to Makkah The next day the Prophet told the people what happened to him the previous night. The blasphemers belied the Prophet and mocked him, saying, "We need a month to get there and back, and you are claiming to have done all this in one night?" They said to Ab u Bakr , "Look at what your companion is saying. He says he went to Jerusalem and came back in one night." Ab u Bakr told them, "If he said that, then he is truthful. I believe him concerning the news of the heavens--that an angel descends to him from the heavens. How could I not believe he went to Jerusalem and came back in a short period of time--when these are on earth?" At that, the Companion, Ab u Bakr, was called " a s - S idd iq "--because of how strongly he believed all what the Prophet said.

The blasphemous people questioned the Prophet: "If you are truthful, then describe to us Masjid al-A qsa and its surroundings." They asked this because they knew Prophet Mu h ammad had never been there before the previous night. All a h enabled the Messenger to see Masjid al-A qsa , and he described the masjid and its surroundings in exact detail. Moreover, the Prophet said, "On my way back, I saw some of your shepherds grazing their animals in a particular location. They were searching for a camel they had lost." The Prophet continued by giving the description of the camel. When these shepherds came back, they told their people what happened to them--precisely as the Prophet had already told them.

These blasphemers admitted the Prophet's description was exact. Despite that, they were still stubborn and rejected the faith. They did not accept Isl a m . Only those whom All a h willed to be guided, will be guided. The person whom All a h did not will to be guided, will not believe--regardless of how much explanation or how many proofs he is shown. The person whom All a h willed to be guided, surely he will be a believer. Many people witnessed miracles and still did not believe. Many people witnessed the miracle of the Prophet's splitting of the moon. Those who refused to embrace Isl a m said, "This is magic. Mu h ammad played a magic trick on our eyes." They even asked the people of a faraway land who witnessed the moon split in two. Despite this, they still did not believe. They said, "The magic of Mu h ammad is powerful; it even reached the faraway lands!" This was their response to witnessing a miracle--instead of believing and becoming Muslims.

We ask All a h that we would all die as Muslims. We ask All a h to bestow on us the bounty of entering Paradise without torture.

And All a h knows best.

Share this post

Search our site

Listen to the qur'an.

How to Become a Muslim

One becomes a Muslim by believing in the Two Testifications of Faith (referred to in Arabic as ash-Shah a dat a n) and uttering them with the intention of leaving out blasphemy.

I bear witness that no one deserves to be worshiped except All a h and I bear witness that Mu h ammad is the Messenger of All a h Listen by clicking here

A.I.C.P. The Voice of Moderation

English subjects.

• Biographies
• Creed /Belief
• Factions /Groups
• Prophet’s Life
• Schools of Jurisprudence

Most Read Articles

• The Summary of ^Abdullah al-Harariyy
• The Explanation of Hadith Jibril about Iman - شرح حديث جبريل عن الإيمان
• A Brief Biography about our Beloved Prophet Muhammad
• Takbirat of ^Id - تكبيرات العيد
• What Is Islam?

Latest Articles

• Virtue of Seeking Religious Knowledge
• Tafsir for Juz' ^Amma - Shaykh Hassan Abul Hassan
• Important Religious Rules - Shaykh Dr. Rabih Osman
• The Meaning of the Two Testifications - Shaykh Tarek ^Abdullah
• Daily Lectures During Ramadan 2023 - 1444 Hijri

الأكثر قراءة

• "حديث "ما الفقرَ أخْشَى عليكُمْ ولكنِّي أخشى أن تُبْسَطَ الدّنْيا عليكُمْ
• قصّةُ سيِّدِنا سليمانَ عليهِ السلامُ معَ الهُدْهُدِ
• قِصَّةُ سيدنا سليمان عليه السلام مع الفلاح والنملة والطيور
• مائة كتاب لأهل السنة والجماعة في الرد على وذم بدع شيخ الوهابية محمد بن عبد الوهاب
• دليل الحاج والمعتمر والزائر على حسب الطريقة الشرعية الموافقة للسنة النبوية

جديد على الموقع

• عِلْمُ الدّينِ حَياةُ الإسلامِ - Part 1
• Summary of the Great Miracle Journey & Ascension of the Prophet Al-Isra' & Al-Miraj Arabic w english Subtitles
• من إرث الشيخ الهرري
• الدرر السلطانية من بحر السلطان الهرري
• تفسير جزء الذاريات

Upcoming Events

• رمضان موسم الخيرات - 2023 - 1444
• Ramadan related Anasheed
• Brush up your Ramadan knowledge
• Donate to The Association of Islamic Charitable Projects
• Donate to The Association of Islamic Charitable Projects AICP

What's the Hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage, and why is it significant for Muslims?

Once a year, Muslims coming to Saudi Arabia unite in a series of religious rituals and acts of worship as they perform Hajj, one of the pillars of Islam

Once a year, Muslim pilgrims flowing into Saudi Arabia unite in a series of religious rituals and acts of worship as they perform the Hajj, one of the pillars of Islam. As they fulfill a religious obligation, they immerse themselves in what can be a spiritual experience of a lifetime for them and a chance to seek God’s forgiveness and the erasure of past sins.

Here’s a look at the pilgrimage and its significance to Muslims.

WHAT IS HAJJ?

Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia that is required once in a lifetime of every Muslim who can afford it and is physically able to make it. Some Muslims make the journey more than once.

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, in addition to the profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving and fasting.

WHEN IS HAJJ?

The Hajj occurs once a year during the Islamic lunar month of Dhul-Hijja, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar year. This year, Hajj will take place this month.

WHAT'S THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HAJJ TO MUSLIMS?

For pilgrims, performing Hajj fulfills a religious obligation, but it’s also a deeply spiritual experience of a lifetime for many. It’s seen as a chance to seek God’s forgiveness for past sins, to grow closer to God and to walk in the footsteps of prophets.

Communally, Hajj unites Muslims of diverse races, ethnicities, languages and economic classes from around the world in performing religious rituals and acts of worshipping God at the same time and place. That leaves many feeling a sense of unity, connection, humility and equality. Pilgrims also show up with their own personal appeals, wishes and experiences.

Many pilgrims bring with them prayer requests from family and friends that they would like to be said on their behalf.

Some spend years hoping and praying to one day perform Hajj or saving up money and waiting for a permit to embark on the trip.

In 2019, nearly 2.5 million Muslims performed Hajj before the coronavirus pandemic disrupted religious and other gatherings the world over and took its toll on the Islamic pilgrimage. Last year’s Hajj was the first to be held without COVID-19 restrictions since the start of the pandemic in 2020.

Ahead of the journey, preparations may include packing various essentials for the physically demanding trip, seeking tips from those who’ve performed the pilgrimage before, attending lectures or consuming other educational material on how to properly perform a series of Hajj rituals as well as spiritually readying oneself.

At times, pilgrims brave intense heat or other challenging conditions during the pilgrimage.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE RITUALS THAT PILGRIMS PERFORM?

Pilgrims make the intention to perform Hajj and they enter a state of “ihram.” Being in ihram includes abiding by certain rules and prohibitions. For instance, men are not to wear regular sewn or stitched clothes that encircle the body, such as shirts, during ihram; there are simple ihram cloth garments for men instead. Scholars say the intention is to discard luxuries and vanity, shed worldly status symbols and immerse the pilgrim in humility and devotion to God.

A spiritual highlight of Hajj for many is the standing on the plain of Arafat, where pilgrims praise God, plead for forgiveness and make supplications.

Other rituals include performing “tawaf,” circumambulating, or circling the Kaaba in Mecca counterclockwise seven times.

Muslims do not worship the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure that they consider the metaphorical house of God; it’s the focal point toward which devout Muslims face during their daily prayers from anywhere in the world.

Pilgrims also trace the path of Hagar, or Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, Abraham to Jews and Christians, who Muslims believe ran between two hills seven times searching for water for her son.

Among other rituals, pilgrims throw pebbles in a symbolic stoning of the devil.

WHAT IS EID AL-ADHA?

Eid al-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is the Islamic holiday that begins on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhul-Hijja, during Hajj.

Celebrated by Muslims around the world, Eid al-Adha marks Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith and his willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of submission to God. During the festive holiday, Muslims slaughter sheep or cattle and distribute some meat to the poor.

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

About Islam

• # Quran 382 Articles
• # Spirituality 382 Articles
• # Discovering Islam 382 Articles
• # Shariah 382 Articles
• # Videos 382 Articles
• # Family & Life 382 Articles
• # Fatwa & Counseling 382 Articles
• # Muslim News 382 Articles
• # Youth Q & A 382 Articles
• # Donate 382 Articles
• Family & Life
• Moms & Dads

Night Journey: Read the Story of Israa’ and Mi`raj to Your Kids

Make the best of the occasion.

Editor’s note:  In a narrative style, we present to parents the story of Isra and Mi`raj so that they can read it to their young kids during the occasion.

With a soft voice and in a spiritual atmosphere, gather your kids and read this article to them, or you can even record it in your voice so your kids can listen to it and imagine how magnificent the journey was.

Do you ever imagine traveling at night? Admiring the stars in the dark sky and flying past the moon?

Do you ever think of how amazing it would be to move from one place to another in just a few leaps?

" title="Advertise and Market to Muslims" target="_blank">Ads by Muslim Ad Network

I’m sure you do, because I did once too. I believed I could grow wings and fly from place to place without thinking twice.

Do you ever think of meeting the prophets? Or even Allah the Almighty? How would it feel if you could seek all this out in the blink of an eye?

Well, it happened to our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)—though he didn’t grow wings. But he had a miraculous journey  where he was carried from one place to another, and later, he ascended the heavens.

That is how special our Prophet was: Allah chose him for so many special reasons and for him to experience the mercy of Allah in many ways, so he would continue to lead us down the straight path.

Israa and Miraj story

Well, the  Isra and Mi`raj , the Night Journey and the Ascension, are two of those miraculous stories that we need to know about Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Islam, especially when one special pillar of Islam was established then: our five daily prayers.

So, this is what had happened…

Beginning of the Journey

Our Prophet (PBUH) was sleeping at the Ka`aba one night, late in the month of Rajab. He loved sleeping there, as he could feel the serenity of this special place of worship.

That was until he was awoken by Archangel Angel Gabriel, who was nudging him by his foot.

The Prophet and the Angel had already known each other well enough, of course, and the Messenger of Allah instantly knew that there was a special message awaiting him, especially if the Angel visited him in the middle of the night!

Before he knew it, Prophet Muhammad set eyes on an animal. It looked much like a horse, but it had wings—yes a horse with wings!

“ A flying horse, ” he must have thought. Imagine that, seeing such a creature near the Ka`aba. This was going to be a journey to remember.

Prophet Muhammad mounted Buraq—that was what the creature was called—and, accompanied by Angel Gabriel, they took a leap into the night sky—past the clouds, past the stars, into the darkness.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) looked down and realized how far away he was from the ground, but he never felt scared as he knew this was a special journey with special lessons.

Allah the Almighty had planned all of this for him and all the generations of Muslims to come— yes, all the way until us.

Reaching Al-Aqsa Mosque

When they descended back to earth, Prophet Muhammad realized that he had reached the Masjid in Jerusalem, and there waiting for him were all the other Prophets who had come to teach Allah’s religion way, way, way before Prophet Muhammad was appointed.

They greeted each other, and the Prophet led them in prayer.

What a great congregation that must have been—all these messengers and prophets praying together to worship Allah and Allah alone.

Then Angel Gabriel approached Prophet Muhammad with two vessels—one filled with milk and one with wine—to see which he would choose.

The Prophet chose the milk and drank it; upon this, Angel Gabriel knew that the Prophet had passed a special test because he had chosen the drink that was good and pure for him and not the other one, which was forbidden on earth.

But the journey was not over yet. It was time to ascend to the Heavens.

Ascension to the Heavens

Angel Gabriel led Prophet Muhammad and Buraq once again, and they travelled upwards to the Heavens.

I don’t know how much more amazing a journey can be, considering the different levels of the skies when travelling into the night!

It must have been a scene so picturesque that Prophet Muhammad may have committed it all to memory! After all, he was the only Prophet to have travelled this way…

As they moved into the Heavens, the Prophet met several of the other Prophets at each level and they exchanged greetings of peace.

Just like us, we are all part of the one brotherhood of Islam, and Islam only allows us to give greetings of peace from one Muslim to another.

Furthermore, they were no longer on earth but in this special place for believers only—only good people are entitled to go to heaven, as per Allah’s decisions.

Right at the top, Prophet Muhammad met Prophet Abraham, who was leaning on the Lute Tree.

This tree is said to be the end of worldly knowledge, and that reminds us how only Almighty Allah (knows everything there is to know about the universe.

The Gift of Prayers

Allah revealed to our Prophet that Muslim believers were to engage in 50 prayers every single day.

Prophet Muhammad agreed and began his descent through the Heavens.

As he was on his journey back down, he met with Prophet Moses, who was worried at the large number.

He told Prophet Muhammad that 50 daily prayers were way too many for us, and so Prophet Muhammad decided to negotiate for a reduction from Almighty Allah.

Prayer is Not Only a Ritual

Almighty Allah reduced it by 5 prayers, making it 45 prayers, but Prophet Moses advised continuing to ask for less.

After a few trips, there were only 5 daily prayers, and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told Prophet Musa that he was too shy to ask for anything less.

Hence, here we are today with our second pillar of Islam, the five daily prayers.

That is why we must try our level best to always fulfill them on time and with great accuracy, because Prophet Muhammad did some hard work in helping us establish such a small number of prayers, and of course Allah, in all of His glory, allowed us to do this.

We should be ever grateful for such a beautiful and simple religion!

Back on Earth

Angel Gabriel brought Prophet Muhammad back to Makkah, and they bypassed a caravan that was on the way there.

In the morning, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) excitedly told the people of Makkah about his night journey and ascension—and everyone, except a few of his beloved friends, laughed at him.

He was mocked and bullied and called a mad man, but to their surprise, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) could answer their questions about Jerusalem, and the caravan that he passed arrived as he told them.

Still, the disbelievers refused to believe him and continued to deny this miraculous message. Of course, there were those who stood by him — and this is a good reminder for us too.

Lesson to Learn

Sometimes we will run into people who are awful to us because they think it is silly to be a Muslim or to pray five times a day.

Never forget that no one was bullied as much as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the time he spread Islam.

The Night Journey - A Journey Like No Other (Indepth)

God willing, Allah the Almighty will always provide us with friends—good friends—who will stand by us, take care of us, and always remind us that there’s nothing to be worried about when Allah is with us.

The Night Journey and the Ascension is a wonderful story to remember.

We are told of things that we can only dream of, but for Prophet Muhammad, they were very real .

He came back to earth to share his tale, so we will always continue to walk on the straight path and love Allah for all the reasons of His mercy that have been showered endlessly on His believers.

This article is from our archive s.

📚 Read Also: The Night Journey – Short Story For Kids!

Privacy Overview