🚀 MIʿRĀJ (معراج): Prophet Muhammad’s Heavenly Ascent
Definition & Significance
Miʿrāj (معراج), literally meaning “an ascent,” refers to Prophet Muhammad’s miraculous journey to the heavens. Together with Isrā (اسرى), which denotes his nocturnal travel from the Masjiduʾl-Harām (the Sacred Mosque in Mecca) to the Masjiduʾl-Aqṣā (the Farthest Mosque in Jerusalem), Miʿraj is one of the most significant events in Islamic tradition. It is predominantly celebrated on the 27th day of Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic calendar.
Etymology
The term Miʿrāj is derived from the Arabic root “ʿ-r-j,” which signifies “to ascend.” Isrā is derived from “س-ر-ي,” meaning “to travel by night.” These terms intricately tie the narrative to its physical and spiritual journeys, emphasizing both the literal and metaphorical soaring to divine proximity.
Background
The Miʿrāj is said to have occurred in Mecca, when Prophet Muhammad was in deep spiritual contemplation and yearning for divine guidance. The journey is vividly described in Islamic scripture, most notably in Sūra XVII (Al-Isrā or Banī Isrāʾīl), which states:
“Praise be to Him who carried His servant by night from the Masjiduʾl-Harām to the Masjiduʾl-Aqṣā.” (Qurʾān 17:1)
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islamic scholars traditionally debate whether the Miʿrāj was a physical journey or a spiritual vision. While Sunni Muslims commonly regard it as a literal journey, some interpretations, including certain Sufi traditions, emphasize its symbolic and spiritual significance. Shiite Muslims also revere the event but may have distinct theological nuances reflecting on the Prophet’s divine connection further accentuated by the event.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Isrā (اسرى) - The Nocturnal Journey
- Al-Isrāʾ (الإسراء) - Often synonymous, underscoring the nighttime travel aspect.
Antonyms:
- Qiṣāṣ (قصاص) - Retribution or punishment, generally devoid of the divine journey’s positive connotations.
- Dhūlmat (ظُلمت) - Darkness or obscurity, contrasting with the enlightenment and elevation in Miʿrāj.
Related Terms
- Burāq (براق): The steed ridden by the Prophet during the Night Journey.
- Sidratuʾl-Muntahā (سدرۃ المنتهی): The Lote-Tree of the Utmost Boundary, marking the final point for angelic ascent.
- Masjiduʾl-Ḥarām (المسجد الحرام): The Sacred Mosque in Mecca.
- Masjiduʾl-Aqṣā (المسجد الأقصى): The Farthest Mosque in Jerusalem, marking the starting point of the heavenly journey.
Exciting Facts
- 50 Prayers Reduced to 5: Initially, 50 daily prayers were mandated, but upon Prophet Moses’ advice, Prophet Muhammad repeatedly pleaded until the number was reduced to five, symbolizing divine compassion and pragmatism.
- Prophetic Interactions: Prophet Muhammad met several notable prophets like Adam, Jesus, Moses, and Abraham, highlighting the continuous line of prophetic connections in Abrahamic traditions.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Verily, the Mi’rāj is not merely an individual ascension but a community’s leap into the divine presence, tethered through the heart of the Prophet.” - Ibn ʿArabi
Suggested Literature & Further Studies
- “The Sealed Nectar” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri: A detailed biography of Prophet Muhammad, elucidating the historical and spiritual perspectives of Miʿrāj.
- “Al-Isra wal-Miraj: A Chrono-Journey” by Yusuf Jafrani: In-depth analysis of the event’s temporal and spatial elements.
- “Islam and the Divine Journey” by Riffat Hassan: Examines the theological implications of Miʿrāj in Islamic doctrine.
Quiz Time!
Reflect upon the Miʿrāj not just as an event, but as an archetype of spiritual elevation and divine grace shining through human resilience and celestial aspiration.
Amina Al-Fahad Thought-Provoking Farewell
迈向知识的顶峰，“معراج”不仅是旅程的终点，更是心灵升华的起点。让我们的精神在探索中永远升华！
