🌙 The Night Journey of Muḥammad: Exploring the Miʿraj
NIGHT JOURNEY OF MUḤAMMAD. [MIʿRAJ.]
By Ibrahim Al-Rashid, October 2023
Introduction
The Miʿraj, or the Night Journey of Prophet Muḥammad, represents one of the most spiritually significant events in Islamic tradition. Occurring in the year 621 CE, the Miʿraj is cited in the Qur’ān and Hadith, where Muḥammad is taken from Mecca to Jerusalem and then ascends through the seven heavens. This event is commemorated annually on the 27th day of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a demonstration of faith, linking the earthly and divine, fortifying the bond between the Creator and the believer.
Etymology
The term “Miʿraj” (معراج) is derived from the Arabic root “ʿarj,” which means “ascension” or “climb.” It specifically refers to the part of the journey where Muḥammad ascends to heaven.
Background
The event is said to have occurred after a period of spiritual trials for Prophet Muḥammad, including the loss of his beloved wife, Khadijah, and his uncle, Abu Talib. To console and fortify him, Allah granted him this miraculous journey, affirming his prophethood and his role as a leader of humankind.
Depiction in the Qur’ān and Hadith
The Miʿraj is rooted in the Quranic verse, Surah Al-Israa (17:1):
“Exalted is He who took His Servant [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad] by night from al-Masjid al-Haram [in Mecca] to al-Masjid al-Aqsa [in Jerusalem], whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”
Hadith literature expands this narrative, detailing Muḥammad’s progression through the seven heavens, meeting other prophets and ultimately standing in the divine presence of Allah.
Cultural Differences and Parallels
The concept of a night journey or ascension to heaven exists in other religious traditions as well. For example:
- Judaism: Enoch and Elijah are described as having ascended to heaven.
- Christianity: The ascension of Jesus Christ mirrors similar themes.
- Hinduism: Lord Rama’s ascent to the heavens in his ‘divine chariot’ speaks to a parallel understanding of spiritual transcendence.
However, the Islamic narrative prioritizes and emphasizes the direct dialogue between the divine and the prophet, serving as pivotal religious doctrine for establishing the five daily prayers (Salah).
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Ascension, Heavenly Journey, Spiritual Voyage
- Antonyms: Earthly Journey, Descent, Inactivity
Related Terms
- Israa: The term is closely related to the Miʿraj, denoting Muḥammad’s journey from Mecca to Jerusalem.
- Lailat al-Miraj: Stands for “the night of the ascension,” specifically referring to the night the event is commemorated.
- Salah: The five daily prayers, formalized during the Miʿraj.
Exciting Facts
- Buraq: The mystical steed, described as being less than a mule but larger than a donkey, carried the Prophet from Mecca to Jerusalem.
- Seven Heavens: This concept presents the idea of seven layers of heavens, each progressively closer to the divine presence.
- Special Night Prayers: On Lailat al-Miraj, Muslims often engage in special night prayers and supplications.
Quotes from Notable Writers
- Ibn Abbas: “The Prophet Muhammad, on the night of his ascension, traversed pathways unopened since the dawn of creation, soaring into divine unity.”
Recommended Literature & Sources
- “The Ascension of the Prophet to Heaven” by Abdullah Yusuf Ali.
- “Prophetic Biography” by ibn Kathir.
- “The Sealed Nectar” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri.
An Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
As we ponder the Miʿraj, let us reflect on the profound interconnectedness of the divine mandate and the journey we all undertake towards spiritual fulfillment.
Quizzes
May we always seek spiritual elevation and unity with the divine. Ibrahim Al-Rashid, October 2023
