Al Isra Wal Miraj (Shab-e-Meraj) 2025: The Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) Journey from Makkah to the Heavens
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In the stillness of night, when the world lay in slumber,
The Prophet (ﷺ) rose, called by a grace none could hear.
Blanketed in silence, as stars adorned the skies,
He ascended dimensions where mortal sight dies.
Through veils of the cosmos, on the Buraq’s swift flight,
He soared past the heavens, a celestial light.
In each realm, the prophets stood to greet,
A brotherly bond in that divine retreat.
While the earth slept, unaware of the night’s decree,
A journey of magnitude, beyond what eyes could see.
And as the dawn broke, a truth to proclaim,
Faith’s highest witness—Muhammad (ﷺ), his name.
Imagine a moment so profound, so extraordinary, that it transcends both time and space.
That’s what Al Isra Wal Mi’raj- a journey beyond the earthly realms represents – a miraculous journey undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), that not only reminds us of the boundless mercy and power of Allah (SWT) but is also an important lesson for every believer about faith, perseverance, and the limitless potential of the human soul.
Al Isra Wal Mi’raj, also known as ‘Shab-e-Meraj' in the Indian subcontinent, occurred during a time of immense difficulty in the life of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It was the year of sorrow, marked by two irreparable losses of his beloved wife, Khadijah (RA), and his beloved uncle, Abu Talib (RA) - both of whom were His (ﷺ) biggest supporters in every aspect of life. Yet, in this darkest of times, while battling grief and intense hardships, Allah (SWT) gifted the Prophet (ﷺ) with a journey unlike any other.
The journey began in Makkah, where the Prophet (ﷺ) was carried on the Buraq, a celestial steed, to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. This phase, known as Al Isra, signifies the connection between the two holiest mosques and highlights the importance of unity among believers. At Masjid Al-Aqsa, the Prophet (ﷺ) led all the prophets in prayer, affirming his role as the Seal of the Prophets. The event finds a beautiful narration in the Holy Qur’an where Allah (SWT) says,
“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing. (Surah Al Isra: 1)
Masjid Al-Aqsa holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. It is the first Qibla and the third holiest site in Islam. Its historical and spiritual significance reminds us of our shared heritage and the importance of standing in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Palestine. Supporting the people of Palestine is not just an act of charity; it’s a testament to our faith and commitment to humanity.
Then came Al Mi’raj, the ascension to the heavens. The Prophet (ﷺ) was taken through the seven heavens, meeting prophets like Adam (AS), Yusuf (AS), and Musa (AS) along the way. At each stage, he was greeted with warmth and blessings. Finally, he reached the Sidrat al-Muntaha, the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary, where he was granted the divine gift of Salah.
The miracle of Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj is not only one of the important events in the Islamic history but it is also a means for us to ponder over the infinite power and glory of Allah (SWT) and the love He has for our beloved Prophet (ﷺ) - something wrecite in the ‘Tashahud’ of our Salah every day. It is on this night that the Prophet (ﷺ) was commanded to advise us for Salah, our five daily prayers, also known as a ‘Momin’s Mi’raj’. The concept of Salah being a ‘Mi’raj’ comes from the idea that just as the Prophet's (ﷺ) journey to the heavens was a source of spiritual elevation, Salah is the means by which a believer elevates their soul and draws nearer to Allah (SWT). The metaphorical expression of "Mi’raj" emphasises this spiritual ascent through prayer.
As the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is when he is prostrating” (Muslim).
As we commemorate the day of Al Isra Wal Mi’raj by offering Nafl prayers, recitations of the Holy Qur’an, sending salutation on the Prophet (ﷺ) and his blessed family, giving Sadaqah and heartfelt Duas, let’s also take a moment to reflect on our own lives. Are we using our hardships as stepping stones to get closer to Allah (SWT)? Are we misunderstanding the test of Allah (SWT) as His Punishment? Are we making our conversations with Him in Salah meaningful, or has it become a routine task?
Let’s make a change today. Let us strengthen our connection with Allah (SWT) through prayer, charity, and acts of kindness. As humble as it may be, we must remember that every small effort made is seen by Allah (SWT). The Qur’an beautifully reminds us: “So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it” (Surah Az-Zalzalah, 99:7).
At Penny Appeal, we strive to emulate the lessons of Al Isra Wal Mi’raj by being a source of hope and light for those in need. Whether it’s providing clean water, feeding the hungry, or supporting orphans, every act of kindness brings us closer to Allah (SWT) - Insha’Allah!
This Al Isra Wal Mi’raj, let’s use our small change to make a BIG difference in the lives of those who need it most. Donate today and be part of a journey that uplifts not just your soul, but the lives of countless others.
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SUNDAY 26 JAN 2025
