Isra and Mi‘raj: Description and Significance in the Light of the Qur’an and Hadith

Al-Isra and Al-Miraj is a (great) and highly significant event in Islamic history, which holds special honor and importance in the life of Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wasallam. The word “Isra” means a night journey, while “Mi‘raj” means ascension. In Islamic terminology, Isra refers to the journey in which the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam was taken in one night from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Bayt al-Maqdis. Mi‘raj refers to the ascension from there through the heavens and reaching the closeness of Allah. This event is a clear manifestation of Allah’s infinite power and a proof of the elevated status of Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam.

In the Qur’an, Allah mentions Isra: “Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, in order to show him some of Our signs. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” Surah Al-Isra — 17:1

In this verse, Allah mentions taking His servant during a part of the night from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa, which forms the foundational basis of this event. The word “laylan” (a part of the night) indicates that this extraordinary journey occurred within a very short time, demonstrating the limitless power of Allah.

The detailed account of Isra and Mi‘raj is found in Hadith. It is mentioned that the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam was made to ride a special creature called Buraq, which was extremely fast. Through it, he traveled from Makkah to Bayt al-Maqdis. There, he led all the previous prophets in prayer. Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 3207 Sahih Muslim — Hadith: 162

This part symbolizes the unity and continuity of all prophets, where the final Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam led the earlier prophets.

Then begins the Mi‘raj, where the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam ascended through different levels of the heavens. In each heaven, he met various prophets—Adam (peace be upon him) in the first heaven, ‘Isa and Yahya (peace be upon them) in the second, Yusuf (peace be upon him) in the third, Idris (peace be upon him) in the fourth, Harun (peace be upon him) in the fifth, Musa (peace be upon him) in the sixth, and Ibrahim (peace be upon him) in the seventh. Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 3887 Sahih Muslim — Hadith: 164

These meetings reflect the honor of the prophets and the continuity of their دعوت.

One of the most important aspects of this journey is the obligation of the five daily prayers. Initially, fifty prayers were prescribed. Then, upon the advice of Musa (peace be upon him), the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam repeatedly returned to Allah until it was reduced to five daily prayers. However, in reward, they are equal to fifty. Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 349 Sahih Muslim — Hadith: 162

This clearly highlights the importance, status, and divine favor associated with Salah.

The event of Isra and Mi‘raj serves as a means to strengthen the faith of believers. It is a miraculous occurrence beyond human comprehension. In the Qur’an, Allah mentions this as a demonstration of His signs, which reinforces iman in the hearts of believers.

Another important lesson from this event is that after hardship comes ease and honor from Allah. This event occurred during a difficult period in the life of the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam, serving as a form of comfort and elevation for him.

Isra and Mi‘raj also teaches the value of time and the importance of worship. Especially Salah, which was made obligatory during this journey, holds a central place in a believer’s life. It is one of the primary means of establishing a connection between the servant and Allah.

Overall, Isra and Mi‘raj is not merely a miraculous event; rather, it is a profound example of faith, worship, the status of prophethood, and the limitless power of Allah. By reflecting on its lessons, a believer can strengthen their faith and move forward on the path of attaining the pleasure of Allah.