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What is Laylat al-Isra wa al-Miraj?

Laylat al-Isra wa al-Miraj refers to the night of the Isra and Miraj, two parts of a miraculous journey that the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have taken in a single night. This event holds significant religious importance in Islam and is often observed by Muslims with reflection and additional acts of worship. 

 

Here are the key aspects of Laylat al-Isra wa al-Miraj:

  1. The Journey:
    • Isra: The first part of the journey, known as the Isra, took the Prophet Muhammad from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque. According to tradition, this journey was facilitated by Buraq, a celestial steed, and the Prophet was accompanied by the Angel Gabriel.
    • Miraj: The second part, called the Miraj, involved the Prophet’s ascension to the heavens. During this ascension, Muhammad is said to have met several prophets, experienced the various levels of heaven, and ultimately came into the presence of Allah.
  2. Revelation of Prayer: It is believed that during the Miraj, the five daily prayers (Salah) were established as an obligatory act of worship for Muslims. This directive from Allah underscores the centrality of prayer in Islamic life.
  3. Quranic Reference: The event of the Isra is briefly mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Isra (17:1), which describes the Prophet’s journey from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque. While the Miraj is not explicitly detailed in the Quran, it is elaborated upon in Hadith literature.
  4. Observance and Celebration: Laylat al-Isra wa al-Miraj is observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. The manner of observance varies among different Muslim communities. It often involves additional prayers, recitation of relevant Quranic verses and Hadith, and reflection on the spiritual lessons of the journey.
  5. Spiritual and Ethical Lessons: The Isra and Miraj serve as reminders of the importance of faith, perseverance, and the connection between the earthly and divine. The event emphasizes spiritual elevation and reinforces key Islamic tenets.
  6. Cultural Practices: In some cultures, Muslims mark the occasion with gatherings at mosques, where religious leaders may deliver sermons recounting the journey and its significance. Special meals or charitable acts might also accompany the observance.

 

Laylat al-Isra wa al-Miraj is a night that inspires devotion and reflection among Muslims, reminding them of the Prophet Muhammad’s closeness to Allah and the enduring guidance provided through the establishment of prayer.

 

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.