Al-Isra wal-Mi’raj: Unraveling the Night Journey & Ascension for Profound Lessons

 Introduction:

. In this article, we delve into the magnificent event of Al-Isra wal-Mi’raj (the Night Journey & Ascension) and its significance. Prepare to embark on a journey of profound lessons and wonders.

Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj: A Miracle Eclipsed Only by the Revelation of the Qur’an

Al-Isra wal-Mi’raj emerges as a miraculous event of utmost importance. While commonly known to be the journey from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa and the subsequent ascent to heaven, this extraordinary odyssey encompasses numerous stops, wonders, and miracles. Let us now unravel the first half of this remarkable journey, exploring its intricacies.

The Background of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj: A Period of Adversity

The backdrop of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj unveils a time of intense adversity for the Prophet Muhammad (saw). His tribe and kin, the Quraysh, subjected him and his followers to ridicule and oppression. Additionally, the Year of Sorrow witnessed the loss of his beloved wife Khadijah (ra) and his protective ally, Uncle Abu Talib. Amidst this turmoil, a visit to Ta’if resulted in cruel rejection and stoning. However, from this anguish arose a profound and consoling gift - a transport to the Sacred Sanctuary, through the heavens, and ultimately to the Divine Presence, a source of comfort and hope. Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj emphasizes the lesson that "with every hardship [there will be] ease."

Al-Isra’: From the Ka’bah to Al-Aqsa

In a moment of repose at Umm Hani's (ra) house in Makkah, the Prophet (saw) recounted an incident where the Angel Jibril descended from the opened roof of his house. Subsequently, the Prophet (PBUH) was transported to the semi-circular wall of the Ka‘bah, known as the Hijr, where Jibril (as) cleansed the Prophet's (saw) chest with Zamzam water. This purification was followed by the pouring of a golden tray filled with wisdom and faith into his chest. Then, a majestic creature named al-Buraq was presented - resembling lightning but larger than a donkey yet smaller than a mule.

During pauses along the journey, Jibril (as) instructed the Prophet (saw) to dismount and engage in prayer. The first pause took place in Madinah, foreshadowing the Prophet's (saw) subsequent migration. The second and third stops occurred at Mount Sinai and Bethlehem, associated with the revelations to Musa (as) and the birth of ’Isa (as) respectively. The fourth pause happened at the grave of Musa (as), offering a glimpse into the living prayer of the Prophets.

The Culmination at Al-Aqsa: A Gathering of Prophets

The terrestrial leg of the journey concluded at Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. The Buraq was tethered to the western wall, where an assembly of all 124,000 Prophets (as) awaited. Led by Jibril (as), the Prophet (PBUH) stood at the forefront, leading them in prayer. This sacred space bore witness to unique practices such as Tahiyyat al-Masjid, with an Adhan prelude by Jibril (as), where angels descended to join the Prophets (as) in prayer.

Afterward, the Prophet (PBUH) encountered Malik (as), the Keeper of Hell, and conveyed salutations. A profound meeting followed with various Prophets (as), each revealing distinct aspects. Musa (as) spoke of the Hour, while ’Isa (as) delved into the future confrontation with Gog and Magog.

The Celestial Odyssey: Al-Mi’raj

Al-Mi’raj, meaning "an instrument for ascent," alludes to the divine ladder of this celestial odyssey. Descriptions from reliable Islamic sources elucidate a magnificent ladder brought by angels, adorned with alternating silver and gold stairs, descending from Paradise's Highest Garden. Pearls encrusted its surface, and angels stood alongside it.

Accompanied by Jibril (as), the Prophet (PBUH) ascended through the skies, witness to miraculous sights and encounters with past Prophets (as). Greeted with enthusiasm, his arrival was eagerly anticipated. The subsequent skies hosted meetings with iconic Prophets (as) such as Isa (as), Yahya (as), Yusuf (as), Idris (as), Harun (as), and Musa (as), each unveiling unique conversations and revelations.

The summit awaited at the seventh sky, where the Prophet (saw) met his venerable ancestor, Ibrahim (as), reclining against al-Bait al-Ma‘mur - the celestial counterpart to the earthly Ka‘bah. Ibrahim (as) greeted the Prophet (saw) as a pious son, echoing Adam (as)'s welcome. This meeting was replete with details, including a discourse with Adam (as), further enriching the narrative.

The journey reached its culmination at the Furthest Lote Tree, Sidrah al-Muntaha. The Prophet (PBUH) described its leaves resembling elephant ears, and its fruits akin to earthenware vessels. Transformed by Allah's command, it stood unparalleled in beauty, adorned with golden butterflies. This celestial terminus marked the end of all ascents and descents.

In the divine presence, the Prophet (PBUH) stood before Allah. While the specifics of their dialogue remain veiled, Allah revealed to His Servant what was necessary. The establishment of fifty daily prayers ensued, later reduced to five through the intercession of Prophet Musa (as).

Upon descent, the Prophet (PBUH) witnessed caravans heading towards Makkah, providing evidence of his miraculous journey. Bait al-Maqdis was also revealed during cross-examination in the Hijr of the Ka‘bah, affirming the authenticity of this event. Despite skeptics, the journey of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj stands as a source of wonder and hope for Muslims, testifying to the Prophet's (saw) unique honor.

Approaching the anniversary of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi‘raj, we have the opportunity to illuminate the Dome of the Rock Masjid. Located at the heart of the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa, it symbolizes the site of the Prophet's (PBUH) heavenly ascension.