The night of Miraj, a momentous event in Islamic history, remains a source of wonder and awe for Muslims worldwide. It was on this extraordinary night that the beloved Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), while fully awake in both body and soul, embarked on an astonishing journey. Guided by the divine hand, he ascended through the heavens, experiencing visions beyond human comprehension.
The Quran itself provides a glimpse into this miraculous journey:
“Holy is He Who took His (most beloved and intimate) Servant in a small portion of a night from the Sacred Mosque to the al-Aqsa Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed, in order that We might show him (the Perfect Servant) Our signs. Surely, He is the One Who is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.” (Quran 17:1)
This verse succinctly describes the core of the Miraj: a swift and miraculous journey from the Sacred Mosque in Makkah to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, a distance that would have taken weeks to cover by any conventional means. A Journey Beyond Comprehension
The Miraj, however, was far more than a mere physical journey. From Jerusalem, the Prophet, led by the archangel Jibril (Gabriel), ascended through seven heavens. Each heaven presented a unique and awe-inspiring spectacle, populated by prophets and angels. He encountered Prophet Adam, Moses, Jesus, and other prophets, each offering blessings and greetings.
The pinnacle of this celestial ascent was reaching the Sidratul-Muntaha, the farthest point in the universe where human comprehension ceases. Here, the Prophet received divine revelations directly from Allah, witnessing the Divine majesty in its purest form.A Test of Faith
The Miraj, with its otherworldly events and celestial encounters, presents a profound test of faith for believers. To accept the veracity of this journey, one must transcend the limitations of human logic and embrace the Divine mysteries.
When the Quraysh of Makkah, known for their disbelief and mockery, heard of the Prophet’s miraculous journey, their reactions were starkly contrasting. Abu Jahl, the epitome of disbelief, scoffed at the Prophet’s claims, dismissing them as mere fantasies.
However, Hazrat Abu Bakr, the Prophet’s closest companion, displayed unwavering faith. Hazrat Abu Bakr, without hesitation, declared, “If the Prophet (pbuh) say he (pbuh) have seen it, then I believe him.” This unwavering trust earned Abu Bakr the revered title of “Siddiq,” meaning “the Truthful,” as he believed in the Prophet’s words without any doubt.The Significance of the Miraj
The Miraj holds immense significance for Muslims:
• Reinforcement of Faith: The Miraj strengthens the belief in the unseen and the power of Divine will. It serves as a constant reminder that miracles are possible and that faith transcends the limitations of human understanding.
• The inward Prayers: During the Miraj, the Prophet received the command to establish salat. This act of worship became a cornerstone of Muslim life, a means of connecting with the Divine and seeking guidance.
• A Source of Inspiration: The Miraj continues to inspire Muslims around the world. It serves as a reminder that with unwavering faith and reliance on Allah, even the most extraordinary journeys are possible.A Night of Miracles
The Miraj remains a profound and awe-inspiring event in Islamic history. It is a testament to the power of Divine will and the unwavering faith of the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him). This miraculous journey continues to inspire and guide Muslims, reminding them of the importance of faith, perseverance, and unwavering trust in Allah.
Beyond the Text: Exploring the Miraj
The Miraj, with its celestial encounters and divine revelations, has been a source of inspiration for artists, poets, and scholars throughout Islamic history. Numerous works of art, literature, and scholarly discourse have sought to capture the essence of this extraordinary journey.
• Poetic Interpretations: Poets, throughout the Islamic world, have penned verses in praise of the Miraj, exploring its spiritual and mystical dimensions. These poems offer a unique perspective on the journey, conveying the emotions and experiences associated with this extraordinary event.
• Scholarly Discourse: Scholars have engaged in extensive scholarly discourse on the Miraj, analyzing its historical, theological, and mystical implications. These scholarly works provide valuable insights into the significance of the Miraj within the broader context of Islamic belief and practice.
Conclusion
The Miraj, a night of miracles and Divine revelations, remains a cornerstone of Islamic belief and practice. It serves as a constant reminder of the power of faith, the importance of unwavering trust in Allah, and the boundless possibilities that lie beyond human comprehension. As Muslims around the world commemorate this momentous event, they are reminded of the Prophet’s extraordinary journey and the profound impact it has had on their lives and their faith.
Published in TDF News, September 28, 2024
