Shab-e-Miraj, which falls on the 27th night of Rajab, celebrates one of the biggest miracles of Islam: the Isra (Night Journey) and Miraj (Ascension) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This miraculous journey, described in the Quran and Hadith, represents Allah”s infinite power and the Prophet”s supreme prestige. In this blog, we explore the backstory, spiritual insights and eternal meaning of this heavenly journey.
“Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylat al-Qadr (or blessed nights) with faith and seeking reward, their previous sins will be forgiven.”
The Story of Isra and Miraj
What is Shab-e-Miraj?
Shab-e-Miraj commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) journey from Makkah to Jerusalem (Isra) and his ascension through the heavens (Miraj). Occurring during a time of intense hardship for the Prophet, this event reinforced his mission and deepened Muslims’ faith.
The Night Journey (Isra)
Guided by Angel Jibreel (AS), the Prophet (PBUH) traveled on Buraq, a celestial steed, from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. There, he led prayers with previous prophets, including Ibrahim (AS), Musa (AS), and Isa (AS), symbolizing the unity of divine messages.
The Ascension (Miraj)
From Jerusalem, the Prophet (PBUH) ascended through the seven heavens, meeting prophets and witnessing divine wonders. In the highest heaven, he received Allah’s direct command to establish the five daily prayers (Salah), a cornerstone of Muslim worship.
Quranic References and Hadiths
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Surah Al-Isra (17:1):
“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.” -
Hadith (Sahih al-Bukhari):
The Prophet (PBUH) described encountering angels, Paradise, and Hellfire during his journey, emphasizing the reality of the afterlife. -
Hadith (Sahih Muslim):
“Allah obligated five prayers upon every Muslim. He promised to admit into Paradise whoever prays them at their times.”
Spiritual Lessons from Shab-e-Miraj
The Power of Salah: The gift of five daily prayers underscores its role in connecting believers to Allah.
Faith in Adversity: The journey occurred during the Year of Sorrow, teaching resilience and trust in divine wisdom.
Allah’s Proximity: The Prophet’s ascension proves Allah’s closeness to His creation despite His transcendence.
Prophethood Confirmed: Meeting earlier prophets validated Muhammad’s (PBUH) role as the final messenger.
How Muslims Observe Shab-e-Miraj
Night Prayers (Tahajjud): Many stay awake in prayer and reflection.
Reciting Quran: Surah Al-Isra and Surah An-Najm (Chapter 53) are often read.
Charity (Sadaqah): Donating to causes like Islamic Relief or hidayah quran.
Fasting: Some fast on the 27th of Rajab to seek blessings.
Acts of Worship (Ibadat) on Shab-e-Miraj
Shab-e-Miraj is a night of immense spiritual significance, and Muslims worldwide engage in specific acts of worship to seek Allah’s blessings and reflect on the Prophet’s (PBUH) miraculous journey. Here are the recommended practices for this sacred night:
1. Special Night Prayers (Tahajjud and Nafl)
Tahajjud: Many Muslims stay awake during the night, offering voluntary prayers (Tahajjud) to connect with Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.” (Sahih Muslim).
Salat al-Tasbih: Some recite this special prayer, seeking forgiveness and blessings, though its practice is debated among scholars. Always consult authentic sources before performing unique prayers.
2. Recitation of the Quran
Focus on Surah Al-Isra (17) and Surah An-Najm (53), which directly reference the Isra and Miraj.
Reflect on verses describing Allah’s power and the Prophet’s (PBUH) journey, such as:
“And indeed, he (Muhammad) saw him (Jibreel) in another descent at the Lote-tree of the Utmost Boundary…” (Quran 53:13-18).
3. Supplication (Dua)
The last third of the night is considered a blessed time for dua. Ask for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings for oneself and humanity.
The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven every night and says: ‘Who is calling upon Me that I may answer him?’” (Sahih Bukhari).
4. Charity (Sadaqah)
Follow the Sunnah of generosity by donating to the needy.
“The most beloved deed to Allah is the most regular and constant, even if it is small.”
5. Fasting on the 27th of Rajab
While fasting on this day is not obligatory, some Muslims fast to commemorate the event. The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged fasting during sacred months like Rajab (Sunan Abu Dawood).
6. Reflect on the Significance of Salah
Since the five daily prayers were gifted during Miraj, renew your commitment to performing Salah on time. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The covenant between us and them is prayer; whoever abandons it has disbelieved.” (Sunan Ibn Majah).
7. Avoid Innovations (Bid’ah)
Stick to authentic practices. Avoid unverified rituals like specific group prayers or excessive celebrations, as the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions did not prescribe them.
External Links for Further Reading
FAQs About Shab-e-Miraj
1. What is Shab-e-Miraj?
Shab-e-Miraj (The Night of Ascension) is the night when Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was taken on a miraculous journey from Makkah to Jerusalem (Isra and Miraj) and then ascended to the heavens by the will of Allah.
2. When is Shab-e-Miraj observed?
Shab-e-Miraj falls on the 27th night of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar.
3. What happened on the night of Miraj?
On this blessed night, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was taken from Masjid al-Haram (Makkah) to Masjid al-Aqsa (Jerusalem) and then ascended through the heavens, where he met past prophets and was granted the gift of five daily prayers (Salah) for the Muslim Ummah.
4. What is the significance of Shab-e-Miraj?
It is a night of divine blessings, where Allah (SWT) demonstrated His power and granted the obligation of daily prayers. It also serves as a reminder of faith, prayer, and the mercy of Allah.
5. How do Muslims observe Shab-e-Miraj?
While there are no obligatory acts of worship, many Muslims spend the night in prayer, reciting Quran, making dua, and seeking forgiveness. Some also reflect on the lessons of the journey.
6. Is fasting required on Shab-e-Miraj?
Fasting on the day after Shab-e-Miraj is not obligatory, but some people observe it voluntarily as an act of devotion.
7. Where is Shab-e-Miraj mentioned in the Quran?
The event is mentioned in:
- Surah Al-Isra (17:1) – referring to the night journey from Makkah to Jerusalem.
- Surah An-Najm (53:13-18) – describing the ascension and divine signs shown to the Prophet (ﷺ).
8. Is Shab-e-Miraj a public holiday?
It depends on the country. Some Muslim-majority countries observe it as a public holiday, while others do not.
9. Can we make special prayers (Nafl Salah) on Shab-e-Miraj?
Yes, offering Nafl prayers, reciting the Quran, and making dua are encouraged acts of worship on this night, though there is no specific prayer mandated for it.
10. What lessons can we learn from Shab-e-Miraj?
- The importance of prayer (Salah) as a direct gift from Allah.
- The reality of Paradise and Hell as shown to the Prophet (ﷺ).
- The significance of faith and trust in Allah’s wisdom.
11. What should a Muslim do on Shab-e-Miraj?Muslims can observe this night by:
- Offering Nafl (voluntary) prayers for seeking blessings.
- Reciting the Quran, especially Surah Al-Isra and Surah An-Najm, which mention the event.
- Making sincere dua for forgiveness, guidance, and mercy.
- Seeking knowledge about the importance of Shab-e-Miraj and its lessons.
- Performing Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) by reciting Tasbeeh, Tahleel, and Istighfar.
Conclusion
Shab-e-Miraj is not just a historical event but a timeless reminder of Allah’s mercy, the importance of prayer, and the unyielding faith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). By reflecting on its lessons, Muslims renew their commitment to spiritual growth and compassion.