The Blessed Night Journey in Islam

The واقعہ معراج is one of the most miraculous and spiritually significant events in Islamic history. It refers to the extraordinary journey of the Holy Prophet Muhammadﷺ, in which Allah Almighty granted him the honor of traveling from Makkah to Jerusalem and then ascending through the heavens. This event is mentioned in the Holy Quran and supported by numerous authentic Hadith. Scholars across centuries have explained its importance, and it continues to be a subject of Fatwa QA discussions, guiding Muslims about its belief, meaning, and relevance.

Quranic Reference of واقعہ معراج

The واقعہ معراج is directly referred to in the Quran in Surah Al-Isra (17:1):

"Glory be to Him Who carried His servant by night from Al-Masjid Al-Haram to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, the surroundings of which We have blessed, so that We might show him some of Our signs. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, All-Seeing."

This verse affirms that the journey from Makkah to Jerusalem (Isra) and then the ascension (Mi’raj) were a divine miracle, not merely a dream. The scholars of Fatwa QA confirm that the Prophetﷺ experienced this with both body and soul, as a real journey.

The Journey of Isra and Mi’raj

The واقعہ معراج is divided into two parts:

1. Isra (Night Journey):
   The Prophetﷺ was taken from Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, riding the heavenly creature called Buraq. He led the previous Prophets in prayer, symbolizing his final authority as the Seal of Prophets.
2. Mi’raj (Ascension to the Heavens):
   From Jerusalem, the Prophet ﷺ ascended to the heavens, meeting Prophets Adam, Isa (Jesus), Musa (Moses), Ibrahim (Abraham), and others. Finally, he reached Sidrat al-Muntaha, the highest boundary of creation, where even angels could not proceed. Here, Allah Almighty granted him the gift of five daily prayers (Salah), establishing them as the second pillar of Islam.

Lessons from واقعہ معراج

The واقعہ معراج holds countless lessons for Muslims:

• The Centrality of Salah: The direct gift of Salah from Allah during Mi’raj shows its supreme importance. Fatwa QA emphasizes that Salah is not just a ritual but a direct link between a believer and his Lord.
• Spiritual Strength: The Prophetﷺ was shown Paradise and Hell, reinforcing the reality of the afterlife.
• Honor of the Prophetﷺ: His leadership in prayer over all Prophets signifies his ultimate rank.
• Hope for Believers: Despite hardships and trials, Allah honored His Messengerﷺ, teaching Muslims that difficulties are followed by divine ease.

واقعہ معراج in Light of Fatwa QA

Scholars of Islam have issued countless Fatwa QA responses clarifying misconceptions about the واقعہ معراج:

1. Was the Mi’raj physical or spiritual?
   According to the majority of scholars and authentic Hadith, it was both physical and spiritual, not merely a vision.
2. Is believing in واقعہ معراج compulsory?
   Yes. Belief in واقعہ معراج is part of the faith. Denying it contradicts the Quran and Hadith.
3. Why is Salah emphasized in Fatwa QA discussions about Mi’raj?
   Because it was the central gift of this event. Unlike other commands, Salah was ordained directly during Mi’raj, proving its high status.

Spiritual Dimensions of واقعہ معراج

The واقعہ معراج is not only a historical event but also a source of spiritual reflection. It teaches Muslims about:

• Nearness to Allah: Just as the Prophetﷺ ascended closer to Allah, every believer can spiritually ascend by performing Salah and remembering Allah.
• Patience in Trials: The event took place after the "Year of Sorrow," when the Prophetﷺ lost his beloved wife Khadijah (RA) and his uncle Abu Talib. Despite pain and rejection, Allah honored him with Mi’raj.
• Unity of Prophets: By leading them in prayer, the Prophetﷺ demonstrated the continuation of one divine message: Tawheed (Oneness of Allah).

Contemporary Relevance of واقعہ معراج

In today’s world, the واقعہ معراج inspires Muslims to remain steadfast in faith despite challenges. It reminds us of the unseen realities—Paradise, Hell, angels, and the Day of Judgment. Fatwa QA scholars emphasize that by regularly offering Salah, Muslims can strengthen their connection with Allah, experiencing a “mini-Mi’raj” five times a day.

The واقعہ معراج also emphasizes the honor of Masjid Al-Aqsa, reminding Muslims of its sanctity and responsibility to protect and value it.

واقعہ معراج and the Gift of Prayer

The most remarkable outcome of واقعہ معراج was the establishment of five daily prayers. Initially, Allah ordained fifty prayers, but through the mercy of the Prophetﷺ, it was reduced to five while retaining the reward of fifty. This reflects both Allah’s generosity and the Prophet’s compassion for his Ummah.

Fatwa QA scholars repeatedly highlight that abandoning Salah is a grave sin, while maintaining it is a direct expression of faith, gratitude, and obedience to Allah.

Celebrating واقعہ معراج

Many Muslims commemorate the night of Shab-e-Mi’raj with worship, Quran recitation, and special gatherings. While some scholars differ on specific rituals, Fatwa QA encourages Muslims to focus on:

• Offering extra Salah (Nafl prayers)
• Making sincere Dua for forgiveness
• Reciting the Quran and Darood Sharif
• Reflecting on the lessons of واقعہ معراج

The essence lies not in rituals but in strengthening faith and renewing the covenant with Allah.

Conclusion

The واقعہ معراج is a shining event in Islamic history, filled with miracles, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. It was during this miraculous night that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was honored with direct communication with Allah and received the eternal gift of Salah. Fatwa QA confirms that believing in this event is part of the Islamic faith, and reflecting on its lessons is crucial for every Muslim.

For Muslims today, the واقعہ معراج is not just a story of the past but a constant reminder of the power of faith, patience in trials, and the ultimate honor of connecting with Allah through prayer. By embracing its teachings, one can achieve both worldly peace and eternal success.