Shab-e-Miraj Explained: The Night Journey, Ascension, and Its Spiritual Significance in Islam

shab e miraj

Shab-e-Miraj: A Night of Faith, Hope, and Divine Connection

Shab-e-Miraj is one of the most special and deeply meaningful nights in Islamic history. It marks the miraculous journey of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, when he travelled in a single night from Makkah to Jerusalem and then ascended through the heavens by Allah’s command.

For Muslims around the world, this night is not just about a miracle. It is about hope after hardship, the importance of prayer, and the close connection between a believer and Allah.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

What Does Shab-e-Miraj Mean?

The event is made up of two parts:

  • Isra – the Night Journey from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem
  • Miraj – the Ascension from Jerusalem through the seven heavens

This extraordinary journey is mentioned in the Quran, showing that it was a real miracle granted by Allah to His Messenger.

When Did Shab-e-Miraj Happen?

Shab-e-Miraj took place during a very difficult time in the life of the Prophet ﷺ. He had lost his beloved wife Khadijah (R.A) and his uncle Abu Talib, and he was facing strong opposition and hardship in Makkah. This period is often called the Year of Sorrow.

At a time of deep pain and struggle, Allah honoured His Prophet with this journey, reminding him that divine help is always near.

The Journey from Makkah to Jerusalem

According to Islamic tradition, Angel Jibreel (A.S) came to the Prophet ﷺ at night and took him on a special heavenly mount called Buraq. In a short time, the Prophet travelled from Makkah to Jerusalem.

At Masjid al-Aqsa, he led all previous prophets in prayer. This showed that the message of Islam is a continuation of the same divine message given to earlier prophets.

The Ascension to the Heavens

From Jerusalem, the Prophet ﷺ was taken up through the seven heavens. In each heaven, he met earlier prophets such as Adam, Isa (Jesus), Musa (Moses), and Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon them all.

At the highest point, known as Sidrat al-Muntaha, the Prophet ﷺ was granted one of the greatest gifts for the Muslim Ummah: the five daily prayers (Salah).

Originally, fifty prayers were prescribed, but after the Prophet’s request and Allah’s mercy, they were reduced to five — while keeping the reward of fifty.

Why Is Shab-e-Miraj So Important?

Shab-e-Miraj carries powerful lessons for every Muslim:

  • Salah is a direct link with Allah – It was given without any intermediary
  • Hardship is never permanent – Relief comes after patience
  • Faith goes beyond logic – True belief means trusting Allah even when things are beyond human understanding
  • Hope and mercy – Allah’s mercy is greater than any difficulty

This night reminds believers that even in the darkest moments, Allah can open doors in ways we cannot imagine.

How Do Muslims Observe Shab-e-Miraj?

There is no compulsory ritual for Shab-e-Miraj, but many Muslims mark the night with voluntary worship, such as:

  • Offering extra nafl prayers
  • Reading the Quran
  • Making dua and asking for forgiveness
  • Remembering Allah through dhikr
  • Listening to or sharing the story of Miraj

Scholars advise keeping worship simple and sincere, without turning it into a fixed celebration.

A Message for Today

In today’s fast and stressful world, Shab-e-Miraj carries a timeless message. It teaches that success is not only worldly achievement, but peace of the heart. It reminds us that prayer is not a burden, but a gift — a moment to rise above worries and speak directly to Allah.

Shab-e-Miraj is a reminder that no matter how heavy life feels, faith has the power to lift the soul higher.

May Allah grant us strength, sincerity, and closeness to Him. Ameen.

Write : Altaf Husain Nadwi Kashmiri

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