Isra (night journey) and Mi’raj (ladder or ascension) is observed on the 27th day of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar. Isra and Mi’raj commemorate the physical and spiritual journey taken by the Prophet Muhammad on one night around 621 CE. Isra refers to the journey in which the angel Gabriel took the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem, where he prayed with the preceding prophets, including Moses, Jesus, and Abraham. Mir’aj refers to the Prophet Muhammad’s ascension through the seven heavenly realms and entering the presence of Allah. It was then that Allah issued the commandment for the daily prayers. Muhammad returned to Mecca the same night. This journey is often celebrated by Muslims throughout the world with prayers during the night.
To Name this Day:
Personal Exploration
Reflections on Isra’ (Night Journey) and Mi’raj (Ascension)
Habib Umar bin Hafiz’s reflections on talks by Habib ‘Abd al-Qadir al-Saqqaf on the subject of the Isra’ and Mi’raj.
Spiritual Practice
As with all Islamic holy days, this holiday is a time to practice charity, devotion, forgiveness, gratitude, and service. Offering supererogatory worship (extra prayers) during the night is highly recommended, as is fasting on the 27th day of Rajab.
Salawat with Allah’s Beautiful Names: Ya Batin (the Hidden One)
A prayer taken from Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz’s collection of prayers using Allah’s beautiful names.
Prayer of Gabriel
A supplication the angel Gabriel taught Prophet Muhammad during the night journey to defeat evil.
