Lailat al Miraj

Lailat al Miraj History

Lailat al Miraj, also known as Isra and Miraj, marks Prophet Muhammad's night journey from Mecca to 'the farthest mosque' in Jerusalem where he ascended to the heavens. On this miraculous journey, it is believed that the Prophet was shown the signs of God, which included heaven and hell, and he was also led in prayer by all the prophets. This observance is considered significant as it emphasizes the importance of prayer (Salah) which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a night of reflection and prayer for many believers.

Lailat al Miraj has a significant place in history as it happened approximately ten years into Muhammad's Prophethood. As per Islamic tradition, during this journey, the Prophet was taken by the angel Jibril and met a number of prophets including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. The Prophet's return journey to Mecca also has relevance in the Indian context as India has a long history of Islamic influence and heritage stretching back to the 7th century. There are diverse interpretations and understandings of this miraculous journey across various Islamic sects in India, including Sunni, Shia and Sufi communities, each with unique commemorative rituals and practices.

In India, Lailat al Miraj is observed based on the lunar Islamic Calendar. As India has one of the largest Muslim populations in the world, prayers and observances are held in mosques throughout the country. Many Muslims spend the day fasting, praying and reading the Quran, reflecting on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad. It's also common for people to attend special sermons or talks about the Prophet's ascension. The specific date of Lailat al Miraj can vary depending on the sighting of the moon, but it generally falls in the Islamic month of Rajab, which is the seventh month in the Islamic calendar.

Facts about Lailat al Miraj

• Muslims believe that there are several levels in heaven. Muhammad was taken to each one by Angel Gabriel. At each heaven, a gate-keeper asked both the angel and Muhammad to identify themselves before proceeding.
• Muslims believe that Muhammad saw "Al-Bait-al-Mamur" (God's house). Gabriel told Muhammad that every day since the beginning of creation, 70,000 different angels pray there daily.
• Muhammad is also believed to have seen "Sidrat al-Muntaha" (a tree) in the seventh heaven. Its leaves resembled elephant ears, its fruits resembled clay jugs, and from it originated four rivers. Two of them were hidden in heaven, while the other two were made apparent to man in the forms of the Nile and the Euphrates.
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  1) The Bara Imambara in Lucknow, built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, is an architectural marvel and an important place for observing Lailat al Miraj in India. The intricate architecture and impressive design of this shrine attract both devotees and tourists alike.
  2) In 2012, the Indian postal department released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the occasion of Lailat al Miraj. The stamp featured a beautiful illustration of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, where the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have taken place.
  3) In Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar, Lailat al Miraj is celebrated with immense devotion as the shrine houses a relic believed to be a hair of Prophet Muhammad. Hazratbal Shrine is adorned with colorful lights, and devotees throng the shrine to offer special prayers.
  4) All major Indian cities, particularly those with significant Muslim populations such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow, observe Lailat al Miraj with special gatherings and prayer sessions. Various religious leaders deliver sermons and discussions on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad during this night.
  5) While Lailat al Miraj does not hold the same level of importance as it does in some other Islamic countries, its observation in India showcases the country's cultural and religious diversity, as well as the ancient history of Islam in India.
• More facts about Lailat al Miraj:
  1) Muslims in India and around the world often perform additional prayers and worship on this night, seeking blessings and closeness to God. Some devotees also fast during the day, as a form of extra devotion and worship.
  2) In India and other countries, special gatherings and religious programs are often organized at mosques and other community centers to discuss and learn about the events and spiritual lessons of Isra and Mi'raj.
  3) Scholars and religious leaders often deliver lectures (known as Bayan) and sermons to educate Muslims about the significance and teachings of Lailat al Miraj. The sessions focus on Islamic teachings, the importance of prayer, and strengthening the connection with Allah.
  4) and teachings of Prophet Muhammad during this night.
  While Lailat al Miraj does not hold the same level of importance as it does in some other Islamic countries, its observation in India showcases the country's cultural and religious diversity, as well as the ancient history of Islam in India.
  5) All major Indian cities, particularly those with significant Muslim populations such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow, observe Lailat al Miraj with special gatherings and prayer sessions.

In the News and Trending in India for Lailat al Miraj

Top things to do in India for Lailat al Miraj

• Place candles or lights outside. In some Muslim countries it is a tradition to illuminate the city.
• Read a book to learn about Lailat al Miraj:
  Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources - by Martin Lings: This book provides in-depth detail about the Prophet Muhammad’s journey which includes the Isra and Mi'raj.
  Night Journey to Jerusalem - by Ismail K. Poonawala: It is a fascinating and detailed account of the journey, including its significance and impact.
• Attending Religious Scholar Lectures: Listening to lectures by religious scholars, who describe the night journey of Prophet Muhammad, is quite prevalent. These can take place at mosques, Islamic centers, or even broadcasted on television.