The journey of Isra and Mi'raj is one of the most famous miracles, the clearest proofs, the strongest arguments, the truest news, the greatest signs, and the most complete evidence demonstrating the unique honor bestowed upon the Prophet ﷺ through universal blessings.
The journey of Isra and Mi'raj is a miracle made immortal by the Quran in two of its blessed surahs: Surah Al-Isra and Surah An-Najm. One of the surahs of the Quran was even named after it, emphasizing its greatness and confirming the lessons, admonitions, and guidance contained in this blessed journey for the believing servants of Allah.
The Miracle of Isra and Mi'raj: A Sign of Prophethood
There is no doubt that Isra and Mi’raj is a miracle and a sign of prophethood. The signs of the prophets are not necessarily meant for the prophets to use as evidence or to challenge others to produce something similar. Rather, they serve as proof of their prophethood. It is noteworthy that the Prophet ﷺ did not use Isra and Mi'raj as a miracle to confirm his message, even though his people persistently demanded supernatural signs. Allah says, quoting them: " or you ascend into heaven—and even then we will not believe in your ascension until you bring down to us a book that we can read." (Surah Al-Isra, 17:93). The Prophet ﷺ informed them of what happened during Isra and Mi'raj as a means of conveying the truth, not to challenge them to believe in his message. It is not recorded that the Prophet ﷺ used anything other than the Quran as a challenge to prove the truth of his message. The supernatural events that occurred to the Prophet ﷺ, such as the splitting of the moon and Isra and Mi'raj, weren’t used as miracles to confirm his prophethood. Instead of that, they were meant as a test and trial for people's faith. Allah says: "as well as the cursed tree ˹mentioned˺ in the Quran only as a test for the people. We keep warning them, but it only increases them greatly in defiance." (Surah Al-Isra, 17:60). Thus, the visions and signs that Allah showed His Prophet ﷺ on the night of Isra and Mi'raj were a test for the people, a trial of their faith, and a means of purification. They serve as a lesson for those of understanding, guidance, and steadfastness for those who believe and are certain of Allah's command. Among the Muslims, some remained firm in their faith and increased in certainty, while others were tested and turned back, disbelieving after having believed.
Why Did the Journey of Isra and Mi'raj Occur?
The journey of Isra and Mi'raj was a means of comforting the Prophet ﷺ and consoling him amidst the trials and tribulations he faced. It was also a way to alleviate the loneliness that had touched the heart of the Prophet ﷺ after the loss of two beloved individuals: his wife Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her) and his uncle Abu Talib. This great journey demonstrated that Allah alone is the Beloved and the Greatest Protector.
The journey of Isra and Mi'raj was a divine consolation and reward for the Prophet ﷺ after he endured numerous trials and tribulations from the disbelievers, especially after the death of his wife Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her) and his uncle Abu Talib. The final hardship was the harm inflicted by the tribe of Thaqif when the Prophet ﷺ went to them, calling them to Allah. He returned from Ta'if carrying mountains of sorrow due to their obstinate rejection of the call to monotheism. He had hoped for their support and assistance in spreading the message of Tawhid (monotheism), but they were even harsher and more ignorant than the people of Makkah.
Amidst these tragedies, harsh conditions, and successive sorrows, Allah in His mercy and kindness, comforted His chosen Prophet ﷺ and consoled his troubled heart and wounded spirit through a great voyage in which he witnessed the grander signs of Allah. This journey was a manifestation of love and honor for the Prophet ﷺ—the journey of Isra and Mi'raj.
Undoubtedly, the journey of Isra and Mi'raj was not merely a journey of honor, consolation, and comfort for the Prophet ﷺ. It also contained significant and important lessons, admonitions, and guidance worthy of consideration and reflection by the believers to increase their faith. It also served as a reminder of the greatness of the unseen cosmic signs that the Prophet ﷺ informed us about.
