Isra and Mi'raj (Tentative Date)

Isra and Mi'raj, also known as Al-Isra' wal-Mi'raj, is a significant Islamic holiday that commemorates the miraculous night journey of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to heaven.

This extraordinary event is considered a turning point in Islamic history, as it marked a shift in the Prophet's mission from a local to a universal one. The journey is seen as a symbol of the Prophet's spiritual growth and his role as a messenger of God.

The holiday is celebrated on the 27th of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar, which usually falls in March or April in the Gregorian calendar. Muslims around the world observe this day by reciting special prayers, listening to sermons, and engaging in acts of charity and kindness.

In many Muslim-majority countries, Isra and Mi'raj is a public holiday, and people often gather in mosques and other public spaces to commemorate the occasion. The holiday serves as a reminder of the Prophet's teachings and the importance of spiritual growth and self-reflection.

In some countries, Isra and Mi'raj is also marked by cultural events, such as traditional music and dance performances, and the distribution of food and gifts to the poor and needy. Overall, the holiday is a joyous celebration of the Prophet's miraculous journey and a reaffirmation of Muslims' commitment to their faith.

The origin of Isra and Mi'raj dates back to the year 621 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was in Mecca, facing persecution and opposition from the local pagan tribes. According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet was visited by the angel Gabriel, who took him on a miraculous journey from Mecca to Jerusalem, where he led a congregation of prophets, including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, in prayer.

From Jerusalem, the Prophet was taken on a journey through the seven heavens, where he met various prophets and witnessed the wonders of the universe. The journey was a test of the Prophet's faith and a demonstration of God's power and mercy.

The event is mentioned in the Quran, the holy book of Islam, in chapter 17, verse 1, which states, 'Glory to God, who took His servant on a journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs.' The verse is seen as a reference to the Prophet's miraculous journey and the significance of Jerusalem as a sacred city in Islam.

The celebration of Isra and Mi'raj has its roots in the early days of Islam, when the Prophet's companions would gather to commemorate the event. Over time, the holiday evolved to include various traditions and customs, such as the recitation of special prayers and the distribution of food and gifts.

To observe Isra and Mi'raj, Muslims are encouraged to engage in the following activities:

• Recite special prayers and supplications, known as salat and du'a, to commemorate the Prophet's miraculous journey.
• Listen to sermons and lectures about the significance of Isra and Mi'raj and its importance in Islamic history.
• Engage in acts of charity and kindness, such as distributing food and gifts to the poor and needy.
• Spend time with family and friends, sharing meals and stories about the Prophet's journey.
• Reflect on the Prophet's teachings and the importance of spiritual growth and self-reflection.

In addition, Muslims are encouraged to visit mosques and other public spaces to participate in communal prayers and celebrations.

• Avoid criticizing or mocking the Prophet's journey, as it is considered a sacred and miraculous event in Islamic tradition.
• Refrain from engaging in excessive celebrations or festivities, as the holiday is meant to be a solemn and spiritual occasion.
• Avoid using the holiday as an excuse for indulgence or sin, as it is meant to be a time for reflection and self-improvement.
• Do not neglect one's daily prayers and devotions, as the holiday is meant to be a supplement to one's regular spiritual practices, not a replacement for them.