The Night Journey and Ascension was when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) travelled on the Buraq from Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa and then ascended to the heavens in one night. He was taken on this journey by Buraq, a horse-like creature, described as being bigger than a donkey but smaller than a mule, and who took the Prophet (PBUH) as far as the eye could see in a single stride.
It was on this night that the Prophet (PBUH) was given 50 daily obligatory prayers to pass on to the Muslims, and where prophet Musa (AS) advised prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to ask Allah (SWT) for the prayers to be reduced. The prayers were reduced by five each time the Prophet (PBUH) went to ask Allah (SWT) until it reached five prayers. These are Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha.
Al Isra' Wal Mi'raj is sometimes called Shab e Meraj.
Al Isra' Wal Mi'raj occurred on the 27th of Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic calendar.
In 2023, it is expected to fall on 17 February.
Rajab is a special month due to the events that took place within it, including the Night Journey and Ascension. Rajab means 'to respect' and is considered 'Allah's month' and is, therefore, sacred and special. It is also one of the four most sacred months, the others being Muharram, Dhul Qa'dah and Dhul Hijjah.
The month of Rajab marks several important events, including Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) parents getting married, the Prophet (PBUH) being conceived, Ali (RA) being born, and the peace treaty for the Battle of Tabuk being signed during Rajab.
Fasting during the month of Rajab is highly recommended, especially because it comes before Sha'ban and Ramadan, whereby fasting is encouraged in Sha'ban and compulsory during Ramadan, except for Muslims who are exempt.
Giving charity is a virtuous act at any time, but even more important during Rajab and at the time of the Night Journey and Ascension. In this month, good deeds hold more value, so Muslims should strive to increase their Ibadah (worship). This can be done by visiting the sick, helping the poor, reading more Qur'an, or giving to charity.
Donate to UKIM to help the needy and follow the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH). The Prophet, upon him be peace, said: "The believer's shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity." (Al-Tirmidhi)
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