Lailat al Miraj

Lailat al Miraj History

Lailat al Miraj, also known as the Night of Ascension, commemorates Prophet Muhammad's (pbuh) night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem (Isra) and his subsequent ascension to heaven (Miraj), a journey said to have profoundly shaped Islamic thought. Additionally, it marked the beginning of the Prophet's prophethood. Observances often include prayer, meditation, and recounting of the Prophet’s journey and the revelations he received. It’s considered a time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual growth.

The tradition of Lailat al Miraj is rooted in the seventh century of the Islamic calendar, a time of significant political and social change. The Prophet's journey is seen as a pivotal moment in the development of Islam, bolstering the faith of Muslim followers. In Canada, Lailat al Miraj offers an opportunity for Muslim Canadians to connect with their religious heritage, increasing cultural understanding and encouraging social cohesion. Indeed, the emphasis on peace, respect towards all religions, and the focus on spiritual growth resonate strongly with Canadian values.

Lailat al Miraj, in Canada, is often an intimate, family-oriented observance. Many Muslims will spend the night in prayer, whilst others will participate in group prayers at a mosque, accompanied by special sermons. Religious texts detailing the Prophet’s journey are also commonly read and discussed. Although it's not a public holiday, Canadian Muslims observe it annually. It falls on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab, but the date may vary in the Gregorian calendar due to lunar sightings in different regions.

Facts about Lailat al Miraj (Begins)

• 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.
• Facts about Lailat al Miraj:
  1) From the mid-20th century onwards, the Muslim population in Canada grew rapidly. Various waves of immigration from regions such as South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Balkans contributed to the diverse and thriving Muslim communities found in many Canadian cities today. As of 2021, Islam is the fastest-growing religion in Canada.
  2) The Al Rashid Mosque, built in 1938 in Edmonton, Alberta, was the first mosque in Canada. This mosque signaled a key milestone in the establishment of the Muslim community in the country.
  3) Many Canadian schools, colleges, and universities use the celebration of Lailat al Miraj as an opportunity to educate their students about Islam and Islamic history. Some institutions organize special events or invite guest speakers to teach about the significance of the Islamic event.
  4) With the growing Muslim population in Canada, the celebration of Lailat al Miraj and other Islamic events has become more common in the country. Mosques and Islamic centers hold special prayers, lectures, and events to commemorate the holy occasion.
  5) Canadian Muslims may spend the night in worship and prayer, particularly the tahajjud or late-night prayers, in accordance with the Islamic tradition.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Lailat al Miraj

Top things to do in Canada 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:
  The Prophet's Night Journey and Heavenly Ascent - by Abd-Allah ibn Abdul Kadir
  The Miraj: The Night Ascension - by Mustafa Ahmed al-Zarqa
• Participate in Community Gatherings: Some Muslim communities also arrange gatherings where they recite stories of Isra and Mi’raj, distribute sweets and delicacies.