Lailat al Miraj

Lailat al Miraj History

Lailat al Miraj, also known as the Night of Ascension, commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's miraculous voyage from Mecca to Jerusalem, followed by his ascension to the seventh heaven, all in a single night. For many, this observance celebrates the essence of spiritual journey and ascension, representing the Prophet's rise above worldly desires and the physical realm to reach divine consciousness. It also serves as a reminder of the significant role that Jerusalem plays in Islamic tradition.

The historical significance of Lailat al Miraj dates back to the 7th century, with its origins rooted in the life of the Prophet Muhammad. In the context of United Kingdom's diverse population, the observance offers an opportunity for the significant Muslim community present in the UK to engage with their faith more closely. Lailat al Miraj provides a unique intersection of faith, history, and culture for the discussion and celebration of Islamic principles and ideals. Many Muslims in the UK also see it as an occasion to reflect upon their spiritual journey and enhance their understanding of the life and teachings of the Prophet.

In the United Kingdom, Lailat al Miraj is observed with keen reverence and a focus on prayer, reflection, and community gatherings. Muslim families spend the night in worship, with many attending special prayer services at mosques. The observance often involves the reading and discussion of the story of the Prophet's night journey and ascension. The specific date of Lailat al Miraj varies each year, as it is based on the Islamic lunar calendar. It is generally observed on the 27th day of Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic calendar. In the UK, as in other countries, the date may change subject to the sighting of the moon.

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.
• Facts about Lailat al Miraj:
  1) Muslim communities in the United Kingdom, like many other countries, observe Lailat al Miraj. With the increasing Muslim population in the UK, the observance of this occasion is becoming more visible across the country.
  2) There is no public holiday for Lailat al Miraj in the United Kingdom. However, private Islamic institutions and mosques may hold special prayers, lectures, and events to mark the occasion.
  3) Although there aren't any specific historical or unique events related to Lailat al Miraj in the United Kingdom, the observance of this occasion reflects the diversity and multiculturalism present in modern British society.
  4) Many British Muslims gather at local mosques for prayer and religious activities on Lailat al Miraj. Mosques often organize events to teach Muslims about the significance of the event, and some mosques may offer free meals to attendees after special prayers.
  5) Isra and Mi'raj is not a national public holiday in the UK, but it holds great importance among the Muslim community residing in the country.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Lailat al Miraj

Top things to do in the UK 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 Light of the Prophet - by Seyyed Hossein Nasr: A relevant text exploring the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, including his night journey and ascension to heaven, known as the Miraj.
  The Prophet Muhammad: A Biography - by Barnaby Rogerson: This in-depth look at the life of the Prophet Muhammad provides great understanding of various aspects including Lailat al Miraj – The Night Journey.
• Attend Events: Some Islamic organizations or local communities may organize events to commemorate this day, such as lectures, discussions or study circles.