Shab-E-Meraj

Shab-e-Meraj, also known as the Night of Ascension, is an event in Islamic tradition that commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s night journey and ascension to the heavens. This event is observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. The details of Shab-e-Meraj are primarily derived from Islamic traditions and Hadiths (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). In Shia Islam, the significance of Shab-e-Meraj is acknowledged, but the way it is celebrated may vary among different Shia communities and individuals. Many Shia Muslims use this occasion as a time for prayer, reflection, and seeking closeness to Allah. They may engage in acts of worship, recite supplications, and participate in special gatherings or programs at mosques or homes.

The specifics of how Shab-e-Meraj is observing can vary based on cultural and regional traditions within the Shia community. It’s important to note that practices and customs may differ, and individuals may observe the occasion in a manner consistent with their particular school of thought or cultural background.

The event of Shab-e-Meraj is commemorated in Shia Islam, and its significance is drawn from various Hadiths and narrations attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family). While the Night of Ascension is generally recognized, the details may vary across different sources and traditions within the Shia community.

One of the key sources for the event of Shab-e-Meraj in Shia Islam is found in the book “Bihar al-Anwar,” a comprehensive collection of Hadiths compiled by Allama Muhammad Baqir ibn Muhammad Taqi al-Majlisi, a prominent Shia scholar. In the eleventh volume of Bihar al-Anwar, there is a section dedicated to the events of the Night of Ascension.
It’s important to note that while there are various narrations regarding Shab-e-Meraj, the authenticity, and acceptance of Hadiths can vary among scholars and within different branches of Shia Islam. Shia Muslims often refer to the works of scholars like Allama Majlisi and others for insights into the events of Shab-e-Meraj and other important occasions in Islamic history.

The event of Isra and Mi’raj, also known as the Night Journey and Ascension, is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran in detailed narrative form. However, there are verses in the Quran that are interpreted by scholars in connection to this miraculous event. The Isra and Mi’raj refer to the night when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated from Mecca to Jerusalem (Isra) and then ascended to the heavens (Mi’raj).

The primary Quranic references are:

1. Surah Al-Isra (17:1):
   “Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”
   This verse speaks about the night journey from Mecca to al-Masjid al-Aqsa (Jerusalem), marking the Isra.
2. Surah An-Najm (53:13-18):
   “And he certainly saw him in another descent. At the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary. Near it is the Garden of Refuge. The sight [of the Prophet] did not swerve, nor did it transgress [its limit].”
   It refers to the miraculous night journey and ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The key aspects of the event include:

1. Isra (Night Journey): The first part of the journey involved the Prophet Muhammad being taken from the Kaaba in Mecca to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem by the angel Gabriel (Jibreel).
2. Mi’raj (Ascension): From Jerusalem, Prophet Muhammad ascended through the heavens, meeting various prophets along the way and ultimately reaching the highest levels of paradise. He had a direct encounter with Allah and received instructions, including the command for Muslims to pray five times in a whole day.
   Muslims commemorate Meraj Night through special prayers, supplications, and reflections on the significance of this miraculous event in the life of Prophet Muhammad. It is considered a night of spiritual significance and a time for increased devotion and reflection on one’s faith. Additionally, communities may organize special events, lectures, and gatherings to mark this important occasion in the Islamic calendar.