Shab-e-Miraj Date 2021
Shab-e-Miraj, also known as The Night Journey, is observed on 12 March 2021. This event occurs annually on the 27th of Rajab in the Islamic calendar. In the Arabic world, it is expected to be observed on 11 March 2021, while in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other regions, it will be observed on 12 March 2021.
Friday is a of Day of Shab e Miraj 12 March 2021.
| Event | Date | Hijri Date |
|---|---|---|
| Shab e Meraj | 12 March 2021 | 27 Rajab 1442 AH |
The Glorious Day of Isra and Miraj
A Unique Honor for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The night of Isra and Miraj marked a profound moment in Islamic history. It revealed that Allah uniquely honored Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) above all other prophets. This miraculous event underscores the exclusive status granted to him.
Context of Hardship
At the time of this divine journey, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) faced immense trials. His tribe opposed and humiliated him and his companions. He also suffered the loss of his beloved wife Khadijah (RA) and his protective uncle, Abu Talib.
Rejection at Ta’if
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sought support from Ta’if but faced hostility. The people of Ta’if rejected him and even pelted him with stones. Despite this cruel rejection, he maintained his faith in Allah.
Divine Gift After Hardship
Following this period of adversity, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received a magnificent gift through Isra and Miraj. This event highlighted the divine promise that ease follows hardship. The journey granted him an honor not given to any other prophet.
Surah Isra’s Divine Revelation
Surah Isra describes this sacred journey: “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 Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”
The complete story of Shab e Meraj
The complete story relies on the two portions i.e., Isra and Miraj. However, the Miraj is said to be the night of Ascension. So the entire story is unfolded below:
I. Al-Isra (Kaaba to Al-Aqsa)
It was the time when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sleeping. The angel of Allah Gabriel landed beside his bed and asked the prophet, Muhammad, to wake up and asked him to travel with him on the white beast i.e., Buraq. Once prophet Muhammad (PBUH) followed the instructions of angel, then they traveled on the white beast towards Al-Quds i.e., Jerusalem.
The Prophet’s Journey: Key Stops
During the night journey from Ka’bah to Al-Aqsa, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made several significant stops. First, Angel Gabriel halted the Buraq in Madinah, where the Prophet prayed at the site of the first emigration. They then proceeded to Mount Sinai, where Allah revealed the Torah to Musa (AS). Next, they stopped at Bethlehem, the birthplace of Isa (AS). The penultimate stop was at the grave of Musa (AS), close by. The journey concluded at Masjid al-Aqsa, where Gabriel instructed the Prophet to lead prayers with 124,000 prophets. This remarkable journey, known as the Isra, showcased the Prophet’s unique spiritual experiences and connections.
The Night Journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Ascension and Meeting the Prophets
After offering prayer, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to the heavens, where he witnessed numerous miraculous sights and encountered countless angels. He met several past prophets who welcomed him with warmth and joy. The Prophet was greeted with excitement, which included Adam (AS) and Ibrahim (AS) addressing him as a “pious son” and other prophets referring to him as a “pious brother” (Bukhari Sharif).
The Greatness of the Night
Despite the hardships the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) endured, this night was one of profound significance and delight. He experienced the grandeur of Paradise and the divine presence, a gift unique to him among all prophets. This extraordinary experience highlights the special honor bestowed upon him.
The Gift of Salah
This night also marked a pivotal moment for the Muslim Ummah, receiving the command for Salah (prayer). Initially prescribed as 50 daily prayers, this was later reduced to 5 prayers. Salah remains a crucial way for Muslims to communicate directly with Allah, reinforcing their faith and spiritual connection. This divine gift underscores the immense significance of the Prophet’s night journey for his followers.
The Prophet’s Return and the Impact
After meeting the prophets and witnessing Paradise, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) returned to Al-Aqsa and then to Makkah. To prove his miraculous journey, he described the caravans he had seen along the way, and they arrived as predicted, confirming his account.
The disbelievers questioned him about Masjid Al-Aqsa, a place he had not previously visited. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) described it accurately, as supported by divine assistance. He also described details of caravans and shepherds he had observed, which were later verified.
Despite these miracles, the disbelievers remained stubborn and refused to accept Islam. The night journey, though a profound miracle, did not change their hearts, illustrating that faith often requires more than signs to overcome disbelief.
To Remind Shabe Meraj Ka Waqia
This glorious event has become an important day for the Muslims because we are the ummah of this Prophet, who is also honorable for Allah Almighty. However, this night provides the best lesson because it has offered us to do worship Allah. Similarly, one who does worship can be more close to Allah.
Besides this, Shab e Meraj the complete story gives the message that there is no one but Allah Who gives the witness of His presence through His Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Therefore, we must have faith in Allah and His Messenger Muhammad (PBUH). We need to celebrate this glorious night as we can refresh all the time this best night in our lives so that we can strengthen our faith more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date of Shab e Miraj?
The most common view is that this incident took place on the 27th of Rajab during one of the early years while the Prophet (PBUH) was in Makkah. However, if we delve a little deeper, we find that there is no actual mention of this date in the Sunnah or Hadith. Therefore, theories about the date can not be proven, and we can not take them to be the ultimate truth.
How is Isra and Shab e Meraj celebrated?
We should celebrate Shab e Miraj in the same way we celebrate every single day of our lives. We should do the obligatory acts and do good, and try to avoid all evil deeds. As for specific celebrations or acts of worship, there are none for the occasion of Shab e Miraj. For example, we see specified acts of worship for Layla tul Qadr in the Sunnah. However, that’s not the case with Shab e Miraj.
Is Shab e Miraj mentioned in the Quran?
Allah discusses the events of Isra and Miraj in Surah al-Isra. However, this is mostly an outline of the events that took place. We can find more details and information in the Sunnah and authentic Hadith.
What happened on the night journey?
In brief, Angel Jibril came to the Prophet (PBUH) in Makkah and purified his heart. Then, he took him on Burraq to Masjid al-Aqsa, where Muhammad (PBUH) led the other prophets in Salah. After that, they ascended to the heavens, where Muhammad (PBUH) met many other prophets and spoke to Allah. Allah announced the obligation of the five daily prayers. It was initially fifty, but on Musa (AS)’s advice, Muhammad (PBUH) asked for reductions, which Allah granted him.
Did Muhammad (PBUH) See Allah During Shab-e-Miraj?
Prophet Muhammad’s Interaction with Allah
The common question regarding Shab-e-Miraj is whether Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) saw Allah. According to numerous Hadith and Sunnah, the Prophet (PBUH) did not see Allah during this event.
Communication, Not Vision
While Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke to Allah, similar to Prophet Musa (AS) during his time, he did not have the vision of Allah. The pleasure of seeing Allah is reserved for the Afterlife.
Reward in the Hereafter
Seeing Allah is promised as one of the greatest rewards for believers in Paradise. It remains one of the most significant pleasures that believers will experience in the Hereafter.
