Isra wal Miraj (Night Journey)
The Prophet Muhammad's miraculous night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and through the heavens.
Isra and Mi'raj is commonly observed on 27 Rajab in the Islamic lunar calendar, though scholars have long differed on the historical date. It moves about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year, cycling through all seasons over about 33 years.
When Is Isra wal Miraj (Night Journey)?
Isra and Mi'raj is commonly observed on 27 Rajab in the Islamic lunar calendar, though scholars have long differed on the historical date. It moves about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year, cycling through all seasons over about 33 years.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
The Night Journey commemorates Muhammad's miraculous journey from Mecca to Jerusalem (Isra), where, according to tradition, he led the earlier prophets in prayer, then his ascension through the seven heavens (Miraj), where he received the command for five daily prayers.
How It Is Observed
Special prayers and lectures about the Night Journey, recitation of Surah Al-Isra, gathering in mosques to hear the story, reflection on Jerusalem and the five daily prayers.
Sacred Text
“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.”
, Quran 17:1 ↗