Description:

Imam Zaid Shakir discusses the faith-affirming night journey
of the Prophet (PBUH) when he made a heavenly ascension (Al Isra Wal Mi’raj).

Isra Mi’raj is commemorated on the 27th of Rajab.

Imam Zaid’s talk was delivered at the Muslim Community Center of East Bay (MCC East Bay) in Pleasanton, California on Friday, April 2, 2019.

This night happened in 621, which is the year of sadness (‘Aam ul Huzn) when Abu Talib & Khadijah (RA) died. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) rode Buraq (a white steed) during his journey and Allah enjoined 50 prayers and reduced the prayers to five.

He met different Prophets on the journey:

– 7th Heaven met Ibrahim (AS)
– 6th Heaven met Musa (AS)
– 5th Heaven met Harun (AS)
– 4th Heaven met Idris (AS)
– 3rd Heaven met Yusuf (AS)
– 2nd Heaven met Isa (AS) & Yahya (AS)
– 1st Heaven met Adam (AS)

MI’RAJ – Ascend to heaven where he speaks to God
ISRA’ – Night journey from Makkah to Jerusalem

The prophet went from the Haram mosque (Saudi Arabia) to Al-Aqsa Mosque (Palestine) – a journey that by flight today takes nearly two hours.