alIsra

Al-Isra, or al-Isra’ (the Night Journey), refers to the first stage of a key Islamic miracle attributed to the Prophet Muhammad. According to traditional Islamic sources, Muhammad was carried by the celestial horse or creature Buraq from the Sacred Mosque in Mecca to al-Masjid al-Aqsa (the Farthest Mosque) in Jerusalem in a single night. The Qur’an explicitly mentions this journey in Surah al-Isra (Chapter 17:1) as a sign from God.

The second stage, known as the Mi’raj (the Ascension), follows the Isra in many accounts. During the Mi’raj, Muhammad is believed to have ascended through the heavens, meeting earlier prophets and ultimately standing in the divine presence. A defining moment within the Mi’raj is the command for Muslims to observe the five daily prayers, which became a central practice in Islam. Details and sequence vary across different hadith collections and scholarly traditions.

Scholarly and theological interpretations of al-Isra and al-Mi’raj range from a literal, physical journey to a primarily spiritual or visionary experience. In mainstream Islamic thought, the event is regarded as a genuine miracle confirming Muhammad’s prophethood and reinforcing the relationship between God and the Muslim community. The occasion is commemorated by many Muslims as Laylat al-Isra wal-Mi’raj, with practices varying by community and calendar; some observe it on specific dates in the Islamic lunar year, while others place emphasis on reflection and prayer rather than formal celebration. See also Isra and Mi’raj.