Lailat al Miraj

Facts about Lailat al Miraj

• Muslims believe that there are several levels in heaven. Muhammad was taken to each one by Angel Gabriel. At each heaven, a gate-keeper asked both the angel and Muhammad to identify themselves before proceeding.
• Muslims believe that Muhammad saw "Al-Bait-al-Mamur" (God's house). Gabriel told Muhammad that every day since the beginning of creation, 70,000 different angels pray there daily.
• Muhammad is also believed to have seen "Sidrat al-Muntaha" (a tree) in the seventh heaven. Its leaves resembled elephant ears, its fruits resembled clay jugs, and from it originated four rivers. Two of them were hidden in heaven, while the other two were made apparent to man in the forms of the Nile and the Euphrates.
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  1) The Bara Imambara in Lucknow, built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, is an architectural marvel and an important place for observing Lailat al Miraj in India. The intricate architecture and impressive design of this shrine attract both devotees and tourists alike.
  2) In 2012, the Indian postal department released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the occasion of Lailat al Miraj. The stamp featured a beautiful illustration of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, where the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have taken place.
  3) In Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar, Lailat al Miraj is celebrated with immense devotion as the shrine houses a relic believed to be a hair of Prophet Muhammad. Hazratbal Shrine is adorned with colorful lights, and devotees throng the shrine to offer special prayers.
  4) All major Indian cities, particularly those with significant Muslim populations such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow, observe Lailat al Miraj with special gatherings and prayer sessions. Various religious leaders deliver sermons and discussions on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad during this night.
  5) While Lailat al Miraj does not hold the same level of importance as it does in some other Islamic countries, its observation in India showcases the country's cultural and religious diversity, as well as the ancient history of Islam in India.
• More facts about Lailat al Miraj:
  1) Muslims in India and around the world often perform additional prayers and worship on this night, seeking blessings and closeness to God. Some devotees also fast during the day, as a form of extra devotion and worship.
  2) In India and other countries, special gatherings and religious programs are often organized at mosques and other community centers to discuss and learn about the events and spiritual lessons of Isra and Mi'raj.
  3) Scholars and religious leaders often deliver lectures (known as Bayan) and sermons to educate Muslims about the significance and teachings of Lailat al Miraj. The sessions focus on Islamic teachings, the importance of prayer, and strengthening the connection with Allah.
  4) and teachings of Prophet Muhammad during this night.
  While Lailat al Miraj does not hold the same level of importance as it does in some other Islamic countries, its observation in India showcases the country's cultural and religious diversity, as well as the ancient history of Islam in India.
  5) All major Indian cities, particularly those with significant Muslim populations such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow, observe Lailat al Miraj with special gatherings and prayer sessions.

In the News and Trending in India for Lailat al Miraj

Top things to do in India for Lailat al Miraj

• Place candles or lights outside. In some Muslim countries it is a tradition to illuminate the city.
• Read a book to learn about Lailat al Miraj:
  Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources - by Martin Lings: Although not specifically about Lailat al Miraj, this book provides in-depth detail about the Prophet Muhammad’s journey which includes the Isra and Mi'raj.
  Night Journey to Jerusalem - by Ismail K. Poonawala: It is a fascinating and detailed account of the journey, including its significance and impact.
• Attending Religious Scholar Lectures: Listening to lectures by religious scholars, who describe the night journey of Prophet Muhammad, is quite prevalent. These can take place at mosques, Islamic centers, or even broadcasted on television.