Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj:

Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj marks the miraculous Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad (saw) and is traditionally commemorated on the 27th of Rajab. This blessed night – also known in some cultures as Shab-e-Miraj – is one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar.

What Is Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj?

Al Isra’ refers to the Prophet’s (saw) journey by night from Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. Al Mi’raj is his ascension from Masjid al-Aqsa through the heavens, all in a single night. On this journey, the Prophet (saw) witnessed extraordinary signs, met other Prophets, and was commanded with the five daily prayers – a gift that directly shapes Muslim life today.

Allah (swt) says:

“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa… to show him of Our signs.” (Qur’an | 17:1)

When is Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj 2026?

The night of Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj is expected to begin on the evening of Thursday January 15, 2026 till Friday, January 16, 2026 (27th Rajab), subject to moon sighting.

Why Is This Night Significant?

The Night Journey occurred during a period of profound hardship for the Prophet (saw) after the deaths of Khadijah (ra) and Abu Talib, and following rejection in Ta’if, shortly before the Hijrah. The miracle served as divine comfort, honour, and reassurance, and as a test of faith for the believers.

When some doubted the journey, Abu Bakr (ra) affirmed the Prophet’s (saw) truthfulness without hesitation, earning the title al-Siddiq.

The event reminds us that with hardship comes ease:

“Indeed, with hardship comes ease.”

(Qur’an | 94:5–6)

How Do Muslims Observe the Night?

Many Muslims mark the night by:

• Increasing Qur’an recitation and salawat
• Performing nafl (optional) prayers
• Making du‘a for forgiveness and needs
• Reflecting on the gift and importance of Salah

Some communities also gather to recount the story and share food.

Fasting on the 27th of Rajab

Fasting in the sacred month of Rajab is virtuous, and many choose to fast on the day of Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj to seek extra reward. Ibn ‘Umar (ra) reported that the Prophet (saw) honoured Rajab with fasting.

Lessons from Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj

This blessed night teaches us:

• The centrality of Salah
• Allah’s (swt) infinite power and the reality of the unseen
• That relief follows hardship
• The honour and closeness of the Prophet (saw) to Allah (swt)

As Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj 2026 approaches, may it renew our commitment to prayer, strengthen our faith, and bring hope to all who are facing difficulty.