Muslims Celebrate Israa and Mi`raj

“Muslims should use the Israa’ Mi`raj and the Ascension Day holidays to stress the identity of Islam as the blessing for the universe," Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) secretary Mandarlangi Puaupa said in a statement cited by the Jakarta Post.

"All elements under the MUI NTT want Israa` Mi`raj to be observed as momentum for building peace.”

Muslims celebrate the Night Journey annually on day 27 of the seventh Islamic month of Rajab.

The ascension of Prophet Muhammad to heaven from earth is a well-known and important event for Muslims.

Israa' and Mi`raj refer to the two-part journey undertaken by the Prophet which began with him travelling on the steed Buraq.

He travelled to Al-Aqsa mosque in Al-Quds (Occupied Jerusalem), where he led the other prophets in prayer.

After this, he ascended to heaven, going through the “seven skies”.

Here he spoke to Allah, who gave Prophet Muhammad instructions to take back to the faithful; namely five prayers a day.

Ulema's Puaupa comments followed reports about radical groups' plans to hold mass gathering during the blessed occasion.

“Activities that tarnish [religious harmony] should be banned,” Mandarlangi said.

In Pakistan, Israa’ and Mi`raj will be marked by several events and prayers across the Asian country.

Dubbed as Shab-e-Meraj in Pakistan, the event is usually marked by holding religious meetings by men and women separately.

At these gatherings, special prayers and lectures on the Prophet’s holy journey are offered.

Celebrations will be held everywhere across the Muslim country to mark the miraculous visit to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa by Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him).
/SR

Muslims Celebrate Israa' and Mi`raj