Introduction — A Conversation Before the Journey Begins
Before we speak about the journey of the heavens, we must understand why the journey was given at all. Islam does not present miracles as entertainment; every divine event comes with hikmah (wisdom), tarbiyah (training), and tasalli (consolation).
This blog is written for you, for us, and for history—and yes, also for search engines—so that truth is preserved, context is respected, and hearts are prepared.
- Define the true meaning of Miraj linguistically and spiritually.
- Explain the reason Miraj happened, in depth.
- Anchor every point with Qur’an and authentic Hadith.
- Prepare you for the step-by-step journey that begins in Day 2.
What Does the Word “Miraj” Mean?
To understand the event, we must understand the word.
1. Meaning of Miraj in Arabic (Lexical Root)
The word Miraj (مِعْرَاج) comes from the Arabic root ʿAyn – Ra – Jeem (ع ر ج).
This root conveys the meaning of: Ascending, rising gradually, and being elevated step by step.
2. Meanings from Classical Arabic Dictionaries
- Lisān al-ʿArab: Al-Miʿrāj: that through which one ascends from one level to another.
- Al-Qāmūs al-Muḥīṭ: Miʿrāj refers to a means of elevation—physical or spiritual.
👉 Important Insight: Miraj is not chaos, not randomness, and not fantasy. It is order, stages, and divine planning.
Miraj in the Light of the Qur’an
Allah ﷻ mentions this event clearly in the Qur’an:
“Glory be to Him Who took His servant by night…”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:1)
Key observations for reflection:
- Allah says ʿabdihi (His servant) — the highest title of honor.
- The journey is attributed directly to Allah, not metaphor.
- The word laylan (by night) is deliberate and meaningful.
Why Did Miraj Happen? (The Real Reason)
Many people know what happened during Miraj. Very few understand why it happened when it happened. Let us address the real reason chronologically.
The Year of Sorrow (ʿĀm al-Ḥuzn)
1. Death of Sayyidah Khadijah (RA)
She was not only his wife; she was his first believer, his emotional shelter, and his silent strength. Her death left the Prophet ﷺ emotionally exposed.
2. Death of Abu Talib
Soon after, Abu Talib passed away. The shield of tribal protection was gone, and enemies became bold.
The Tragedy of Ta’if
Seeking support, the Prophet ﷺ went to Ta’if. What happened? Mockery, incitement of children, and stones until blood flowed.
Yet his response was not revenge. He prayed: “O Allah, if You are not angry with me, then I do not care.”
Miraj was consolation after loss. Honor after humiliation. Elevation after rejection.
Miraj is a message before it is a miracle. It teaches us that elevation often comes after breaking points.
What We Will Cover Next
This was Day 1: Meaning & Reason. In the next blog (Day 2), we will cover:
- How Jibreel (AS) came
- Opening of the Prophet’s ﷺ chest (Sharh as-Sadr)
- Beginning of the journey from Makkah
