"27th of Rajab: Commemorating Isra and Miraj Through Sharia and Interfaith Reflections"
The 27th of Rajab serves as a reminder of the Prophet's unwavering faith in his divine mission and the timeless message of Islam. It calls upon Muslims to reflect on their spiritual journeys, emphasizing obedience, humility, and devotion.
The 27th of Rajab (seventh month in Islamic lunar calendar), or Isra and Miraj, is one of the most significant events in Islamic history, commemorating the miraculous night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This event, described in the Quran in Surah Al-Isra and Surah An-Najm, signifies a pivotal moment when the Prophet was spiritually elevated to receive divine instructions, including the establishment of the five daily prayers.
Muslims worldwide honor this day as a testament to faith, obedience, and the deep connection between the divine and humanity.
From a Sharia perspective, this day is an opportunity for Muslims to renew their faith and engage in acts of worship. Many scholars emphasize fasting on this day, as it is said to yield extraordinary rewards. Imam Sadiq (AS), for example, noted the immense spiritual benefits of fasting on the 27th of Rajab, linking it to years of devotion and piety. Moreover, it is common to perform additional prayers, reflect on the journey’s spiritual teachings, and recite Quranic verses related to Isra and Miraj. These acts are not merely rituals but are rooted in the Islamic emphasis on spirituality and obedience to Allah.
Comparatively, this holy event resonates beyond Islamic traditions. The emphasis on a transformative spiritual journey is paralleled in other Abrahamic faiths. For instance, the concept of ascension and divine communication in Judaism and Christianity—such as the ascension of Prophet Elijah or the transfiguration of Jesus (PBUH)—echoes the theme of closeness to the divine. These connections underline shared beliefs in revelation, divine instruction, and human elevation in spirituality, fostering an understanding of interfaith commonalities.
In cultural practices, Muslims commemorate this day differently across regions. In Iran, the day is marked with mosque gatherings, Quran recitations, and sermons reflecting on the Prophet's virtues. Additionally, community meals are shared, symbolizing unity and gratitude. In other countries, such as Turkey and Indonesia, the emphasis is placed on public celebrations, with lights and decorations adorning mosques and streets.
The 27th of Rajab serves as a reminder of the Prophet's unwavering faith in his divine mission and the timeless message of Islam. It calls upon Muslims to reflect on their spiritual journeys, emphasizing obedience, humility, and devotion.
As Shia scholar Allama Tabatabai noted, the event is a testament to the Prophet’s divine connection, inspiring Muslims to seek closeness to Allah through prayer and reflection.