Isra Mi'raj 2026
The Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ — 27 Rajab
Expected Date
Friday, January 16, 2026
27 Rajab 1447 AH
Isra Mi'raj 2026
Friday, January 16, 2026
27 Rajab 1447 AH
Isra Mi'raj 2027
Tuesday, January 5, 2027
27 Rajab 1448 AH
The Story of Isra Mi'raj
The Isra Mi'raj took place in approximately the 10th or 11th year of the Prophethood — a period known as the "Year of Sorrow" (Am al-Huzn) when the Prophet ﷺ had lost both his beloved wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib. Allah honored His Prophet with this miraculous journey as a source of strength and consolation.
Allah describes the Isra in the Quran: "Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing." (Al-Isra 17:1)
The Mi'raj is described in Surah An-Najm (53:1–18). During the ascension, the Prophet ﷺ met prophets at each heaven — Adam (1st), Yahya and Isa (2nd), Yusuf (3rd), Idris (4th), Harun (5th), Musa (6th), and Ibrahim (7th). Allah originally ordained 50 daily prayers. On his descent, Prophet Musa advised the Prophet ﷺ to return and ask for a reduction, which was granted in stages until five prayers remained — with the reward of fifty.
Key Lessons of Isra Mi'raj
The gift of five daily prayers
The five daily prayers (Salah) were the direct commandment brought back from the heavens during the Mi'raj. Unlike all other acts of worship revealed through Jibreel, the five prayers were given to the Prophet ﷺ directly in Allah's presence — showing their supreme importance.
The significance of Masjid al-Aqsa
The Isra establishes Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem as the third holiest site in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ led all the prophets in prayer there — demonstrating the continuity of prophethood and the centrality of Masjid al-Aqsa to Islamic history.
Allah's mercy during hardship
The Isra Mi'raj came during the Prophet's most difficult year. It teaches Muslims that Allah's mercy and honor come precisely when one is patient and persevering through trials.
The reality of the unseen
The Isra Mi'raj confirmed the reality of the heavens, Jannah (Paradise), Jahannam (Hellfire), and the prophets. The Prophet ﷺ saw these realities directly, which his companions accepted as part of Islamic belief (Iman bil-Ghayb — faith in the unseen).
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Isra Mi'raj 2026?
Isra Mi'raj 2026 is observed on approximately Friday, January 16, 2026 (27 Rajab 1447 AH). The exact observance date may vary by country.
What is Isra Mi'raj?
Isra Mi'raj refers to the miraculous two-part journey of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The Isra (إسراء) was the night journey from the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Mecca to the Farthest Mosque (Masjid al-Aqsa) in Jerusalem. The Mi'raj (معراج) was the ascension from Jerusalem through the seven heavens to the presence of Allah, where the five daily prayers were ordained.
What happened during the Isra Mi'raj?
During the Isra, the Prophet ﷺ traveled from Mecca to Jerusalem on the Buraq (a heavenly creature) in one night. He led all the prophets in prayer at Masjid al-Aqsa. During the Mi'raj, he ascended through the seven heavens, meeting various prophets. At the highest point, Allah ordained 50 daily prayers, which were reduced to 5 through Prophet Musa's advice to return and request a reduction.
How should Muslims observe Isra Mi'raj?
There is no specific act of worship prescribed by the Prophet ﷺ for Isra Mi'raj. Many Muslims mark it with lectures about the Night Journey, increased prayer and dhikr, and gratitude for the gift of the five daily prayers. Some communities hold gatherings to learn about the event's significance.