Shab e Miraj marks one of the most significant events in Islamic history. On this night, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was taken from Makkah to Jerusalem and then elevated through the heavens by the command of Allah. Al Isra wal Mi’raj is a reminder for Muslims of their faith, their prayers, and the direct connection between them and their Creator.
At United Muslims, we see this miracle as a call to help others with the same compassion and resilience shown by the Prophet (PBUH).
When is Shab e Miraj 2026?
Shab e Miraj is observed on the 27th of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar. In 2026, this blessed night is expected to begin on the evening of Thursday, 15 January 2026, and continue until the evening of Friday, 16 January 2026.
Since Islamic dates rely on moon sightings, please check with your local UK mosque for a confirmed announcement.
What is Shab e Miraj (Al Isra wal Mi’raj)?
Shab e Miraj refers to two connected parts of a single miraculous journey:
- Al Isra: The night travel from the Holy Kaaba in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.
- Al Mi’raj: The ascension of the Prophet (PBUH) from Jerusalem through the seven heavens.
This journey is very important in Islam. Surah Al Isra of the Holy Quran talks about it.
“Glory be to the One Who took His servant by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque whose surroundings We have blessed…” – Surah Al-Isra (17:1)
The Prophet (PBUH) himself explained what happened that night, and these accounts appear in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. Muslims see this blessed night as proof of Allah’s power and the Prophet’s truthfulness.
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The Historical Context of Shab e Miraj
The Night Journey occurred during a period of intense hardship in the life of the Prophet (PBUH). This time is often called the Year of Sorrow, following:
- The passing of his beloved wife Khadijah (RA)
- The death of his uncle and protector, Abu Talib
- The painful rejection he faced in Ta’if
Shab e Miraj served as divine comfort and honour for the Prophet (PBUH) during a very difficult phase. At United Muslims, we try to mirror this resilience by supporting communities currently facing their own crises.
The Gift of Salah (Prayer)
One of the greatest blessings given to the Ummah on this night was the obligation of the five daily prayers. Originally set as fifty, the number was reduced to five through Allah’s mercy, though the reward remains as fifty.
Salah is special because:
- It was commanded directly from heaven.
- It serves as a daily spiritual connection between the believer and Allah.
- It reminds Muslims of discipline and gratitude.
Significance of Shab e Miraj in Islam
Shab e Miraj has a lot of meaning and teaches us important things:
- Allah’s power is beyond human limits: The journey proves the Creator is not bound by the laws of physics.
- Hardship is followed by relief: The timing shows that after great trials come great rewards.
- The status of the Prophet (PBUH): Leading all other Prophets in prayer at Masjid al-Aqsa confirms his unique rank.
The value of the Ummah: The gift of Salah was a specific mercy for the followers of Muhammad (PBUH).
How Do Muslims Observe Shab e Miraj?
There is no single obligatory way to worship on this night. But a lot of Muslims in the UK and around the world choose to observe it through voluntary acts:
- Offering Nafl Prayers: Spending more time in prostration during the night.
- Sincere Dua: Asking for forgiveness and the well-being of the Ummah.
- Reading the Quran: Reciting the verses that describe this journey.
- Sending Salawat: Giving the Prophet (PBUH) more blessings.
Charity and Shab e Miraj
Acts of kindness are a practical way to show gratitude for the blessings of this night. Giving for the sake of Allah shows kindness and provides rewards. At United Muslims, we encourage everyone to give their Zakat and Sadaqah during this time.
Your support helps us provide clean water, education, and food to vulnerable families. As we look forward to the arrival of Ramadan, starting these charitable habits now helps us reach more people in need.
Virtues and Reflections from the Night of Miraj
Shab e Miraj reminds believers of the unseen spiritual world and the mercy of Allah. It reassures those facing tough times that relief comes from Allah alone.
As Allah says in the Quran:
“So, surely with hardship comes ease. Surely with ˹that˺ hardship comes ˹more˺ ease.” – Surah Ash-Sharh (94:5–6)
This night encourages patience, trust in Allah, and steadfastness. It’s a good opportunity to think about how we can be better people and help others more.
Final Thoughts
Shab e Miraj is more than just a historical event; it is a strong reminder of faith, hard work, and God’s grace. It calls believers to strengthen their connection with Allah, uphold prayer, and live with compassion.
May Allah allow us to benefit from the lessons of this night, accept our prayers, and guide us. At United Muslims, we are committed to turning the inspiration of this night into action through our humanitarian activity.
Bringing hope through small acts of kindness—a meal, a helping hand, or a gift can light up a child’s day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is the date for Shab e Miraj determined?
Shab e Miraj is observed on the 27th night of the Islamic month of Rajab. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the date shifts each year according to the sighting of the new moon. United Muslims suggests staying in touch with your local community or mosque for the official announcement in your area.
2. Is it compulsory to fast on the 27th of Rajab?
Fasting on this day is not an obligatory (Fard) requirement in Islam. It is a voluntary (Mustahabb) act of worship. Many Muslims choose to fast as a way to gain extra spiritual rewards and to begin preparing their bodies and minds for the upcoming month of Ramadan.
3. What is the difference between Al Isra and Al Miraj?
The journey is divided into two distinct parts. Al Isra refers to the miraculous horizontal journey from the Holy Kaaba in Makkah to Masjid Al Aqsa in Jerusalem. Al Miraj refers to the vertical ascension from Jerusalem through the seven heavens to the Divine Presence of Allah.
4. Why is charity emphasised during this night?
While worship is a personal connection with Allah, Sadaqah and Zakat are ways to serve His creation. On a night that celebrates the Prophet’s (PBUH) high status and mercy, organisations like United Muslims facilitate donations to provide clean water and education, turning the spiritual inspiration of the night into life-changing support for those in need.
5. How can I best observe Shab e Miraj at home?
If you cannot attend a mosque, you can observe the night through sincere individual worship. This includes performing extra Nafl prayers, reciting the Holy Quran, making heartfelt Duas, and reflecting on the lessons of resilience found in the Prophet’s (PBUH) life. It is also an excellent time to teach children about the miracle of the Night Journey.
