Shab e Meraj 2025 is due on Monday and Tuesday nights between 27 and 28 January 2025.
When is Shab e Meraj 2025? Shab-e-Meraj, also known as Lailat al-Miraj, is an important event in Islamic tradition. It commemorates the miraculous night journey and ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) to the heavens. Shab e Meraj is celebrated on the 27th night of the Islamic month of Rajab. Thus, Shab e Meraj 2025 is due on Monday and Tuesday nights between 27 and 28 January 2025. The night is celebrated with fervor across different regions in the Islamic world. A number of regions and territories announce public holidays for the day. The Singh Government has also announced public holiday for Shab e Meraj this year. Yet, its celebrations are widely dependent on the community and their local traditions.
Background of Shab e Meraj
The term Shab-e-Meraj is derived from two Arabic words:
- Shab meaning “night.”
- Meraj meaning “ascension” or “elevation.”
The event is recorded in Islamic history as one of the most profound spiritual experiences of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is mentioned in the Qur’an and expanded upon in the Hadith. The journey consists of two primary parts:
1. Isra (The Night Journey)
The journey begins in Makkah, where the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appears to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and escorts him to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. This part of the journey, called Isra, is described in the Qur’an in the following verse:
“Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:1)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) is said to have ridden Buraq, a celestial steed, to travel the vast distance in an instant.
2. Miraj (The Ascension to the Heavens)
From Masjid al-Aqsa, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ascended through the seven heavens, guided by the Angel Jibreel. During this part of the journey:
He met various prophets, including Adam, Isa (Jesus), Musa (Moses), and Ibrahim (Abraham), among others. Moreover, He reached Sidrat al-Muntaha, the “Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary,” a place beyond which no creation can pass. He was brought into the Divine Presence, where Allah directly communicated with him.
One of the most significant outcomes of this ascension was the gift of Salah (prayer). Initially, fifty daily prayers were prescribed, but after discussions between the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and Prophet Musa (peace be upon him), the number was reduced to five daily prayers, which are obligatory for Muslims to this day.
Importance of Shab e Meraj
Shab e Meraj is significant in many ways as it touches both the ritual and spiritual context for Muslims. Shab e Meraj represents the honor bestowed upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and emphasizes his unique status as the final messenger of Allah. Moreover, it underscores the importance of prayer in Islam, as it was directly commanded by Allah during the ascension. Further, the miraculous nature of the journey reminds believers of Allah’s power and serves as a source of inspiration and hope, especially during challenging times.
How to Celebrate Shab e Meraj 2025
Shab-e-Meraj is marked with acts of worship, devotion, and reflection in many Muslim communities. Common practices include:
- Offering Nafl (voluntary) prayers during the night.
- Reciting and reflecting upon the Qur’an.
- Seeking forgiveness and making Dua (supplication).
- Attending lectures or gatherings where the story of the Isra and Miraj is recounted.
- Performing acts of charity.
Best Ways to Commemorate Shab e Meraj
As we are aware that this night has huge significance. However, it is important to use it connect ones soul with the creator through an extra effort. Some of the activities for Shab e Meraj include:
1. Night Prayers (Nafl Salah)
Devout Muslims engage in extra voluntary prayers (Nafl Salah) during the night to seek closeness to Allah. They may perform:
- Tahajjud: A special prayer offered in the late hours of the night.
- Additional two, four, or more cycles of Nafl prayers, seeking forgiveness and blessings.
2. Recitation and Reflection on the Qur’an
Muslims spend time reciting the Holy Qur’an, reflecting on its verses, and seeking guidance. A Special emphasis is often given to Surah Al-Isra (Chapter 17), which briefly describes the Prophet’s night journey, and other related chapters.
3. Dua (Supplication)
Shab e Meraj is considered an auspicious time to pray for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings. People make heartfelt supplications (Dua), seeking:
- Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for past sins.
- Strength to follow the path of righteousness.
- Well-being and success in this world and the Hereafter.
4. Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr)
Many people engage in Dhikr, the remembrance of Allah, by reciting phrases like:
- SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
- Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah)
- Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
- La ilaha illallah (There is no deity but Allah)
Dhikr can be done individually or in gatherings.
5. Attending Lectures or Gatherings
Mosques or community centers often host lectures or sermons recounting the events of Isra and Miraj. Scholars narrate the story of the journey, its spiritual significance, and its lessons for Muslims, including the importance of Salah (prayer).
6. Charitable Acts
Charity is highly encouraged on this night. Muslims often donate to the needy, support community projects, or engage in acts of kindness. Some communities organize food distributions or sponsor charitable programs to benefit the underprivileged.
7. Fasting
While fasting is not mandatory for Shab-e-Meraj, some Muslims observe a fast during the day leading into the night as a form of worship and gratitude to Allah.
8. Family and Community Gatherings
Families may come together to discuss the significance of Shab-e-Meraj and share knowledge about the Prophet’s journey. Special meals are sometimes prepared to commemorate the night, though this is more of a cultural practice than a religious requirement.
9. Teaching the Youth
Parents and teachers often take this opportunity to educate children and youth about the importance of Shab e Meraj, its historical and spiritual significance, and its lessons.
10. Silent Reflection and Gratitude
Shab e Meraj is also a time for personal introspection. Muslims reflect on their relationship with Allah, reassess their deeds, and renew their commitment to faith. Many use this opportunity to express gratitude for the gift of Salah, which was prescribed during the Prophet’s ascension.
11. Avoiding Innovations
While Shab-e-Meraj holds great significance, some scholars discourage certain cultural practices or innovations (Bid’ah) not directly rooted in Islamic teachings. Worship on this night is encouraged to align with authentic practices from the Qur’an and Sunnah.
It is important to note that while Shab e Meraj holds spiritual significance, its celebration varies among Muslim communities. Some emphasize personal worship, while others mark the occasion with communal events. However, Shab e Meraj is a deeply meaningful event in the Islamic tradition, symbolizing the profound connection between Allah and His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It serves as a reminder of the importance of prayer, the mercy of Allah, and the eternal hope and guidance provided by the teachings of Islam.
