Al Isra' wal Miraj in Jordan

Al Isra' wal Miraj is an Islamic holiday commemorated on the 27th night of the Islamic month Rajab. It marks two significant events in Islamic tradition: the night journey (Isra') and the ascension (Mi'raj) of the Prophet Muhammad.

History: According to Islamic belief, during this miraculous event, the Prophet Muhammad was visited by two archangels who purified his heart and filled him with knowledge and faith. He was then taken by a mystical steed named Buraq from Mecca to Jerusalem (Isra'). In Jerusalem, he led other prophets in prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque. Afterward, he ascended to heaven (Mi'raj) where he spoke with past prophets and ultimately with Allah (God), who revealed important instructions for Muslims.

Traditions in Jordan: In Jordan, as in many other Muslim-majority countries, Al Isra' wal Miraj is a time for reflection, prayer, and community gatherings. Specific traditions include:

• Religious Gatherings: Many people attend special services at mosques where stories of the Prophet's journey are recounted.
• Recitation of Prayers: Extra prayers are often performed, and some may spend part of the night engaged in personal worship or reading from the Quran.
• Public Holiday: While not always observed as an official public holiday in Jordan every year, when it is declared as such, government offices and most businesses close for the day.
• Family Time: Families may spend time together discussing the significance of the event and its implications for their faith.

The day serves as an opportunity for Muslims to contemplate their own spiritual journey and reaffirm their beliefs. It is not typically associated with specific rituals apart from increased prayer and recitation of relevant verses from the Quran.