بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْم
The story of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj, the miraculous Night Journey of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is one of the most extraordinary events in human history. At the heart of this journey lies a remarkable being: Al-Buraq, a celestial steed, chosen to carry the best of creation across time, space, galaxies, and universes.
Al-Buraq was no ordinary creature. Its name derives from the Arabic word barq, meaning “lightning,” reflecting its ability to traverse unfathomable distances in the blink of an eye. It was described as larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule, shining in radiant white, and capable of covering distances as far as the eye could see in a single step.
The Arrival of Al-Buraq
On the blessed night, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was resting in the Sacred Mosque in Mecca when Angel Jibril (Gabriel) appeared. With him was Al-Buraq, saddled and reined, prepared for a journey unlike any other. But something remarkable happened when Al-Buraq first saw the Prophet. The creature, though swift and celestial, hesitated and began to sweat profusely. Angel Jibril addressed it, saying:
"O Buraq! Do you hesitate before Muhammad? No one more honored by Allah has ever ridden you."
Upon hearing these words, Al-Buraq calmed down, as if understanding the magnitude of the one it was about to carry. It humbled itself, allowing the Prophet to mount, and with that, the journey began.
The Journey Beyond Time and Space
Al-Buraq’s first destination was Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, where the Prophet led a congregation of all the previous Prophets in prayer, symbolizing his leadership among them. From there, the steed ascended through the heavens, crossing galaxies, dimensions, and universes—places no human had ever seen and no earthly creature could survive.
The speed of Al-Buraq was beyond imagination. In narrations, it is said that its stride extended as far as the eye could see, moving faster than light itself. Yet, for all its speed and power, the creature was merely a vehicle for the most beloved of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This was not just a physical journey but one that transcended the very fabric of time and space.
A Being of Divine Purpose
Al-Buraq was not chosen by accident. Among the countless creations of Allah, this being stood out for its sincerity and purity. Islamic tradition narrates that Al-Buraq had been waiting, alongside other similar creatures, for this very moment. When it was chosen to carry the Prophet, it was overcome with gratitude and awe, understanding the magnitude of its mission.
This celestial steed symbolizes the divine facilitation of a journey that no human could undertake alone. It serves as a reminder of Allah’s infinite power and the unparalleled status of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Why Al-Buraq Matters to Us
The story of Al-Buraq is not just about a miraculous creature; it’s a lesson in submission, humility, and service. Al-Buraq’s hesitation turned into eagerness, not because of fear but out of reverence. This teaches us that true greatness lies in serving the best of creation and fulfilling the purpose for which we are made.
As we reflect on this extraordinary narrative, we are reminded that the universe, with all its complexities and wonders, bows in reverence to the One who created it and to His chosen servant, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
A Journey We All Will Take
Though we may never ride Al-Buraq, we are all on a journey beyond this world. The tale of the Night Journey and Ascension is not just about the Prophet; it’s a preview of the journey our souls will take. The question is: will we be prepared when our time comes?
As you ponder this celestial event, remember that the heavens opened for one man, the best of creation. Through his journey, we are given glimpses of the divine and the promise of what lies beyond.
Take this moment to reflect, to connect, and to prepare for your own journey through the cosmos. The story of Al-Buraq is not just history—it’s an invitation to dream beyond the stars and to align ourselves with the purpose of our creation.
The Journey That Redefines Glory: A Servant’s Ascension
"Glory to the One 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 All-Hearing, the All-Seeing." (Surah Al-Isra, 17:1)
The Qur'an opens this incredible narrative with praise, exalting the Owner of the Universe for an event unparalleled in history. The verse reveals not only the journey but also the key characteristic of the one who undertook it: servanthood.
The term ‘abd (servant) is crucial here. Even as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was elevated to experience what no other human or Prophet had, his most honored title remains that of a servant of Allah. It’s this servanthood that distinguishes him from every king, every ruler, and even other Prophets. While others were given extraordinary missions, none were gifted with such a journey in their lifetime—not Moses, not Jesus, not any other Prophet.
Jesus’ Journey to the Heavens
While the Qur'an emphasizes the unique nature of the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey, it also acknowledges the heavenly travel of Jesus (peace be upon him). Jesus’ ascension, as described in the Qur'an, was not a round trip. He was raised to the heavens in full glory, where he resides, waiting to return.
"They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but it was made to appear so to them. Indeed, those who differ about it are in doubt. They have no knowledge of it but follow only conjecture. They certainly did not kill him. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. Allah is Almighty, All-Wise." (Surah An-Nisa, 4:157-158)
The Qur'an clarifies that Jesus (peace be upon him) was neither crucified nor killed but was raised to the heavens by Allah. This moment of ascension marked the honor and distinction of Jesus among Prophets, but unlike Muhammad’s journey, it was a one-way passage. Jesus will return to Earth to fulfill his mission, another chapter of history waiting to unfold.
The Heavenly Table of Jesus
To connect with our Christian brothers and sisters, it’s worth noting the story of the Ma’idah (table) mentioned in the Qur'an:
"Jesus, son of Mary, said, 'O Allah, our Lord! Send down to us a table from the heavens to be a festival for us—for the first and the last of us—and a sign from You. And provide for us, for You are the Best of Providers.'" (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:114)
This table, requested by Jesus, signifies divine provision and blessings. It represents Allah’s mercy and care for those who believe. While Christians revere the Last Supper, Muslims honor the Ma’idah as a heavenly miracle that stands as a sign of Allah’s limitless bounty.
The Glory of Muhammad’s Journey
Unlike Jesus, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was given the honor of traveling to the heavens and returning in the same night. This journey was not only physical but also spiritual, opening the doors to a new understanding of the cosmos and divine realities. It was a journey of servanthood, not kingship, that earned him this unparalleled honor.
No other Prophet experienced such a journey while still alive. Moses (peace be upon him) conversed with Allah at Mount Sinai but did not ascend the heavens. Jesus (peace be upon him) was raised to the heavens but did not return yet. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), however, traversed time, space, and dimensions in a single night and returned to share the experience with his followers.
Why This Matters for Christians and Muslims Alike
The story of Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj is not just a narrative for Muslims; it is a reminder of the interconnectedness of all Prophets. Jesus’ ascension, Moses’ leadership, and Muhammad’s journey are threads in the tapestry of divine guidance. For Christians, this is a moment to reflect on the unity of the Abrahamic traditions and the shared reverence for these great figures.
The Night Journey and Ascension highlight themes that resonate with all faiths: servanthood, divine connection, and the promise of heavenly glory. It bridges gaps, inviting everyone—Muslim, Christian, or otherwise—to reflect on the greater purpose of life and the ultimate destination awaiting us all.
The Next Chapter: Takeoff with the Best of Creation
As we close this chapter, the stage is set for the next. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mounts Al-Buraq, the celestial steed, and begins his journey through the heavens. He will encounter the Prophets, witness the realms of paradise and hell, and ascend to a closeness with Allah that no other creation has experienced.
Stay with us as we take off into the skies, following the path of the best of creation. This journey is not just his—it’s yours too. Let’s uncover the secrets of the heavens, one step at a time.
Watch "The Islamic Al Buraq - Mohammeds Flying Horse - Everything you need to know" on YouTube