The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at Bayt al-Maqdis during Mi'raj

Mi'raj is an extremely important miraculous event in Islam, which took place in the life of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). On that night, by the command of Allah, the Prophet (PBUH) journeyed from Makkah to Bayt al-Maqdis and from there ascended to the highest levels of the heavens. This entire journey is divided into two parts — Isra (the night journey from Makkah to Bayt al-Maqdis) and Mi'raj (the ascension through the heavens into divine proximity with Allah).

Isra and the Significance of Bayt al-Maqdis

Isra means "night journey." This journey began from Masjid al-Haram (Kaaba in Makkah) and ended at Bayt al-Maqdis, located in present-day Jerusalem, Palestine. Bayt al-Maqdis, also known as Masjid al-Aqsa, is the third holiest site in Islam. At this sacred mosque, the Prophet (PBUH) led all the previous prophets and messengers in prayer. This moment symbolized the honor, elevated status, and the highest recognition of his Prophethood.

Leading Prayer and Meeting with the Prophets

Upon arriving at Bayt al-Maqdis, the Prophet (PBUH) led all the prophets who were present there in prayer. According to hadith, approximately 124,000 prophets were present. This event signifies that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the leader of all prophets and that his Prophethood is universal. This congregational prayer was a historic and spiritual moment, symbolizing the succession of Prophethood and the completion of the message of Islam.

Spiritual Teachings and Significance

The arrival and leadership in prayer by the Prophet (PBUH) at Bayt al-Maqdis conveys a profound lesson — that Islam is the completion of all previous divine religions, and that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the final and greatest of all prophets. This part of the Mi'raj teaches us about the oneness of God, the continuity of Prophethood, and the unity of the Muslim Ummah.

Mention in the Holy Qur'an

Allah says in the first verse of Surah Al-Isra:

“Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him some of Our signs. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing.”

(Surah Al-Isra: 1)

Conclusion

Although the arrival of the Prophet (PBUH) at Bayt al-Maqdis during the night of Mi'raj was a miraculous event, it carries extraordinary spiritual lessons. It signifies the honor of Prophethood, the perfection of Islam, and the spiritual unity of the Muslim community. Believing in this event and drawing lessons from it is a fundamental part of every Muslim’s faith.