Lailatul Mi’raj ( The night of ascension ) will be observed in South Africa and other parts of the world on Wednesday evening with traditional fervour, great respect and devotion. Also known as Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj, this night is observed on the 27th day of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar. Mi’raj marks the one month countdown to the sacred month of Ramadan, the month of fasting. VOC will broadcast live from the Owal masjid in Belhar after Esha.

Lailatul Mi’raj commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) ascension to heaven. Muslims believe that on this night, an angel came to the Prophet (saw), washed his abdomen with Zamzam water, and filled his heart with wisdom and belief. Then, Muhammad was called by Allah (swt) from Makkah to Jerusalem, where he prayed at the Masjid Al-Aqsa (Jerusalem).

From Jerusalem, he ascended to heaven, where he was honored by being allowed to see Allah (swt) directly, visiting the highest levels of heaven, and leading all the past Prophets in prayer.

To get to his destinations, he rode Al-Buraq, a heavenly animal that was smaller than a mule but bigger than a donkey. It was on this night, that the Prophet (saw) was given the gift of salah .

To seek the blessings of Allah, special prayers are offered at mosques throughout night.

During the gatherings, various Islamic scholars will highlight the importance of the day and its blessings. Different Islamic and socio-cultural organizations have also arranged special prayers and congregations in mosques and at other places on Wednesday night to seek blessings of the Almighty. VOC