Challenges are unpredictable part of life as they come in many forms, both big and small. No matter how significant or minor they may seem, obstacles are something we encounter every single day. It is a simple truth that we should always remember! While not all challenges are severe, they all require our attention, time, and effort.
However, this is the beauty of life; every new day brings its own surprises, which can be either uplifting or frustrating. What truly matters is how we respond to the different challenges. How we handle them is what defines whether we overcome them or let them defeat us. Some days, multiple challenges may arise, from issues at work to difficulties in our personal lives, or even financial struggles. Other times, the attitudes of those around us can also be a source of irritation.
Just as no two days are same, we are the ones who ultimately control how we face each day, regardless of what happens around us. Adopting a positive mindset and finding the learning in every experience is key to overcoming difficult and disappointing moments. Although managing our reactions, attitudes, and emotions is never easy, we should always strive to embrace life’s moments to the fullest.
One of the most powerful stories from history that reflects this is the Ascension of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), also known as Al Isra and Al Miraj. This event, which took place during one extraordinary night, was a divine journey arranged by Allah. The first part of this journey, Al Isra, took Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on the back of a winged, mule-like creature named Buraq, from Mecca to Jerusalem in Palestine. There, he led the past Prophets in prayer. In the second part of the journey, the Prophet ascended to Heaven, where Allah instructed him on the obligation for Muslims to pray five times a day, an essential pillar of Islam.
The story of Al Isra and Al Miraj is described in the Holy Quran in these verses: “Glory to Him who carried His beloved by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our wonders! He it is who is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. Remember when We said to you that your Lord encompasses mankind in His knowledge. Nor did We make the vision We showed you except as a test to people, as also the accursed tree in the Quran.”
It is believed that this sacred journey was not only a physical one, but also a spiritual experience, with the Prophet travelling through a realm of high spirituality. During this ascension from earth to heavens, the Prophet encountered past Prophets, including Adam, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. It is also stated that the Angel Gabriel accompanied the Prophet during part of the journey.
The ascension involved seeing both Heaven and Hell and receiving new revelations from Allah. By the end of the night, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had returned to Mecca, where his journey began. It is important to note that this ascension was not the end of the Prophet's life; he lived for another 10 years after this event. This journey served as a source of relief for the Prophet, especially after the loss of his wife Khadija and his uncle Abdul Motalib, two people who had provided him with critical family support.
Muslims worldwide observe this occasion on the 27th of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic Calendar. Al Isra and Al Miraj is one of the most significant events in the Islamic history. The anniversary of this miraculous journey serves as a reminder of the importance of patience when facing life's challenges. It teaches people to embody the strength shown by the Prophets of Allah, who faced immense struggles with their people. Despite the hardships, they spared no effort to guide their followers and share the messages of Allah.
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