Isra and Miraj and The Divine Rules for a healthy living

In the seventeenth chapter of the Quran, Isra, or Bani Israel, the discussion begins about the night journey of the Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Jerusalem and onward to heavens.

Scholars of Islam differ on its physical or spiritual nature. But they all agree that it was a monumental event in the history of humanity. The Prophet experienced a new world that is yet to come. He visited the new world at the invitation of the Creator, an honor no human being had ever achieved. The 17th chapter of the Quran, Al-Isra (The Night Journey), also referred to as Bani Israel (Children of Israel), begins with one of the most extraordinary and miraculous events in Islamic history: the night journey of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. On this miraculous night, the Prophet was transported from Makkah, his birthplace, to Al-Quds (Jerusalem), and from there, he ascended through the heavens. This journey, unparalleled in human history, is considered a divine honor and a profound spiritual milestone. It allowed the Prophet ﷺ to witness aspects of the unseen world, meet angels, observe the realms of paradise and hell, and gain insight into divine truths that ordinary humans could never perceive.

Scholars have debated whether this journey was physical or spiritual, yet all agree on its unparalleled significance. Regardless of the mode of the journey, it symbolizes God’s special favor upon His Messenger and underscores the elevated station of the Prophet ﷺ among all creation. Through Al-Isra, believers are reminded of the vastness of God’s creation, the realities of the unseen world, and the importance of spiritual awareness in human life.

Beyond its miraculous nature, the chapter also conveys profound moral and spiritual lessons for humanity:

1. Monotheism and Devotion: Al-Isra emphasizes that humans must worship Allah alone, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all matters. The journey of the Prophet ﷺ reflects the closeness of God to those who are faithful and obedient.

2. Respect and Kindness to Parents: The chapter instructs believers to treat their parents with kindness and humility, highlighting the importance of family ties and social responsibility.

3. Justice and Honesty: Al-Isra emphasizes the importance of fairness in judgment, honesty in transactions, and integrity in interactions, reminding believers that ethical conduct is a fundamental component of faith.

4. Avoidance of Arrogance and Pride: The Prophet’s journey serves as a reminder that no human, regardless of worldly status, should become arrogant. True honor comes from God, not wealth, power, or fame.

5. Spiritual Awareness and Reflection: Witnessing the divine realities during the night journey illustrates the need for humans to reflect on their own lives, their purpose, and their relationship with the Creator. It inspires believers to seek spiritual growth and moral elevation.

6. Patience and Perseverance: The challenges and opposition faced by the Prophet ﷺ during his mission, referenced in this chapter, teach that steadfastness in faith and patience in adversity are essential virtues for all believers.

Through these lessons, Al-Isra not only narrates a miraculous event but also provides practical guidance for righteous living, encouraging believers to cultivate faith, morality, and consciousness of the divine in every aspect of their lives. The chapter’s message is timeless, reminding humanity that spiritual elevation, ethical conduct, and devotion to God are attainable through sincere faith and adherence to divine guidance.

Beyond the narrative of the Night Journey, Al-Isra emphasizes the oneness of humanity and the unity of the divine message delivered through all prophets. The chapter outlines 17 fundamental principles for a righteous and balanced life, as found in verses 22-37. These principles are presented as commandments for individuals to achieve moral and spiritual perfection.

1. Divine Obedience: Adhere to God's law to stay focused on your purpose in life.

2.   Parental Honor: Honor and respect your parents.

3.   Kindness to Parents: Treat your parents with kindness and respect at all ages, speaking to them gently.

4.   Protecting Parents: Responsibly protect and care for your parents as they age.

5.   Helping the Needy: Give to relatives, the poor, refugees, and the resourceless.

6.   Avoiding Waste: Do not squander your wealth, as it's an act of defiance against God.

7.   Sympathy and Compassion: If you cannot provide material help to the needy, at least offer them words of sympathy and comfort.

8.   Financial Balance: Maintain a balanced approach to your finances; avoid being either extravagant or excessively thrifty.

9.   Earning Your Labor: The more effort you exert, the greater your reward. You earn the fruits of your own labor.

10. Sanctity of Children's Lives: Do not harm your children out of fear of poverty or lack of resources.

11. Avoiding Illicit Relations: Stay away from illicit intimate relations, as they threaten the fabric of society.

12. Sanctity of Life: Do not take your own life or the life of another. Authority figures should handle cases of murder, following the rule of law and judging fairly.

13. Protecting Orphans' Property: Do not misuse the property of an orphan under your care unless it is for their direct benefit.

14. Fulfilling Commitments: Always fulfill your promises and commitments.

15. Economic Justice: When conducting business, give full measure and weigh with a just scale to prevent exploitation and maintain economic balance.

16. Knowledge and Rationality: Base your opinions on sound knowledge, not personal whims. Use your faculties of reason, observation, and hearing to determine facts.

17. Humility: Do not walk with arrogance or act in a pretentious manner