What is the best book about al-Isrā’ wa al-Miʿrāj (The Night Journey and Ascension) ?
Anas ibn Malik narrated from Malik ibn Sa’sa’ah that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, told them about the night of Isra and Mi'raj, during which his chest was opened, his heart was extracted and washed with the water of faith, and then returned. Then, Al-Buraq was brought, and Jibreel ascended with him to the seven heavens. In each heaven, Jibreel would request permission to enter and would be asked about his identity and who was with him. Each time, he would reply that Muhammad was with him, and he would be welcomed.
In the first heaven, the Prophet met Adam. In the second, he met Yahya (John) and Isa (Jesus). In the third, he met Yusuf (Joseph). In the fourth, he met Idris. In the fifth, he met Harun (Aaron). In the sixth, he met Musa (Moses), who wept because Muhammad’s nation would enter Paradise in greater numbers than his own nation. In the seventh, he met Ibrahim (Abraham).
After that, the Sidrat al-Muntaha (Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary) was shown to him, and he described it. He witnessed four rivers: two hidden in Paradise and two visible, which were the Nile and the Euphrates. Then, Al-Bayt al-Ma’mur (the Frequented House) was raised for him. He chose milk from among wine and honey, and it was said to him that it was the natural disposition (Fitra).
Fifty prayers were enjoined upon him. He returned to Musa, who advised him to ask his Lord for a reduction for his nation. Musa repeated his advice several times, and each time Allah reduced ten prayers, until they became five prayers. When Musa asked him again to request a reduction, the Prophet said that he was ashamed before his Lord and was content and submitted. Then, a caller proclaimed: "I have affirmed My ordinance and have lightened the burden for My servants."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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