By: Drs. Rohiman
Chairman of DPC Aswin, Kota Cirebon
The month of Rajab is a sacred time, a gateway leading to the blessed months of Sha’ban and Ramadan. It reminds Muslims of the extraordinary event of Isra Mi’raj, a spiritual journey undertaken by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ by the will of Allah SWT. This event is not merely a physical journey but symbolizes the greatness of faith, a test of belief, and an essential message for Muslims.
Isra Mi’raj teaches us that closeness to Allah SWT is the essence of a Muslim’s life. The journey of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa and then to Sidrat al-Muntaha illustrates that Allah is never far from His servants. At every moment, Allah is near, listening, and aware of all our needs and prayers.
The pinnacle of Isra Mi’raj was the revelation of the five daily prayers, a profound gift for the Muslim ummah. Prayer serves as a daily reminder that we are entirely dependent on Allah. When we prostrate, it is the highest honor of a servant, where we connect with Him, speak directly without intermediaries, seek forgiveness, and surrender all our burdens to Him.
But let us reflect for a moment—are we truly preserving our prayers? Are our prayers sincere, or are they merely routine obligations? Let us ask ourselves: how much have our prayers improved our character, thoughts, and daily actions?
Isra Mi’raj also teaches us about faith. When the Prophet ﷺ recounted this event, some people mocked it, doubting its truth. However, Abu Bakr RA firmly declared, “If the Prophet ﷺ says it, then it must be true.” This is true faith—complete trust in Allah and His Messenger without hesitation.
In life, tests of faith often come unexpectedly. Sometimes we are tested with trials, hardships, or even abundant blessings. All these are meant to test whether we remain steadfast in faith and grateful to Allah. Just as the event of Isra Mi’raj tested the faith of Muslims at the time, our lives today are a series of tests that either strengthen or weaken our faith.
As human beings, we are prone to negligence. The busyness of this world often makes us forget to reflect on the true purpose of life. The event of Isra Mi’raj is a reminder that our ultimate goal is Allah. Everything we do, everything we strive for, only holds meaning when it is tied to His pleasure.
In this month of Rajab, let us increase our istighfar (seeking forgiveness) to atone for our sins. Perform additional voluntary prayers to draw closer to Allah, increase acts of kindness, and maintain good relations with others. Let this month be a moment to improve ourselves, both in worship and character.
May the remembrance of Isra Mi’raj inspire us to perform our prayers with greater sincerity, remain patient in the face of trials, and be more enthusiastic in spreading goodness in this world. Let us prepare for the holy month of Ramadan with pure hearts and unwavering faith.
“O Allah, forgive our sins, perfect our prayers, and make us Your servants who are always obedient and grateful. Ameen, ya Rabb al-‘Alamin.”
Cirebon, 10 January 2025
