The Night Journey and Ascension, known as Al-Isra wal-Mi'raj, was one of the greatest events in the life of Prophet Muhammad. During this extraordinary journey, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم encountered several prophets, including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, peace be upon them.
Narrations describing these encounters provide details about the appearances of the prophets and recount moments of greeting, welcome, and advice exchanged during the journey.
How Prophet Muhammad Described Prophet Abraham
Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم described Abraham عليه السلام after seeing him during the Night Journey. He stated that he had never seen a man who more closely resembled his companion, meaning himself, than Abraham.
This description highlights the notable physical resemblance between Prophet Muhammad and Prophet Abraham as reported in the narrations.
How Prophet Muhammad Described Prophet Moses
Moses عليه السلام was described as a tall man with a dark complexion, curly hair, and a prominent nose. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم compared his appearance to the men of the Shanu'ah tribe.
The narrations of the Night Journey also mention that Prophet Muhammad passed by Moses while he was praying in his grave and later encountered him during the journey.
The Prophet's Encounter With Moses
When Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم encountered Moses, they exchanged greetings. Moses then asked about the prophet who had accompanied Gabriel عليه السلام.
After learning that he was Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم, Moses welcomed him and prayed for blessings for him. He also advised him to ask Allah for ease for his nation.
Moses عليه السلام is closely connected to another major event of the Ascension: the discussions surrounding the obligation of prayer and its subsequent reduction for the Muslim community.
How Prophet Muhammad Described Prophet Jesus
Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم described Jesus, the son of Mary, عليه السلام, as a man with a reddish complexion, of moderate height, with straight hair and many facial marks.
The narration also compares his appearance to that of Urwah ibn Mas'ud al-Thaqafi, one of the well-known men among the Arabs at the time.
This description provides an important account of how Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم described the appearance of Jesus after encountering him during the Night Journey and Ascension.
The Meeting With Abraham, Moses and Jesus
The narrations recount that Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم encountered Abraham, Moses, and Jesus during this blessed journey. They greeted him, and he returned their greetings.
When the Prophet asked Gabriel عليه السلام who they were, he was told that they were Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
Their meeting represents one of the remarkable scenes associated with Al-Isra wal-Mi'raj and reflects the connection between Prophet Muhammad and the earlier prophets.
Abraham's Advice to Prophet Muhammad
According to the narration, Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم encountered Abraham عليه السلام beneath a tree, surrounded by his family. Abraham returned the Prophet's greeting and was informed that the man accompanying Gabriel was his son, Ahmad, referring to Prophet Muhammad.
Abraham welcomed him and described him as the Arab prophet who conveyed his Lord's message and sincerely advised his nation.
The narration also includes advice concerning the Muslim community, emphasizing the Prophet's concern for his followers and the importance of seeking ease and mercy for them.
Lessons From the Prophets' Meeting
The encounters between Prophet Muhammad and the earlier prophets carry profound spiritual meanings.
They illustrate the unity of the prophetic mission and the shared call of the prophets to worship Allah and follow His guidance.
The encounters also demonstrate the brotherhood and mutual respect among the prophets and their concern for the well-being of those who follow their guidance.
The Night Journey and Ascension therefore remains one of the most significant events in the Prophetic biography, containing numerous lessons, signs, and moments of great spiritual importance.
Which prophets did Prophet Muhammad meet during the Night Journey?
Prophet Muhammad met several prophets, including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, peace be upon them.
How did Prophet Muhammad describe Abraham?
He described Abraham as the man who most closely resembled him among those he had seen.
How did Prophet Muhammad describe Moses?
He described Moses as tall, dark-complexioned, curly-haired, and prominent-nosed, comparing him to the men of Shanu'ah.
How did Prophet Muhammad describe Jesus?
He described Jesus as having a reddish complexion, moderate height, straight hair, and many facial marks.
What advice did Abraham give Prophet Muhammad?
The narration states that Abraham welcomed him and emphasized concern for his nation and seeking ease for them.
