Throughout history, there have been many events that defy ordinary explanation—both spiritually and scientifically. In Islam, one such miraculous event is the Isra and Mi’raj (the Night Journey and Ascension), where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) traveled from Makkah to Jerusalem and then through the heavens—all in a single night.
In the realm of modern physics, a similar concept exists known as Time Travel—the theoretical ability to move through time in a way different from the normal linear progression.
This article explores how these two concepts—Mi’raj and Time Travel—may intersect in understanding, philosophy, and perception.
What Is Mi’raj? – An Islamic Perspective
Qur’anic Reference:
“Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs…”
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:1)
Hadith Account of Mi’raj:
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) rode Al-Buraq, a celestial steed
- First, he traveled to Masjid al-Aqsa, led the prophets in prayer
- Then, he ascended through seven heavens, witnessed Paradise, Hell, and met various prophets
- He ultimately reached Sidrat al-Muntaha, the Lote Tree at the utmost boundary
- He received the command of five daily prayers
- All of this happened within the span of a single night
- Upon return, his bed was still warm and the latch of the door still moving
What Is Time Travel? – A Scientific Perspective
Time Travel is the idea of moving through time much like we move through space. It is rooted in Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, which states that:
- Time is not constant, but can slow down or speed up depending on speed and gravity
- Time Dilation: A person moving at near-light speed will experience time differently than someone at rest
- Wormholes or Black Holes: Could theoretically serve as gateways through time
- Quantum Physics suggests the possibility of folding space-time
While time travel into the future is theoretically plausible, backward time travel is still a controversial topic in science.
Mi’raj and Time Travel – Where Do They Intersect?
1. Time Distortion:
Prophet Muhammad’s journey covered vast cosmic distances, yet no time seemed to pass on Earth. This resembles the concept of Time Dilation, where time slows for the traveler.
2. Space-Time Bending:
Mi’raj involved ascending through realms beyond human perception—similar to the idea of hyperspace travel or passing through a wormhole.
3. Non-Linear Reality:
From a spiritual perspective, time is not linear. Mi’raj demonstrates instantaneous movement beyond conventional space-time constraints.
Is the Miracle Beyond Science? – Islamic Insight
In Islam, nothing is beyond the power of Allah. Miracles are signs (Ayat) meant to show divine power, not to obey scientific laws.
“Indeed, His command is when He intends a thing that He only says to it, ‘Be,’ and it is.”
(Surah Yaseen, 36:82)
While science tries to explain the “how,” faith teaches the “why.” Both perspectives can co-exist when approached with humility and open-mindedness.
Do Other Faiths Have Similar Concepts? – Comparative Theology
- Christianity:
- Ascension of Jesus into heaven (Acts 1:11)
- Presence of miraculous journeys in spiritual vision
- Hinduism:
- Yogic transcendence: saints who travel through dimensions in meditation
- Buddhism:
- Astral projection and meditative travel into different realms of existence
Conclusion: While other religions include metaphysical travel, Islam presents Mi’raj as a real, physical and spiritual journey—not a dream or metaphor.
Faith, Time, and Transcendence
Mi’raj was not just a historical miracle. It was an eternal message about divine power, time, and space. Today, science is beginning to explore the same questions that Mi’raj answers with certainty:
- Can we bend time?
- Is space limited?
- Can a being travel beyond known boundaries?
The Islamic answer is: Yes, if Allah wills.
For believers, Mi’raj is a sign. For thinkers, it’s a challenge. For all, it’s a mystery worth contemplating.