Srinagar, Feb 18: Muslims across the valley observed Shab-e-Mehraj (night of ascension) on Saturday night. To mark the occasion, special religious gatherings and prayers were held at shrines and mosques across the valley.
On Saturday people in large numbers started gathering at mosques and other religious places to offer special prayers while praying for peace, prosperity of humankind and sought forgiveness.
Thousands of devotees from different parts of the valley thronged the Hazratbal shrine here in Srinagar, which houses the relic of the Prophet (PBUH). Emotional scenes were witnessed at Hazratbal shrine while devotees could be seen raising their hands for prayer.
People will have a glimpse of the holy relic after every prayer today.
Special prayers were held at almost all the shrines and local Masjids here in Kashmir, where the religious clerics highlighted the essence of the night and its pious commemoration.
To seek the blessings on the divine occasion of Shab e Mehraj several gatherings and Mahafil-e-Naat were organised across kashmir. At different mosques located throughout the valley, special religious speeches and gatherings were held. On the occasion, several mosques were illuminated.
In their speeches, ulemas and religious scholars emphasised the teachings and many facets of the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). The houses, streets, and mosques were festooned with vibrant flags and buntings. During the night, lights, candles, and oil lamps were illuminated.
The auspicious night of Shabe-Mehraj (the night of forgiveness) commemorates the Isra and Miraj of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), during which Prophet (PBUH) was taken from Makkah to Al-Haram-Al-Sharif and then carried to heaven and skies on al-Buraq.
The word Miraj of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is derived from the Arabic word Urooj, which means “height” or “ascension.” It is celebrated on Rajab 27th as per the Islamic calendar. During Miraj, the command for five daily prayers (Salat) was also given to the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
During the night of Mehraj, On the way, the Holy Prophet, Peace Be Upon Him, met Hazrat Adam (AS), Hazrat Ibraham (AS), Hazrat Musa (AS) , Hazrat Eisah (AS) and several other Prophets. The purpose of the “ascent” was to confirm the highest status bestowed upon the last prophet, a position that all Muslims believe is impossible to attain by any other human being.
Meanwhile, the authorities have made all the arrangements necessary for the smooth functioning of the nightlong prayers. The Auqaf committee said that the district administration has put all the departments on high alert for the smooth functioning of the Shab-E-Mehraj.
In preparation for the Shab-e-Me’raj, the traffic department had made plans to ensure the smooth passage of vehicular traffic. The department had also issued a traffic advisory to ensure that traffic flowed smoothly.
LG extends Shab-E-Mehraj greetings
Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha has extended his greetings on the eve of Shab-i-Meraj.
In a message, the Lt Governor said: “On the auspicious occasion of Shab-i-Meraj, I convey my greetings to the people. The pious night provides an opportunity to the people to pray and seek forgiveness & blessings from the Almighty God. I pray for the well-being, happiness and prosperity of all.”
