Yakup Kaya, a member of the Board of Directors, delivered a message underscoring the profound significance of this celestial event and its relevance to the present times.
In his eloquent address, Kaya shed light on the pressing issue of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque, which has been at the forefront of global concerns for the past four months. He urged the faithful to leverage the sanctity of this night to engage in acts of worship, emphasizing the importance of praying in mosques and cherishing the sacred atmosphere.
The message commenced with a Quranic verse: "He is the One who took His servant one night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him some of Our signs." This verse encapsulates the divine journey of Prophet Muhammad to Al-Aqsa Mosque, where he led prayers for all the prophets, a pivotal moment in Islamic history.
Kaya underscored the historical and spiritual richness of Al-Aqsa Mosque and Palestine, noting that numerous prophets had resided in these lands, offering prayers and conveying their divine messages. He affirmed the authenticity of their prophethood and declared Al-Aqsa Mosque and Palestine as sacred realms of immense importance.
The revered member of the Board of Directors drew parallels with the time of Prophet Muhammad, highlighting mosques as places of both material and spiritual solidarity. He reminisced about the companions who would leave the mosque lighter in spirit, shedding their burdens. Drawing inspiration from the iconic figure of Saladin Ayyubi, Kaya encouraged the community to fill mosques, envisioning a future conquest and liberation of Jerusalem. He reiterated the certainty of Allah's promise and the eventual liberation of Jerusalem.
Offering guidance on how to spend this sacred night, Kaya recommended organizing programs in mosques, reading the Holy Qur'an, reciting prayers, and engaging in introspection about past actions. He urged individuals to seek forgiveness for sins, pray for the well-being of the sick, and extend kindness to the less fortunate.
In conclusion, Kaya invoked divine blessings upon Laylat al-Miraj, expressing hope that this blessed night would serve as an impetus for those not yet engaged in prayer to start, and for those already praying to deepen their devotion. He prayed for love to permeate faith, households, hometowns, and the entire universe. Kaya earnestly called upon the Muslim community to value these beautiful nights, awaken from heedlessness, and become agents of salvation for oppressed regions, particularly Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque. He concluded by extending prayers for the blessed Laylat al-Miraj to encompass the entire Islamic world.
What is Laylat al-Miraj?
Laylat al-Miraj, also known as Miraç Kandili in Turkish, holds great importance in Islamic tradition. It commemorates the miraculous night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to the heavens. The event is mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Isra, and it is a source of spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
Here are some key points about the importance of Laylat al-Miraj for Muslims:
Laylat al-Miraj marks the night when the Prophet Muhammad was transported from the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to the Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem in a single night. From there, he ascended through the heavens, meeting several prophets and ultimately reaching the divine presence.
The event of Laylat al-Miraj serves as a confirmation of the prophethood of Muhammad. The journey, often referred to as Isra and Miraj, demonstrated the miraculous nature of the Prophet's mission and strengthened the believers' faith.
Laylat al-Miraj is considered a night of profound spiritual significance. Muslims engage in increased acts of worship, including prayers, recitation of the Quran, and seeking forgiveness. It is a time for reflection, repentance, and drawing closer to Allah.
Muslims believe that Laylat al-Miraj is a night of blessings and divine mercy. They seek Allah's forgiveness for their sins and pray for guidance, protection, and well-being for themselves and the entire Muslim ummah.
On Laylat al-Miraj, Muslims often engage in special night prayers known as Tahajjud or Qiyam-ul-Lail. These prayers are performed with deep devotion and are an opportunity for believers to strengthen their connection with Allah.
The night is also an occasion for communal and familial gatherings. Muslims come together to engage in acts of worship, share the significance of the event with one another, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood.
Laylat al-Miraj encourages believers to reflect on the miracles that occurred during the night journey and ascension. It serves as a reminder of Allah's infinite power and the extraordinary events that unfolded in the life of the Prophet.
Overall, Laylat al-Miraj holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims as a night of spiritual elevation, reflection, and increased devotion to Allah. Believers commemorate this event with gratitude and seek Allah's mercy and blessings on this auspicious occasion. (ILKHA)