Muhammad - mystical ascension (Isra & Miraj) according to the Quran

The Quran verses from Surah Al-Najm describe the Prophet Muhammad's spiritual journey, known as the Isra and Mi'raj. It talks about how he was able to see some of Allah's greatest signs and received the revelations of Allah. The verses also describe the physical appearance of some of Allah's creations and the importance of acknowledging and submitting to Allah.

Here is the translation and explanation of Quran 53:6-18:

Translation:

• He neither deviates nor strays.
• And he did not speak out of desire.
• It is only an inspiration that is inspired,
• One who is greatly strong and prudent, he imparted it.
• And he rose to his full height upon the horizon,
• Then drew near, and came down,
• Until he was two bows’ length away, or even closer.
• And He revealed to His servant what He revealed.
• The heart was not untrue in what he saw.
• What! Will you then dispute with him concerning what he saw?
• And he saw him also a second time,
• At the Lote-tree of the farthest boundary,
• Near which is the Garden of Tranquility.

Explanation:

These verses refer to Prophet Muhammad's miraculous night journey known as the Isra and Mi'raj. The journey took place during the early years of his prophethood when he was transported from the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to the Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, and then from there to the heavens and beyond.

• In verse 6, Allah emphasizes that Prophet Muhammad is a truthful and upright individual who does not deviate from the truth or lead people astray.
• Verse 7 is a declaration that the words spoken by the Prophet are not a product of his own desires or whims, but rather divinely inspired.
• Verse 8 indicates that the revelations received by the Prophet are not a result of his own efforts but are rather sent down to him by Allah.
• In verse 9, Allah describes the Prophet as a strong and wise individual who was able to convey the divine message in a clear and effective manner.
• Verses 10-12 describe the Prophet's ascension to the heavens, as he rose to his full height on the horizon, then drew near and came down until he was close to Allah.
• Verse 13 emphasizes that the revelations received by the Prophet are authentic and truthful.
• Verse 14 challenges those who doubt the authenticity of the Prophet's revelations and his miraculous journey.
• Verse 15 emphasizes that it is not up to humans to dispute the authenticity of the Prophet's revelations or to question his experiences.
• Verses 16-18 describe the Prophet's encounter with Allah at the Lote-tree of the farthest boundary, where he received the final revelations and was shown the Garden of Tranquility.