Surah Al Isra (The Night Journey) – Benefits & Lessons
| Classification | Meccan |
| Position | 17th Surah |
| No. of verses | 111 |
| No. of Rukus | 12 |
| No. of words | 1,558 words |
| No. of letters | 6,360 letters |
Surah Al Isra Introduction:
Surah Al Isra (also called Bani Israʾil) is the 17th chapter of the Qur’an. Its name refers to the miraculous Night Journey of the Prophet ﷺ from Mecca to Jerusalem. This surah combines spiritual upliftment, moral guidance, and warning to mankind.
Period of Revelation:
Surah Al Isra was revealed in the latter years of the Prophet’s mission in Mecca, at a time when the opposition was strong and believers were being tested. Its opening verse refers to the Night Journey (Isra) which is believed to have occurred about a year before the Hijrah (migration to Medina).
Purpose of Revelation:
To honor the Prophet ﷺ by referencing the Night Journey and connecting him to earlier prophets also To warn the disbelievers of Makkah by reminding them of the fate of previous nations, especially the Children of Israel and also To implant moral and social guidance: respect for parents, fulfilling rights, justice, avoiding arrogance, controlling one’s desires.
Themes:
1. The surah recounts how the Children of Israel were granted blessings, yet fell into corruption twice, to warn the present audience against repeating their mistakes.
2. The very first verse mentions the miraculous journey from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa, showing Allah’s power and the unique status of the Prophet ﷺ.
3. The surah condemns associating partners with Allah, and addresses wrongful claims and deviations in belief.
4. Repeated reminders that every person’s deeds are recorded, and on the Day of Judgment there will be reward or punishment.
5. The surah teaches balance in spending, avoiding extravagance and stinginess, and adopting gentleness in speech.
Sorah Al Isra Images:
FAQs
Why is it also called Surah Bani Israʾil?
Because the surah speaks about the history and mistakes of the Children of Israel, serving as lessons for the Muslims.
Why is it called “The Night Journey”?
Because the surah begins by recalling the miraculous journey (Isra) of the Prophet from Mecca to Jerusalem.
What is the central message of the surah?
The core messages are: worship Allah alone, moral conduct, accountability, lessons from history, and the status of the Prophet.
What benefit or virtue is associated with reciting this surah?
Many scholars say that reciting it strengthens faith, offers spiritual protection, and increases awareness of divine signs.
Why is Surah Al Isra important today?
It provides timeless lessons on justice, social responsibility, humility, and faith in Allah’s support during hardship.
Are there stories of past prophets or peoples?
Yes, the Surah Al Isra mentions the Children of Israel, events of corruption, and references to previous communities as warnings.
Author’s Quotation:
“Surah Al Isra is a beacon of divine guidance, connecting the miraculous Night Journey of the Prophet ﷺ to the daily struggles of believers. It blends history, morality, and spirituality into a timeless message for humanity. Its verses remind us of the power of Allah, the importance of Tawheed, and the duty to live by justice, compassion, and humility. In every era, this surah calls the faithful to stand firm, honor their responsibilities, and seek ultimate success in the Hereafter.”