Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar delivered a speech at the national Isra Miraj commemoration at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta on January 15, 2026. He explained that prayer, the core of the Isra Miraj event, is not only spiritual but also teaches social concern and environmental ethics. The speech responds to various challenges faced by society today.
The Isra Miraj event of Prophet Muhammad SAW, occurring on 27 Rajab in the 10th year of prophethood, is a pivotal moment in Islamic history. The night journey from Masjidil Haram in Mecca to Masjidil Aqsa in Palestine, followed by ascension to Sidratul Muntaha, tested the faith of the community. As described in the Quran's surah al-Isra verse 1, Allah SWT transported His servant to show signs of His greatness.
In the 2026 commemoration, Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar spoke at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta on January 15, 2026. He highlighted the concept of ecotheology, stating that the five daily prayers commanded during Mi'raj shape the personality of Muslims who are faithful, disciplined, and of noble character. "Prayer performed with true appreciation and understanding will produce individuals with high awareness, social sensitivity, and environmental concern," said Nasaruddin Umar.
According to him, the principle of thaharah in prayer teaches cleanliness of self and surroundings, while prayer movements instill discipline and moderation in utilizing natural resources sustainably. The concept of tawhid in Isra Miraj emphasizes the unity of creation, where damaging the environment means ignoring signs of Allah's power. "Damaging the environment means ignoring the signs of Allah's power, while preserving and caring for the environment is part of manifesting faith and obedience to Him," he stated.
Nasaruddin also emphasized the relevance of Isra Miraj for unity and interfaith tolerance in Indonesia. "Let tolerance allow differences to remain different and similarities to stay the same. The important thing is that differences do not create distance between us," he said. The speech was delivered amid global and national situations full of challenges, such as conflicts and economic uncertainty.
Meanwhile, a scientific perspective from Prof Husin Alatas of IPB University explains Isra as a physical journey possible with modern technology, and Mi'raj through wormholes or additional dimensions, though Quranic descriptions are more minimal. Spiritually, prayer is called the Mi'raj for believers, as per the Prophet's saying.
