Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "The roof of my house was made open while I was at Makkah (on the night of Mi'raj) and Jibril descended. He opened up my chest and washed it with the water of Zamzam. The he brought the golden tray full of Wisdom and Belief and poured it in my chest and then closed it. The he took hold of my hand and ascended to the nearest heaven. Jibril told the gatekeeper of the nearest heaven to open the gate. The gatekeeper asked, "Who is it?" Jibril replied, "I am Jibril." (See Hadith No. 349 Vol.1)
Hadith Commentary: The Opening of the Chest
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 1636 describes the profound spiritual purification preceding the Prophet's celestial ascension (al-Mi'raj). Scholars explain that the opening of the chest symbolizes the purification of the heart from worldly attachments, preparing it to receive divine revelation. The washing with Zamzam water signifies both physical and spiritual cleansing, as Zamzam is blessed water springing from divine mercy.
The golden tray containing Wisdom (Hikmah) and Belief (Iman) represents the infusion of prophetic knowledge and unwavering faith directly from the divine realm. Classical commentators note this event established the Prophet's spiritual perfection before his encounter with higher realities, demonstrating that true knowledge and faith originate from Allah's grace rather than human acquisition.
Significance of the Heavenly Ascent
The ascent through the heavens illustrates the Prophet's unique status among creation. When Jibril identifies himself at the first heaven's gate, it establishes the protocol for celestial entry - even angels must identify themselves. This emphasizes the sanctity and order of the heavenly realms.
Scholars of tafsir connect this event to Quranic verses alluding to the Night Journey, noting that the physical and spiritual dimensions of the journey demonstrate the comprehensive nature of prophethood. The event serves as foundational to Islamic cosmology and the understanding of prophetic missions.
Spiritual Lessons for Believers
This hadith teaches that spiritual advancement requires divine purification before receiving higher knowledge. The use of Zamzam water connects everyday acts of worship to profound spiritual realities, reminding pilgrims of the sacred history embedded in Hajj rituals.
The sequential nature of the journey - purification, then knowledge infusion, then ascent - provides a model for spiritual development. Commentators note that while the specific event was unique to the Prophet, the principles of purification preceding enlightenment apply to all believers seeking nearness to Allah.