I found myself in Hijr and the Quraish were asking me about my might journey. I was asked about things pertaining to Bait-ul-Maqdis which I could not preserve (in my mind). I was very much vexed, so vexed as I had never been before. Then Allah raised it (Bait-ul-Maqdis) before my eyes. I looked towards it, and I gave them the information about whatever they questioned me I also saw myself among the group of apostles. I saw Moses saying prayer and found him to be a well-built man as if he was a man of the tribe of Shanu'a. I saw Jesus son of Mary (peace be upon him) offering prayer, of all of men he had the closest resemblance with 'Urwa b. Masu'd al-Thaqafi. I saw Ibrahim (peace be upon him) offering prayer; he had the closest resemblance with your companion (the Prophet himself) amongst people. When the time of prayer came I led them. When I completed the prayer, someone said: Here is Malik, the keeper of the Hell; pay him salutations. I turned to him, but he preceded me in salutation.
The Book of Faith - Sahih Muslim 172
This narration from the Isra' and Mi'raj (Night Journey and Ascension) contains profound spiritual insights. The Prophet's vexation when questioned about Jerusalem demonstrates his human nature, while the divine assistance in revealing Bait-ul-Maqdis shows Allah's support for His Messenger.
Vision of the Prophets
The Prophet's vision of Musa (Moses) as a well-built man from Shanu'a tribe indicates his physical strength and prophetic stature. The description of Isa (Jesus) resembling 'Urwa b. Mas'ud reveals his noble Arabian appearance, dispelling later distorted depictions.
Ibrahim's (Abraham) resemblance to Prophet Muhammad himself signifies their spiritual kinship and the continuity of the Abrahamic faith. This vision affirms the unity of prophethood and the finality of Muhammad's message.
Leadership in Prayer
The Prophet leading all previous prophets in prayer symbolizes his supreme status as the Imam of all prophets and the seal of messengers. This establishes his authority over all previous religious traditions.
Encounter with Malik
The meeting with Malik, keeper of Hell, demonstrates the comprehensive nature of the Prophet's journey through all realms of existence. Malik's precedence in greeting shows respect due to Allah's chosen ones, even among angelic guardians.