Did the Messenger of Allah see His Lord on the night of Isra'?

Q 24: Did Muhammad see His Lord (Exalted be He) on the night of Isra' (Night Journey)?

A: Our Prophet (peace be upon him) did not see His Lord in the worldly life according the most correct opinion of the scholars in this regard, but he did see Jibril (Gabriel) in his true form standing in the horizon. This is what is meant by the saying of Allah (Exalted be He): He has been taught (this Qur’ân) by one mighty in power [Jibrîl (Gabriel)] One free from any defect in body and mind then he (Jibrîl - Gabriel in his real shape as created by Allah) rose and became stable. While he [Jibrîl (Gabriel)] was in the highest part of the horizon, (Tafsir Ibn Kathir) Then he [Jibrîl (Gabriel)] approached and came closer, And was at a distance of two bows’ length or (even) nearer. So (Allâh) revealed to His slave [Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم through Jibrîl (Gabriel) عليه السلام] whatever He revealed. The (Prophet’s) heart lied not in what he (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) saw. Will you then dispute with him (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) about what he saw [during the Mi‘râj: (Ascent of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم to the seven heavens)] And indeed he (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) saw him [Jibrîl (Gabriel)] at a second descent (i.e. another time). Near Sidrat-ul-Muntaha (a lote-tree of the utmost boundary over the seventh heaven beyond which none can pass). Near it is the Paradise of Abode. When that covered the lote-tree which did cover it! The sight (of Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) turned not aside (right or left), nor it transgressed beyond the limit (ordained for it). May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.