.webp "The Second Pillar of Faith Belief in the Angels (Iman bi al-Mala'ika)") |
| The Second Pillar of Faith |
Who Are the Angels in Islam?
In Islam, angels are purely spiritual beings created by Allah from light (nur). Unlike humans, they do not possess free will; their sole purpose is to obey Allah and carry out His orders. They are neither male nor female and do not require food, drink, or rest. Angels are unseen by human eyes, but their presence is acknowledged through divine revelation in the Qur'an and Hadith.The Qur'an clearly affirms the existence of angels:
"All praise is due to Allah, Creator of the heavens and the earth, [Who] made the angels messengers having wings, two or three or four." (Surah Fatir, 35:1)This verse illustrates that angels have wings and are messengers of Allah, emphasizing their unique creation and roles.
The Significance of Belief in Angels
Belief in angels is vital for several reasons:- Acknowledge the Unseen World: It strengthens a Muslim's faith in the unseen world. Belief in the unseen is a hallmark of a true believer, as described in the Qur'an:
- Understanding Allah's Decree: Angels play a key role in executing Allah’s commands, whether it involves delivering messages to the prophets, recording human deeds, or carrying out divine punishments. This helps Muslims recognize that Allah’s decrees are fulfilled through His appointed servants.
- Encouraging Accountability: The belief that angels record every action of humans serves as a reminder for Muslims to live a righteous life. Knowing that every word and deed is noted by angels encourages self-discipline and moral behavior.
Roles of Angels in Islam
In the Islamic tradition, angels have specific roles and responsibilities, each carrying out duties as commanded by Allah. Some of the most significant angels include:1. Jibril (Gabriel): The Messenger of Revelation
Jibril is the most prominent of all angels. He is known as the Angel of Revelation and was responsible for delivering Allah's messages to His prophets. Jibril played a vital role in conveying the Qur'an to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):"Say, 'Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel—it is [none but] he who has brought it [the Qur'an] down upon your heart, [O Muhammad], by permission of Allah, confirming that which was before it and as guidance and good tidings for the believers.'" (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:97)
Jibril's role as the bearer of revelation makes him a crucial figure in the process of prophethood, as he brought the divine guidance that forms the core of Islamic teachings.
2. Mikail (Michael): The Provider of Sustenance
Mikail is another high-ranking angel tasked with providing sustenance to the earth, including rain, vegetation, and the sustenance of all creatures. He plays a significant role in maintaining the physical world and its resources."And he who is an enemy to Allah and His angels and His messengers and Jibril and Mikail—then indeed, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:98)
This verse highlights the importance of both Jibril and Mikail and emphasizes that enmity towards them equates to enmity towards Allah.3. Israfil: The Blower of the Trumpet
Israfil is the angel assigned to blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgment. His task is to mark the end of the world and the resurrection of the dead. The blowing of the trumpet is a significant event that signals the beginning of the Hereafter:"And the Horn will be blown; then whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth will fall dead, except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on." (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:68)
Israfil’s role underscores the concept of life after death and the accountability that every soul will face on the Day of Judgment.
4. Malak al-Mawt (The Angel of Death):
The Angel of Death, often referred to as Malak al-Mawt, is responsible for taking the souls of the deceased. His task reminds believers of the inevitable reality of death and the transition to the Hereafter:"Say, 'The Angel of Death will take you who has been entrusted with you. Then to your Lord, you will be returned.'" (Surah As-Sajdah, 32:11)
5. Kiraman Katibin: The Recording Angels
These angels are responsible for recording every action, word, and thought of humans. One angel records good deeds, while the other records bad deeds:"When the two receivers receive, seated on the right and on the left. He does not utter any word except that with him is an observer prepared [to record]." (Surah Qaf, 50:17-18)
This belief encourages Muslims to be mindful of their actions and strive for righteousness.
6. Munkar and Nakir: The Questioners in the Grave
Munkar and Nakir are the angels tasked with questioning the souls in their graves. They ask about the person’s faith, their belief in Allah, and their understanding of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The answers given reflect the individual’s faith and deeds during their lifetime."Allah keeps firm those who believe, with the firm word, in worldly life and in the Hereafter. And Allah sends astray the wrongdoers. And Allah does what He wills." (Surah Ibrahim, 14:27)
The Role of Angels in a Muslim's Life
The belief in angels has a profound impact on a Muslim's daily life. It serves as a constant reminder that they are always in the presence of Allah’s servants who are witnessing and recording their actions. This awareness instills a sense of accountability, encouraging Muslims to act with integrity and sincerity.- Inspiring Fear and Hope: Knowing that angels are present during moments of both goodness and sin can inspire fear of wrongdoing and hope for forgiveness when one turns back to Allah in repentance.
- Strengthening Worship: The knowledge that angels are involved in acts of worship, such as recording prayers and witnessing the gathering of people remembering Allah, motivates Muslims to engage more sincerely in worship.
Conclusion
Belief in angels is an essential aspect of a Muslim’s faith. It bridges the gap between the seen and unseen worlds, providing a deeper understanding of how Allah’s will is executed in the universe. This pillar of Iman reminds Muslims of their accountability, reinforces the reality of the unseen, and brings a sense of comfort knowing that Allah’s helpers are always present to fulfill His commands.By embracing this belief, Muslims acknowledge that their lives are not just a series of random events but are part of a divine plan orchestrated by the Creator, who is aided by His angels in carrying out His decrees. The belief in angels serves as a guiding force, leading Muslims to live righteously, seek Allah’s pleasure, and prepare for the ultimate reality of the Hereafter.