Angels are among the most awe-inspiring and mysterious creations of Allah (SWT), forming a vital part of the Islamic worldview. Their existence is a fundamental article of faith, woven into the very fabric of revelation, worship, and the unseen realities that define the spiritual life of every Muslim.
The Central Role of Angels in Islamic Belief
Belief in angels (mala’ika) is one of the six pillars of iman (faith). Allah (SWT) says:
“The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers. All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers…”
(Qur’an 2:285)
This verse, and many others, establish that angels are not merely symbolic or metaphorical, but real beings created by Allah (SWT) to fulfill specific roles in the universe. Their presence is mentioned in over ninety places in the Qur’an.
The Nature of Angels: Creation and Attributes
Angels are created from light, as affirmed in the hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
“The angels were created from light, the jinn from smokeless fire, and Adam from what has been described to you.”
(Sahih Muslim)
They are entirely obedient to Allah (SWT), lacking any inclination toward sin or disobedience:
“They do not disobey Allah in what He commands them but do what they are commanded.”
(Qur’an 66:6)
Angels are neither male nor female, and they do not possess physical desires or needs. Their existence is part of the unseen (al-ghayb), and their true nature is known only to Allah (SWT).
The Major Angels and Their Names
While the Qur’an and Sunnah mention countless angels, only a few are named explicitly. These include:
Jibril (Gabriel) (AS)
The chief messenger among angels, Jibril (AS) is responsible for conveying Allah’s revelation to the Prophets. He brought 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…’”
(Qur’an 2:97)
Mikail (Michael) (AS)
Mikail (AS) is tasked with providing sustenance, such as rain and vegetation, by Allah’s command.
Israfil (AS)
Israfil (AS) will blow the trumpet to announce the Day of Judgment, signaling the end of this world and the resurrection.
Izra’il (Azrael) (AS)
Known as the Angel of Death, Izra’il (AS) is responsible for taking souls at the time appointed by Allah (SWT).
Malik (AS)
Malik (AS) is the guardian of Hellfire, overseeing its punishment and inhabitants:
“And they will call, ‘O Malik, let your Lord put an end to us!’ He will say, ‘Indeed, you will remain.’”
(Qur’an 43:77)
Munkar and Nakir (AS)
These two angels question the deceased in the grave, testing their faith and deeds.
Kiraman Katibeen (Honorable Recorders)
Appointed to every human, these angels record all actions-good and bad:
“But verily, over you are appointed angels to watch you, honorable recorders, they know all that you do.”
(Qur’an 82:10-12)
The Roles and Duties of Angels in Islam
Angels are assigned diverse and profound responsibilities, including:
Delivering Revelation
Jibril (AS) was the medium through which Allah (SWT) sent His words to the Prophets, culminating in the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Recording Deeds
Every human is accompanied by two angels, one recording good deeds and the other bad. Their records will be presented on the Day of Judgment.
Protecting and Guarding
Allah (SWT) appoints angels to guard and protect people:
“For each (person) there are angels in succession, before and behind him. They guard him by the command of Allah.”
(Qur’an 13:11)
Managing Natural Phenomena
Some angels are responsible for rain, wind, and the provision of sustenance (Mikail AS), while others oversee the mountains or the wombs in which life is formed.
Taking Souls
Izra’il (AS) and his helpers take the souls of the living at the time of death, each according to their deeds and destiny.
Supporting Believers
Angels assist and strengthen the faithful, especially in times of hardship. At the Battle of Badr, Allah (SWT) sent angels to support the Muslims:
“When you asked help of your Lord, and He answered you, ‘Indeed, I will reinforce you with a thousand from the angels, following one another.’”
(Qur’an 8:9)
Attending Gatherings of Remembrance
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Allah, be He blessed and exalted, has angels who travel the highways seeking out the people of dhikr. When they find people remembering Allah, they call out to one another, ‘Come to what you hunger for!’ and they enfold them with their wings…”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
Common Questions About Angels in Islam
What are angels made of, and do they have free will?
Angels are created from light and do not possess free will as humans do. They are incapable of disobeying Allah (SWT).
Can angels be seen by humans?
Generally, angels are part of the unseen. However, Allah (SWT) has allowed certain prophets, such as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), to see Jibril (AS) in his true form. Angels may also appear in human form by Allah’s permission.
What is the difference between angels, jinn, and devils?
Angels are created from light, always obedient, and incapable of sin. Jinn are created from smokeless fire, possess free will, and can be good or evil. Devils (shayatin) are rebellious jinn.
How do angels interact with humans?
Angels interact by recording deeds, protecting, inspiring good thoughts, and praying for believers. They also descend during special occasions, such as Laylat al-Qadr.
Do angels pray for or against people?
Yes, angels pray for those who do good, seek forgiveness, and attend gatherings of knowledge. They may also curse those who harm others or persist in sin.
Contemporary Relevance: Angels in the Life of Modern Muslims
For Muslims today, belief in angels is not an abstract doctrine but a source of spiritual mindfulness. Knowing that angels record every action inspires integrity and sincerity. The presence of guardian angels reassures believers of Allah’s mercy and protection. The knowledge that angels attend gatherings of knowledge and remembrance encourages Muslims to seek out beneficial company and acts.
In times of hardship, remembering the support of angels at Badr reminds Muslims that Allah (SWT) aids the steadfast in unseen ways. The prayers of angels for the righteous motivate believers to persist in good deeds, charity, and seeking forgiveness.
Scholarly Perspectives and Areas of Discussion
Mainstream Islamic scholarship affirms the reality of angels as described in the Qur’an and Sunnah. While some details-such as the precise nature of their physical form or the full extent of their duties-remain part of the unseen, there is consensus on their core roles and significance. Scholars caution against anthropomorphizing angels or speculating beyond what is revealed, emphasizing humility before the mysteries of Allah’s creation.
Key Takeaways
Angels are essential to Islamic faith, serving as witnesses, protectors, messengers, and agents of Allah’s will. Their constant presence reminds Muslims of the unseen reality that surrounds every moment of life. As Allah (SWT) says:
“Indeed, those who have said, ‘Our Lord is Allah’ and then remained steadfast-the angels will descend upon them…”
(Qur’an 41:30)
Let this knowledge inspire mindfulness, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to righteousness. May we strive to be among those whom the angels surround with mercy, record in the company of the righteous, and welcome into Paradise by Allah’s grace.
