Angels

In Islam, angels (Arabic: ملائكة, malā'ikah) are spiritual beings created by Allah (God) from light (nur) and endowed with various duties and capabilities. They play a significant role in Islamic theology, cosmology, and practice. Here are key aspects of angels in Islam:

1. Creation and Nature:

   • Angels are considered to be created beings, existing solely to worship and serve Allah.
   • They are described as beings of light, without physical bodies or free will, and are therefore incapable of disobedience to Allah.

2. Attributes and Characteristics:

   • Angels are believed to be pure and obedient servants of Allah, carrying out His commands without question.
   • They possess various powers and abilities, including the ability to travel swiftly and to assume different forms as needed.

3. Roles and Functions:

   • Worship and Praise: Angels continuously worship and glorify Allah, praising Him and seeking forgiveness on behalf of believers.
   • Messengers and Revelation: Some angels, such as Gabriel (Jibril), are messengers who deliver Allah's revelations to prophets, including the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
   • Recording Deeds: Angels record the deeds of every human being, both good and bad, throughout their lives. These records will be used on the Day of Judgment for accountability.
   • Protection and Guidance: Angels provide protection to believers, accompany them, and guide them towards righteousness.

4. Types of Angels:

   • Archangels: These are high-ranking angels with special responsibilities. Gabriel (Jibril) is known for delivering revelations, Michael (Mikail) is associated with providing sustenance and blessings, and Israfil is said to blow the trumpet signaling the Day of Judgment.
   • Guardian Angels: Each person is believed to have angels assigned to record their deeds and protect them from harm.

5. Belief in Angels: Belief in angels is one of the six pillars of faith (iman) in Islam, along with belief in Allah, His prophets, His revealed books, the Day of Judgment, and predestination (qadar).

6. References in Islamic Texts: The Quran mentions angels in numerous places, describing their duties, appearances, and interactions with prophets. Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) also provide additional details about angels and their roles.

In Islam, angels are regarded with reverence and awe as manifestations of Allah's divine will and mercy, serving as intermediaries between humans and the divine realm. Their existence and actions underscore the belief in a meticulously structured universe governed by Allah's wisdom and omnipotence.