Understanding the Islamic view of angels is essential for every Muslim seeking deeper knowledge of the unseen world as described by Allah in the Quran and Sunnah. Angels are fundamental to our faith, as belief in them is one of the six pillars of Iman. From their creation to their duties, from their names to their distinction from other beings, this article explores the complete Islamic view of angels while also introducing you to resources like the hifz program online to strengthen your connection to Islamic knowledge.
Meaning of angels in Islam
The word for angel in Arabic is “Malak” (plural: Mala’ika). In the Islamic view of angels, they are created beings made from light. They are entirely obedient to Allah, incapable of sin or disobedience. This pure nature sets them apart from both humans and jinn. One of the foundational beliefs about angels in Islam is that they are ever-present witnesses to human deeds, guardians of the divine command, and messengers between Allah and creation.
Origin of angels in Islamic belief
The Islamic view of angels teaches that they were created before humans. Their origin is from light, as narrated in a Hadith by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This creation makes them invisible to the human eye under normal circumstances. In contrast to iblis shaitan, who was created from smokeless fire and later disobeyed Allah, angels are entirely loyal to their Lord. According to angels according to the Quran, they have specific tasks assigned by Allah and never act out of personal desire.
Main names of angels in Islam
There are several named angels that are especially significant in the Islamic view of angels:
- Jibreel (Gabriel): The angel of revelation who delivered Allah’s message to the prophets.
- Mikaeel (Michael): Responsible for rainfall and sustenance.
- Israfeel: Will blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgment.
- Malik: The guardian of Hellfire.
- Raqib and Atid: Record human deeds.
- Munkar and Nakir: Question the dead in their graves.
Learning about these angels is vital in the Islamic perspective on angelic beings. Their roles help believers understand divine justice and mercy more profoundly.
Characteristics of angels in Quran and Sunna
In both the Quran and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), angels are described as beings of immense strength, speed, and discipline. One key characteristic in the Islamic view of angels is that they do not eat, drink, or sleep. They are tireless in their worship and perfectly obedient. Verses about angels according to the Quran often describe them as having wings, sometimes two, three, or four. The Hadith also states that Jibreel filled the horizon with his massive wings.
Difference between angels and jinn in Islam
The Islamic view of angels and jinn differ significantly. Angels are created from light, while jinn are created from fire. Jinn, like humans, have free will and can choose to obey or disobey. This is why iblis shaitan, a jinn, could disobey Allah. In contrast, angels have no such choice. They execute Allah’s commands without question. Understanding these differences helps us see the wisdom in Allah’s creation and better grasp the Islamic perspective on angelic beings.
Role of Jibreel and Mikaeel in Islam
Among all angels, Jibreel and Mikaeel hold special status. Jibreel delivered the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and appeared multiple times throughout his life. His presence is central to the Islamic view of angels, and his role is often highlighted in tafsir. Mikaeel, on the other hand, governs provisions such as rain and crops. Both are mentioned in the Quran, emphasizing their significance in shaping the world’s natural and spiritual realities. When you study the beliefs about angels in Islam, these two figures become central to understanding divine mercy and justice.
Why learning about angels matters
Knowing the Islamic view of angels builds stronger faith. It fosters awareness that our deeds are being recorded, that help from Allah is near, and that we are part of a greater divine order. It is also a core component of religious education. Programs such as the hifz program online at ZULFA INSTITUTE (Contact: 01202942383) incorporate deep teachings of the unseen, including angels, to help students memorize and understand the Quran in its full context.
Enroll in courses to deepen your knowledge
If you’re eager to explore the Islamic view of angels and other critical components of faith, enrolling in structured courses can be transformative. At ZULFA INSTITUTE, our scholars and teachers guide students through Quran memorization, tafsir, and Hadith studies, ensuring you grasp concepts like the Islamic perspective on angelic beings. Plus, our hifz program online is ideal for anyone seeking flexible yet authentic Islamic education.
Explore the Islamic view of angels further and let it elevate your connection with the Creator, the unseen, and your purpose in life.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is the meaning of angels in Islam?
In Islam, angels are spiritual beings created by Allah from light. They are completely obedient to Allah and have no free will. They do not eat, sleep, or sin. The Islamic view of angels defines them as loyal servants who carry out divine commands without hesitation. This forms a core part of beliefs about angels in Islam.
2. What is the origin of angels according to Islamic belief?
According to Islamic perspective on angelic beings, angels were created from light before humans and jinn. Their creation is mentioned in many hadiths and texts. While angels according to the Quran are not described in physical detail, they are always associated with purity, obedience, and divine tasks.
3. What are the main duties of angels in Islam?
Angels have numerous responsibilities, including delivering revelations, recording human deeds, managing nature’s forces, and guarding individuals. For example, Jibreel is responsible for conveying revelation, while other angels record actions and take souls at death. These roles highlight the divine organization of the universe, as emphasized in the Islamic view of angels.
4. What is the difference between angels and jinn in Islamic teachings?
The key difference lies in their creation and nature. Angels are made from light and are always obedient, while jinn are created from smokeless fire and possess free will. Jinn can disobey, like Iblis Shaitan, who was a jinn that defied Allah’s command. This contrast is central in the Islamic view of angels, where angels are never rebellious.
5. Who are Jibreel and Mikaeel in Islam?
Jibreel (Gabriel) is known as the angel of revelation, responsible for delivering Allah’s words to prophets. Mikaeel (Michael) is assigned to manage rain and sustenance. These two hold prominent status in the Islamic view of angels and are often mentioned together in Islamic texts. Their duties reinforce the belief that angels carry out vital functions in the divine system.
6. How are angels described in the Quran and Sunnah?
Angels according to the Quran are noble, mighty, and worship Allah constantly. They are described as having wings and being countless in number. The Sunnah expands on their roles and interactions with humans. Their descriptions provide deep insight into their characteristics of angels in Quran and Sunna, forming part of the Islamic perspective on angelic beings.
7. How can belief in angels strengthen a Muslim’s faith?
Believing in angels reminds Muslims that they are always being watched and recorded. This awareness encourages good behavior and strengthens accountability. Enrolling in structured Islamic studies, such as a Hifz program online, helps deepen knowledge about the Islamic view of angels and other pillars of faith, guiding believers toward a more conscious Islamic lifestyle.
