Angels—heavenly messengers of Allah—hold a profound and sacred place in Islamic belief. Created from light, these celestial beings are obedient servants of Allah who carry out His commands without hesitation or error. For Muslims, angels represent purity, loyalty, and a constant reminder of Allah’s presence across all realms of existence.
In this article, we’ll explore the vital roles angels play in Islam, their responsibilities, their connection to human beings, and the lessons they offer in developing a spiritually conscious life.
BELIEF IN ANGELS: A CORE ELEMENT OF FAITH
Belief in angels is one of the six articles of faith in Islam. Embracing this belief nurtures spiritual awareness and helps Muslims acknowledge the unseen dimensions of Allah’s creation. It encourages ethical living, mindfulness, and sincerity—knowing that angels are present, recording actions and witnessing one’s deeds.
The Qur’an and Hadith frequently mention angels, describing their creation, nature, and roles. These references help believers better understand how angels serve Allah’s will and interact with the human world.
MAJOR ANGELS AND THEIR ROLES IN ISLAM
While there are countless angels in Islam, several are specifically named in the Qur’an and Hadith due to their significant roles:
1. JIBRIL (GABRIEL)
The most honored among the angels, Jibril (peace be upon him), also known as Ar-Ruh, was entrusted with delivering Allah’s revelations to the prophets. He conveyed the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, bridging the divine and human worlds.
“This is indeed a revelation from the Lord of the Worlds, which the trustworthy Spirit (Jibril) has brought down into your heart (O Prophet).”
[Ash-Shu’ara: 192–194]
2. MIKAIL (MICHAEL)
Mikail (peace be upon him) is responsible for the distribution of sustenance and overseeing natural elements like rain, vegetation, and provisions. His role highlights the mercy of Allah in providing for all living beings.
3. ISRA’IL (ANGEL OF DEATH)
Isra’il (peace be upon him) is charged with taking souls at the time of death, reminding us of life’s temporary nature and the certainty of the Hereafter.
“Say, ‘The Angel of Death, who has been entrusted with you, will take your soul. Then you will be returned to your Lord.’”
[As-Sajdah: 11]
4. ISRAFIL
Israfil (peace be upon him) will blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment. The first blow will end the world, and the second will mark the resurrection, reaffirming belief in the afterlife and divine accountability.
5. MALIK (GUARDIAN OF HELL)
Malik is the guardian of Hell. He administers the punishment of wrongdoers, embodying divine justice.
“They will cry out, ‘O Malik, let your Lord end us!’ He will respond, ‘You will remain.’”
[Az-Zukhruf: 77]
6. MUNKAR AND NAKIR
These angels question the deceased in their graves, asking about their faith in Allah, the Prophet, and their way of life. Their role emphasizes that accountability continues even after death.
7. KIRAMAN KATIBIN (THE NOBLE RECORDERS)
These angels are assigned to every person—one records good deeds, the other bad. They ensure that every action is documented.
“There are angels over you, noble and recording. They know all that you do.”
[Al-Infitar: 11–12]
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUMANS AND ANGELS
Guardian Angels
Islam teaches that every individual has guardian angels who protect them by Allah’s command.
“For each person, there are angels in succession, guarding them by Allah’s command.”
[Ar-Ra’d: 11]
Daily Interactions
Angels attend gatherings of worship, accompany those who recite the Qur’an, and enter homes filled with peace and remembrance of Allah. Their presence is a source of blessings and spiritual strength.
Angels are also known to visit:
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People who seek Islamic knowledge
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Those who sleep in a state of wudu (purity)
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Believers who send blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ
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Charitable gatherings and those who spend in the path of Allah
ANGELS PROTECTING THE QUR’AN
From its revelation to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to its preservation over the centuries, angels have played a key role in safeguarding the Qur’an. Jibril’s transmission of the Qur’an marked the beginning of this divine protection, ensuring it would remain unaltered and pure for all generations.
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT ANGELS IN ISLAM
Do Angels Have Free Will?
No. Angels do not have free will. They do not sin or disobey Allah. Their sole purpose is to carry out divine commands without error.
“They do not disobey Allah in what He commands them, and they do as they are commanded.”
[At-Tahrim: 6]
Physical Appearance
Contrary to cultural depictions, angels in Islam are not portrayed with human features. Created from light, their true appearance is beyond human comprehension.
Gender of Angels
Angels are genderless. Assigning them male or female characteristics is not supported in Islamic teachings.
CONCLUSION
Angels are a cornerstone of Islamic belief—fulfilling divine tasks, guiding and protecting humanity, and recording each deed. Their presence emphasizes Allah’s mercy, justice, and omnipotence.
Understanding the roles of angels strengthens a Muslim’s faith and serves as a daily reminder of the unseen reality that surrounds us. By believing in and respecting the presence of angels, Muslims can lead more mindful, righteous, and spiritually enriched lives.
“Faith in the unseen is the mark of the believer. And among the unseen, none are as close, active, and awe-inspiring as the angels of Allah.”
