In a world of beliefs, angels hold a very significant place. Though they are unseen by the human eye, they are constantly at work, fulfilling the commands of Allah with complete obedience. For Muslims, belief in angels is not just a theological idea but one of the six foundational articles of faith. But the question is, who exactly are these beings? What do they do? And why does belief in them matter so much?
What Are Angels Made Of? Their Nature in Islam
Islam teaches that Allah created angels from pure light. They are not like humans or jinn. Angels do not eat, sleep, or get tired. They do not have desires, and they never disobey Allah. Unlike human beings, they do not have free will. Their existence is entirely devoted to serving their Creator.
Angels are invisible to us, though they can take a physical form if Allah wills. They are present all around us, though we might never see them. This unseen nature is part of what makes belief in angels an act of faith.
The Most Well-Known Angels and Their Roles
Islam names several angels who play significant roles in the unseen world:
Jibril (Gabriel):
He is the angel of revelation who brought down the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He also conveyed messages to earlier prophets.
Mikail (Michael):
Responsible for sending rain and providing sustenance to creation.
Israfil:
Assigned to blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgment—once to end the world, and again to bring everyone back to life.
Malak al-Mawt (Angel of Death):
Takes the soul of every person at the time appointed by Allah.
These angels are not symbolic. In Islam, they are real beings with specific duties that affect both the world we live in and the Hereafter.
Angels Around Us: Their Everyday Roles
Angels are not distant creatures with no connection to our lives. According to Islamic teachings, they are near us every single day:
- Recording Deeds: Two angels sit on each person’s shoulders, one records our good deeds, the other our bad.
- Guardian Angels: Some angels are assigned to protect us by Allah’s command.
- During Worship: Angels surround people who gather to remember God, and they say “Ameen” when we make prayer.
- At Home: Homes where Allah is remembered and the Quran is recited are filled with angels.
This constant presence is a reminder for Muslims to be mindful, to strive for good, and to know that even when no one is watching, the angels are.
Angels in Life’s Most Important Moments
Angels are present not only in day-to-day life but also during key events:
- At Birth, an angel writes down our lifespan, our deeds, our provision, and our final destination (Paradise or Hell) while we are still in the womb.
- At Death, angels come to take the soul, gently for the righteous, and more firmly for the wicked.
- In the Grave, two angels, Munkar and Nakir, ask every soul three questions: Who is your Lord? What is your religion? Who is your Prophet?
- On the Day of Judgment, angels will present our record of deeds and witness our actions.
What Belief in Angels Teaches Us
Believing in angels helps Muslims develop a sense of accountability. Knowing that every word, action, and intention is being recorded encourages a more conscious and ethical way of living. It reminds believers that they are never truly alone.
It also reflects Islam’s deep connection with the unseen—that there is more to life than what we can see and touch. Angels are a sign of Allah’s mercy, power, and constant care for His creation.
Common Questions and Misunderstandings
Do angels have wings?
Yes. The Quran mentions that angels have wings in pairs (some with two, some with three or more), though not like the feathered wings humans imagine.
Are angels male or female?
In Islam, angels are not described with gender. They are beyond human categories like male and female.
Do Muslims worship angels?
No. Angels are honored creations, but they are not divine. Worship is only for Allah.
Can humans become angels after death?
No. Angels and humans are different creations. A reasonable person doesn’t become an angel, though we may use the word “angel” lovingly to describe someone kind.
Final Thoughts
Though we cannot see them, angels are a vital part of the worldview. They are with us in our best moments and our most complex trials. They whisper encouragement toward good, write down our deeds, and remind us in their silent, unseen way that Allah is always aware.
Belief in angels is not just about the unseen. It’s about hope, responsibility, and trust in Allah’s perfect system. These creatures of light, ever obedient and ever watchful, inspire us to live better, do better, and stay connected to the One who created us all.
