👼 Understanding MALAK (ملك): An Angelic Presence in Islam
Malak (ملك), often translated to angel, refers to celestial beings in Islamic theology, believed to act as messengers and servants of Allah, fulfilling divine commands.
Comprehensive Definition
Malak (ملك): An angel, a celestial and spiritual being created from light whose primary function is to carry out Allah’s (God’s) orders. Their existence, duties, and roles are extensively described in the Qurʾān and Hadith (the sayings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad).
Etymology
The term Malak is derived from the Arabic root letters ’m-l-k’, translating to “to send” or “messenger.” This is fitting since angels are considered divine messengers in Islamic theology.
Background
In Islam, angels are pure, sinless beings created by Allah out of light. Unlike human beings, they do not require sustenance or rest, have no genders, and are incapable of disobedience.
Key angels and their roles include:
- Jibrīl (جبريل) – Gabriel, who delivered Allah’s revelations to the prophets.
- Mīkāʾīl (ميكائيل) – Michael, guardian of the forces of nature.
- Israfil (إسرافيل) – Rafael, the one who will blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment.
- Malak al-Maut (ملك الموت) – The Angel of Death.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities
- Christianity and Judaism: Both religions, similar to Islam, believe in angels performing the work of God. Gabriel and Michael are shared figures.
Differences
- In Islam, angels do not possess free will, unlike some interpretations in Christianity where the concept of fallen angels exists.
- The Islamic view includes a more systematic categorization of angelic roles and responsibilities.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Rasūl (رسول) - Messenger (though often used for human prophets too)
- Mala’ikah (ملائكة) - Plural form, angels
Antonyms:
- Shayṭān (شيطان) - Devil/Satan, who opposes Allah’s commands
Related Terms with Definitions
- Īmān (إيمان): Faith, including belief in angels as one of the six articles of faith in Islam.
- Qadr (قدر): Predestination or divine decree, often carried out by angels.
- Hadith (حديث): Sayings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad where angels are frequently referenced.
Exciting Facts
- Angels Record Deeds: Every person is assigned two angels (Kirāman Kātibīn, الكرام الكاتبون), one recording good deeds and the other recording bad deeds.
- Guardian Angels: Angels are believed to protect and guard believers from harm.
- Strength and Speed: Angels are incredibly powerful and capable of traversing great distances instantly, often described as lightning-fast.
Quotations
- “Praise belongs to Allah, the originator of the heavens and the earth, who made the angels messengers with wings, two, three, or four…” - (Qurʾān 35:1)
Suggested Literature
- “Angels in Islam” by Ghiyathuddin Shalabi
- “Heavenly Messengers: Angels, Jesus, and Muhammad” by Sahar Bekir
- “Angelic Encounters in Islamic Literature” by Haifa Abdul-Rahman
Quizzes
Farewell Thought: Understanding the role and nature of angels deepens our appreciation of the interconnectedness of creation under the divine wisdom of Allah. Let us strive to be mindful of these celestial watchers in our actions.
Stay curious and keep exploring the spiritual and theological dimensions of life’s mysteries.
Noura Al-Hassan
October 3, 2023
