In Islamic theology there are 4 archangels: Jibril, Mikail, Israfil, and Azrael. Each of these archangels play a distinct part in the Islamic understanding of the cosmos, human existence, and the afterlife.
- Jibril is renowned as the messenger, responsible for conveying divine revelations to the prophets, most notably the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
- Mikail is a guardian of physical and spiritual nourishment, providing sustenance to all living beings.
- Israfil, the herald of the Day of Judgment, is tasked with signaling the end of time and the resurrection of souls.
- Azrael is the compassionate Angel of Death, gently releasing souls from the world of the living.
These 4 archangels symbolize key aspects of life, faith, and the eternal cycle of existence.
List of Archangels: Who They Are and How They Support Us
The Role of the 4 Archangels in Islam
In Islamic theology, archangels are celestial beings, created by Allah.
They are distinct from humans in essence and attributes, serving as a bridge between the divine and the earthly realms. They are not ascribed with human characteristics, underscoring the uniqueness and otherness of divine creations in Islamic thought.
Creation and Nature of Archangels
Archangels in Islam are created from light, a fact that sets them apart fundamentally from human beings, who are created from clay.
This difference in creation is not just a physical distinction but also signifies a difference in purpose and nature.
Role and Functions
Angels, including archangels, are devoid of free will. They are created to perform specific tasks dictated by Allah and are seen as embodiments of pure obedience and submission.
Each archangel has specific responsibilities.
Jibril (Gabriel) is tasked with conveying revelation to prophets.
Mikail (Michael) is often associated with providing nourishment to bodies and souls.
Israfil is responsible for blowing the trumpet to mark the Day of Judgment.
Azrael, the Angel of Death, charged with taking the souls of the deceased.
Interaction with the Human World
While archangels do interact with the human world, Islamic theology is clear that these interactions do not endow them with human-like qualities.
There are some accounts of archangels taking on human-like forms, as in the case of Jibril appearing to the Prophet Muhammad. However, it is generally understood that this is an attempt to present themselves in a manner comprehensible to humans.
Such appearances are not indicative of them possessing human emotions, desires, or moral complexities.
Representation in Islamic Art and Literature
Consistent with Islamic principles, there is a general avoidance in Islamic art and literature of depicting archangels with distinctive human features.
Spiritual entities are often depicted in a non-figurative manner. This can include the use of calligraphic representations where the names of the archangels are artistically rendered, or through symbolic motifs that suggest their presence or attributes.
In Islamic literature, archangels are often described using metaphorical and symbolic language. This type of description focuses on their spiritual qualities and roles rather than attempting to render a physical likeness.
Jibril (Gabriel): The Messenger in Islamic Tradition
Archangel Jibril’s Gift: Delivering the Quran to Humanity
Archangel Gabriel: Divine Messenger of Revelation
Jibril (Jibreel), known as Gabriel in other Abrahamic faiths, is a figure of immense significance.
As the chief messenger among angels, his role extends beyond the mere conveyance of divine revelations.
He embodies the divine connection between Allah and humanity, playing a pivotal part in many of the key events within Islamic history.
The Harbinger of Revelation
His most monumental act was delivering the Quran, Islam’s holy book, to Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years. This act alone cements Jibril’s position as the epitome of divine guidance entrusted with delivering Allah’s word to humankind.
The Quran details several encounters between Muhammad and Jibril, starting with the first revelation in the Cave of Hira.
In Hadith literature, Jibril often appears to the Prophet to provide guidance where he teaches about the principles of Islam, Iman (faith), and Ihsan (excellence).
Guidance and Support Beyond the Quran
Jibril’s role expands beyond the Quranic revelations.
He is a constant figure in Muhammad’s life, offering guidance and support.
Notably, during the Mi’raj, the ascension of Muhammad to the heavens, Jibril purified Muhammad’s heart and guided him through the various levels of heaven, culminating at the throne of God.
He also played a crucial role in supporting Muhammad during political crises, such as aiding with thousands of angels at the Battle of Badr and advising during conflicts with the Jewish tribes of Banu Qaynuqa and Banu Qurayzah in Medina.
Visions and Descriptions of Jibril
Islamic tradition holds that Muhammad saw Jibril in his original form only twice, a description supported by his wife Aisha.
On other occasions, Jibril took on a form resembling Diḥyah ibn Khalīfah al-Kalbī, a handsome disciple of Muhammad.
Other descriptions of Jibril in Islamic lore, such as having 600 wings or sitting on a chair suspended between heaven and earth, are symbolic and reflect his celestial nature and importance.
Significance in Eschatology
Jibril’s role extends beyond the earthly realm into Islamic eschatology.
He is believed to play a significant part in the events leading up to the Day of Judgment.
Islamic teachings suggest that Jibril, along with other archangels, will be involved in the unfolding of the end times, as indicated in various Hadiths.
Comparing Jibril in Islam with Gabriel in Other Abrahamic Faiths
Jibril and Gabriel are archangels of significant stature, playing pivotal roles in the religious narratives of these Abrahamic faiths.
While they share some commonalities, there are also distinct differences in how they are perceived and portrayed across these traditions.
Shared Aspects in the Three Faiths
Messenger of God
In all three religions, Jibril/Gabriel is primarily known as a messenger.
In Islam, Jibril is responsible for conveying Allah’s revelations to the prophets, including the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
Similarly, in Christianity, Gabriel announces significant events, such as the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26-38).
In Judaism, Gabriel is one of the angels who delivers messages from God, often appearing in prophetic texts.
Role in Key Religious Events
Jibril/Gabriel plays crucial roles in significant religious narratives across these faiths.
In Islamic tradition, he is central to key events, including the first revelation to Muhammad and the ascension (Mi’raj).
In Christian tradition, Gabriel’s announcements to Zechariah and Mary are foundational to the New Testament narrative.
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Differences in Depiction and Roles
Nature and Scope of Messages
In Islam, Jibril’s role is extensively linked with the revelation of the Quran, making him a central figure in the Islamic faith.
In contrast, Gabriel’s appearances in the Bible, while significant, are more sporadic and not tied to a single, extensive revelation like the Quran.
Iconography and Artistic Representations
Islamic traditions generally avoid depicting Jibril in human form, in line with the principles of Islamic art.
His presence is often suggested through calligraphic art or symbolic representations.
In contrast, Christian art frequently depicts Gabriel, particularly in Annunciation scenes, often portrayed as a human-like figure with wings.
Jewish art, though historically more restrained in angelic depictions, also portrays Gabriel in human form.
Theological Interpretation
In Islamic theology, Jibril’s role as the conveyor of the Quran and the guide for Prophet Muhammad during the Mi’raj underscores his importance in the spiritual and religious life of Muslims.
In Christian theology, Gabriel’s announcements herald key moments in the salvation history, such as the Incarnation, making him a symbol of good news.
In Jewish texts, Gabriel’s appearances are often in the context of visions and prophecies, playing a role in the divine communication but not central to Jewish religious practice.
Mikail (Michael): The Sustainer in Islamic Belief
Mikail, known as Michael in other religious traditions, holds a unique and vital position in Islamic theology.
His role is intertwined with the physical and spiritual well-being of humanity and all living beings, making him a guardian of life’s sustenance.
Archangel Michael: Protector, Warrior, and Guide
The Guardian of Nourishment
Mikail’s primary responsibility in Islamic belief is overseeing the provision and distribution of sustenance to all creatures.
This encompasses not only physical nourishment, like rain and food, but also spiritual sustenance.
He is thus seen as a caretaker of the earth’s fertility and the well-being of its inhabitants.
In many Islamic narratives, Mikail is portrayed as having control over natural phenomena essential for life, such as rain, which is crucial for agriculture.
His role extends to ensuring that all creatures receive their allotted sustenance, a concept deeply rooted in the Islamic understanding of divine providence and balance in the natural world.
Intercession and Compassion
Beyond the provision of sustenance, Mikail also embodies compassion and mercy.
His role involves interceding on behalf of humanity, asking for God’s mercy and blessings.
This aspect highlights the Islamic belief in the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realm. Mikail serves as a bridge between the divine will and the worldly needs of all beings.
Mikail in Islamic Eschatology
In Islamic eschatology, Mikail’s role is significant yet differs from that of Jibril and Israfil.
While he is not directly involved in the events of the Day of Judgment, his duties in sustaining life and order in the world are crucial in maintaining the balance until the end times.
His presence in eschatological narratives underscores the importance of sustenance and mercy as part of the divine plan.
Comparing Mikail in Islam with Michael
Mikail, known in Islam, and Michael, as recognized in Christianity and Judaism, share some similarities across these Abrahamic faiths, yet also exhibit distinct characteristics unique to each religious tradition.
Understanding these similarities and differences offers a broader perspective on the role and significance of this archangel in different theological contexts.
Similarities in Role and Significance
Role as a Protector and Guardian
In all three Abrahamic faiths, Mikail/Michael is viewed as a protector and guardian.
In Islam, Mikail is responsible for providing sustenance and is seen as a caretaker of creation.
Similarly, in Christianity, particularly in Catholic tradition, Archangel Michael is regarded as a protector of the Church and a guardian of the faithful.
Association with Divine Will
Both Mikail in Islam and Michael in Christianity and Judaism are depicted as beings who execute God’s will with unwavering obedience.
They are seen as embodiments of divine power and authority, intervening in human affairs in accordance with divine directives.
Differences in Representation and Attributes
Nature of Duties
While Mikail in Islam primarily focuses on providing sustenance and nourishment to all creatures, Michael in Christianity is often portrayed as a warrior archangel.
In Judaism, Michael is often seen as an advocate for Israel, representing its people’s strength and perseverance.
Difference in Status
The prominence of Michael in Christianity and Judaism is notably higher than in Islam. In these faiths, Michael often stands as the foremost among the archangels, a principal figure in religious narratives and theological interpretation.
This contrasts with the Islamic tradition, where Jibril (Gabriel) holds the position of preeminence. Jibril’s role as the bearer of divine revelation, particularly the Quran to Prophet Muhammad, elevates his status as the most esteemed archangel in Islam.
Theological Interpretation
The interpretation of Mikail’s role in Islamic theology emphasizes his function in the natural order and the spiritual realm.
In contrast, Michael’s role in Christian theology, especially in eschatological narratives, is more combative, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
In Judaism, Michael’s role is interwoven with the history and fate of the Jewish people.
Iconography and Artistic Depictions
In Islamic art, due to the aniconic tradition, Mikail is not depicted in human form. His presence is often suggested through symbolic motifs or calligraphy.
Conversely, in Christian art, Michael is frequently depicted as a warrior angel, often in armor and wielding a sword, representing his role as a defender of the faith and a vanquisher of evil.
Jewish art, though less focused on angelic depictions, also portrays Michael, when depicted, in a more human like form.
Archangel Israfil: Heralding the Day of Judgment
Archangel Israfel: Angel of Music and Angel of Resurrection
The Day of Judgment
Israfil’s most renowned duty is blowing the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment.
In Hadith literature, it is said that Israfil holds the trumpet close to his mouth, poised to sound it upon Allah’s command.
“How can I be at ease when the one with the trumpet has put his lips to the trumpet waiting to hear the order to blow it?”Hadith Sahih Bukhari
This vivid imagery conveys the immediacy and significance of the Day of Judgment in Islamic eschatology.
This act marks the cessation of worldly time and the initiation of the resurrection of souls.
The Trumpet and Resurrection
Islamic tradition details that Israfil will blow the trumpet twice.
The first blow, known as the “Blow of Destruction” (Nafkhat al-Faza’), signals the end of life on Earth.
This is followed by a pause, after which the second blow, the “Blow of Resurrection” (Nafkhat al-Ba’ath), resurrects all beings for judgment.
“And the trumpet will be blown, and all who are in the heavens and all who are on the earth will swoon, except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on.”
Surah Zumar (39:68)
Description and Attributes
Israfil’s depiction in Islamic texts is striking and awe-inspiring.
He is often conceived as having an enormous, hairy body that extends from the seventh heaven to the throne of God. This immense stature underscores his significance in the cosmic order.
His body, covered with mouths and tongues, symbolizes his role in the divine proclamation and the spreading of God’s word.
A Hadith in At-Tirmidhi describes him as “an angel with seventy thousand heads, each head having seventy thousand mouths, each mouth having seventy thousand tongues, each tongue speaking seventy thousand languages.”
In his emotional response to the vision of hell, Israfil is said to be overcome by sorrow and tears three times every day and night.
This depiction, while not explicitly quoted in primary Hadith collections, reflects in the broader Islamic narrative a deep sense of empathy and the gravity of the eschatological events he is associated with.
Role in the Prophetic Mission
An intriguing aspect of Israfil’s role in Islamic tradition is his connection to Prophet Muhammad.
Tafsīr literature narrates that Israfil tutored Muhammad for three years in the duties of a prophet before the revelation of the Quran.
This teaching period is indicative of Israfil’s integral role in preparing Muhammad for his monumental task as the Messenger of Allah.
Israfil as the Angel of Resurrection
Israfil’s primary role in Islamic belief is as the “Angel of Resurrection.”
He is entrusted with the critical task of blowing the trumpet, an act that signifies the commencement and culmination of the Day of Judgment.
This role is central to Islamic eschatology, symbolizing divine justice, the transient nature of earthly life, and the soul’s eternal journey.
Israfil as the Angel of Music
Israfil is also revered as the “Angel of Music,” possessing the most exquisite voice among all angels.
His celestial hymns are not just harmonious melodies but are believed to be the vibrations that maintain cosmic balance and harmony.
In this capacity, Israfil is seen as a divine maestro, inspiring human artistic and creative pursuits.
The Herald of Joy and Hope
Contrary to being a somber figure, Israfil in Islamic tradition is also viewed as a beacon of hope and joy.
The sounding of his trumpet, while marking the end of terrestrial life, simultaneously heralds the fulfillment of divine promises and the onset of a new existence free from earthly tribulations.
Are Israfil and Raphael the same?
While some perceive a parallel between the archangel Israfil in Islamic tradition and the archangel Raphael in Judeo-Christian traditions, it’s important to recognize that they are distinct entities within their respective religious contexts.
This distinction arises from their differing roles, attributes, and origins as described in the foundational texts of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.
In Islamic theology, Israfil holds a unique and crucial role primarily associated with the Day of Judgment, where he is destined to blow the trumpet signaling the end of time and the resurrection of souls. His portrayal in Islamic tradition focuses on this eschatological function, along with a secondary association with celestial music in some interpretations.
Raphael in Judeo-Christian texts is depicted as a healer and guide, as epitomized in the Book of Tobit in the Christian Old Testament, with his name meaning “God heals.”
This role as a divine healer and a guardian significantly differs from Israfil’s task in Islamic eschatology.
While similarities might be drawn in their status as archangels, Israfel and Raphael embody distinct theological and symbolic roles in their respective religious narratives, illustrating the rich diversity of angelic figures across these Abrahamic faiths.
Archangel Azrael: The Angel of Death
Archangel Azrael – The Angel of Death & Grief
Azrael, known in Islamic theology as the Angel of Death, holds a unique and pivotal role in the Islamic understanding of life, death, and the hereafter.
His duties extend beyond merely being a harbinger of death; he is a figure symbolizing divine order and compassion.
Role and Presence in Death
Azrael’s primary duty is to separate the soul from the body at the time of death.
This act is seen not as something to fear but as a step in the divine journey of the soul, predestined by Allah.
“The Angel of Death, who is set over you, will take your souls; then you will be brought back to your Lord.”
Quran, Surah As-Sajdah (32:11)
Attributes and Depiction
Azrael is often described as having a vast and formidable presence, symbolized through various metaphorical depictions.
Classical Islamic scholars, such as Al-Qurtubi, describe him resembling a blue-colored ram with numerous eyes, an imagery reflecting his omnipresence and all-seeing nature.
Other descriptions, like those in the “Islamic Book of Dead”, present Azrael with four faces and a body covered in eyes and tongues, mirroring the human population on Earth, suggesting his all-encompassing knowledge and communication ability.
Such depictions are metaphorical, illustrating his immense power within the divine order.
Compassionate Executor and Guide
Islamic tradition emphasizes Azrael’s compassionate approach in carrying out his duties.
His manner of extracting the soul varies based on the individual’s deeds and faith, with a gentle approach for the righteous.
This portrayal challenges common misconceptions about death, presenting it as a dignified and necessary transition.
Azrael’s presence at the time of death is seen as a personal and compassionate act, reflecting the individual nature of each soul’s journey.
Role in Grief and the Afterlife
Azrael also embodies the sorrow and empathy associated with the departure of souls. This aspect highlights the Islamic perspective on grief as a natural and important response to loss.
Beyond taking souls, he plays a role in guiding them through Barzakh, the intermediate stage between death and the Day of Resurrection.
His involvement in this phase facilitates the soul’s transition from earthly existence to the afterlife.
Azrael in Islamic Eschatology
Azrael’s role is integral to the broader Islamic perspective on life, death, and the afterlife, where each phase has its purpose within Allah’s grand design.
His actions are seen as part of a divine order, ensuring that the cycle of life and death continues as preordained.
Understanding Azrael in this context provides insight into the Islamic worldview of existence and the afterlife, where death is a respectful transition in the continuum of life.
Final Thoughts: The Harmonious Quartet of Islamic Archangels
A striking aspect of these Islamic archangels is how they differ from their counterparts in other Abrahamic faiths, particularly in their interaction with the human realm and the nature of their duties.
In contrast to other belief systems, where archangels might be seen as more independent or even conflicting entities, in Islam, they function cohesively within Allah’s singular, unchallenged authority.
This cohesive functioning reflects the Islamic emphasis on Tawhid (the Oneness of God), where every aspect of the cosmos, including these celestial beings, is a testament to God’s supreme power and unity.
Furthermore, the Islamic archangels are not just significant for their individual roles but also for what they collectively represent – the multifaceted nature of divine action and intention.
Jibril as the bearer of revelation, Mikail as the sustainer, Israfil as the herald of the Day of Judgment, and Azrael as the compassionate escort of souls from the earthly realm, together, paint a picture of a universe governed by a divine order that is both merciful and just.
