Malaikah (Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies B): Revision Notes
Malaikah (angels in Islam)
What are malaikah?
Angels, known as malaikah in Arabic, are spiritual beings that Muslims believe were created by Allah from elements of light. Unlike humans, angels serve as divine messengers who carry Allah's communications to the prophets and continuously watch over human beings. Their existence represents one of the fundamental beliefs that Muslims must accept.
These celestial beings possess unique characteristics that set them apart from other creations. Angels do not possess free will in the way humans do, meaning they cannot choose to disobey Allah. Additionally, they lack physical bodies, though Islamic teaching explains that they have the ability to take on human appearance when Allah requires them to interact directly with people.
The Qur'an describes their creation, stating: "[All] praise is [due] to Allah, Creator of the heavens and the earth, [who] made the angels messengers having wings, two or three or four. (Surah 35:1)". This verse emphasises that angels serve as Allah's messengers and highlights their spiritual nature through the imagery of wings.
Why angels matter in Islamic belief
Belief in angels forms one of the six articles of faith that all Sunni Muslims must accept. This demonstrates just how central angels are to Islamic theology. Muslims understand that without angels, particularly certain key angels, many of the fundamental aspects of their faith would not exist.
Without angels, particularly certain key angels, many of the fundamental aspects of Islamic faith would not exist. This includes the revelation of the Qur'an and the establishment of proper worship practices.
Jibril - the angel of revelation
Jibril, known as Gabriel in Christianity and Judaism, holds tremendous importance in Islam as the angel responsible for delivering Allah's revelations to the prophets. Most significantly, Muslims believe that Jibril revealed the entire Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years.
The Qur'an references Jibril's role in revelation: "... then We sent her our angel, and he appeared before her as a man in all respects. (Surah 19 (Maryam):17)". This verse describes how Jibril appeared to Mary (Maryam) in human form, demonstrating the angel's ability to take physical shape when delivering important messages.
Jibril's Role in Islamic Practice
Beyond revelation, Jibril also taught Muhammad the proper way to perform prayer (salah), making this angel essential for both the Qur'an's transmission and Islamic worship practices. For Muslims today, this means that every time they read the Qur'an or pray, they are following teachings that came through Jibril's guidance.
Izra'il - the angel of death
Izra'il serves as the Angel of Death, carrying the weighty responsibility of taking souls from the bodies of all living beings when their time on Earth ends. Islamic teaching explains that Izra'il will also play a crucial role in signalling the arrival of the Day of Judgement, when all Muslims will be judged by Allah.
The Qur'an states: "The angel of death will take you who has been entrusted with you. Then to your Lord you will be returned. (Surah 32:11)". This verse reassures Muslims that death is not random but occurs according to Allah's divine plan, with Izra'il serving as the appointed agent.
Understanding Izra'il's Purpose
Understanding Izra'il's role helps Muslims accept that death is part of Allah's design and encourages them to live righteously, knowing they will one day be called to account for their actions. This belief provides comfort during times of loss whilst also motivating ethical behaviour throughout life.
Mika'il - the angel of sustenance and mercy
Mika'il, known as Michael in other religious traditions, is often called the Angel of Mercy or Angel of Sustenance. Muslims believe this angel brings rain and thunder to Earth, providing the natural resources necessary for human survival. Mika'il also rewards those who have lived good lives according to Islamic principles.
The significance of Mika'il appears in the Qur'an: "Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel - for he brings down the (revelation) to thy heart by Allah's will, a confirmation of what went before, and guidance and glad tidings for those who believe, - Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His angels and messengers, to Gabriel and Michael, - Lo! Allah is an enemy to those who reject Faith. (Surah 2:97-98)".
This passage emphasises that Muslims should respect all of Allah's angels and messengers, with both Jibril and Mika'il mentioned by name as deserving reverence. For Muslims, Mika'il represents hope for Allah's mercy and the possibility of divine reward for faithful living.
Key Points to Remember:
- Angels (malaikah) are spiritual beings made from light who serve as Allah's messengers and watchers over humanity
- Belief in angels is one of the six essential articles of faith for Sunni Muslims
- Jibril delivered the Qur'an to Muhammad and taught him how to pray, making this angel fundamental to Islamic scripture and worship
- Izra'il, the Angel of Death, takes souls and will signal the Day of Judgement, reminding Muslims to live righteously
- Mika'il brings natural sustenance like rain and rewards the faithful, representing Allah's mercy and provision for believers