A Simple Guide to ISLAM
Malaika – Angels
~ 18 ~
Angels are creatures of light
(Nur)
who pervade the whole
universe. Although in the kingdom of Allah there are many millions
of them, they belong to the realm of the invisible, so that the only
way that we can see them is if they appear in human form. Jibrail
used to appear to the Prophet in various forms. Sometimes he
hung suspended in the air, sometimes he appeared in the shape of
a man, and sometimes he sprouted wings, etc. The angel Jibrail
once appeared before a gathering of the companions of the
Prophet in order to teach them about Islam. On that occasion, he
took the form of a companion of the Prophet. Angels can take any
suitable form in order to perform their duties, and are constantly
occupied in carrying out Allah’s orders.
Angels are continuously present on earth, particularly at moments
of prayers. Man may not be able to see the angels, but the angels
can certainly see man and are in constant touch with human
beings. They keep a watch on them on behalf of God and many of
them are eternally busy recording all of our thoughts, words and
deeds. They are called the ‘respected recorders’ (
kiraman katibin
).
Not a single word we say goes unrecorded. (50:18)
They are the friends and protectors (41:30-32) of human beings,
and are God’s most obedient and loyal servants.
