
In our fast-paced world, talking about angels might seem far from reality, just fictional stories told to children. But have we ever thought about the profound message these luminous beings carry? Have we questioned their role in our lives and how they can impact our communities?
Belief in angels is one of the pillars of faith in Islam, a heavenly religion that calls for contemplation on God’s (Allah Almighty) creation and His immense power. According to the Quran, angels are beings created from light, honoured servants who do not disobey God’s (Allah Almighty) commands and perform what they are ordered. This concept may seem mystical to some, but it holds high meanings and noble human values.
Guardians of Divine Mercy
Muslims believe that angels are God’s (Allah Almighty) messengers to His servants, performing significant roles in our lives. They protect us from all evil, record our deeds, seek forgiveness for us, and witness our good and bad actions. This belief gives us a sense of security and tranquillity and strengthens our sense of responsibility and accountability.
Impact of Belief in Angels on Individuals and Society
Tranquility and Security: Believing in the presence of angels guarding us brings peace, making us feel we are not alone in facing life’s challenges. This feeling of security positively reflects on society, where peace and harmony prevail. God (Allah Almighty) says: “For him are successive [angels] before and behind him who protect him by the decree of Allah” (Ar-Ra’d: 11, King Fahd Complex Translation), illustrating the role of angels in protecting and guarding us.
Responsibility and Accountability: Believing that our deeds are recorded by angels makes us more keen to do good and avoid evil. We realise that we will be held accountable for everything we do, driving us to adhere to ethical and social values. God (Allah Almighty) says: “Man does not utter any word except that with him is an observer prepared [to record]” (Qaf: 18, King Fahd Complex Translation), emphasising that angels observe and write down all our deeds and words.
Humility and Reverence: Realising the greatness of angels and their complete obedience to God (Allah Almighty) makes us more humble and reverent. We understand that we are weak humans and that God (Allah Almighty) is the Almighty. God (Allah Almighty) describes angels in Surah Al-Anbiya: “To Him belongs whoever is in the heavens and the earth. And those near Him are not prevented by arrogance from His worship, nor do they tire” (Al-Anbiya: 19-20, King Fahd Complex Translation).
Angels in the Prophetic Sunnah
The mention of angels is found in many noble hadiths, underscoring the importance of believing in them in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “There is none among you but a companion from among the jinn and a companion from among the angels has been assigned to him” (Sahih Muslim). In another hadith: “The angels lower their wings for the seeker of knowledge, being pleased with what he does” (Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah).
A Call for Contemplation and Reflection
Belief in angels is a call to contemplate and reflect on the greatness of the Creator and His power. It is a reminder that we are not alone in this universe and that there is an unseen world inhabited by luminous beings playing significant roles in our lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, belief in angels is a heavenly message from the Creator of the universe, inviting us to believe in the unseen, adhere to good values and morals, and continually seek God’s (Allah Almighty) pleasure. It is a concept that instils hope and optimism in us, encouraging us to view life positively and helping us build societies characterised by peace, love, and tolerance.