Angels: Defenders of Humanity
With the Quran as the guiding principles for Muslims, it is reasonable to perceive angels as the embodiment of pure devotion to Allah (swt) within the divine realm.
As a Muslim, believing in angels is not only a matter of faith, but also a recognition of the vitality of one's soul. The concept of angels and the belief in the soul both revolve around the existence of unseen entities that have a tangible impact on our lives. A Muslims faith would be deemed incomplete without a belief in the existence of angels as it is one of the fundamental articles of faith.
Angels belong to a level of existence beyond the perceptible world, called Alam Al Ghayb, unseen realm. They serve a profound purpose, offering healing, aid, and guidance to all, especially to those who actively seek Allah (swt) through prayer, patience, and perseverance.
A divine precedent is that if you support Allah (swt), Allah (swt) will support you and send angels to aid you. "It is the same (to Him) whether any of you conceals his speech or declares it openly, whether he be hiding by night or goes forth freely by day. For him (each person), there are angels in succession, before and behind him. They guard him by the command of Allah" (Quran 13:10-11).
Angels lack free will and are solely devoted to fulfilling the orders of Allah. They are pure beings, free from any inclination towards materials possessions or earthly desires like lust. Angels bear the responsibility of intricately recording the impact of human actions on their souls, a complex system that remains beyond our complete understanding.
According to the Quran, angels are Kiraman Katibeen or honourable recorders. They record the good deeds—hasanat—and bad deeds—sayyiat. They are mentioned in the following verse: "But verily, over you (are appointed angels in charge of mankind) to watch you, Kiraman (Honourable) Katibeen writing down your deeds. They know all that you do." (Quran 82:10-12).
Angels hold a heightened sensitivity towards the impurities of worldly existence, which is why the principles of the Quran consistently emphasize the importance of continuous purification for Muslims. While hygiene and clothing may be superficial factors, the inner thoughts and contenment of one's heart hold the utmost significance in meeting the criteria set by angels to safeguard and assist individuals.
How do morals and ethics factor in?
Morality is the connection of human natures intrinsic values that govern their reasoning and behavior, with the angelic realm that stands to advocate for that and much more. We experience life in a world of good and evil, and understand certain actions in terms of right and wrong, thus the structure of human existence dictates we must make choices.
Ethics helps us use our freedom responsibly and understand who we are. It gives direction in our struggle to answer the fundamental questions that ask how we should live our lives and how we can make right choices.
Morals and ethics play a crucial role in how angels process the intentions of human nature. When individuals demonstrate virtuous qualities and adhere to moral principles, angels can better understand and align with their intentions. When humans exhibit virtuous qualities such as honesty, compassion, and justice, angels are able to perceive and understand these intentions more clearly.
On the other hand, immoral or unethical behavior may make it difficult for angels to comprehend or support such intentions. While the presence of strong morals and ethics helps angels in processing and engaging with human nature.
In summary, angels can be seen as guardians of humanity, as we strive to embody the positive impacts of a strong moral compass and mirror their selfless dedication in our daily existence.
Presented here are select Quranic verses that embody the concepts of purification and the aid of angels:
"But verily over you (are appointed angels) to protect you, kind and honourable, writing down (your deeds), they know all that you do, as for the righteous, they will be in bliss."
(82:10-13)
"And whoever purifies himself only purifies himself for the benefit of his soul. And the destination of all is to Allah. And the blind and the seeing are not alike. Nor are the depths of darkness to light."
(35:18-20)
"There are guardians over everyone, both before him and behind him, who guard him by Allah's command. Verily Allah does not change a people's condition unless they change their inner selves."(13:11)
"Yes, if you remain patient and conscious of Allah and an enemy come upon you, your Lord will reinforce you with five thousand angels having marks of distinction."
(3:125)
"And by the soul and the One Who fashioned it, then with the knowledge of right and wrong inspired it. Successful indeed is the one who purifies their soul"
(91:7-9)
