MALIKA (MALAIKA) The malik (angel, especially the angel of death) came and seized the form of the body, looted it and while going, extinguished the two lamps of the eyes. (Shalok Farid, p. 1380) When the angel of death (malik-ul-maut) will come after breaking all the doors, those beloved brothers will bind him down for burial. See the person going on the shoulders of four people….. (Shalok Farid, p. 1383) The malik (angel) about whom we had been listening, comes and shows himself…… (Shalok Farid, p. 1377) Malik is a Persian word meaning angel.Its plural is malaik. One of the basic beliefs of Muslims is about angels. The prominent of them are Gabriel, Michael, Azrael and Israfil. Azrael is the angel of death.
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
In Islamic tradition, Malaika (plural of Malak) refers to angels, spiritual beings created by Allah from light. They are central to Islamic theology and play significant roles in the divine order. Unlike humans, Malaika are free from sin and act solely according to Allah’s will. They are neither male nor female and do not possess free will, making them perfect servants of Allah.
Roles and Responsibilities of Malaika
- Messengers: Malaika serve as intermediaries between Allah and His prophets. For example, Jibreel (Gabriel) is the angel of revelation who conveyed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
- Record Keepers: Two angels, Kiraman Katibin, are assigned to every individual to record their good and bad deeds.
- Guardians of Paradise and Hell: Angels like Ridwan guard Paradise, while Malik oversees Hell.
- Angels of Death: Azrael, the Angel of Death, is responsible for taking souls at the time of death.
- Worshippers: Malaika constantly glorify and worship Allah, maintaining the sanctity of the heavens. Notable Angels in Islamic Belief
- Jibreel (Gabriel): The chief messenger angel who brought divine revelations.
- Mikail (Michael): Responsible for providing sustenance, such as rain and food.
- Israfil: The angel who will blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment.
- Azrael: The Angel of Death, tasked with taking souls. Symbolism and Importance
Malaika symbolize purity, obedience, and the divine connection between Allah and His creation. They are a reminder of the unseen world and the constant presence of divine oversight in human lives.
