ʿAzrāʾīl (عزرائيل)
Introduction
ʿAzrāʾīl (عزرائيل) is one of the most significant angels in Islamic theology, known as the Angel of Death. He is responsible for taking the souls of the deceased and is often equated with the title of Malaku ʾl-Maut, which translates to “Angel of Death.”
Etymology
The name ʿAzrāʾīl (عزرائيل) is derived from Hebrew roots, commonly transcribed as ʿEzráʾel in Hebrew (עֲזְרָאֵל), meaning “Help of God” or “Whom God Helps.”
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: عزرائيل
- Turkish: Azrail
Qur’anic References
ʿAzrāʾīl is referred to in the Qurʾān under the title Malaku ʾl-Maut, mentioned in Sūrah Al-Sajdah (32:11):
“The angel of death who is charged with you shall cause you to die.”
The reference identifies him as the divine executor responsible for ending human life at God’s command.
Role and Significance
ʿAzrāʾīl plays a crucial role in Islamic eschatology by facilitating the transition from the mortal life to the afterlife. His duties include:
- Taking the souls of the deceased.
- Being present at the moment of death.
- Meticulously fulfilling God’s command without error.
Classical Islamic Thought
Medieval Islamic scholars and theologians have also pondered deeply on the nature of ʿAzrāʾīl:
- Al-Ghazāli: Defines ʿAzrāʾīl’s role as an angel acting with absolute obedience to God’s will.
- Ibn al-Qayyim: Describes the complexities involved in the extraction of the human soul from the body.
Cultural Practices
The mention of ʿAzrāʾīl in Islamic culture often serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death and the ephemeral nature of life. Culturally:
- Funerary prayers (Salat al-Janazah) reflect the presence of ʿAzrāʾīl.
- Literature and poetry often allude to him to remind the living of their mortal obligations.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The belief in ʿAzrāʾīl impacts Islamic legal rulings surrounding the ethics of life and death:
- Euthanasia and suicide are generally prohibited due to the divine nature of ʿAzrāʾīl’s role.
- Importance is given to making wills and preparing for the afterlife, which ʿAzrāʾīl exemplifies.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Soul’s Journey After Death” by Ibn Katheer
- “Islamic Angels: A Comprehensive Guide” by Dr. Ali Suleiman Ali
- “The Eschatology of Ibn al-ʿArabī: The Angel of Death in Sūfī Thought” by William Chittick
Takeaways
- Impermanence: ʿAzrāʾīl serves as a constant reminder of the impermanence of life.
- Obedience: His unwavering adherence to God’s command exemplifies the ideal of absolute obedience in Islam.
- Ethics: Understanding ʿAzrāʾīl’s role strengthens ethical considerations in life-threatening situations.
Conclusion
ʿAzrāʾīl (عزرائيل) is a key figure in Islamic theology symbolizing the divine order of life and death. His depiction as Malaku ʾl-Maut in the Qurʾān underscores the significance of adhering to divine will and preparing for the inevitable moment when he will fulfill his duty. Studying his role offers profound insights into Islamic views of mortality, ethics, and the afterlife.
