Mīkā’īl (ميكائيل)
Etymology and Translation
- Etymology: The name Mīkā’īl is of Semitic origin and roughly translates to “Who is like God?” It is a common name shared across the Abrahamic religions, including Judaism and Christianity, where the name is rendered as Michael.
- Arabic Translation: ميكائيل (Mīkā’īl)
- Turkish Translation: Mikail
Role and Significance in Islam
Mīkā’īl, also known as the archangel Michael in Christianity, holds a significant place in Islamic theology. He is one of the four archangels mentioned in the Quran and Hadith literature. Mīkā’īl is recognized for his role in providing sustenance to human beings through rainfall and the maintenance of life.
In the Quran
Mīkā’īl is explicitly mentioned in the following verse:
<p><em>“Whoever is an enemy to Allah, His angels, His Messengers, Jibril and Mīkā’īl, then verily, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers.”</em><br> (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:98)</p>
This verse underscores the revered status of Mīkā’īl within Islam and his integral role in the divine scheme.
In Hadith
Various Hadith collections also make references to Mīkā’īl, often noting his responsibilities as an angel who brings forth divine mercy, particularly through natural phenomena like rain that sustains life on earth.
Cultural and Theological Significance
- Nature and Sustenance: Mīkā’īl is particularly known for his connection to natural phenomena, such as rain and the nurturing of crops, which are essential elements for human survival.
- Helper of Believers: Like other angels in Islam, Mīkā’īl is considered a helper and protector of believers, thereby reinforcing faith, divine justice, and mercy.
Comparative Religious Context
In addition to Islam:
- Judaism and Christianity: Mīkā’īl/Michael is revered as a protector and leader of the heavenly armies in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “Angels in Islam: Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti’s al-Haba’ik fi Akhbar al-Mala’ik” by Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti
- “The Angels in Islam” by Stephen Burge
- “Islamic Mythology: Stories from Qur’an, Hadith and Classic Arabic Literature” by Charles Phillips
Key Takeaways
- The term Mīkā’īl denotes the archangel known for providing sustenance and nurturing life through natural elements like rain.
- Mīkā’īl is mentioned in both the Quran and Hadith, highlighting his importance in Islamic belief systems.
- Comparative religious context shows the continuity and significance of Mīkā’īl across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Conclusion
Mīkā’īl (ميكائيل), as an archangel, represents divine sustenance and mercy in Islamic theology. His role transcends across various religious traditions and reinforces the interconnectedness of the Abrahamic faiths. Understanding Mīkā’īl offers insight into how angelology functions within the broader schema of Islamic belief and practice.
