Malak (ملك)
Definition
Malak (ملك) refers to an “angel” in Islamic theology. Angels are considered spiritual beings created by Allah (God) to perform various tasks, including delivering divine messages, recording human deeds, and executing God’s will. They are fundamentally different from humans and jinn, being created from light (nur), as per Islamic tradition.
Etymology
The term Malak (ملك) derives from the ancient Semitic root “m-l-k,” which means “to send” or “to possess.” In Arabic, the word “Malak” (ملك) directly translates to “angel.” It is closely related to the Hebrew word “Mal’akh” (מַלְאָךְ), which also means “angel” or “messenger.”
Turkish Translation
In Turkish, the word for angel is Melek. This term is used in similar contexts and carries the same religious significance.
Roles and Characteristics
Messengers of God
Angels, or Mala’ika (ملائكة) in plural, serve as intermediaries between Allah and humanity. The most renowned angel is Jibril (Gabriel), who is the chief messenger and responsible for conveying the revelations of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Custodians and Recorders
Angels are believed to be custodians of divine records and are responsible for recording every individual’s deeds. Two specific angels, Kiraman Katibin (noble recorders), accompany each human to scribble their good and bad actions.
Executors of Divine Will
Certain angels are tasked with executing God’s will, such as the Angel of Death (Azrael), who is responsible for taking the souls of the deceased.
Notable Angels in Islam
- Jibril (Gabriel): The principal messenger.
- Mikail (Michael): In charge of weather and sustenance.
- Izra’il (Azrael): Angel of death.
- Israfil: The blower of the trumpet on Judgment Day.
Cultural Importance
In Islamic culture, the belief in angels is one of the Six Articles of Faith, fundamental to a Muslim’s creed. The existence and roles of angels serve as constant reminders of God’s omnipresence and the moral accountability of human beings.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Angels in Islam” by Stephen Burge - Explores the wide-ranging roles and symbolism of angels in Islamic tradition.
- “The Invisible Lines: Angels in Islam” by Qasim ibn Ali - Provides an in-depth analysis of the theological and metaphysical aspects of angels.
- “The Light and the Heavens: Understanding Angels in Islam” by Dr. Sayyid Hussein Nasr - Examines the spiritual and esoteric significance of angels in Islamic thought.
Key Takeaways
- Malak (ملك) refers to angels, who are spiritual beings created by Allah from light.
- Angels perform various duties, including delivering messages, recording deeds, and executing divine will.
- The belief in angels is a core component of the Islamic faith.
Conclusion
Understanding the concept of Malak deepens one’s appreciation of the Islamic worldview and the intricate moral and spiritual dimensions that govern human existence. Angels, as celestial beings, play essential roles that bridge the worldly and divine, offering perpetual guidance and accountability within the faith.
