The Guiding Presence: How Belief in Angels Shapes Righteous Living in Islam

In Islam, the belief in angels is a fundamental principle that extends beyond the realm of the world as we know it. Allah says in the Qur’an: “All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers.” [1]

Angels, as both messengers and guardians, play a crucial and multifaceted role in shaping the moral and ethical conduct of believers. This article will explore how the conviction in angels assists individuals in leading righteous lives, drawing inspiration from selected Hadiths that highlight the guidance and motivation derived from these celestial beings. 

The Role of Angels in Islam

Angels in Islam are spiritual beings created by Allah to serve specific purposes in the universal order. They are messengers, recorders of deeds, protectors, and agents of divine mercy.

Belief in angels highlights the unseen dimension of reality, reinforcing the Islamic worldview that encompasses both the material and spiritual realms. The belief in angels serves as a moral compass and is the second item of faith in Islam. 

Recording of Deeds

Angels are assigned on the right and left of every individual to record every action and intention, whether good or bad. Allah mentions in the Qur’an: “When the two receivers receive, seated on the right and on the left. Man does not utter any word except that with him is an observer prepared [to record].” [2] 

This constant surveillance encourages believers to act with consciousness, knowing that their deeds are being carefully recorded and scrutinized.

This awareness fosters a heightened sense of accountability and encourages righteous behavior, illustrating the transformative impact of this belief. It would push one to align their life in accordance with Islamic teachings and principles. In other words, Muslims will strive towards increasing their good deeds and cutting back on sins as the angels stand witness to their behavior. 

Guidance and Protection

Angels are protectors and guides for believers, offering assistance in times of difficulty.

The concept of guardian angels, exemplified in Hadiths, provides comfort and assurance. Believers are motivated to lead righteous lives, trusting in the protective presence of angels as they navigate the challenges of the world. 

Seeking Refuge in Allah

Hadiths, such as the one where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentions seeking refuge in Allah, highlight the relationship between invoking divine protection and the assistance of angels. This practice serves as a spiritual shield, encouraging believers to actively engage in acts of worship and seek refuge in Allah, thus reinforcing their commitment to righteousness.

The belief in angels also creates a consistent spiritual connection for believers. Recognizing the presence of angels in daily life builds an environment where individuals are mindful of their actions, seek guidance from Allah, and maintain a sense of humility and gratitude. 

Intervention and Inspiration

Islamic tradition includes accounts of angels intervening in human affairs. For example, angels can respond to sincere prayers and supplications, providing assistance and facilitating positive outcomes. This belief reinforces the idea that a connection with the angelic realm is not passive but dynamic, responding to the spiritual efforts of the believer.

Belief in angels also extends to the idea that they inspire individuals towards righteousness. Whether through thoughts, moments of reflection, or subtle guidance, angels are seen as conduits of divine wisdom, helping believers make choices aligned with Islamic values. 

Hadiths on Angels and Righteous Living

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “When a servant goes to sleep, an angel and a Satan are appointed to him. The angel says, ‘O Allah! Your servant seeks refuge with You from the evil he has done,’ and Satan says, ‘I have nothing to do with him.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith emphasizes the protective role of angels during sleep, guiding believers to seek refuge in Allah from wrongdoing. It motivates individuals to strive for purity and righteousness. 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) has also said: “There is no servant who says in the morning and the evening three times: ‘In the name of Allah, with Whose name nothing on the earth nor in the heavens can cause harm, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing,’ nothing will harm him.”(Abu Dawood) 

This Hadith highlights the belief that invoking the name of Allah and seeking His protection invokes the assistance of angels, creating a shield against harm. It encourages believers to maintain a righteous and protective mindset. 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has also been recorded to have said: “He who recites Ayat-ul-Kursi (2:255) after every obligatory prayer, nothing will prevent him from entering Paradise except death (i.e., that he is still alive).” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith stresses the protective power of Ayat-ul-Kursi, a verse emphasizing Allah’s sovereignty. Believers are motivated to incorporate such verses into their daily routines, seeking the protective influence of angels through the recitation of specific Quranic verses. 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said: “When a person enters his house and mentions the name of Allah at the time of entering and while eating the food, Satan says (addressing himself inside the house): ‘You will find no shelter for the night and no dinner.’ But when he enters without mentioning the Name of Allah, Satan says, ‘You have found a place to spend the night in and dinner.’”(Sahih Muslim) 

This Hadith emphasizes the impact of mentioning Allah’s name upon entering the house. Believers are motivated to establish a practice of invoking Allah’s name, aligning their daily activities with righteousness, and seeking protection from the influence of Satan. 

Conclusion

The belief in angels in Islam is not merely a rigid aspect; it is a guiding force that shapes the moral compass of believers. Through the examples of angels’ roles in recording deeds, providing guidance, and offering protection, individuals are motivated to lead righteous lives and contribute to their ongoing spiritual growth.

The selected Hadiths illustrate the tangible impact of this belief on the daily conduct of Muslims, emphasizing the connection between faith in angels and the pursuit of virtue. One can successfully establish a deep connection with Allah by holding themselves accountable and fostering righteousness in day-to-day life.

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References

Abu Dawood, S. (n.d.). Sunan Abi Dawood. Darussalam.

Al-Bukhari, M. (n.d.). Sahih al-Bukhari. Darussalam.

Ghada M. Abaido, & Passant G. Attaweya. (2021). GUARDIANS OF HUMANITY: HOW ANGELS ARE PORTRAYED IN ISLAM. PalArch’s Journal of Archaeology of Egypt / Egyptology, 18(4), 2943-2952. Retrieved from https://archives.palarch.nl/index.php/jae/article/view/6740

Sahih Muslim. (n.d.). Darussalam.

The Holy Qur’an Sahih International English Translation.