They are genderless and free of physical needs such as nourishment and rest. They are obedient servants who carry out the command of God whenever they are ordered; they do not have the capacity to disobey Allah.
Among the functions of the Angels is that they are actively engaged in praising their Lord, day and night. Some angels are tasked with glorifying God and praying for the believers’ forgiveness, as stated in the Quran:
Other angels are sent to convey specific signs and messages from their Lord to certain individuals. There are others still who travel through the earth, attending the gatherings wherein God’s name is mentioned, not leaving until those sessions of remembrance are complete.
Although they are part of the unseen in which the Muslim believes, angels are nonetheless actively involved in human affairs, and they perform several important roles in human lives.
Chief among the angels is JibrÏl (Gabriel), the Angel entrusted with Revelation. He was the messenger through whom God revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. He is the same angel that came to tell Maryam (Mary) of her miraculous conception of the Prophet ʿĪsā (Jesus). He also came to Prophet Zacheria to give him the glad tidings of a son. He brought revelation to the following prophets mentioned in the Quran:
Mika-il (Michael) is another angel mentioned in the Quran. He sends rain and sustenance according to God’s decree.
Israfil is the angel whose duty it is to blow a mighty blast on the trumpet to signify the end of the world and another to usher the beginning of the final Judgment.
Ridhwan is the angel who oversees Paradise, guarding its gates against those unauthorized to enter.
Malik is the overseer of the inferno of Hell, may God protect us from encountering it, strong and severe in his responsibility.
Raqib and Atid, also known as the Honorable Scribes, who faithfully witness and record the good and bad deeds of each individual during this life.
Azrael, also known as the Angel of Death, is charged, with the aid of his helpers, with ensuring the seizing of souls from their host bodies at the time appointed by God.
Munkar and Nakir question the deceased in the grave (regardless of whether they are in an actual grave or merely scattered remains) about their Lord, their religion, and the Prophet they followed. That questioning will serve as a prelude to the greater and more intense questioning still to come on the Day of Judgment.