Israfil, also known as Israfel or Isrāfīl, is an angel mentioned in Islamic tradition, although his name is not explicitly stated in the Quran.
However, his role and significance are derived from certain Quranic verses that describe his specific duties and responsibilities. In this section, we will explore Israfil's presence and significance in the Quran.
1. Mention of the Trumpet Blower:
The Quran mentions the Blowing of the trumpet, which is closely associated with Israfil and his role as the angel of the trumpet. The blowing of the trumpet is a significant event that signals the end of the world and the beginning of the Day of Judgment.Verse: "And the Horn will be blown, and whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth will fall dead except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on." (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:68)
2. Gathering for the Day of Resurrection:
Another verse in the Quran describes the gathering of all creatures for judgment, which is a task assigned to Israfil. This verse emphasizes the universality of the event, encompassing all beings in the heavens and the earth.Verse: "And the Horn will be blown, and whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth will fall dead except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on." (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:68)
3. Soul's Response to the Trumpet:
Israfil's blowing of the trumpet will bring about the resurrection of the dead, and all souls will be presented before Allah for judgment. This is a momentous event that will determine the fate of every individual.Verse: "Say, 'The angel of death will take you who has been entrusted with you. Then to your Lord, you will be returned.'" (Surah As-Sajdah, 32:11)
4. The Trumpet and the Day of Resurrection:
The blowing of the trumpet is often associated with the Day of Resurrection, emphasizing the significance of Israfil's role in the unfolding of this momentous event.Verse: "And the Horn will be blown, and at once from the graves to their Lord they will hasten." (Surah Ya-Sin, 36:51)
In this section, we will explore the significance of Israfil in Islamic beliefs and the impact of his actions on the fate of humanity.
1. Key Figure in Eschatology:
Israfil is considered one of the key figures in Islamic eschatology, the branch of theology that deals with the end of the world and the events of the Hereafter. His role as the angel of the trumpet places him at the center of the most significant event in Islamic belief – the Day of Judgment. It is during this day that all souls will be resurrected, and humans will be held accountable for their deeds.2. Signal of the Day of Judgment:
Israfil's blowing of the trumpet is the signal for the Day of Judgment to begin. This act is described as a moment of great terror and awe, as it signifies the end of the present world and the commencement of the Hereafter. The Quran describes it as a loud and powerful sound that will cause all beings to fall dead except whom Allah wills.Verse: "And the Horn will be blown, and whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth will fall dead except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on." (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:68)
3. Resurrection of All Beings:
Israfil's blowing of the trumpet will lead to the resurrection of all beings, both living and dead. Every individual, from the first human to the last, will be brought back to life to face their ultimate judgment. This event is a testimony to the absolute power of Allah and the reality of the Hereafter.Verse: "And the Horn will be blown, and at once from the graves to their Lord they will hasten." (Surah Ya-Sin, 36:51)
4. Accountability and Justice:
Israfil's actions on the Day of Judgment underscore the concept of accountability and divine justice in Islam. His blowing of the trumpet signifies that every soul will be held responsible for their deeds in this world. The righteous will be rewarded with Paradise, while the wrongdoers will face punishment in Hell.Verse: "And those who disbelieved will be driven to Hell in groups until, when they reach it, its gates are opened and its keepers will say, 'Did there not come to you messengers from yourselves, reciting to you the verses of your Lord and warning you of the meeting of this Day of yours?' They will say, 'Yes, but the word of punishment has come into effect upon the disbelievers.'" (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:71)
5. Reminder of Mortality and Afterlife:
Israfil's significance serves as a constant reminder to believers of the transient nature of the world and the certainty of the afterlife. His role emphasizes the need for spiritual preparedness and righteousness, as the Day of Judgment will come suddenly and unexpectedly.In this section, we will delve into Islamic teachings regarding Israfil and how his presence serves as a source of guidance and motivation for Muslims.
1. Divine Messenger and Obedience:
Israfil's status as an angel and his obedience to Allah's commands exemplify the importance of following divine guidance and submitting to Allah's will. His unwavering dedication to his duties is a reminder to believers to remain steadfast in their faith and diligently fulfill their religious obligations.2. Reminder of the Hereafter:
Israfil's role as the angel of the trumpet and his responsibility for blowing it on the Day of Judgment serves as a constant reminder to Muslims about the reality of the Hereafter. Islamic teachings emphasize the transient nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the eternal life that awaits in the Hereafter.3. Accountability and Judgment:
Israfil's actions on the Day of Judgment underscore the concept of accountability and judgment in Islam. According to Islamic teachings, every individual will be held accountable for their deeds, and Israfil's blowing of the trumpet will mark the beginning of this ultimate judgment.4. Motivation for Righteousness:
The belief in Israfil and the events of the Day of Judgment motivate Muslims to lead righteous lives. The fear of facing judgment encourages believers to refrain from sinful actions and strive for piety, seeking Allah's forgiveness and mercy.5. Hope in Divine Mercy:
While the Day of Judgment may evoke fear in the hearts of believers, Islamic teachings also emphasize the importance of hope in Allah's mercy. Israfil's actions remind Muslims that Allah is the Most Merciful and that repentance and sincere devotion can lead to forgiveness and salvation.Example: In the Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad), it is narrated that the Prophet said, "Angel Israfil, with his two lips folded and eyes downcast, stands with a trumpet to his mouth, ready to receive the order to blow. He is like this, waiting for the order to blow. Allah will not reveal the time to him, so the angel will keep waiting in this manner with the trumpet to his mouth." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
