The Islamic Angel Jibreil A.S
In Islamic tradition, **Angel Jibreil (A.S.)**, also known as **Gabriel** in Judeo-Christian traditions, holds a place of immense significance as one of the most revered angels in Islam. He is mentioned numerous times in the Quran and Hadith as a divine messenger, delivering Allah’s revelations to His prophets. His role is fundamental to the communication of God’s message to humanity.
The Role of Jibreil (A.S.) in Revelation
Jibreil (A.S.) is primarily known as the **Angel of Revelation**. He was entrusted by Allah to convey His divine guidance to the prophets. His most notable interaction was with **Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)**, as he delivered the Quran over a period of 23 years, beginning with the first revelation in the cave of Hira.
The first verses revealed to the Prophet through Jibreil were:
*”Read! In the name of your Lord who created. Created man from a clot. Read, and your Lord is the Most Generous, Who taught by the pen, Taught man that which he knew not.”* (Quran, 96:1-5)
This marked the beginning of Muhammad’s prophet hood and the gradual revelation of the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Jibreil’s presence in these moments emphasizes his role as the bridge between the divine and humanity.
Appearance of Jibreil (A.S.)
Jibreil (A.S.) is described as a magnificent angel with a grand presence. He has appeared in various forms, sometimes in his angelic form with **600 wings** spanning from the heavens to the earth, and at other times in the form of a man. His appearance to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in human form allowed for more ease of communication and understanding.
In a famous Hadith, Jibreil appeared to the Prophet Muhammad and his companions in the form of a man dressed in white, asking the Prophet about Islam, Iman (faith), and Ihsan (excellence in worship). This Hadith, known as the **Hadith of Jibreil**, is regarded as one of the most significant teachings of Islam, laying out the foundations of the religion.
Jibreil’s Role in Other Prophets’ Lives
Jibreil (A.S.) played an important role not only in the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also in the lives of other prophets. He brought the revelation of the Torah to **Prophet Musa (Moses)**, the Psalms to **Prophet Dawud (David)**, and the Gospel to **Prophet Isa (Jesus)**.
Additionally, Jibreil (A.S.) is mentioned in the story of **Maryam (Mary)**, the mother of Prophet Isa (A.S.), where he brought her the glad tidings of the miraculous birth of her son, without a father. He said:
*”I am only a messenger of your Lord to announce to you the gift of a pure son.”* (Quran, 19:19)
Significance in Islamic Theology
Jibreil (A.S.) is not only significant as a messenger but also as one of the **Archangels** (Mala’ika), who are central to Islamic theology. Muslims believe in the existence of angels as a fundamental tenet of faith (Iman). Angels, including Jibreil, are creations of Allah, free from sin, obedient to God’s commands, and free from any human weaknesses.
Jibreil’s (A.S.) role in Islam transcends revelation. He is also involved in spiritual matters, such as guiding and supporting the believers and assisting them in matters of faith. He is also believed to play a key role in the Last Day, where he will assist in carrying out God’s final commands.
Jibreil (A.S.) and Layla tul Qadr
Jibreil (A.S.) is closely associated with **Layla tul Qadr (The Night of Decree)**, one of the holiest nights in Islam, when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is believed that on this night, Jibreil descends to earth with a multitude of angels, spreading peace and blessings. Allah mentions this in the Quran:
*”The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit (Jibreil) descend therein, by permission of their Lord, for every matter.”* (Quran, 97:3-4)
Conclusion
Angel Jibreil (A.S.) holds a central place in Islamic belief as the Angel of Revelation, bringing divine guidance to humanity. His interactions with the prophets, especially with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), are a testament to his critical role in the transmission of Allah’s messages. His presence in Islamic theology underscores the importance of faith in the unseen and the role of angels in the spiritual and physical worlds. Muslims revere Jibreil (A.S.) for his loyalty, dedication, and his role in guiding humanity toward the light of divine truth.
