Mercy for Mankind
Belief in angels is essential for the completeness of a believer’s faith in Islam. Angels are part of the unseen world that human understanding cannot fully grasp. They are beings created from light, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The angels are created from light.” This nature sets them apart from humanity, who are created from clay. The significance of angels is highlighted throughout the Quran and hadith, underscoring their vital roles in the Islamic faith.
A powerful example of the role angels play and their connection to humanity is found in the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). After enduring severe rejection and hostility from the Quraysh in Makkah, who mocked and scorned him for calling them to worship Allah alone, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) sought refuge in Taif. However, the response there was even more brutal. He was met with ridicule and violence; the townspeople incited their youth to chase him out and pelt him with stones until his feet bled.
Amidst this deep pain and sorrow, Allah, in His boundless mercy, sent a cloud to provide shade for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Within that cloud appeared Jibrīl (peace be upon him), who conveyed that Allah was fully aware of the Prophet’s suffering. Jibrīl brought with him the Angel of the Mountains, who said, “If you wish, I will bring Al-Akhshabayn—the two mountains in Makkah—together and crush these people beneath them.”
This offer underscored the gravity of the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) trials and the readiness of the angels to support him. Yet, in an extraordinary act of mercy and hope, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) refused. He responded, “No, for I hope that Allah will bring forth from their descendants those who will worship Allah alone and associate nothing with Him.” This act showcased the unmatched compassion and patience of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), reflecting his role as a mercy to humanity. As Allah says in the Quran: “And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Quran 21:107)
This story illustrates the importance of angels as part of the unseen realm and their role in supporting the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). It also serves as a timeless lesson in resilience, patience, and mercy—qualities essential for those who strive to spread the message of Islam. The Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) life and teachings remind us that even in the face of severe trials, calling others to Allah must be approached with hope, compassion, and unwavering trust in His divine wisdom.
