THE ANGELS OF THE HEAVENS
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IN A LENGTHY Hadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) narrated by Allaamah
Jalaaluddin Suyuti (rahmatullah alayhi) the following description of the various classes of
Malaaikah (Angels) inhabiting the different levels of the Heavens is given:
1) The first heaven (Samaa-e-Dunya) has been created a powerful solid structure. The
inhabitants occupying this heaven are powerful beings having the form of cattle. Each one
has wings. Some have two, some three and some four wings. Their number equals the
number of the stars. They perpetually recite Tasbeeh, Kalimah Tayyibah and Takbeer.
2) The Angels inhabiting the second heaven are as numerous as raindrops. They are in the
form of scorpions. Neither do they sleep nor pause a moment in their recitation of Tasbeeh.
3) The Angels of the third heaven have human form and they are as numerous as the grains of
sand. They perpetually seek refuge with Allah Ta’ala.
4) The Angels inhabiting the fourth heaven are in the form of Hoor-e-Een (Damsels of
Jannat). They are as numerous as all the leaves on all the trees. They stand in rows shoulder
to shoulder. Some are in Ruku’ while others are in Sajdah. Noor emanating from the
Tasbeehaat which they recite permeates the heavens and the earth.
5) The Angels of the fifth heaven are twice the number of the entire animal kingdom. They
have the form of eagles. They are engaged in recording divine laws. Some are supervisors of
others.
6) The Angels occupying the sixth heaven have the form of beautiful horses. They are called
Hizbullaah (The Army of Allah).
7) The inhabitants of the seventh heaven are the Muqarrab Angels. They enjoy a very close
relationship with Allah Ta’ala. Among them are the Angels who deliver the manuscrips of
deeds. Above them are the Angels who bear aloft the Divine Throne.
Above the seventh heaven is another huge, wondrous specimen of creation known as Karubi.
There are many levels among them as well.
Awake 2013
