Chapter on: [What should be done for whom about to die]

- Question 3/12: Is there an angel who is responsible for death?

 Yes, death has an angel designated to take the soul from the body. His name is the Angel of Death. For you, O blessed one, there is an appointment with him which cannot be brought forward nor delayed. Allah Almighty says:

{قُلْ يَتَوَفَّاكُمْ مَلَكُ الْمَوْتِ الَّذِي وُكِّلَ بِكُمْ}

“Say, "The angel of death will take you who has been entrusted with you. Then to your Lord you will be returned.".” [Al Sajda 11].

As for the name of "Azraeel" which people give to the angel of death, it is neither correct nor confirmed by the Prophet (peace be upon him). [1]                     

A benefit: As for causing death, it came in the Glorious Qur'an in three forms as follows:

Firstly: Adding death to the “Angel of Death” as mentioned in the previous Ayah, because he is the one who is responsible for taking out souls from bodies.

Secondly: Adding death to “Angels”, Allah Almighty said:

 {حَتَّىَ إِذَا جَاء أَحَدَكُمُ الْمَوْتُ تَوَفَّتْهُ رُسُلُنَا وَهُمْ لاَ يُفَرِّطُونَ}

“Until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers take him, and they do not fail [in their duties].” [Al Anaam: 61].

Here it was ascribed to “Angels”, because they are helpers to the Angel of Death.

Thirdly: Adding death to Allah Almighty as He says:

{اللَّهُ يَتَوَفَّى الْأَنفُسَ حِينَ مَوْتِهَا}

“Allah takes the souls at the time of their death” [Al Zumar: 42].

Death is added to Allah because it takes place by His Command.

                          

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[1] Look at: Al Mumti’ (5/245)