Suhrawardi (d. 623 AH) in the book “Nughbat al-Bayan fi Tafsir al-Qur’an

Abstract

This research aims to shed light on the linguistic and semantic dimensions of the nominal attributes used in the Holy Quran to describe angels, in an attempt to explore the profound connotations of these attributes and their relationship to the functions and characteristics of angels mentioned in the Quran. The research adopts an analytical and descriptive approach that reviews Quranic verses that mention angels and their attributes, drawing on reliable linguistic and interpretive references to derive the precise meanings of each attribute The study demonstrates that the Holy Quran does not merely mention angels as unseen beings, but also assigns them various nominal attributes that reflect their nature, duties, and exalted status with God. The study examines these attributes, such as "angels," "messengers," "noble scribes," "guardians," "spirit," and others, analyzing each attribute in terms of its linguistic derivation and technical significance in the Quranic context. The research also highlights the consistency between these attributes and the roles assigned to angels in the universe, whether they are divine roles, or related to managing the affairs of creation, recording deeds, or other noble tasks. The study concludes that understanding these nominal attributes of angels contributes to deepening faith in the unseen and increasing awareness of the Creator's greatness and the perfect order of His universe. It also provides valuable insights into the Qur'anic conception of angels, which goes beyond merely indicating their existence to semantic details that enrich faith-based knowledge. This careful analysis of the nominal attributes enhances our understanding of angels as an essential part of Islamic doctrine and highlights the richness of the Qur’anic language in expressing the truths of the unseen