Jibril (A), the first living, breathing creature of Allah, is unique in that he was the first being to be endowed with a soul directly from Allah, without any parents. When babies are born, they make noises and learn about the world, but Jibril (A)'s creation was unlike any other. As he came into existence, he proclaimed, "There is no power or might except that of God; we have none." This narration highlights his profound origin.
Jibril (A) holds a special place among the angels, as he is the one entrusted with carrying the Throne of Allah. His enormous size is reflective of the magnitude of his responsibilities. His wingspan alone is said to be a journey of seven hundred years, and even a bird would take 700 years to traverse that distance. The size of an angel corresponds to the importance of the tasks they are assigned, and Jibril (A) is the largest angel, given the significant role he plays.
His strength and power are evident in the account of the destruction of the people of Lut (Prophet Lot). With the mere tip of his wing, an entire city was lifted and annihilated. This showcases the immense strength that Jibril (A) possesses, acting as a powerful instrument of Allah's will.
Jibril (A) is positioned directly beneath the Throne of Allah. When he appears in his full form, he is described as having six hundred wings, filling the entire horizon. His wings are adorned with rubies and pearls, with a radiant green color. The souls of his feet are also green, reflecting his unique appearance and majesty.
Jibril (A)'s role in the lives of the prophets is remarkable. He was sent to assist, guide, and support each of the 124,000 prophets, including the 315 messengers. His presence is integral to the stories of the prophets, as he provided them with divine guidance and assistance. He was there during the expulsion of Adam from Paradise and played a vital role in various significant events in the lives of the prophets.
Jibril (A)'s interactions with the prophets are numerous and pivotal. For instance, he played a part in the construction of the Kaaba with Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma'il (Ishmael), and he guided them in their sacred duties. He also instructed Ibrahim to stone the devil during Hajj, a ritual that continues to this day.
Even in the life of Yusuf (Joseph), Jibril (A) had a role. When Yusuf was thrown into the well by his brothers, Jibril (A) caught him to ensure a safe landing at the bottom. This demonstrates Jibril (A)'s involvement in the lives of the prophets, even in their most trying moments.
Jibril (A)'s connection with Isa (Jesus) is evident when Isa was raised to the heavens to protect him from crucifixion. It was Jibril (A) who transported Isa through the heavens to ensure his safety.
The first encounter between the Prophet Muhammad and Jibril (A) occurred when the Prophet was just a child. Jibril (A)'s presence during the incident of the opening of the Prophet's chest, as well as the cleaning and return of his heart, demonstrates the crucial role Jibril (A) played in preparing the Prophet for his prophethood.
Jibril (A) continued to guide and support the Prophet throughout his life, bringing revelations from Allah. His role in the delivery of the Quran, particularly during the Prophet's seclusion in the cave of Hira, is of utmost significance. Jibril (A)'s visits to the Prophet confirmed the authenticity of his prophethood.
Jibril (A)'s presence in the life of the Prophet is profound. From the beginning of the Prophet's mission to the end of his life, Jibril (A) was a constant source of guidance, reassurance, and support. Even in the face of challenges and threats, Jibril (A)'s protection was evident.
On the day of the Prophet's death, as his life on this earth came to an end, Jibril (A) was there to offer him a choice between a worldly life or the companionship of the Most High. The Prophet chose the companionship of the Most High, and as his soul departed, he was smiling with contentment.
The significance of Jibril (A)'s presence in the life of the Prophet extends to the afterlife. In Paradise, the Prophet Muhammad will have the privilege of being in the companionship of Jibril (A), flying alongside him and the angels.
Jibril (A), the angel of revelation, played an integral role in the prophetic mission and the life of the Prophet Muhammad. His presence, guidance, and support were essential in delivering Allah's message to humanity.