Israfil

One of the four archangels in Islamic tradition. Israfil is known as the angel who will blow the trumpet (Sur) to signal the Day of Judgment.

In Islam

Israfil holds a prominent position in Islamic eschatology:

The Trumpet Bearer

• Tasked with blowing the trumpet (Sur) on the Day of Resurrection
• Will blow it twice:
  1. First blast: All living beings will die
  2. Second blast: All will be resurrected for judgment
• Stands ready with the trumpet at his lips, awaiting God’s command
• His breath gives life to souls

Role Among Archangels

Israfil is one of the four greatest angels in Islam, alongside:

• Jibril (Gabriel) - Angel of revelation
• Mikail (Michael) - Angel of sustenance
• Azrael - Angel of death

Additional Traditions

In various Islamic traditions, Israfil is also associated with:

• Leading the angels in worship
• Being the closest angel to God
• Having knowledge of the final hour (though only God knows the exact time)
• Possessing wings so vast they reach from the heavens to the earth

In Other Traditions

Israfil is not mentioned in Jewish or Christian scripture, though some scholars have attempted to identify him with Raphael or Uriel based on the similarity of names and roles.

Significance

Israfil’s role as the herald of the Day of Judgment makes him a central figure in Islamic eschatology. The image of the angel with the trumpet poised at his lips serves as a reminder of the imminent and certain coming of the final judgment, when all souls will be called to account before God.