Iblis or Shaytan, the most cursed of all beings, is known for disobeying Allah and challenging Him openly. His mission: to mislead as many humans as possible, like a patient chess player plotting the long game. Iblis does not look for a checkmate in the first few moves! He misguides slowly but surely people through small steps. In this article, we’ll explore who is Iblis, whether he is a Jinn or an angel, with answers rooted in the Quranic text.
Who is Iblis? Is He a Jinn or Angel?
Some claim Iblis was the guardian of Jannah or the Earth before his major sin. However, these narrations are not supported by Quran or Sunnah. They are more likely to be Israelite narrations. Scholars have long debated whether Iblis was an angel or a Jinn. The Quran says:
“And [remember] when We said to the angels, ‘Prostrate before Adam,’ and they all prostrated—except for Iblis, who refused and acted arrogantly, becoming unfaithful.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:34)
Some interpret this as evidence that Iblis was an angel. But others argue that the verse merely highlights his exception from the angels, not his inclusion among them. The Quran uses similar exceptions elsewhere without implying inclusion:
“They will not hear therein any idle or sinful talk—(except) only good and virtuous speech.” (Surah Al-Waqi’ah 56:25)
The Stronger Evidence: Iblis Was a Jinn
In another Ayah, Quran provides a clear answer:
“And [mention] when We said to the angels, ‘Prostrate to Adam,’ and they prostrated, except for Iblis. He was of the jinn and departed from the command of his Lord. Then will you take him and his descendants as allies other than Me, while they are enemies to you? Wretched it is for the wrongdoers as an exchange.” (Surah Al-Kahf 18:50)
Jinn, like humans, have free will- something angels do not possess. Iblis disobeyed Allah, proving that he was never an angel. Additionally, he himself declared:
“You created me from fire and him from clay.” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:12)
Angels are made from light, which further confirms Iblis was among the angels, but he was never one of them.
Iblis in the Quran
The word Iblis is mentioned by name 11 times in the Quran, with nine of those references related to the command to prostrate to Adam. In many other places, he is referred to as Shaytan (Satan). As the leader of all devils, Iblis continues to deceive, whisper, and lead people astray out of jealousy and hatred until the Day of Judgement. Allah warns us:
“Indeed, Shaytan is an enemy to you; so take him as an enemy. He only invites his party to be among the companions of the Blaze.” (Surah Fatir 35:6)
How He Misguides Humanity
Iblis is dedicated to leading mankind away from the straight path, using four cunning strategies to do so:
- Whispers (Waswasah): He instills doubts, arrogance, and evil thoughts in people’s hearts.
- Beautifying Sins: He makes sins appear attractive, leading people to indulge in forbidden acts.
- Creating Division: He fuels hatred between family members, friends, and communities.
- Despair and Hopelessness: He convinces people that their sins are too great for Allah’s mercy, pushing them further away from repentance.
Iblis’ first success was deceiving Adam and Hawwa, leading them to eat from the forbidden tree. This pattern continues today as he manipulates people using their desires, fears, and weaknesses.
Iblis in Other Religious Traditions
Iblis’ concept exists in other Abrahamic faiths, though with variations. In Christianity, Iblis is often equated with Lucifer, an angel who was cast out of Heaven due to pride and rebellion. This belief stems primarily from interpretations of the Book of Isaiah and the Book of Revelation. However, unlike in Islam, Christian tradition holds that Satan was originally an angel of high rank.
In Judaism, while there is no direct counterpart to Iblis, figures like Samael or Satan exist. These entities challenge human faith and test believers, but in some Jewish texts, Satan is not a rebellious being but rather a servant of God who tests human loyalty. According to Judaism, Satan does not go to hell.
The End of Times
In Islam, Iblis will continue his mission until the Day of Judgment. Some scholars suggest he will play a role in the emergence of Dajjal (the False Messiah), who will mislead many. On the Day of Judgment, Iblis and his followers will face their final punishment:
“And Shaytan will say when the matter has been decided: ‘Indeed, Allah had promised you the promise of truth. And I promised you, but I betrayed you.'” (Surah Ibrahim 14:22)
Ultimately, Iblis will be cast into Hellfire along with those who followed him, marking the end of his reign of deception.
Iblis’ Mission Is Clear, But Allah’s Mercy is Greater
Despite Iblis’ attempts to misguide humanity, he has no real control over us. Allah reminds us in the Quran:
“Indeed, the plot of Satan is weak.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:76)
We are not helpless against Shaytan. Allah’s words show us that we can resist his whispers by remaining vigilant and seeking refuge in Him. Shaytan may have a long-term plan, but Allah’s mercy and guidance are always greater. We have the power to choose the right path, one that leads to Allah’s mercy and away from Shaytan’s deceit.
Final Thoughts: Who is Iblis?
Iblis’ nature as a Jinn is clear in the Quran. He is not a fallen angel, but a being with free will who chose to rebel against Allah. His mission (and his followers from other Jinn and human beings) to misguide humanity continues today, but by continuous remembering Allah and resisting his whispers, we can stay on the straight path.
Indeed, My servants – no authority will you have over them, except those who follow you of the deviators. (Surah Al-Hijr 15:42)