The Conduct of Angels in Glorification

In the discussion on whether the question in “Will You place upon it...”(291) was objectionable, some exegetes have suggested that the abundance of emphases in this verse indicates that the angels’ question carried a tone of disapproval and objection.(292) As a result, it is argued that the angels, realizing they had questioned what was better left unquestioned, sought to make amends by emphasizing their praise and glorification of God.

However, as previously mentioned, the angels’ inquiry was not accompanied by disapproval, nor is their current exaltation and glorification an act of redress. The conduct (sīra) and inner state (sarīra) of the angels are characterized by divine sanctification and glorification, which are always in harmony with praise.

Note: The secret behind the difference in God’s announcement, which was expressed in the form of a noun indicating constancy and continuity (“Indeed, I will make”), and the angels’ inquiry, which was presented in the form of a verb (“Will You place”), lies in their focus. The angels were inquiring about the wisdom behind the principle of appointing a vicegerent, without considering the question of discontinuity or permanence. That is why they expressed their inquiry in the form of a verb, which indicates a particular instance rather than a continuous state.