What was Shaytan’s first name before being banished from Jannah?
Answer
Imam Ibn Abi Hatim, Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahumallah) and others have recorded the following statement of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) with a sound chain:
“Iblis’s name was ‘Azazil (عزازيل) and he was from among the noble Angels…”
(Tafsir Ibn Abi Hatim, Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Surah: Al Baqarah, Verse: 34, Shu’abul Iman, Hadith: 144)
The narration in question is suitable to quote as the statement of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma).
Note:
Names other than ‘Azazil have also been reported.
(Refer: Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Surah Al Baqarah, Verse: 34 and Fathul Bari, before Hadith: 3268)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar