Assalamu Alaykum Wa Rahmatullaahi Wa Barakatuh: We seek from you clarification on the meaning of this hadeeth. The messenger of Allaah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Indeed the 'Malak' has a gathering, and the Shaytan has a gathering. The gathering of the 'Malak' (encourages) testifying to the truth and (it) promises good. The gathering of Shaytan (encourages) denying the truth and (it) promises evil." Also, clarification is sought about the word Malak. Is it 'Malik' meaning Allaah or 'Malak' meaning the angels? Barak Allaahu Feekum.

In the name of Allaah, the Benevolent, the Merciful. All praise is due to Allaah, and may peace and blessings be upon the messenger of Allaah, upon his family, companions, and those loyal to him. The meaning of the hadeeth -as it is apparent- is that there occurs in the heart, by way of this angel, encouragement to do good like prayer, fasting, and testifying to the truth such as the books of Allaah and His messengers. As for what happens to the heart from Shaytan, which is Iblees, or some of his soldiers, then that is encouragement to do evil like disbelief, sin, injustice, and denying the truth - meaning Allaah's rights or the rights of His creation. It may also mean denying the established matters such as Tawheed (monotheism), prophethood, resurrection, judgment, Hell-Fire, and Paradise. The gathering of Shaytan is called waswasah (whispers), whereas the gathering of the angels is called ilhaam (inspiration). As for the correct way to read the word 'Malak', then it is 'Malak' my beloved, and what is meant by it is a Malak (angel) from among the Malaa'ikah (angels). May Allaah increase you in cautiousness and success. And Allaah, the Most High, knows best.