Mālik is the chief guardian of Hell, mentioned by name in the Qur'an (43:77). His name comes from the root meaning "to own" or "to command," reflecting his authority over the Fire and those within it. He is often referred to simply as the Keeper of Hell or the Angel of Hellfire. Unlike other angels who bring mercy or revelation, Mālik's duty represents the side of divine justice and consequence.

Mālik is responsible for overseeing Hell (Jahannam) and managing the angels who guard it, known as the Zabāniyah. He ensures that punishment is carried out according to divine decree, without cruelty or deviation. His role is not to torment for pleasure but to maintain the integrity of justice. The Qur'an records that the people of Hell will call out to him for relief, but he will reply only with truth: "Indeed, you will remain" (43:77). His silence and restraint symbolize divine impartiality — punishment administered without emotion or revenge.

Mālik is depicted as a being of immense strength and unshakable composure. He neither smiles nor wavers. Islamic narrations describe him as surrounded by flames yet unaffected by them, embodying control amidst wrath. His gaze alone is said to make the inhabitants of Hell tremble. He commands legions of angels whose power is beyond human comprehension — each capable of enforcing the decree of God upon nations at once.

Mālik represents discipline, endurance, and incorruptible justice. He never acts from anger or pity, only from command. His demeanor is solemn and constant; unlike angels of mercy, he neither rejoices nor despairs. He reflects the divine attribute of accountability — that every deed has weight and every injustice will meet its due end. His silence in the Qur'an's dialogue with the condemned illustrates not cruelty, but the stillness of final judgment.

Mālik's authority extends only within the domain of Hell and only by the will of God. He cannot punish beyond what is decreed nor forgive what God has condemned. His strength serves justice, not autonomy. Even in Hell, his obedience is absolute, and his restraint is proof that divine wrath itself is governed by order, not chaos.

Mālik stands as the reminder that divine mercy and divine justice are not opposites but complements. His role completes the balance of creation — where every mercy is meaningful because accountability is real. He teaches that actions echo beyond life, and that even punishment, when stripped of vengeance, becomes a form of truth. In Mālik's unwavering duty lies a lesson in submission: that even fire can serve faithfully under divine command.