Azrael (angel of death) is the archangel of death. It is an English form of the Arabic name Azra'il or Azra'eil (??????), the name traditionally attributed to the angel of death in Islam, although the Qur'an never uses this name, usually using instead Malak al-Maut (which translates directly as angel of death). It is also spelled Izrail, Izrael, Azrail, Azraille, or Ozryel. Chambers English dictionary uses the spelling Azrael. The name literally means Assistant (helper) of God. Background Azrael was the descendant of the high priests of Aaron. He served as a scribe for the Babylonian exile and second Temple Jerusalem period. During the early Christian period he became known as Esdras, the prophet who bears witness to the coming of the Messiah. It was this early Christian story that claimed Azrael ascended into heaven without tasting death. He was also menti