What is meant by al-mu'aqqibat in the saying of Allah the Exalted: "For them are mu'aqqibat"?

Question : The saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) that angels take turns among you: is this referring to these angels, or to the Qur'an in the verse "For them are mu'aqqibat from before them and from behind them, guarding them from fitnah"?

Answer : What is the apparent meaning? What is the apparent meaning? The apparent meaning of al-mu'aqqibat is that they protect the person, and as for the one who is mentioned, they protect his deeds. It is also possible that they are the punishers. It is possible. Allah knows best.