Difference between revisions of "Archangel" - New World Encyclopedia

From New World Encyclopedia
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An '''Archangel''' is a superior or higher-ranking [[angel]]. The word 'archangel' derives from the [[Greek language|Greek]] ''arche'' (ruler or source) and ''angelos'' (messenger).  They are to be found in a number of religious traditions, including [[Christianity]], [[Islam]], [[Judaism]] and [[Zoroastrianism]].
+
An '''Archangel''' is a superior or higher-ranking [[angel]]. The word 'archangel' derives from the [[Greek language|Greek]] ''arche'' (ruler or source) and ''angelos'' (messenger).   
 +
[[Image:Archangels.JPG|right|200px|thumbnail|Orthodox icon of the seven archangels. From left to right: Jegudiel, Gabriel, Selaphiel, Michael, Uriel, Raphiel, Barachiel.  Beneath the mandorla of Christ are representations of [[Cherubim]] and [[Seraphim]].]] Traditionally, the number of archangels has been held to be seven in Christian tradition, although different sources disagree on the names and identities of the seven archangels.  The most common list, according to ...list churches...
  
 +
Archangels are to be found in a number of religious traditions, including [[Christianity]], [[Islam]], [[Judaism]] and [[Zoroastrianism]].
  
==History==
+
==Origins==
According to [[Middle Ages|medieval]] [[Christian theology|Christian theologians]], the [[Angel]]s are organized into several orders, or '''Angelic Choirs'''.  The most influential of these classifications was that put forward by [[Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite]] in the [[4th century|Fourth]] or [[5th century|Fifth century]], in his book ''[[The Celestial Hierarchy]]''. In this work, the author drew on passages from the [[New Testament]], specifically [[Epistle to the Ephesians|Ephesians]] 6:12 and [[Epistle to the Colossians|Colossians]] 1:16, to construct a schema of three '''Hierarchies''', '''Spheres''' or '''Triads''' of [[angel]]s, with each Hierarchy containing three '''Orders''' or '''Choirs'''. In descending order of power, these were:
+
According to scholars, the concept of [[angels]] and archangels arose first in the [[Zoroastrian]] religion (see below) and was subsequently absorbed into [[Judaism]] and [[Christainity]].  The earliest reference to a specific system of seven archangels appears to be in ''Enoch I'' (the Ethiopian Enoch), where the archangels are listed as [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], [[Gabriel]], [[Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]], Uriel, Raguel, Zerachiel and Remiel. Centuries later, [[Pseudo-Dionysius]] gives them as Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Chamuel, Jophiel, and [[Zadkiel]]. Pope Gregory I lists them as Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Simiel, Orifiel, and Zachariel. [[Eastern Orthodox Church|Eastern Orthodoxy]] venerates Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selaphiel, [[Jegudiel]], and Barachiel.
  
*'''First Hierarchy:'''
+
===In Zoroastrianism===
**''[[Seraphim]]''
+
In [[Zoroastrianism]], '''Aməša Spənta''' are the Holy Immortals, the equivalent of Archangels in [[Christian]] theology. Some interpreters, however, think that [[Zarathustra]] originally saw them as  aspects of God. The ''Aməša Spəntas'' are:
**''[[Cherubim]]''
+
* ''Khshathra (Vairya)'', translated as "Desirable Power" or "Desirable Dominion,"
**''[[Thrones]] '' or ''Ophanim''
+
* ''Haurvatat'', translated as "Wholeness,"
*'''Second Hierarchy:'''
+
* ''(Spenta) Armaiti'', translated as "(Holy) Piety," "Devotion," or "Serenity,"
 +
* ''Ameretat'', translated as "Immortality,"
 +
* ''Vohu Manah'', translated as "Good Thought" or "Good Purpose,"
 +
* ''Spənta Mainyu'', translated as "Holy Spirit" or "Creative Energy," and
 +
* ''Aša (Vahišta)'', translated as "Justice and Truth" or "(Best) Truth."
 +
 
 +
Each of the ''Aməša Spenta''s helped to create a particular part of creation and now presides over it. Though ''Spənta Mainyu'' (''Spenag Mēnōg'') is counted among the ''Aməša Spenta''s, he is often identified with ''Ahura Mazda'' (''Ohrmazd'', Modern Persian ''Hormæzd''), the creator of the remaining six ''Aməša Spenta''s and essentially above them.
 +
 
 +
===In Judaism===
 +
There are no explicit references to archangels in the canonical texts of the [[Hebrew Bible]] (Old Testament). Indeed even angels are uncommon except in later works like [[Daniel]]*. The earliest references to archangels are in the literature of the intertestamental period (e.g. 4 Esdras 4.36).
 +
 
 +
It is therefore widely speculated that Jewish interest in angels was learned during the [[Babylonian captivity]].
 +
According to Rabbi Simeon ben Lakish of Tiberias (230–270|270 C.E.), all the specific names for the angels were brought back by the Jews from [[Babylon]], and some modern commentators would argue that the details of the [[angel]]ic hierarchy were largely [[Zoroastrianism|Zoroastrian]] in origin.
 +
 
 +
Within the Rabbinic tradition and the [[Kabbalah]], the usual number given is at least seven: [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]], [[Gabriel]], Uriel, Sariel, Raguel, and Remiel (possibly the [[Ramiel of the ''Apocalypse of Baruch'', said to preside over true visions).  Zadkiel, Jophiel, Haniel and Chamuel are also listed as archangels.
 +
 
 +
===In Christianity===
 +
[[Image:Annunciation.jpg|right|150px|thumbnail|Gabriel, traditionaly named as an archangel, delivering the [[Annunciation]]. Painting by El Greco (1575)]]
 +
The [[New Testament]] rarely speaks of angels, and makes only two references to archangels, Michael in Epistle of Jude 1.9, (which is referring in passing to a Jewish legend) and [[First Epistle to the Thessalonians|1 Thessalonians]] 4:16, where the "voice of an archangel" will be heard at the return of [[Christ]]. Contrary to popular belief Gabriel is never called 'archangel' in the [[Gospels]].
 +
 
 +
In later Christian tradition, however, there are three Archangels: [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], [[Gabriel (archangel)|Gabriel]], [[Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]] (and sometimes Uriel is given as a fourth). Eastern Orthodox tradition mentions Seven Archangels.  Uriel is included, and the other three are most often cited as Selaphiel, Jegudiel, and[Barachiel.
 +
 
 +
Sometimes [[Satan]] is considered a fallen Archangel whose original name was [[Lucifer]].
 +
 
 +
Some [[Protestant]]s view Michael as the sole Archangel, as the only one explicitly mentioned as such in the Bible.
 +
 
 +
The Protestant Bible actually never mentions a "Raphael", and is therefore not recognized by many. Raphael, however, is mentioned in the Book of [[Tobit]], one of the [[deuterocanonical books]]. In the story, Raphael comes to the aid of Tobit, healing him of blindness, and his son Tobias, driving away a demon that would have killed him.
 +
 
 +
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]] believe that [[Jesus]] was actually the Archangel Michael in incarnate form. In this view, Michael is the first and greatest of all God's creatures.
 +
 
 +
This is in contrast to certain Protestants who believe that the Archangel Michael is not an angel but is instead the uncreated, divine Son of God. In this view "Archangel" means "head of the angels" rather than "head angel," and is a title similar to "Prince of the host" ([[Daniel]] 8:11).
 +
 
 +
According to [[Middle Ages|medieval]] Christian theologians, the [[Angel]]s are organized into several orders, or Angelic Choirs.  The most influential of these classifications was that put forward by [[Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite]] in the Fourth or Fifth century, in his book ''The Celestial Hierarchy''. In this work, the author drew on passages from the [[New Testament]], specifically [[Epistle to the Ephesians|Ephesians]] 6:12 and Epistle to the Colossians 1:16, to construct a schema of three '''Hierarchies''', '''Spheres''' or '''Triads''' of angels, with each Hierarchy containing three '''Orders''' or '''Choirs'''. In descending order of power, these were:
 +
 
 +
*First Hierarchy:
 +
**''Seraphim''
 +
**''Cherubim''
 +
**''Thrones '' or ''Ophanim''
 +
*Second Hierarchy:
 
**''Principalities''
 
**''Principalities''
 
**''Virtues''
 
**''Virtues''
 
**''Powers''
 
**''Powers''
*'''Third Hierarchy:'''
+
*Third Hierarchy:
 
**''Dominions''
 
**''Dominions''
**''[[Archangel]]s''
+
**''Archangels''
**''[[Angels]]''
+
**''Angels''
  
During the [[Middle Ages]], many other schema were proposed, some drawing on and expanding on Pseudo-Dionysius, others suggesting completely different classifications.  Here is another example<!--due to whom???—>, which is expanded in the rest of this article:
+
During the Middle Ages, many other schema were proposed, some drawing on and expanding on Pseudo-Dionysius, others suggesting completely different classifications.  Here is another example<!--due to whom???—>, which is expanded in the rest of this article:
  
*'''First Hierarchy:'''
+
*First Hierarchy:
 
** ''Seraphim''
 
** ''Seraphim''
 
** ''Cherubim''
 
** ''Cherubim''
 
** ''Archangels''
 
** ''Archangels''
*'''Second Hierarchy:'''
+
*Second Hierarchy:
 
** ''Dominions''
 
** ''Dominions''
 
** ''Virtues''
 
** ''Virtues''
Line 33: Line 73:
 
** ''Powers''
 
** ''Powers''
 
** ''Thrones''
 
** ''Thrones''
*'''Third Hierarchy:'''
+
*Third Hierarchy:
 
** ''Angels''
 
** ''Angels''
  
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The word ''archangel'' is used only twice in the [[Biblical canon|canonical Scripture]] (but several times in the [[Septuagint]]): once to refer to Michael the archangel
 
The word ''archangel'' is used only twice in the [[Biblical canon|canonical Scripture]] (but several times in the [[Septuagint]]): once to refer to Michael the archangel
 
[http://www.bible.org/netbible/jud1.htm] and the other to refer to a being believed to be Gabriel during the return of the Lord (Gabriel is preferred over Michael since he is the messenger angel). [http://www.bible.org/netbible/1th4.htm]
 
[http://www.bible.org/netbible/jud1.htm] and the other to refer to a being believed to be Gabriel during the return of the Lord (Gabriel is preferred over Michael since he is the messenger angel). [http://www.bible.org/netbible/1th4.htm]
 +
The seven archangels figure in some systems of [[ritual magic]], each archangel bearing a specific seal.[[Image:Seven seals.jpg|200px|right|thumb|The Seven Seals of the Seven Archangels from a [[16th century]] treatise, ''[[The Complete Book of Magic Science]]''; the seals of the Seven [[Olympian spirits]] are also shown]]
  
 
The belief that Satan was a cherub before his fall from heaven is a more modern development.  This belief is based on the facts that  
 
The belief that Satan was a cherub before his fall from heaven is a more modern development.  This belief is based on the facts that  
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=== Angels ===
 
=== Angels ===
 
The '''[[Angel]]s''' are the lowest order of the angels, and the most familiar to men. They are the ones most concerned with human affairs. Within the category of angels, there are many different kinds, with different functions. The angels are sent as messengers to men.
 
The '''[[Angel]]s''' are the lowest order of the angels, and the most familiar to men. They are the ones most concerned with human affairs. Within the category of angels, there are many different kinds, with different functions. The angels are sent as messengers to men.
 
===In Zoroastrianism===
 
In [[Zoroastrianism]], '''Aməša Spənta''' are the Holy Immortals, the equivalent of [[Archangel]]s in [[Christian]] theology. Some interpreters, however, think that [[Zarathustra]] originally saw them as  aspects of God. The ''Aməša Spəntas'' are:
 
* ''Khshathra (Vairya)'', translated as "Desirable Power" or "Desirable Dominion,"
 
* ''Haurvatat'', translated as "Wholeness,"
 
* ''(Spenta) Armaiti'', translated as "(Holy) Piety," "Devotion," or "Serenity,"
 
* ''Ameretat'', translated as "Immortality,"
 
* ''Vohu Manah'', translated as "Good Thought" or "Good Purpose,"
 
* ''Spənta Mainyu'', translated as "Holy Spirit" or "Creative Energy," and
 
* ''Aša (Vahišta)'', translated as "Justice and Truth" or "(Best) Truth."
 
 
Each of the ''Aməša Spenta''s helped to create a particular part of creation and now presides over it. Though ''Spənta Mainyu'' (''Spenag Mēnōg'') is counted among the ''Aməša Spenta''s, he is often identified with ''Ahura Mazda'' (''Ohrmazd'', Modern Persian ''Hormæzd''), the creator of the remaining six ''Aməša Spenta''s and essentially above them.
 
 
===In Judaism===
 
There are no explicit references to archangels in the canonical texts of the [[Hebrew Bible]] (Old Testament). Indeed even angels are uncommon except in later works like [[Daniel]*]. The earliest references to archangels are in the literature of the intertestamental period (e.g. 4 Esdras 4.36).
 
 
It is therefore widely speculated that Jewish interest in angels was learned during the [[Babylonian captivity]].
 
According to Rabbi Simeon ben Lakish of Tiberias (230&ndash;270|270 C.E.), all the specific names for the angels were brought back by the Jews from [[Babylon]], and some modern commentators would argue that the details of the [[angel]]ic hierarchy were largely [[Zoroastrianism|Zoroastrian]] in origin.
 
 
Within the Rabbinic tradition and the [[Kabbalah]], the usual number given is at least seven: [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]], [[Gabriel]], Uriel, Sariel, Raguel, and Remiel (possibly the [[Ramiel of the ''[[Apocalypse of Baruch]]'', said to preside over true visions).  Zadkiel, Jophiel, Haniel and Chamuel are also listed as archangels.
 
 
===In Christianity===
 
[[Image:Annunciation.jpg|right|150px|thumbnail|Gabriel, traditionaly named as an archangel, delivering the [[Annunciation]]. Painting by El Greco (1575)]]
 
The [[New Testament]] rarely speaks of angels, and makes only two references to archangels, Michael in Epistle of Jude 1.9, (which is referring in passing to a Jewish legend) and [[First Epistle to the Thessalonians|1 Thessalonians]] 4:16, where the "voice of an archangel" will be heard at the return of [[Christ]]. Contrary to popular belief Gabriel is never called 'archangel' in the [[Gospels]].
 
 
In later Christian tradition, however, there are three Archangels: [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], [[Gabriel (archangel)|Gabriel]], [[Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]] (and sometimes [[Uriel (archangel)|Uriel]] is given as a fourth). Eastern Orthodox tradition mentions [[Seven Archangels]].  Uriel is included, and the other three are most often cited as [[Selaphiel]], [[Jegudiel]], and [[Barachiel]].
 
 
Sometimes [[Satan]] is considered a fallen Archangel whose original name was [[Lucifer]].
 
 
Some [[Protestant]]s view Michael as the sole Archangel, as the only one explicitly mentioned as such in the Bible.
 
 
The Protestant Bible actually never mentions a "Raphael", and is therefore not recognized by many. Raphael, however, is mentioned in the Book of [[Tobit]], one of the [[deuterocanonical books]]. In the story, Raphael comes to the aid of Tobit, healing him of blindness, and his son Tobias, driving away a demon that would have killed him. [[Image:Archangels.JPG|left|200px|thumbnail|Orthodox icon of the seven archangels. From left to right: Jegudiel, Gabriel, Selaphiel, Michael, Uriel, Raphiel, Barachiel.  Beneath the mandorla of Christ are representations of [[Cherubim]] and [[Seraphim]].]]
 
 
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]] believe that [[Jesus]] was actually the Archangel Michael in incarnate form. In this view, Michael is the first and greatest of all God's creatures.
 
 
This is in contrast to certain Protestants who believe that the Archangel Michael is not an angel but is instead the uncreated, divine Son of God. In this view "Archangel" means "head of the angels" rather than "head angel," and is a title similar to "Prince of the host" ([[Daniel]] 8:11).
 
  
 
===In Islam===
 
===In Islam===
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===Other traditions===
 
===Other traditions===
Occultists sometimes associate archangels in Kabbalistic fashion with various seasons or elements, or even colors.  In some Kabbalah-based systems of [[ceremonial magic]], all four of the main archangels (Michael, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel) are invoked as guarding the four quarters, or directions, and their corresponding colors are associated with magical properties.
+
Occultists sometimes associate archangels in Kabbalistic fashion with various seasons or elements, or even colors.  In some Kabbalah-based systems of [[ceremonial magic]], all four of the main archangels (Michael, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel) are invoked as guarding the four quarters, or directions, and their corresponding colors are associated with magical properties.Various occult systems associate each archangel with one of the traditional "seven luminaries &mdash; the [[Sun]], [[Moon]], [[Mercury (planet)|Mercury]], [[Venus]], [[Mars]], [[Jupiter]], and [[Saturn]] &mdash; but there is disagreement as to which archangel corresponds to which body.  
  
 
Among the [[Tarish]], the four archangels are [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], [[Gabriel]], [[Tariel]] (aka [[Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]]), and [[Lucifer]].  
 
Among the [[Tarish]], the four archangels are [[Michael (archangel)|Michael]], [[Gabriel]], [[Tariel]] (aka [[Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]]), and [[Lucifer]].  
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In art, archangels are usually depicted with larger wings and many eyes. The most often represented archangels are Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
 
In art, archangels are usually depicted with larger wings and many eyes. The most often represented archangels are Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
  
 
+
==See also==
 +
*[[Hierarchy of angels]]
 +
*[[Olympian spirits]]
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
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[[Category:Philosophy and religion]][[category:religion]]
 
[[Category:Philosophy and religion]][[category:religion]]
  
{{Credit3|Archangel|49019273|Amesha_Spenta|49163091|Hierarchy_of_angels|}}
+
{{Credit4|Archangel|49019273|Amesha_Spenta|49163091|Hierarchy_of_angels|50773511|Seven_Archangels|55185675}}

Revision as of 06:37, 11 June 2006

An Archangel is a superior or higher-ranking angel. The word 'archangel' derives from the Greek arche (ruler or source) and angelos (messenger).

Orthodox icon of the seven archangels. From left to right: Jegudiel, Gabriel, Selaphiel, Michael, Uriel, Raphiel, Barachiel. Beneath the mandorla of Christ are representations of Cherubim and Seraphim.

Traditionally, the number of archangels has been held to be seven in Christian tradition, although different sources disagree on the names and identities of the seven archangels. The most common list, according to ...list churches...

Archangels are to be found in a number of religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism and Zoroastrianism.

Origins

According to scholars, the concept of angels and archangels arose first in the Zoroastrian religion (see below) and was subsequently absorbed into Judaism and Christainity. The earliest reference to a specific system of seven archangels appears to be in Enoch I (the Ethiopian Enoch), where the archangels are listed as Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Raguel, Zerachiel and Remiel. Centuries later, Pseudo-Dionysius gives them as Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Chamuel, Jophiel, and Zadkiel. Pope Gregory I lists them as Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Simiel, Orifiel, and Zachariel. Eastern Orthodoxy venerates Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selaphiel, Jegudiel, and Barachiel.

In Zoroastrianism

In Zoroastrianism, Aməša Spənta are the Holy Immortals, the equivalent of Archangels in Christian theology. Some interpreters, however, think that Zarathustra originally saw them as aspects of God. The Aməša Spəntas are:

  • Khshathra (Vairya), translated as "Desirable Power" or "Desirable Dominion,"
  • Haurvatat, translated as "Wholeness,"
  • (Spenta) Armaiti, translated as "(Holy) Piety," "Devotion," or "Serenity,"
  • Ameretat, translated as "Immortality,"
  • Vohu Manah, translated as "Good Thought" or "Good Purpose,"
  • Spənta Mainyu, translated as "Holy Spirit" or "Creative Energy," and
  • Aša (Vahišta), translated as "Justice and Truth" or "(Best) Truth."

Each of the Aməša Spentas helped to create a particular part of creation and now presides over it. Though Spənta Mainyu (Spenag Mēnōg) is counted among the Aməša Spentas, he is often identified with Ahura Mazda (Ohrmazd, Modern Persian Hormæzd), the creator of the remaining six Aməša Spentas and essentially above them.

In Judaism

There are no explicit references to archangels in the canonical texts of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Indeed even angels are uncommon except in later works like Daniel. The earliest references to archangels are in the literature of the intertestamental period (e.g. 4 Esdras 4.36).

It is therefore widely speculated that Jewish interest in angels was learned during the Babylonian captivity. According to Rabbi Simeon ben Lakish of Tiberias (230–270|270 C.E.), all the specific names for the angels were brought back by the Jews from Babylon, and some modern commentators would argue that the details of the angelic hierarchy were largely Zoroastrian in origin.

Within the Rabbinic tradition and the Kabbalah, the usual number given is at least seven: Michael, Raphael (archangel)|Raphael]], Gabriel, Uriel, Sariel, Raguel, and Remiel (possibly the [[Ramiel of the Apocalypse of Baruch, said to preside over true visions). Zadkiel, Jophiel, Haniel and Chamuel are also listed as archangels.

In Christianity

Gabriel, traditionaly named as an archangel, delivering the Annunciation. Painting by El Greco (1575)

The New Testament rarely speaks of angels, and makes only two references to archangels, Michael in Epistle of Jude 1.9, (which is referring in passing to a Jewish legend) and 1 Thessalonians 4:16, where the "voice of an archangel" will be heard at the return of Christ. Contrary to popular belief Gabriel is never called 'archangel' in the Gospels.

In later Christian tradition, however, there are three Archangels: Michael, Gabriel, Raphael (and sometimes Uriel is given as a fourth). Eastern Orthodox tradition mentions Seven Archangels. Uriel is included, and the other three are most often cited as Selaphiel, Jegudiel, and[Barachiel.

Sometimes Satan is considered a fallen Archangel whose original name was Lucifer.

Some Protestants view Michael as the sole Archangel, as the only one explicitly mentioned as such in the Bible.

The Protestant Bible actually never mentions a "Raphael", and is therefore not recognized by many. Raphael, however, is mentioned in the Book of Tobit, one of the deuterocanonical books. In the story, Raphael comes to the aid of Tobit, healing him of blindness, and his son Tobias, driving away a demon that would have killed him.

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus was actually the Archangel Michael in incarnate form. In this view, Michael is the first and greatest of all God's creatures.

This is in contrast to certain Protestants who believe that the Archangel Michael is not an angel but is instead the uncreated, divine Son of God. In this view "Archangel" means "head of the angels" rather than "head angel," and is a title similar to "Prince of the host" (Daniel 8:11).

According to medieval Christian theologians, the Angels are organized into several orders, or Angelic Choirs. The most influential of these classifications was that put forward by Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite in the Fourth or Fifth century, in his book The Celestial Hierarchy. In this work, the author drew on passages from the New Testament, specifically Ephesians 6:12 and Epistle to the Colossians 1:16, to construct a schema of three Hierarchies, Spheres or Triads of angels, with each Hierarchy containing three Orders or Choirs. In descending order of power, these were:

  • First Hierarchy:
    • Seraphim
    • Cherubim
    • Thrones or Ophanim
  • Second Hierarchy:
    • Principalities
    • Virtues
    • Powers
  • Third Hierarchy:
    • Dominions
    • Archangels
    • Angels

During the Middle Ages, many other schema were proposed, some drawing on and expanding on Pseudo-Dionysius, others suggesting completely different classifications. Here is another example, which is expanded in the rest of this article:

  • First Hierarchy:
    • Seraphim
    • Cherubim
    • Archangels
  • Second Hierarchy:
    • Dominions
    • Virtues
    • Principalities
    • Rulers
    • Authorities
    • Powers
    • Thrones
  • Third Hierarchy:
    • Angels

Some authors limited the number of Choirs to seven.

First Sphere

The angels of the first sphere were thought to serve as heavenly counselors.

Seraphim

The Seraphim (singular "Seraph") are the highest order of angels, serving as the caretakers of God's throne and continuously singing his praises: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts. All the earth is filled with His Glory." It is said that they surround the throne of God, singing the music of the spheres and regulating the movement of the heavens as it emanates from God. It is also said that such a bright light emanates from them that nothing, not even other divine beings, can look upon them. There are four of them surrounding God's throne, where they burn eternally from love and zeal for God.

Many Christians believe that the Devil is a fallen angel that was among the Seraphim prior to his fall from Heaven. He was believed to be second in power to God. They believe that the Devil was considered as the angel of light before his sin against God. Unlike other Seraphim who had six wings, Satan was featured to have twelve wings.[citation needed]

The Seraphim are mentioned in Isaiah 6:1–7 [1]

Cherubim

The Cherubim (singular "Cherub") are beyond the throne of God; they are the guardians of light and of the stars. It is believed that, although they are removed from man's plane of reality, the divine light that they filter down from Heaven still touches human lives.

They have four wings. They also have four faces, one of man, ox, lion, and eagle. Through the four faces, they may also anticipate what God would do to bring salvation to man through His Son: (a) The face of the man suggests wisdom, compassion, intelligence and pictures Christ’s humanity as the Son of man, the special focus found in the gospel of Luke; (b) the face of a lion speaks of kingly appearance and pictures Christ as King which is Matthew’s emphasis; (c) the face of a bull or ox portrays a servant, the emphasis seen in Mark; and (d) the face of an eagle speaks of heavenly action and portrays the deity Christ, which is John’s emphasis. Cherubim are considered the elect beings for the purpose of protection. Cherubim guard Eden and the throne of God.

Their rank among angels is uncertain but they are always categorized in the First Sphere. Some believe them to be an order or class of angels; others hold them to be a class of heavenly beings higher than angels. Cherubim have perfect knowledge of God, surpassed only by the love of the Seraphim.

The Cherubim are mentioned in Genesis 3:24 [2]; Ezekiel 10:17–20 [3]; and 1 Kings 6:23–28 [4].

Thrones

The Thrones or Ophanim are angelic beings shaped like shiny orbs of shifting colors. Their duty is to carry the throne of God around in paradise, hence their name.They are the companion angels of the planets.

Also, they have been described as a wheel intersected by another wheel, one to move forward and back, the other to move side to side. These wheels are then dotted with innumerable eyes. This image is found in the book of Ezekiel, where the prophet Ezekiel describes a vision of Heaven. The prophet does not explicitly describe these wheels as angels, but as objects in which the spirits of "living creatures" were contained.

Thrones are fully equal in authority and power in comparison to the Powers. However, Thrones are politically, militarily and economically oriented, and their main concerns revolve around people and world events. Thrones have authority over major divisions of the world.

Paul used the term thrones in Colossians 1:16 [5] but he may have used it to refer to the thrones of the kings of nations, instead of referring to angels.

Second Sphere

Angels of the Second Sphere work as heavenly governors.

Dominions

The Dominions, also known as the Hashmallim, hold the task of regulating the duties of lower angels. They receive their orders from the Seraphim, the Cherubim, or God Himself, and are responsible for ensuring that the cosmos remains in order. It is only with extreme rarity that the dominions make themselves physically known to mortals. Instead, they quietly concern themselves with the details of existence.

It should be noted that although the term dominions was used by Paul in Colossians 1:16 [6] and Ephesians 1:21 [7] he may have used it to refer to the dominions of nations and men, instead of referring to angels.

Powers

The Powers are angelic beings shaped like brightly colored, hazy fumes. They are the bearers of conscience and the keepers of history. The angels of birth and death are Powers. They are academically driven and are concerned with ideology, philosophy, theology, religion, and documents pertaining to those studies. Powers are the brain trusts: a group of experts who serve as advisers and policy planners. Their duty is to oversee the distribution of power among mankind, hence their name.

Paul used the term powers in Colossians 1:16 [8] and Ephesians 1:21 [9] but he may have used it to refer to the powers of nations, societies or individuals, instead of referring to angels.

Rulers & Authorities

These two types of angels are equal in power and authority. Rulers develop ideologies whereas Authorities write the documents and doctrines.

Both Powers and Rulers are involved in formulating ideologies. However, Powers are all-encompassing whereas Rulers are more focused on specific lines of thought.

Authorities specialize in putting those ideas into print and in producing actual documents.

Paul used the term rule and authority in Ephesians 1:21 [10], and rulers and authorities in Ephesians 3:10 [11]. He may have been referring to the rulers and authorities of men or societies, instead of referring to angels.

Virtues / Fortresses / Strongholds

The Virtues, also called Fortresses or Strongholds, lie beyond the Thrones and are equal to the Principalities. Their task is to oversee groups of people. They are shaped like sparks of light that inspire humanity to many things such as art or science.

It is unclear from where the name of this order originated.

Third Sphere

Angels who function as heavenly messengers.

Principalities

The Principalities are angelic beings shaped like rays of light. They lie beyond the group of archangels. They are the guardian angels of nations and countries, and are concerned with the issues and events surrounding these, including politics, military matters, commerce and trade. One of their duties is to choose who among humanity will rule.

Paul used the term principalities in Colossians 1:16 [12] and Ephesians 1:21 [13] & 3:10 [14] but he may have used it to refer to the principalities of the world, a nation, a country or a society, instead of referring to angels.

Archangels

The Archangels are usually considered the second lowest order of the First Sphere; these angels tend the larger arenas of human endeavor and act as the administrative leaders of the Heavenly beings. An archangel is usually given a task of great importance to men. According to Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite's Angelology, however, the Archangels lie just above the lowest of the angel orders, the common Angels.

The word archangel is used only twice in the canonical Scripture (but several times in the Septuagint): once to refer to Michael the archangel [15] and the other to refer to a being believed to be Gabriel during the return of the Lord (Gabriel is preferred over Michael since he is the messenger angel). [16]

The seven archangels figure in some systems of ritual magic, each archangel bearing a specific seal.

File:Seven seals.jpg
The Seven Seals of the Seven Archangels from a 16th century treatise, The Complete Book of Magic Science; the seals of the Seven Olympian spirits are also shown

The belief that Satan was a cherub before his fall from heaven is a more modern development. This belief is based on the facts that (a) the cherub that fell was a King on earth; and (b) the matchup in Revelation against the archangel Michael seems to show that he was an archangel [17]

Some insist that archangels are not a separate order but that the traditional Catholic archangels (Michael, Raphael, Gabriel and sometimes Uriel) are either cherubim or seraphim in addition to being archangels. However, even in this case, being an archangel clearly implies being a part of the first sphere of the angels. Sometimes, Lucifer is also considered to have been an archangel before his Fall. As God's "second in command," he was likely not below the Seraphim.

Angels

The Angels are the lowest order of the angels, and the most familiar to men. They are the ones most concerned with human affairs. Within the category of angels, there are many different kinds, with different functions. The angels are sent as messengers to men.

In Islam

In Islam, the archangels are Michael Gabriel or Jibril and Azrael and another unnamed angel, presumably Iblis, before he fell. Azazel was a leader of all angels though not an angel himself, but fell from his position during the Creation for refusing God's commandment to accept Adam (and man) as superior being. //Iblis was a Jinn, not an angel. In Islam, the archangels are Michael or Mikael (Archangel of the Weather), Gabriel or Jibril (who brought the Qur'an to Muhammad), Azrael (Angel of Death), Israfil or Isra'afeel (Archangel who is to blow the horn on Judgement Day), Malik (Keeper of Hell) and Munkar and Nakir (Angels of Interrogation that will question deceased souls on their life before their death). Neither Israfel nor Azrael are mentioned in the Qu'ran.

It is emphasised in Islamic texts that angels are genderless.

Other traditions

Occultists sometimes associate archangels in Kabbalistic fashion with various seasons or elements, or even colors. In some Kabbalah-based systems of ceremonial magic, all four of the main archangels (Michael, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel) are invoked as guarding the four quarters, or directions, and their corresponding colors are associated with magical properties.Various occult systems associate each archangel with one of the traditional "seven luminaries — the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn — but there is disagreement as to which archangel corresponds to which body.

Among the Tarish, the four archangels are Michael, Gabriel, Tariel (aka Raphael), and Lucifer.

In art, archangels are usually depicted with larger wings and many eyes. The most often represented archangels are Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.

See also

  • Hierarchy of angels
  • Olympian spirits

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • britannica.com
  • Mary Boyce (1984). Textual Sources for the Study of Zoroastrianism. Manchester University Press.
  1. Copeland, Mark. Ministering Spirits: Angels In The Old Testament. Executable Outlines. 2004.
  2. Copeland, Mark. Terms And Descriptions Of Angels. Executable Outlines. 2004.
  3. Fares, Aymen. Angelics and the Angelic Realm. Spiritual.com.au Pty. Ltd. 2000.
  4. Tatum, Johnny. The Hierarchy of Angels: Hierarchical Chart of Angels. Worldnet Grace Ministries.
  5. Tatum, Johnny. The Hierarchy of Angels: Distinguishing the Higher Ranked. Worldnet Grace Ministries.
  6. The Bible (Searchable online version)

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