Angels in Christianity

Lore & Background

Belief in guardian angels can be traced throughout antiquity, with figures such as Menander, Plutarch, and Neo-Platonists like Plotinus holding that view. Early Christian writers like Ignatius of Antioch, Clement of Rome, Clement of Alexandria, and Evagrius Ponticus discussed angels, with Clement of Alexandria writing that angels 'breathe' in men's thoughts and 'put in' their hearts strength and keener perception. Augustine of Hippo remarked that angels experienced something new as creation unfolded and that good angels direct humans toward God and encourage worship.

The most influential Christian angelic hierarchy was put forward around the turn of the 6th century by Pseudo-Dionysius in his work De Coelesti Hierarchia. He claimed to be an important figure converted by Paul the Apostle, and his work enjoyed greater influence than it would have if he had used his actual name, until Erasmus publicised doubts about its age in the early 16th century. According to Pseudo-Dionysius, there are three levels of angels, each containing three orders: the first order includes Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones; the second order includes Dominions, Virtues, and Powers; the third order includes Principalities, Archangels, and Angels.

Reader's Guide

The concept of angels in Christianity has had a lasting significance, shaping theological understanding of the divine order and human interaction with the spiritual realm. The hierarchy proposed by Pseudo-Dionysius became a standard reference, influencing art, liturgy, and devotional practices. The Catholic Church, as stated in the Catechism, affirms the existence of angels as a truth of faith and emphasizes their role in surrounding human life with watchful care and intercession. The New Church, based on the writings of Emanuel Swedenborg, holds distinct views that all angels originate from the human race, dwell in societies, and serve according to their earthly usefulness. The Latter Day Saint movement views angels as messengers of God, often spirits of deceased humans or resurrected beings, with figures like Adam as the archangel Michael and Noah as Gabriel. The diversity of these interpretations reflects the enduring importance of angels in Christian thought, from ancient times to modern denominations, as beings that bridge the divine and human realms.

Did You Know?

• Augustine of Hippo considered that good angels seek to direct humans toward God and encourage worship.
• Pseudo-Dionysius's angelic hierarchy includes three levels: first order (Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones), second order (Dominions, Virtues, Powers), and third order (Principalities, Archangels, Angels).
• In the Latter Day Saint movement, angels are believed to be spirits of deceased humans or resurrected beings, with Adam identified as the archangel Michael.
• The New Church teaches that all angels originate from the human race and that no angel in heaven first did not live in a material body.