Archangel

Lore & Background

In Judaism, the Hebrew Bible does not explicitly mention archangels, but post-Biblical literature, such as the Book of Enoch, names seven holy angels who watch: Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, Uriel, Sariel, Raguel, and Remiel. The Book of Daniel refers to Michael as 'one of the chief princes' and 'the great prince.' In Kabbalah, twelve archangels are traditionally assigned to the sephirot, including figures like Raziel, Zadkiel, and Azrael. Metatron is considered the highest of the angels in Merkavah and Kabbalist mysticism, though not canonical in all branches of Judaism.

In Christianity, the New Testament uses 'archangel' only twice: in 1 Thessalonians 4:16, referring to the voice of the archangel, and in Jude 1:9, naming Michael as the archangel who disputed with the devil over the body of Moses. Catholic tradition recognizes three archangels by name—Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael—commemorated together on September 29. Raphael identifies himself in the Book of Tobit as 'one of the seven angels who stand and serve before the Glory of the Lord.' The Catholic Church does not officially recognize names from apocryphal sources such as Raguel, Saraqael, or Remiel.

In Islam, the named archangels are Jibra'il (Gabriel), Mika'il (Michael), Israfil, and Malak Al-Mawt (Angel of Death). Zoroastrianism contains the Amesha Spentas, or 'beneficent immortals,' who are likened to archangels and include Spenta Mainyu, Asha Vahishta, Vohu Mano, Khshathra Vairya, Spenta Armaiti, Haurvatat, and Ameretat.

Reader's Guide

The concept of archangels has shaped theological and cultural understandings of divine messengers across multiple faiths. In Judaism, the development of named archangels likely occurred during the Babylonian captivity, as suggested by Rabbi Simeon ben Lakish. The archangels serve as intermediaries between the divine and humanity, with Michael acting as a warrior and advocate for Israel, Gabriel as a messenger, and Raphael as a healer. In Christianity, the archangels are venerated in liturgical calendars, with Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael holding feast days. The imagery of archangels, particularly in art such as Guido Reni's *Archangel Michael Trampling Lucifer* and John Milton's *Paradise Lost*, has influenced modern depictions. In Zoroastrianism, the Amesha Spentas are seen as emanations of Ahura Mazda, each protecting a holy land and guiding humanity. The varying lists of archangels across traditions—from seven in the Book of Enoch to twelve in Kabbalah—reflect the diversity of angelological thought. The enduring significance of archangels lies in their role as chief agents of divine will, bridging the gap between the celestial and earthly realms.

Did You Know?

• The Bible uses the term 'archangel' only twice, both times in the New Testament, referring to Michael.
• In Zoroastrianism, the Amesha Spentas are likened to archangels and include seven beings such as Spenta Mainyu and Asha Vahishta.
• The Book of Enoch, canonical in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, lists seven archangels: Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, Uriel, Sariel, Raguel, and Remiel.