What are Angels?
Angels are supernatural beings found in many of the world's religions and mythologies. In the Abrahamic traditions — Judaism, Christianity, and Islam — angels are celestial servants of God, acting as messengers, guardians, and warriors of the divine will. They are typically depicted with wings, radiant light, and an aura of divine peace.
The word "angel" derives from the Greek "angelos," meaning messenger. In the Hebrew tradition, "malakh" (messenger) describes these beings as intermediaries between the divine and human realms.
Did You Know?
The concept of winged angels as we know them today was heavily influenced by ancient Greek and Roman depictions of figures like Nike (goddess of victory) and Eros — winged beings representing divine speed and power.
Types of Angels
Archangels: The highest-ranking angels, including Michael (protector), Gabriel (messenger), Raphael (healer), and Uriel (wisdom). These are named in scripture and carry specific divine roles.
Guardian Angels: Each human is believed in many traditions to have a personal guardian angel watching over them, guiding and protecting throughout life.
Cherubim: Often depicted as chubby winged children (cherubs) in Renaissance art, the original cherubim were powerful, many-winged celestial beings who guarded sacred places.
Seraphim: The fiery six-winged beings who stand before God's throne, continuously singing "Holy, holy, holy" — described in the book of Isaiah.
Angels in Culture
Christianity: Angels announce births, deliver divine messages, and fight spiritual battles. Michael leads God's armies; Gabriel announces the birth of Jesus.
Islam: Angels are made of light and serve only God. Jibril (Gabriel) delivered the Quran to Muhammad. Mikail oversees nature and rain.
Judaism: The Torah describes angels as divine messengers appearing to Abraham, Jacob, and Moses. The Angel of Death collects souls at life's end.
