What Are The Different Types of Angels and What Do They Do?

Angels, the celestial beings that bridge the gap between the spiritual and earthly realms, have captivated the human imagination for centuries. From ancient mythology to various religious traditions, these divine messengers represent a multitude of qualities and undertake specific tasks across many different religions. Here, we will explore the significance of angels, their roles, and meanings and some angelic names found in different religions.

The Significance of Angels:

Angels are widely regarded as divine messengers, tasked with delivering important messages, revelations, or interventions from a higher power. These celestial beings are often seen as protectors, offering guidance, support, and safeguarding individuals from harm or negative influences. Angels serve as intermediaries between humans and the divine, acting as conduits for prayers, blessings, and spiritual guidance. They symbolize goodness, purity, compassion, and love. They embody positive virtues and divine attributes that inspire and guide individuals on their spiritual journeys. Yet to really understand the symbolic, spiritual associations with the angel as a symbol, we need to get more specific!

A Glimpse into the Angelic Hierarchy:

It is important to note that the following list of angelic names and their associated tasks are drawn from various religious and spiritual traditions. The specific roles and attributes may differ across cultures and belief systems.

Chayot HaKodesh (Living Creatures):

Chayot HaKodesh, described in Ezekiel 1:4-28 and 10:15-22, are considered the highest order of angels in Jewish mysticism. With four faces and four wings, they are associated with the divine chariot and the throne of God. Chayot HaKodesh are responsible for leading the divine chariot and praising God.

Association: Leadership, Praise, Presence of God

Seraphim:

The Seraphim are the highest order of angels in Christian theology. Described in Isaiah 6:2-3, they are depicted as having six wings and standing in the presence of God. Seraphim are responsible for praising and worshiping God, continuously declaring His holiness. Similar to Christianity, Seraphim in Jewish mysticism are depicted as celestial beings with six wings. They are associated with the divine presence and serve as attendants to God, continuously praising and worshiping Him.

Associations: Praise, Worship, Presence of God

Named Angel - Seraphiel: This angel is believed to be the guardian of celestial records and knowledge. 

Cherubim:

Cherubim, mentioned in Genesis 3:24 and Ezekiel 10:1-22, are known for their role as guardians. They are often depicted as winged creatures with multiple faces, symbolizing their wisdom and knowledge. Cherubim are responsible for protecting sacred spaces and acting as intermediaries between God and humans.

Associations: Guardians, Sacred Space Protection, Intermediaries

Named Angel - Uriel: Known as the angel of wisdom, Uriel provides illumination and guidance in times of confusion.

 

Thrones:

The Thrones, described in Colossians 1:16, are associated with the divine justice and judgment of God. They are depicted as fiery wheels or thrones covered in eyes, representing their insight and wisdom. Thrones have the responsibility of upholding divine justice and ensuring the order and harmony of the universe.

Associations: Justice, Judgement, Order, Harmony,

 

Dominions:

Dominions, mentioned in Colossians 1:16 and Ephesians 1:21, are associated with the governance of the cosmos. They are depicted as majestic beings adorned with crowns and sceptres. Dominions oversee the work of lower angels, guiding and directing them to fulfil God's divine plans.

Associations: Governance,  Management.

 

Elohim (Godly Beings):

Elohim, mentioned in Psalms 82:1, are considered angelic beings in Jewish mysticism. They are associated with divine judgment and justice, overseeing the earthly realm and ensuring the fulfilment of God's will.

 Associations: Judgment, Justice.

 

Virtues:

The Virtues, mentioned in Ephesians 1:21, are responsible for performing miracles and maintaining the natural order of the world. They are depicted as radiant beings, often with wings. Virtues carry out God's extraordinary acts and intervene in human affairs when necessary.

Associations: Miracles, Nature, Order, Intervention.

 

Malachim (Messengers):

Malachim are the general messengers of God in Jewish mysticism. They are responsible for delivering divine messages and fulfilling specific missions on behalf of God. They can appear in human form, often serving as guides and protectors.

Assocations: Messengers, Interaction, Mission and Purpose, Guides, Protection.

 

Powers:

Powers, described in Ephesians 1:21, are associated with protecting and defending the divine realm. They are depicted as warriors or soldiers, equipped with weapons and armour. Powers confront and defeat spiritual forces of evil, safeguarding the spiritual realm.

Associations: Spiritual warfare, Combat, Security, Defence.

 

Ophanim (Wheels):

Ophanim, mentioned in Ezekiel 1:15-21 and 10:9-13, are celestial beings associated with the divine chariot. They are described as fiery wheels covered in eyes, symbolizing their all-seeing nature. Ophanim are responsible for the movement and transportation of the divine chariot.

Association: Awareness, End times.

Archangels:

Archangels, mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and Jude 1:9, are known for their leadership roles among the angels. The word "archangel" translates to "chief angel.”. Archangels serve as messengers and carry out important missions on behalf of God.

Named Archangels:

-  Archangel Michael:
In Christianity, Archangel Michael is considered the leader of the heavenly armies, known for his protective and warrior-like qualities. He is often depicted as a strong and mighty figure, clad in armour and wielding a sword. Michael's primary role is to defend and protect humanity, leading the battle against evil forces. References: The Holy Bible (Daniel 10:13, Revelation 12:7-9).

In Islam, Michael (Mikail) is recognized as one of the four archangels. He is described as having immense wings and is responsible for overseeing natural phenomena, such as rain, wind, and thunder. Michael's role is to carry out God's commands related to the weather and the distribution of sustenance to all creatures. References: The Quran (2:98, 6:95).

Associations: Spiritual warefare, Protection and Defence, Weather, Provision to Nature.

- Archangel Gabriel:
In Christianity, Archangel Gabriel is known as the messenger of God, delivering important revelations and announcements. Gabriel is often depicted as a graceful figure with wings, holding a trumpet or scroll. His most notable role is delivering the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary, announcing the birth of Jesus Christ. References: The Holy Bible (Luke 1:26-38).

In Islam, Gabriel (Jibril) is considered the chief among the angels. He is described as having six hundred wings and an awe-inspiring appearance. Gabriel's primary role is to deliver God's messages to the prophets, including the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. References: The Quran (2:97-98, 66:4).

Associations: Messenger, Announcements, Revelation.

- Archangel Raphael:
In Christianity, Archangel Raphael is known as the healer and guide. He is often depicted as a compassionate figure with wings, holding a staff or a vessel containing healing balm. Raphael's primary role is to bring healing and guidance to individuals in need, both physically and spiritually. (Tobit 12:15).

Associations, Spiritual and Physical Healing, Guidance.

- Archangel Uriel:
Archangel Uriel's presence can be found in various belief systems, including Christianity and Gnosticism within The Book of Enoch (20:2-7). He is often associated with wisdom, enlightenment, and judgment. Uriel is depicted as a serene figure, sometimes holding a book or a flame, symbolizing knowledge and illumination. His role includes guiding individuals towards divine wisdom and assisting in discerning between right and wrong.

Associations: Wisdom, Enlightenment, Discernment

5. Archangel Jophiel:
Archangel Jophiel's presence is prominent in the Christian and Jewish traditions. Jophiel is associated with beauty, creativity, and the preservation of divine order. Depictions of Jophiel often show a graceful figure adorned with colourful robes and holding a flaming sword or a lantern. Jophiel's role includes inspiring creativity, removing negativity, and guiding individuals towards a deeper appreciation of beauty and harmony.

Assocations: Beaty, Creativity, Order, Positivity, Harmony.

6, Israfil:

Israfi is a prominent angel in Islamic tradition, who holds a significant position in the celestial hierarchy. He is often linked to the end of the world and the resurrection. The exact rank of Israfil may vary in different interpretations and sources, but he is widely recognized as one of the four prominent archangels in Islam. Israfil is believed to play a crucial role in heralding the Day of Judgment by blowing the trumpet.

Associations: End times, Day of judgment.

7. Azrael:

Azrael is an angel mentioned in multiple religious traditions, such as Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. In Islamic belief, Azrael is commonly known as the Angel of Death. It is believed that he is entrusted with the task of gathering the souls of individuals when they pass away. The exact position of Azrael may vary in different interpretations and sources, but he is generally recognized as one of the significant archangels in Islam, alongside Gabriel, Michael, and Israfil. Azrael is believed to possess extensive knowledge and authority concerning matters of life after death.

Associations: Passing from life to death

 

Guardian Angels:

Although not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, guardian angels are mentioned indirectly in various passages. For example, in the New Testament, Jesus states that children have their angels in heaven who always see the face of God (Matthew 18:10). Additionally, Hebrews 1:14 states that angels are ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. Guardian angels are believed to be assigned to individuals, providing protection, guidance, and support throughout their lives.

In Islam, guardian angels are mentioned in the Quran. Surah Al-Infitar (82:10-12) states that every individual has two recording angels, one on the right and one on the left, who record all their deeds. These angels are responsible for keeping a record of one's actions throughout their life.

Judaism also acknowledges the presence of guardian angels. In Jewish mystical texts, such as the Zohar and Talmud, there are references to guardian angels assigned to each person from birth. These angels provide protection, guidance, and support throughout one's life.

In Sikhism, guardian angels are referred to as "Cherdi Kalas," which means "the watchful guardians." Sikh scripture, known as Guru Granth Sahib, contains references to these guardian angels who protect and guide individuals on their spiritual journey.

Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion, mentions guardian angels called "Farrs" or "Fravashis." These divine spirits are believed to be ancestral guardians who watch over and protect individuals, families, and the entire community.

Associations: Protection, Guidance, Guardianship, Support.

 

General Angel Symbol Associations:

At a very basic level, angels are often seen as celestial beings or divine messengers that bridge the gap between the earthly and the spiritual realms. They are typically associated with qualities and concepts such as:

1. Divine Presence: Angels are seen as manifestations of the divine or as emissaries of a higher power, representing the presence of a higher spiritual reality beyond the physical world.

2. Protection: Angels are often viewed as protective beings, offering guidance, support, and safeguarding individuals from harm or negative influences.

3. Guidance and Assistance: Angels are believed to provide guidance, wisdom, and assistance, helping individuals navigate their spiritual paths or providing insights and inspiration in times of need.

4. Goodness and Virtue: Angels are commonly associated with qualities such as goodness, purity, compassion, and love. They are seen as embodiments of positive virtues and divine attributes.

5. Intermediaries: Angels are perceived as intermediaries between humans and the divine or as messengers conveying divine messages, revelations, or interventions.

 

Conclusion:

Angels have long fascinated humanity, embodying various qualities and performing specific tasks across different religious and spiritual traditions. From messengers and protectors to intermediaries and symbolic representations of divine virtues, angels play an integral role in bridging the gap between the earthly and spiritual realms. While the names and tasks of angels may vary across cultures and religions, their underlying significance remains constant: to bring guidance, protection, and divine intervention to those who seek it. It's no wonder that angel themed items are such popular gifts décor, and so frequently used in healing crystals and  spiritual  practices

Explore the enchanting world of angels, and embrace their timeless wisdom and ethereal presence on your own spiritual journey.

References:

1. The Holy Bible, New International Version.
2. The Quran, translated by Saheeh International.
3. The Book of Enoch, translated by R.H. Charles.
4. Ginzburg, L. (1998). Legends of the Bible. Jewish Publication Society.
5. Zohar and Sefer Raziel HaMalakh.
6. Scholem, G. (1995). Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism. Schocken Books.
7. The Torah, Jewish Publication Society Tanakh.