Angels are heavenly beings that have been a pillar in many religions. They serve as messengers of God. Some believe that angels are here to protect us. Usually depicted as human figures with wings and dressed in long, flowing robes, they are some of the most recognizable figures in the world. They are also said to fight and have won every battle against demons and hell.
Purpose
They have different purposes for different people. They are considered divine beings who serve as messengers of God, exchanging messages between heaven and earth. They are known for their purity and virtue. For many, they bring comfort during difficult or fearful times. There are countless stories of angels visiting earth and protecting or guiding humans.
Origins
Celestial beings have always been part of religion. They serve as a source of comfort for many and are mentioned throughout the Old and New Testaments several times. They are a creation of God and serve many purposes, both in heaven and on earth.
Orders
There are nine orders of angels, all of which give us a small glimpse into their purpose and duties.
Seraphim
Seraphim is the name given to the highest order of angels. They sit before God’s throne and praise Him. They are said to have three sets of wings, one covering their faces, another covering their feet, and the last used for flying.
Cherubim
Cherubim are the second highest order of these heavenly beings. They are assumed to be male in appearance and guardians of God’s glory. The New Testament says that they will be assistants during the Apocalypse. Today, they are known in the Catholic religion as people who have intimate knowledge of God.
Thrones
Thrones are a unique group of angels. They can be found in an area of the cosmos where they help other lower groups of angels to access God. They are known for their humility, their desire for peace, and their complete submission to God.
Dominions
The Dominions regulate and supervise the actions of other angels. They are known as the commandments of God and also as the Angels of Leadership.
Virtues
Virtues control the elements. They control nature, including the seasons, the heavens, and the sun. They are in charge of miracles and promote courage and grace. They are sometimes known as the Brilliant Ones.
Powers
Powers fight against evil and protect both humans and the cosmos. They are known as Warrior Angels and fight against evil spirits that want to destroy humans and their spirits. The leader’s name is Camael or Samael, who is an angel of darkness.
Archangels
The archangels are some of the most recognizable. Many know Michael and Ezekiel, although there are seven in total. They are the orders most frequently mentioned in the Bible and have delivered God’s message in some of the most famous biblical stories.
Principalities
Principalities are a unique order of angels. In the New Testament, they were described as metaphysical beings, but they are now considered hostile to both humans and God.
Angels
Although their name is not as specific, this order refers to angels who are closest to humans, both in appearance and proximity. They deliver humans’ prayers to God and then bring God’s messages to humans. They are able to access all other angels when necessary. They are known for being supportive and social, helping humans in their times of need.
Family
God’s messengers do not marry or have families. They are creations of God and do not have traditional parents. They also do not have children. However, they live in units that can be recognized by humans as families.
Appearance
The mental image that most people have is not entirely accurate. While large wings, golden halos, and long, flowing robes are synonymous with heavenly messengers, there are no biblical descriptions of what angels actually look like. They are classified as spiritual beings. They have no physical form. They occupy space, so they have a form. It’s just that their description is unknown. However, the Bible says that there are several variations of angelic forms, both in heaven and on earth.
Symbolism
There are many symbols associated with these heavenly beings, some of which are designated for special types of angels. For example, outlines, such as those found in clouds, are associated with guardians. Wings are also linked to guardian angels, along with swords.
Pennies have become a symbol of God’s messengers. Many believe that angels leave pennies behind for humans as a sign of their concern. Feathers are said to symbolize blessings.
Halos are also a common symbol, usually included in costumes. Many believe that angels do not necessarily have halos, but rather emit an aura that is brighter than the human eye can recognize.
