In various theistic religious traditions, spanning Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and certain sects of Hinduism and Buddhism, the concept of angels is deeply ingrained. These celestial beings are considered supernatural entities, existing to serve the divine will of God.Within the Abrahamic religions, angels are commonly portrayed as benevolent intermediaries connecting God with humanity. They serve various roles, including acting as protectors, guides (guardian angels), and direct servants of God. Angelic hierarchies, with specific names like Gabriel or Michael, and titles such as seraph or archangel, are outlined in these traditions. Those expelled from Heaven are identified as fallen angels, a distinct group from the heavenly host.
Artistic representations often depict angels with bird wings, halos, and emanating divine light. Typically, angels are depicted as beings of extraordinary beauty resembling humans, although occasionally they may take on a frightening, inhuman appearance.The etymology of the word "angel" traces back through Old English and Old French to Late Latin angelus, borrowed from Late Greek ἄγγελος (angelos), meaning "messenger." The term's earliest form is found in Mycenaean a-ke-ro, attested in Linear B syllabic script. Linguists suggest a possible Oriental loan for the term.
Understanding the concept of angels requires historical context. In polytheistic and animistic worldviews, various supernatural powers were attributed to natural phenomena. In monotheistic frameworks, these powers were redefined as servants of the supreme deity, becoming what we now recognize as angels. Prominent angels like Michael and Gabriel in Abrahamic religions reflect a connection to the Chief Semitic deity El. Even figures traditionally considered "bad" angels, such as Satan or Iblis, are seen as operating forces within human nature.
The concept of angels in early Hebrew scripture was absent, with the Hebrew deity directly intervening in human affairs. Post-exilic and prophetic writings introduced the idea of angels as intermediaries, and Zoroastrian influence contributed to the emergence of angels as embodiments of good, in contrast to evil forces.
In Zoroastrianism, various angel-like figures, including guardian angels called Fravashi, play significant roles. These entities patronize humans and manifest God's energy. The Amesha Spentas, often regarded as angels, represent different aspects of creation.
In Judaism, angels, known as mal'āḵ in Hebrew, are understood as supernatural beings standing by God in heaven but subordinate to Him. The Hebrew Bible uses terms like "messenger of God" and "sons of God" to refer to beings interpreted as angels. The concept evolves in post-Biblical Judaism, with specific angels gaining unique personalities and roles.
The Christian concept of angels in its early stages characterized them as messengers of God. The New Testament mentions angels as spiritual beings intermediate between God and humanity. Individual angels like Gabriel, Michael, Raphael, and Uriel are identified, each associated with specific functions.
Christian theology, particularly the works of Augustine of Hippo and Gregory of Nazianzus, interprets angels as pure spirits acting as messengers of God. The Fourth Lateran Council and the First Vatican Council clarified doctrines about angels, asserting their created nature.
In the Middle Ages, Thomas Aquinas contributed to Christian angelology, stating that angels were created instantaneously by God in a state of grace. Angels, according to Aquinas, are pure spirits without material bodies, possessing metaphysical compositions of act and potency.
The New Church denominations, influenced by Emanuel Swedenborg's writings, emphasize that angels have human forms with spiritual bodies. Adherents believe that angels originate from the human race and serve specific functions in the spiritual world.
In the Latter Day Saint movement, angels are viewed as messengers of God, delivering messages, teaching doctrines, and guiding humanity. Joseph Smith and other early leaders reported numerous angelic visitations.
Islam considers belief in angels fundamental. The Quranic word for angel, Malāk, implies control or messenger. Angels are central to Islamic eschatology, theology, and philosophy, with duties such as communicating revelations, recording actions, and taking souls at death.Islamic angels are often represented in anthropomorphic forms with wings, but Islam rejects pictorial depictions of angels. Some scholars have proposed metaphorical reinterpretations of angels in contemporary times.Islamic scholars have developed a doctrine of angelic infallibility, characterizing angels as mere messengers who do not disobey or act arrogantly. This doctrine emphasizes the purity of angels, excluding them from sinfulness.
the concept of angels is deeply rooted in various religious traditions, portraying these supernatural beings as messengers and servants of the divine. The understanding of angels has evolved over time, shaped by theological, philosophical, and cultural influences within each religious framework.
