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The Christian religion has its own traditions that originated in ancient times. Who are they Orthodox Archangels and what their true purpose can be determined by reading the Holy Book, where you can find explanations of how everything works. However, it is worth noting that knowledgeable theologians are not always able to decipher the texts presented in Scripture, so our article will help you understand the very basics of who the Archangels are, what their purpose is, and more.

Hierarchy of God's Messengers

Thrones, Cherubim, Seraphim are closest to us. Angels, Archangels and other heavenly powers are, first of all, messengers of the Lord who report on the glorious and great. Their hierarchy consists of 3 faces, each of which has 3:

  • to the Almighty, helping to fill people with love, wisdom and righteous judgment;
  • Powers, Dominances, Powers - help to maintain prudence, perform miracles and ward off evil spirits from a person;
  • Angels, Principalities, Archangels are the closest to people, enlightening minds, strengthening faith in God, directing them to the true path and governing the universe.

Evangelists of the third order are able to reveal not only God's prophecy and the understanding of his will, but also the knowledge of the Holy Scriptures and the sacraments of pious faith.

All Archangels, names and their meanings

To understand how such messengers of God act, one should again resort to the text of the Bible, which tells both about what miracles the Archangels performed, and about their images and the tasks that they perform. But alas, in most biblical texts there are some inconsistencies that do not allow us to obtain a more detailed picture of the calendar.

Below is the most reliable information about the messengers of God, which include:

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  1. (whose name means “The Lord is my strength”) - represents the messenger of God’s destinies. On miraculous images He is usually depicted holding a mirror in his hand, as a symbol of the fact that the great martyr fully conveys the essence of what is considered the thoughts and deeds of the Almighty.
  2. Michael (means like the Lord) - he shows all the Lord’s deeds. He is mainly depicted with a sword or spear in his hands and in a white robe. Based on the scripture, it was this Saint who was the first to rebel against Lucifer, which is why he is portrayed in such a warlike image. On some miraculous images he is represented as killing a monster or a snake, which is the embodiment of Lucifer. ascended by believers for help and intercession.
  3. The list of Archangels also includes Uriel, who is capable of illuminating human minds, that is, facilitating the mastery of many sciences. In church images he is depicted with fire in one hand and a sword in the other.
  4. Varahail - conveys Divine blessing. Usually represented on icons in pink robes.
  5. Jehudiel, whose name in translation sounds like the Lord's praise, is called upon to protect and encourage those believers who are truly worthy of it.
  6. Raphael helps those in need and has the gift of healing. According to one of the legends, it was this Saint who cured the bride of the Great Martyr Tobias.
  7. Selafiel is the supreme minister of prayer appeal.

How to ask for help from the Archangels

If an Orthodox believer wants to ask for protection and help from the Blagovestniks, then he should say special prayer requests, which can be found in the holy books or asked from a clergyman.

Here is one of these prayers that needs to be said in the morning and for the coming sleep:

“Oh, Saint Michael the Archangel, have mercy on us sinners who need your help, save us, the servants of God, from all visible and invisible troubles, deliver us from the horror of death and from the temptation of the devil and help us to stand before our God without shame in the hour of terrible and His righteous Judgment. Great Michael the Archangel, do not deprive us of your attention, sinful slaves who pray to you and other archangels for your help and intercession now and in the future. Help us together with you to glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen."

Only Michael is mentioned here, since according to all the rules, it is with him that one should enter into dialogue in the face of all the Saints, for he is the Lord’s main assistant, who observes everything that happens around people.

The Lord is always with you!

Chin / Archan-gel Description Day of celebration Mentioned in the Bible
Seraphi-we In translation, “flames” encourage love for God; (image of six-wings). 8/21 November Isa.6:2, 6
Cherubs-we “Much understanding”, through them enlightenment descends; (image of four-wings). Heb. 9:5
Thrones Through them, the right-of-judgment of God is predominantly manifested; (image in the form of wheels with many eyes on the rims). Col. 1:16
Authorities They tame the power of demons and repel temptations. Col. 1:16
Dominance Send down strength to the wise government of earthly authorities. Col. 1:16
Powers Strengthen people, give the blessings of miracles to God's people Eph. 1:21
Beginnings They govern everything, the laws of nature; peoples and countries protect them. Col. 1:16
Arkhan-ge-ly They are about the revelations of God. 1 Thessalonians 4:16;
Angels Bailiffs for the storage of every chri-sti-a-ni-na. Gen. 19:15; 32:1; Matthew 13:49;18:10
Arkhan-ge-ly
Michael

Heb. “who is like God”; Archistra-tig (military-chal-nick); on the icon, Dia-vo-la is stomping with her feet, in her left hand she holds a green fi-nine branch, in her right hand - a spear with a white banner (sometimes a flame sword), on which a red cross is inscribed. Placed by God over all nine angelic ranks.

8/21 November Jude 1:9; Dan. 3:92-95
Gabriel "The Power of God"; announces to people the great deeds of God; an image with a heavenly branch, with the Blessed Virgin, or with a luminous lantern in the right hand and a mirror jasper stone - in the left. Mar 26/Apr 8; Jul 13/26; Nov 8/21 Luke 1:26; Dan. 8:16
Raphael “Healing of God”; healer, doctor of God; depicted holding a vessel with healing sleep-to-beats and leading Tobias with his right hand, carrying a fish. 8/21 November Comrade 3:16; 12:15
Uriel "Light, fire of God"; enlightens people and inflames their hearts with love for God; is depicted holding a naked sword in his right hand at chest level, and a fiery flame in his lowered left hand. 8/21 November 3 Ride 5:20
Salafi-il “Prayer-crown of God”; is depicted with her hands, praying, but folded on her chest. 8/21 November 3 Ride 5:16
Yehudi-il “Glorifying God”; patron of monks and those who work for the glory of God; image holding a golden crown in his right hand, and in his left a scourge of three black ropes with three ends (reward to the saints and rewards) sin-no-kam). 8/21 November
Varahi-il “The blessing of God”; giver of the blessings and mercy of God; image Carrying white roses on their chests, as a sign of bliss in the Kingdom of Heaven, or roses on their clothes. 8/21 November Mentioned only in the Holy Tradition
Jeremi-il "The Height of God"; depicted holding scales in his hand. November 8/21 3 Ride 4:36

November was chosen for the Feast of the Angels because it is the ninth from March, which was once the beginning of the year, and the number nine corresponds to the nine ranks of angels.

Angels on icons are a set of symbols that convey to us not appearance, and the idea of ​​angels as messengers of God, because Angels do not have material flesh:

  • Wings- a symbol of speed and all penetration;
  • Staff- symbol of messengership;
  • Mirror(a sphere in the hand with the image of a cross or an abbreviation of the name of the Savior) - a symbol of the gift of foresight that God endowed the Angels with;
  • Toroki(developing golden “ribbons” in the hair) - a symbol of special hearing of God and obedience to His will;
  • "Eye" in the forehead– a symbol of all-vision;
  • The appearance of a beautiful youth- a symbol of perfection. IN Holy Scripture Angels sent by God, as a rule, appeared to chosen people in the form of beautiful, radiant young men in white vestments.

HOLY ARCHANGEL MICHAEL

Over all nine angelic ranks, the Lord placed Archangel Michael, whose name is Hebrew language means - who is like God.
Veneration of St. Archangel Michael in Orthodox Church goes back to the most ancient times. According to the meaning of the word, Michael is an Angel possessing extraordinary, unparalleled spiritual power.
Archangel Michael is the conqueror of adversaries, deliverer from all troubles and sorrows, protector of all Orthodox Christians from visible and invisible enemies and evil spirits.
They pray to Archangel Michael for deliverance from sorrow upon entering new house and on the foundation of the house, on the protection of the throne and the state, on the salvation and preservation of Russia.
Archangel Michael is also approached with prayers for healing. This is due to the above-mentioned veneration of Michael the Archangel as the conqueror of evil spirits, which in Christianity were considered the source of disease.
September 6 (19) celebration “Remembrance of the miracle of the Archangel Michael, who was in Khoneh (Colossae)” (IV).
November 8 (21) The Holy Church glorifies all the Heavenly Powers, headed by Archangel Michael. Archangel Michael is glorified as the leader of the Heavenly Forces and this holiday is called the Council of Archangel Michael and other disembodied Heavenly Forces.

Archangel Michael.

(Judaism, Christianity, Islam)

Also known as Beshte, Mika'il, Sabbatiel, Saint Michael.
The name Michael means "like God" or "one who looks like God." Archangel Michael is the leader among the archangels. He is involved in an organization of angels known as "The Powers". He controls the life purpose of light workers. Its main function is to rid the Earth and its inhabitants of the fears that poison their souls. The people he works with are called “Lightworkers,” and Michael assigns them to engage in spiritual teaching and healing work on a domestic or even professional level.

Michael has been an inspiration to Lightworkers since his time in the Garden of Eden, where he taught Adam how to cultivate the land, run a household, and take care of his family. Joan of Arc told her inquisitors that it was the Archangel Michael who gave her instructions and gave her the courage to lead France during the Hundred Years' War.

In 1950, he was canonized as St. Michael, the patron saint of police officers, because he helps to perform heroic deeds and gives courage. Archangel Michael is very tall, attractive in appearance, and usually carries a saber with him, with which he cuts off fears from us. If Michael is nearby, you may see sparks or flashes of bright blue or purple. Michael represents fiery energy. There were quite a few women in my audience who said that in his presence they felt hot and even sweated - until they realized that the cause of this was the Archangel Michael, and it was his presence that produced this heat.

Michael has an incredible ability to repair electrical and mechanical equipment, including computers. I called on him for help so many times when my computer became stubborn!

My student once called Mikhail when she had to fix a plumbing, although she had no idea how it was done. And she did it!
Michael guides and mentors those who feel confused, have difficulty identifying their life purpose or career growth. It stimulates those who lack motivation and those who are afraid to take action. Michael gives us instructions on what step to take next.

Helps
. In devotion and fidelity to convictions.
. Choose and maintain a direction, be bold.
. Stay fulfilled vitality and energy.
. In all aspects of life's purpose.
. Protects and motivates.
. Clears space and promotes spiritual definition, increased self-esteem and self-worth.

How to Summon
Call Michael whenever you are afraid or feel vulnerable. He will come to you immediately, give you courage, ensure your safety - both physical and emotional. You will feel his presence as if there is a warrior next to you. It will be almost the same as having a reliable bodyguard protecting you. Anyone who was planning to harm you will change their intention.
Michael does not require you to recite a formal formula when you call on him. He will come to anyone who needs him. For example, you can access it like this:
“Archangel Michael, come to me. I need your help [mentally describe a situation in which you need support]!”
You will feel his presence next to you as a characteristic warmth.

HOLY ARCHANGEL GABRIEL

Archangel Gabriel is the evangelist of the mysteries of God.
The name Gabriel translated from Hebrew means: man of God, strength of God, power of God.
Archangel Gabriel is one of the seven Archangels sent by God to announce to people the great deeds of God.
The Church calls Archangel Gabriel the minister of the miracles and mysteries of God, the herald of joy and salvation, the herald and servant of Divine omnipotence.
March 26 (April 8) the celebration in honor of the Archangel Gabriel is the day of the Council, because Christians on the next day of the Annunciation gather together to glorify the Holy Archangel with sacred songs, as the heavenly messenger of the great mystery of the incarnation of the Son of God. The Holy Archangel Gabriel is one of the seven spirits, “who bring the prayers of the saints and enter before the glory of the Holy One” (Tov. 12:15).
July 13 (26) - Cathedral of St. Archangel Gabriel. This holiday has existed since the 9th century and serves as a remembrance of all the generally miraculous appearances of the Archangel Gabriel.
November 8 (21) - Council of the Archangel Michael and other ethereal Heavenly Powers. Archangels: Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selafiel, Yehudiel, Barachiel and Jeremiel, where Archangel Gabriel is glorified with the entire Council of Heavenly Powers.
The Holy Church depicts the Archangel Gabriel with a branch of paradise in his hand, which he brought to the Mother of God, and sometimes to right hand with a lantern with a candle burning inside, and on the left - with a jasper mirror. They are depicted with a mirror because Archangel Gabriel is the messenger of God’s destinies for the salvation of the human race. They are depicted with a candle in a lantern because the destinies of God are hidden until the time of their fulfillment and, after their fulfillment, are comprehended only by those who steadily look into the mirror of the word of God and their conscience. Therefore, those who bear the name Gabriel have that “faith of God, for which,” according to the words of the Savior Himself, “nothing is impossible.”

Archangel Gabriel.
(Judaism, Christianity, Islam)

Also known as Abruil (Abruel), Djibril, Djiburili, Serafili(th).
Gabriel means "God is my strength." Gabriel is a very famous archangel. It was he who informed Elizabeth and Mary about the upcoming birth of their sons - John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth. Archangel Gabriel dictated to Mohammed the text of the holy book of Muslims - the Koran. Thus, Gabriel established himself as a "messenger angel." Gabriel's mission in the world is to help parents.
Gabriel primarily helps those hoping to conceive. Gives parents courage and strength, helps in gaining balance and grace-filled faith, which has the best effect on the formation and development of the baby.”
Gabriel's second mission is to help everyone whose activities or life goals are related to the art of communication. Contact Gabriel whenever you need help or guidance - whether you are an actor, artist, writer, dancer, journalist, model, musician, correspondent, singer, teacher or confessor.
Gabriel is known as powerful and strong archangel. All who call on him find themselves driven to active and fruitful action. Gabriel is the archangel of action!
He says: “I am here to help those who speak and speak out on behalf of society and its needs. Propaganda is a very ancient activity, and only a few things have changed over time due to inevitable technological advances. Now in other areas of life, art and the ability to speak have begun to play a significant role, empowering people who strive for change and respect. Let me provide opportunities for those of you who listen to your hearts to express, perform and create work of the highest caliber.”

Helps
. in parenthood and guardianship.
. Representatives of the arts.
. Conception and fertility.
. Journalists and writers, radio and television workers.

How to Summon
Before you begin any creative or communication project, ask Gabriel to guide you and control your actions by saying out loud or mentally:
“Archangel Gabriel, I ask for your presence as I [name or describe your project]. Please help me open my creative channels so that I can feel truly inspired. Help me open my consciousness (mind) so that I can give birth to new and unique ideas. And help me, by following the inspiration, fill these projects with energy and motivation. Thank you, Gabriel."

HOLY ARCHANGEL RAPHAEL

The month of November was chosen for the Feast of the Angels because it is the ninth from March, which was once the beginning of the year, and the number nine corresponds to the nine ranks of angels.

Archangel Raphael is a healer of human ailments, a guide, and a doctor of God.
The name Raphael translated from Hebrew means help, healing of God, healing of God, healer of human ailments (Tov. 3, 17; 12, 15).
Raphael will come where he is invited, but he cannot intervene unless there is the good will of that person. If a suffering person refuses spiritual healing, he cannot be forced. Yet, according to believers, Raphael's presence itself has a calming effect, and this helps to naturally reduce stress and anxiety.
In the Book of Tobit, Raphael travels with Tobius, the son of Tobit, and protects and preserves him during the journey. Then they began to perceive him as the patron saint of travelers. Raphael is an assistant when it comes to safe travel, and then all movements, overnight accommodations and problems with luggage are resolved well. It is also believed to help those on spiritual journeys find truth and guidance.
Raphael taught Tobias how to use fish medicinally to make healing balms and ointments. This is an example of the fact that Raphael not only carries out spiritual healing work with the sick and injured, but also tells human healers how to use earthly medicines. Healers can mentally invoke Raphael, asking for his guidance before or during treatment. Raphael also helps future healers with training.
Raphael is also a healer and advisor to wild and domestic animals. Raphael helped Tobius cure his blindness.
Archangels Raphael and Michael often work together.

Therefore, whoever wants to be worthy of the heavenly help of Archangel Raphael must himself be merciful to those in need. Moreover, the virtues of mercy and compassion should distinguish those who bear the name of Raphael - otherwise they will not have a spiritual union with the Archangel.
The Holy Church depicts Archangel Raphael holding a vessel with medical remedies in his slightly raised left hand and leading Tobias with his right hand, carrying fish caught in the Tigris River.

HOLY ARCHANGEL URIEL

Archangel Uriel is the fire or light of God, the enlightener of the darkened and ignorant, the enlightener of mental and physical feelings, the mentor of the lost, the motivator to prayer.
The name Uriel translated from Hebrew means light or fire of God, enlightener (3 Ezra 5:20).
Uriel, being the radiance of the Divine fire, is the enlightener of the darkened. As an Angel of light, he enlightens the minds of people with the revelation of truths that are useful to them; like the Angel of Divine Fire, he inflames hearts with love for God and destroys impure earthly attachments in them.

People devoted to science are your Archangel! Do not forget, following his example, to be servants not only of the light of truth, but also of the fire of Divine love. As the holy Apostle Paul said: “The understanding boasts of wickedness, but creates love” (1 Cor. 8:1). The Holy Archangel Uriel is depicted holding in his right hand, against his chest, a naked sword, and in his left hand, lowered down, a fiery flame, which marks a particularly strong zeal for God of this Archangel.

Archangel Uriel.

(Judaism, Christianity)

The name Uriel means "God is Light", or "Light of God", "fire of God", because he sheds light on a situation and gives prophetic information and warnings.
For example, Uriel warned Noah about the upcoming flood, helped the prophet Ezra interpret mystical predictions about the imminent coming of the Messiah, and transmitted Kabbalah to humanity. Uriel is also credited with imparting knowledge of the practice of alchemy - the art of transforming common metal into precious metal - as well as the ability to materialize out of thin air.
Uriel is rightfully considered one of the wisest archangels; he is like an elderly sage to whom you can turn for the necessary advice.

With Uriel’s personality, not everything is as definite as, for example, in the case of Mikhail. You may not realize that Uriel has come to you as an answer to your prayer until a brilliant new idea suddenly hits your mind.
Perhaps because of his connection with Noah, as well as his affinity with the natural elements of thunder and lightning, Uriel is considered an archangel who assists in natural disasters. Call on Uriel to prevent such phenomena or cope with their consequences.

Helps
. in alchemy, divine magic, research and writing.
. Resolves many problems, controls earth changes, promotes spiritual understanding.
. Supports in trials and apprenticeship, saves from natural disasters.

How to Summon
Since Uriel has many talents, it is good to summon him regularly. Imagine that he is your mentor, in charge of life lessons. One of the significant advantages of this archangel is that, in addition to basic information, he always provides us with additional information so that we can make an informed decision. You can summon Uriel by saying:
“Archangel Uriel, I ask for your wisdom in [describe the situation or issue you want to clarify]. I need full information so that I can clearly see the situation in its true light. Please help me make an informed decision by giving me every possible perspective in this case. Please help me to be very aware and understand this information and remain as open as possible. Thank you, Uriel."

HOLY ARCHANGEL SELAPHIL

Archangel Selaphiel (Salafiel) is God’s prayer book, always praying to God for people and encouraging people to pray, prayer book for the salvation and health of people.
The name Selafiel, translated from Hebrew, means prayer to God, God’s prayer book, encouraging prayer.

Saint Archangel Selaphiel is depicted with his face and eyes bowed down and with his hands folded in prayer on his chest, as is the case with a person tenderly praying.

HOLY ARCHANGEL JEHUDIEL

Archangel Jehudiel is the patron saint of ascetics and monastics, the glorifier of God, strengthening workers for the glory of God and interceding for reward for their exploits and labors, an assistant and mentor in work, an intercessor on the way, a helper to those in need of anything for the glory of God.
The name Yehudiel translated from Hebrew means “glorifying God, praising God.”
The ministry of Archangel Jehudiel is to strengthen people who work for the glory of God and to intercede for reward for their exploits.
The holy Archangel Jehudiel is depicted holding a golden crown in his right hand, and in his left hand a scourge of three black ropes with three ends - this signifies the reward from God to pious and holy people and punishment to sinners.

HOLY ARCHANGEL BARACHIL

Archangel Barachiel, according to the belief of the Church, is one of the three Angels who appeared to Abraham at the oak of Mamre. He predicted the birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah and confirmed the promise of salvation given by God in paradise to the entire human race in the person of Adam.

HOLY ARCHANGEL JEREMIEL

Archangel Jeremiel is the instiller of good and kind thoughts, the lifter of souls to God, the lifter of God's mercy to God.
The name Jeremiel, translated from Hebrew, means exaltation to God, the height of God.
Traditionally, the Archangel Jeremiel is depicted on icons holding scales in his right hand.
Archangel Jeremiel, according to legend, is sent to a person to facilitate his return to God.

Archangel Jeremiel.

(Judaism)

Also known as Ramiel, Remiel.
The name Jeremiel means "mercy of God." In ancient Jewish texts, Jeremiel is listed as one of the seven major archangels.
He is also associated with Baruch, the prolific author of apocryphal Jewish texts of the 1st century BC, namely with his prophetic gift. One such revelation catalyzed by Jeremiel was the prophecy of the coming of the Messiah. In another revelation, Jeremiel took Baruch on a journey through different levels Heaven.

In addition to being the archangel of prophetic revelation, Jeremiel also helps newly departed souls reconsider their lives. This is also possible for those living. If you want to take stock of your life up until now and make positive changes, call Jeremiel. It will help you fearlessly review your story and learn from previous experiences so that you can emerge stronger.

Jeremiel says: “Reviewing your life every day will bring enormous benefits - you will determine your next steps and stops. By regularly reviewing your life throughout its entirety, you are fulfilling a duty that will bring you joy in the next world. By then, you will have reconsidered your main steps and will not suffer or regret that you could have done something better. In another world revision life path more comprehensive, but you can do similar analysis in your lifetime. Set aside a quiet time for yourself, when no one will disturb you, and ask me to come into your thoughts. Or in a dream, at night. I will show you pictures of the main stages of your life, and the smallest details will emerge in your memory. This often refers to seemingly insignificant relationships with other people in which your realization occurs. This is the source from which we often learn life lessons. And then you can easily form your own worldview and make decisions based on what you have realized that will benefit both you and everyone associated with you.”

Helps
. in clairvoyance and the development of prophetic abilities.
. When reconsidering your life.
. In life changes.
. Promotes psychic visions and their interpretation.

How to Summon
If you are concerned about your future, call on Jeremiel:
“Archangel Jeremiel, please help me free myself from fears, worries and stress about my future and the future of this world. [Explain to the archangel what exactly the essence of the issue is, and describe the situation occupying your consciousness at the present time.] I ask you, please, open the veil of my future and the future world in which I live. Please give me clear and clear guidance on what I can do or change to contribute to a better future. Thank you".

Archangels and heavenly angels

Planet Earth is under the protection of seven Archangels: Chamuel, Gabriel, Michael, Raphael, Jophiel, Uriel, Zadkiel.

Each of the Archangels is subordinate to 12 angels.

1. Archangel Michael angels of protection obey ( blue color). You can contact them for protection from spiritual and physical dangers.
2. Archangel Jophiel the angels of illumination obey ( yellow color). You can ask them to discover the gift of clairvoyance, to successfully pass exams, to free themselves from bad habits.
3. Archangel Chamuel the angels of love obey ( Pink colour). They protect from other people’s anger and slander, help in finding work and lost things.
4. Archangel Gabriel angels obey, guiding on the true path ( white). You can ask them to receive joy, happiness, to discover life plans for the future.
5. Archangel Raphael the angels of healing (green) obey. You can ask them for healing of body and soul in traditional and alternative medicine.
6. Archangel Uriel the angels of peace (golden) obey. They can be asked for peaceful resolution of problems; educators, teachers and judges can turn to them.
7. Archangel Zadkiel the angels of joy (purple) obey. You can ask them for tolerance and assistance in diplomacy. Scientists, actors and singers can turn to them.

Archangels are "messengers carrying Divine instructions." They carry God's messages to people and lead God's army, consisting of angels and waging a constant battle with the sons of Darkness, with Michael being the commander-in-chief.
In works of art, archangels are usually depicted with larger wings and many eyes. Of all the archangels, Raphael, Gabriel and Michael are most often mentioned.

Among the nine angelic ranks, the archangels occupy the eighth place, entering the third hierarchy along with the principles and the angels themselves. The word "" literally means "".

The Bible contains direct references to archangels. One of them is in the first letter of the holy Apostle Paul to the Thessalonians. The Apostle speaks of the coming second coming of Jesus Christ, which will take place “with the voice of the archangel and the trumpet of God.” The Epistle of Jude mentions a specific archangel named Michael. The Bible does not name the names of other archangels, but in the book of the prophet Daniel the Archangel Michael is spoken of as “one of the first princes,” therefore, he is not the only archangel.

The main task of the archangels is to preach to people about God and convey his prophecies. They help people to know and assimilate the will of God and strengthen their faith.

The most famous of the archangels is the already mentioned Michael. He is called the “archistratigus,” i.e. a military leader, is depicted in military armor, with a spear and sword, and at his feet is a defeated man, personifying Satan, who rebelled against God. Archangel Michael is considered the patron saint of warriors.

Another famous archangel is Gabriel, the bearer of good news that gives people hope. He explained the meaning of the visions sent to the prophet by God. The main prophecy that Daniel heard from Gabriel concerned the coming birth of the Savior. The Archangel again announced this joyful event, when there was very little time left before it - he appeared to the Virgin Mary and said that she was destined to become the Mother of God. Christians call this event the Annunciation.

Archangel Raphael is mentioned in the non-canonical book of Tobias and is known as a healer and comforter. It is he who heals Tobias’s father and bride from serious illnesses. In all images, Raphael usually holds a bowl of medicine in one hand, and in the other, a trimmed bird feather, which in ancient times was used to lubricate wounds.

The Archangel Uriel is mentioned in the Book of Ezra. His name is translated as “fire of God” or “light of God”; he appears to be an enlightener of lost souls and the ignorant, and inflames human hearts with love. Uriel is considered the patron saint of scientists.

The Third Book of Ezra speaks of the archangel Selathiel, whose name means “prayer of God.” This archangel eternally prays to God for people, and encourages people themselves to pray. It was this archangel who appeared to Hagar, who was expelled by Sarah into the desert along with her son Ishmael. Praying in deep sadness, the unfortunate woman heard the voice of the archangel: “The Lord has heard your suffering.”

Other archangels are also known from legends and biblical texts. But no matter which of them we are talking about, their images are always associated with hope for man, the realization that God will never abandon his creation to the mercy of fate.

Orthodoxy has its own traditions, which were formed in ancient times. Who are the archangels and what is their purpose can be understood if you study Holy Scripture, which explains to us how everything works. But even experienced theologians are not always able to decipher biblical texts, so let’s go a little back to the basics and try to figure out who the archangels are and what their functions are.

Archangels in Orthodoxy

Firstly, these characters are a kind of “leaders” of ordinary people. Each archangel has his own name and functions. You can see images of these characters on the icons. Artists often paint archangels, paying special attention to every detail of the image, for example, attributes (spear, sword, trumpet).

The Orthodox faith says that there are seven archangels. The Bible does not say why the number of these characters is exactly that. The texts only mention that this is known only to God himself. The main one is the Archangel Michael. Besides him there are also Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selafiel, Jehudiel and Barachiel.

The holy archangels are called upon not only to protect man and guide him on the true path. Each character has its own functions, which it performs.

Archangels and their purpose in Orthodoxy

In order to understand what these characters are doing, let us turn again to the biblical texts. It is they who tell us about the exploits of the archangels, and about their appearance, and about the tasks that they perform. Unfortunately, in a number of biblical texts there are certain “inconsistencies” that do not allow us to more fully describe these saints.

  1. Michael expresses all the works of God. He is depicted in white robes and holding a spear or sword in his hands. According to the texts, it was Michael who first rebelled against Lucifer. Therefore, he is depicted in such a warlike appearance. In addition, in icons he often tramples a serpent or monster that personifies Lucifer.
  2. Gabriel is the messenger of God's destinies. On the icons he is depicted with a mirror in his hand, this is a symbol of the fact that the saint fully conveys the meaning of what are the deeds and thoughts of the Lord.
  3. Raphael responsible for help and healing. According to legends, it was he who healed the bride of the righteous Tobias.
  4. Uriel illuminates the human mind. On icons he is depicted with a sword in one hand and fire in the other. It promotes the study of various sciences.
  5. Selaphiel holds the post of chief minister.
  6. Name Yehudiel translated means God's praise. He protects a person and encourages those people who are worthy of it.
  7. Barachiel expresses the blessing of the Lord. He is depicted wearing pink clothes.

Thus, it becomes clear that each of God's archangels is responsible for performing certain tasks. If a person wants to ask for help and protection, he should pray to a certain saint. There are special prayers with which you can turn to the archangel.

How to ask for help from an archangel?

In order to ask for protection or something from the archangels, special prayers should be said. Priests recommend going to church, finding an icon that depicts a saint in charge of the area in which help is needed, and lighting a candle. In this case, you need to say a special prayer, the text of which can be found in holy books, or ask a priest.

Some people believe that you can only contact the archangels on a certain day of the week. But that's not true. If it happens that you need to ask for help, you can read the prayer at any time. That's what the priests say.