(Introduction Portion of Meditation)
Introduction
This writing was excerpted from a previous monthly meditation where we visited and explored the angelic realm. It provides a brief introduction into the nature of angels.
Unlike other areas of spiritual studies, there doesn’t appear to exist the same depth and breadth of knowledge about the angelic realm and variety of angelic beings as there are in other spiritual spheres.
In fact, there is quite a bit of variation, even conflicting information, about the types of angels and each of their purposes.
What are Angels?
This brings us to the question, what are angels? According to the dictionary, an angel is a spiritual being believed to act as an attendant, agent, or messenger of God, conventionally represented in human form with wings and a long robe.
Those who study and work with angels know them to be far more than that limiting definition. They are functionaries of God, which means that the types of angels and the purpose of each goes far beyond our current knowledge.
In fact, the types of angels and their purposes may be quite vast, reflecting in their wide variety, the extensive nature of God.
Names, Types and Purposes of Angels
The names of the most commonly known angels often have more than one alias, this includes the archangels. The amount of inconsistency varies with the theological sources of the information, the era in which the information was written, cultural influences and the level of personal interaction with angels an individual may have, just to name a few.
Even the stated number that exists for any category of angels can and do vary with the source of the information.
The known types and purposes of angels seems to also vary for the same reasons.
Archangels
The Archangels are an example, as their number, as well as their names can change depending upon the informational source. Wikipedia has the names of the seven well known archangels listed as:
- Gabriel, who is associated with Sunday. His name means the strength of God or God’s strength.
- Michael, who is associated with Monday. His name means he who is as God. Of his many duties, he is the leader of the Archangels.
- Raphael, who is associated with Tuesday. His name means healing power of God.
- Uriel, who is associated with Wednesday. His name means God’s Light.
- Raguel (Selaphiel), who is associated with Thursday. His name means friend of God.
- Remiel, who is associated with Friday. His name means thunder of God.
- Sariel, who is associated with Saturday. His name means God’s command.
For the reasons previously mentioned, some of the archangel names may be missing or different from your own knowledge about them.
Other Types of Angelic Beings
Beyond the archangels, other sources list seraphs (like fiery flames), cherubs (small, often baby- or child-like), powers, virtues, regular angels, dominions, and thrones as different types of known angels; this list is clearly incomplete.
Each type of angel and their purpose is also varied, as there are messenger angels, guardian angels, angels for healing, wisdom, guidance, peace, and much more.
Angel of Death
Most of us are aware of the Angel of Death whose purpose is to meet with souls and help them with their transition to the next life. Some Hollywood movies and other writings have not always shed an accurate picture of this important angel.
Again, the types and purposes of angels are likely as varied as the types of other spiritual beings within Creation.
No one source comes close to being comprehensive when it comes to the knowledge of angels.
