SERAPH

Seraph (singular) or seraphim (plural) is a term in Jewish and Christian angelology for a class of celestial beings. The word derives from Hebrew saraph, meaning “fiery” or “burning,” and the plural form is saraphim. In the Hebrew Bible, seraphim are depicted as exalted beings associated with fire and worship, serving around God’s throne.

In Isaiah 6:1–7, seraphim are described as having six wings: with two covering the face, two covering the feet, and two for flying. They minister around the throne, call to one another, and proclaim, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts.” One seraph then touches the prophet’s lips with a live coal to purify him, enabling him to speak for God.

In Christian theology, seraphim are commonly regarded as the highest order of angels within the traditional ninefold celestial hierarchy, a classification elaborated by later writers such as Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite. They are associated with fiery zeal for God and with purification by divine fire, and they are considered the closest beings to the divine presence.

Iconography often depicts seraphim as winged, fiery beings surrounding a throne, frequently shown with six wings. They symbolize divine holiness and the fervent love of God; their fiery imagery underscores purification and devotion. The term appears primarily in religious texts and theological writings, while in Islam the specific term seraphim is not used and fiery angelic beings are described differently. In modern usage, seraph is sometimes employed in literature and popular culture to denote a high-ranking or ardently devoted angel.