angel

An angel is a supernatural being found in many religions and mythologies. The word comes from the Latin angelus, itself from the Greek aggelos, meaning “messenger.” In religious contexts, angels are often portrayed as beings who convey messages from the divine, assist humans, or mediate between the sacred and the mortal world.

In Judaism and Christianity, angels are typically understood as created beings who act as agents of God. They may appear in visions or dreams, deliver revelations to prophets, guide individuals, or protect communities. Beliefs about their nature, number, and functions have varied across traditions and historical periods.

Christian tradition recognizes a hierarchy of angels, including archangels such as Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, though lists and emphasis differ by denomination. Some strands also recount fallen angels, notably Satan, who is depicted as rebelling against God in later Christian writings. Angels are often described in biblical and apocryphal literature as benevolent guardians, messengers, or mighty emissaries of God, and they have been prominent in Christian art and liturgy.

In Islam, angels (mala’ika) are regarded as beings created from light who worship God and possess no free will. They perform various tasks, including conveying revelations, recording human deeds, and managing natural processes. Prominent angels include Jibril (Gabriel), who delivered the Qur’an, and Israfil and Azrael, among others.

Beyond theology, angels have a long presence in culture, literature, art, and film. They are commonly depicted with wings and radiant forms, though iconography varies. The term angel is also used metaphorically to describe compassionate or helpful people.