Archangels

Archangels are represented as the seven principal angels or rulers of the heavenly choir. Scripture gives us the names of four-viz., Michael, Gabriel, Raphael arid Uriel; tradition supplies-the other three-viz., Chamuel, Jophiel, and Zadkiel. Michael is represented as the guardian and protector of the Jewish Church; and, when the synagogue gave place to the Church of Christ. he became the patron of the Church militant. He is mentioned in Scripture five times. Gabriel was the archangel who announced to Mary the conception of our Blessed Lord, and to Zacharias the birth of John the Baptist. Raphael was the guardian and protector of Tobias. Tradition says that it was Raphael who appeared to the shepherds by night, announcing our Blessed Lord's nativity. Uriel appeared to Esdras to interpret God's will to him (2 Esdras 4). It was Chamuel who wrestled with Jacob. Tradition also says it was he who appeared to our Lord in the garden of Gethsemane. Jophiel was guardian of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, and drove out Adam and Eve from Paradise. It was Zadkiel who stayed the hand of Abraham when about to offer up Isaac. See ANGELS. .

⇒Bible concordance for ARCHANGEL.

⇒Definition of archangel

⇒See also the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia.