nine
celestial orders of
Angels
|
Until the New Testament there were only two orders of angels,
the Seraphim and Cherubim. St.Paul added seven new
orders. They are arranged according to
their importance: Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, Dominations, Virtues, Powers,
Principalities, Archangels and Angels.
|
Seraphim - a celestial being
having three pairs of wings. The first of the nine orders of
angels in medieval angelology. They regulate the heavens. |
|
Cherubim -sent to
guard the gates of Eden. Originally they were depicted as the
bearers of God's throne, as charioteers, and as powerful
beings with four wings and four faces. Usually shown with blue
wings. Here shown with a more acceptable one face. |
|
Thrones called the 'many eyed
ones' have the duty of carrying out God's decisions. They are
often represented as fiery wheels. |
|
DOMINIONS - their job is to
regulate the duties of the other Angels and ensure that God's
wishes are carried out. |
|
VIRTUES - the Angels of Grace who bring God's blessings to
Earth, usually in the form of miracles. Known as the 'brilliant' or
"shinning'" ones, they are associated with acts of heroism and bring
courage when needed.
|
|
POWERS - their job is to prevent
the 'fallen angels' from taking over the world and keeping the
Universe in balance, perhaps with celestial music. |
|
|
|
PRINCIPALITIES - the Guardian
Angels of cities, nations and rulers, and guards against the
invasion of evil angels. |
|
Archangels - They
carry God's most important messages to humans. |
From Wikipedia:
Angelic Council
Orthodox
icon
of the seven archangels. From left to right:
Jegudiel,
Gabriel,
Selaphiel,
Michael,
Uriel,
Raphael,
Barachiel. Beneath the
mandorla of Christ-Emmanuel
are representations of
Cherubim (blue) and
Seraphim (red) |
Link to
All About Archangels
Angel - A typically benevolent
celestial being that acts as an intermediary between heaven and
earth, especially in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and
Zoroastrianism. A guardian spirit or guiding influence. |
|
|
|
|