However, angels and archangels are viewed somewhat differently, serving as guardians of specific places and/or persons in addition to being messengers for God. The Term Archangel is termed as an intensifying of this view, with the prefix arch denoting an increase of some kind. Specifically, an Archangel is a ruler of some kind, or an outstanding, principle, or preeminent in nature. Within Christianity, traditions hold that there are up to seven Archangels in total (See Ezek. 9:2 and Rev. 8:2), three of which are mentioned within the standard works and/or the apocrypha, all of whom we should be passingly familar with. But what are the names of the other four? Well, according to tradition, they have been given many different names, but I will choose the most interesting ones to share momentarily.
It is worth noting that the seven Archangels are sort of seen in a similar light to a pagan pantheon, with each Archangel being associated with and having "stewardship" over a specific area. So, here are their names, what they mean, and what they are associated with.
- Michael (Adam): Highest ranked of all the Archangels and the apparent Commander-in-Chief of the Legions of Heaven. Name means "One like unto God." Michael is associated with guardianship and protection, and it is said that He will seek to protect those who righteously call upon God.
- Raphael (Thought to be Enoch): The Angel of Healing. Name means "God has Healed", "God Heals", or "Healing Power of God." Raphael is associated with doctors and healers. As such he is known as the Angel of Healing, and it is said that he will use the power of God to heal both humans and animals.
- Gabriel (Noah): The Messenger Angel. Name means "Strength from God." He is of course, the messenger... but he is also associated with art, drama, and most forms of expression. In some traditions, Gabriel is thought to be female instead of male.
- Jophiel (???): Interestingly enough, Jophiel is female. Her name means "Beauty of God" and she is often associated with creativity and beauty.
- Ariel (???): Ariel is also interesting, because she is a female angel who shares similar traits with Gabriel and Raphael. She is associated with the living things in nature as well as the elements, and is tasked with protecting the earth. Like Raphael and Gabriel, she is associated with protection and healing, but only specifically for the creatures in nature. Her name means "Lion or Lioness of God." Interesting side note: Ariel is also another name for the city of Jerusalem.
- Azrael (???): Azrael's name means "whom God helps." Often referred to as the Angel of Death. Associated with grief, death, and loss. Often deals with all forms of transitions. In a way, you could say that he's the equivalent to the Grim Reaper or a god of the underworld.
- Chamuel (???): His name means "he who sees God." He is a peacemaker, and seeks to drive out fear and negativity.
Why do I bring this up? Well, I dunno. I was originally going somewhere with this, but it slipped my mind when my attention was diverted for an hour or so.
