Editing Angels in Christianity

'''Angels in Christianity''' are spiritual beings created by God who serve as messengers, servants, protectors, and executors of divine will. They are a central part of Christian theology, appearing throughout the Bible and later theological tradition.

== Overview ==

In Christian belief, angels are non-physical, immortal beings created by God to carry out divine purposes. They act as intermediaries between God and humanity, and are fully obedient to God in their unfallen state.

The word '''angel''' comes from the Greek ''angelos'', meaning "messenger."

== Nature of Angels ==

Christian theology generally describes angels as:

* Created by God
* Spiritual, non-corporeal beings
* Intelligent and rational
* Capable of obedience and (in some traditions) fall
* Invisible unless manifested by divine will

== Roles of Angels ==

Angels serve multiple functions in Christianity:

* Delivering divine messages
* Protecting individuals and nations
* Guiding humans spiritually
* Worshipping God
* Executing divine judgment
* Engaging in spiritual warfare

== Angelic Hierarchy ==

Christian angelology (especially Pseudo-Dionysian tradition) organizes angels into nine orders:

* [[Seraphim]]
* [[Cherubim]]
* [[Thrones]]
* [[Dominions]]
* [[Virtues]]
* [[Powers]]
* [[Principalities]]
* [[Archangels]]
* [[Angels]]

These are often grouped into three spheres:

=== First Sphere ===
Closest to God: Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones

=== Second Sphere ===
Cosmic governance: Dominions, Virtues, Powers

=== Third Sphere ===
Human interaction: Principalities, Archangels, Angels

== Major Angels in Christianity ==

=== Archangels ===
* [[Michael]] – protector and leader of heavenly armies
* [[Gabriel]] – messenger of divine revelation
* [[Raphael]] – healer and guide

== Guardian Angels ==

Christian tradition holds that individuals may be assigned guardian angels who:

* Protect and guide people
* Offer spiritual assistance
* Intercede before God on behalf of individuals

== Fallen Angels ==

Christian theology also describes fallen angels who rebelled against God and became associated with evil and deception, often linked with Satan.

== Symbolism ==

Angels in Christianity are commonly represented with:

* Wings
* Light or radiance
* White garments
* Swords, trumpets, or staffs

They symbolize:

* Divine presence
* Purity and holiness
* Protection
* Communication between heaven and earth

== Related Pages ==

* [[Angels]]
* [[Archangels]]
* [[Angelology]]
* [[Fallen Angels]]
* [[Michael]]
* [[Gabriel]]

[[Category:Angels & Celestial Beings]]
[[Category:Christian theology]]
[[Category:Angels in Christianity]]