Archangel Gabriel | Article about Archangel Gabriel by The Free Dictionary Archangel Gabriel | Article about Archangel Gabriel by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Wikipedia . Related to Archangel Gabriel: archangels Gabriel (gā`brēəl), archangel, the divine herald. In the Bible he appears to Daniel (twice), to Zacharias, and to the Virgin Mary in the Annunciation (Dan. 8.16; 9.21; Luke 1.19,26,27). Christian tradition makes Gabriel the archangel trumpeter of the Last Judgment (1 Thes. 4.16). In Islam, Gabriel revealed the Qur'an to Muhammad, becoming the angel of truth. In art and literature Gabriel is mainly treated as the angel of the Annunciation. In the Annunciation he often carries a lily, properly the symbol of the Virgin. He is often represented on churches with trumpet raised and facing east, ready to proclaim the second coming of Christ. Feast: Sept. 29 (jointly with other archangels). Gabriel The Bible names only one of the angels who appear in connection with Jesus' birth.

The Gospel according to Luke states that the angel Gabriel appeared to the Blessed Virgin Mary to tell her that she would bear a son whom she should name Jesus (Luke 1:26-35). Christians call this event the Annunciation. Gabriel in the Bible Who is Gabriel and why was he sent to bear such important news? Religious scholars often begin a discussion of the angel by analyzing the meaning of his name. Some say it means "God is my warrior"; others translate it as "man of God." Still others believe it should be translated as "power of God" or "hero of God." Gabriel is one of only two angels mentioned by name in the Hebrew scriptures, or Old Testament (the other is Michael). In the Book of Daniel, Gabriel helps Daniel interpret his visions and informs him of God's plan for the end of time (Daniel 8-12). Gabriel returns again in the New Testament, or Christian scriptures. In the Gospel according to Luke he appears to Zechariah to tell him that he and his wife will conceive a child, John, who will serve as the forerunner to Jesus Christ (Luke 1:11-20).

Shortly afterwards Gabriel visits the Virgin Mary to announce her forthcoming pregnancy (Luke 1:26-38). Thus the Bible tends to cast Gabriel as God's herald. Because he frequently brings news of God's doings to human beings, he is sometimes referred to as the Angel of Revelation. Gabriel in Christian Art In the Gospel according to Luke Gabriel identifies himself as someone who "stand[s] in the presence of God" (Luke 1:19). This has led many Christians to conclude that he is one of the few high-ranking angels known as archangels. Over the centuries Christian artists have portrayed Gabriel as a solemn, male figure wearing beautiful robes. In earlier works of art Gabriel often carries a scepter. In more recent works he holds a lily, a symbol of the purity and goodness of the Virgin Mary. Jewish and Muslim Beliefs Jewish lore assigns Gabriel many different jobs. The Book of Enoch portrays him as an overseer of the Garden of Eden (see also Adam and Eve Day).

Other apocryphal texts and legends have shown him as one of the four angels who stand round the throne of God, a participant in the destruction of Sodom and the army of Sennacherib, and one of those who prayed for the world at the time of the Great Flood. Muslims, too, honor the angel Gabriel, whom they know as Jibril. They believe him to be the angel who dictated the Qur'an - the holy book of Islam - to the prophet Muhammad. Christian Lore Christian lore not only places Gabriel at the scene of Jesus' birth but also at the scene leading up to Jesus' death. Perhaps because of his biblical role as a herald, Christian legends have suggested that Gabriel was the unnamed angel that brought the good news of Jesus' birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-12). Another folk belief places Gabriel in the Garden of Gethsemane as Jesus prayed and waited for the men who would come to arrest him and condemn him to death. Both of these tales emphasize Gabriel's role as the angel of mercy. Michael, by contrast, functions as the angel of judgment.

(In Jewish lore these roles are reversed, with Michael serving as the angel of mercy while Gabriel acts as the angel of judgment.) Patronage In 1951 Pope Pius XII gave Gabriel a new role to play, modernizing his ancient task as a transmitter of messages. He declared Gabriel to be the patron saint of all those who work in the field of telecommunications. Gabriel also serves as the traditional patron of messengers, diplomats, clergy members, postal workers, and stamp collectors. Further Reading Davidson, Gustav. A Dictionary of Angels. New York: Free Press, 1967. Fallon, T. L. "Gabriel, Archangel." In New Catholic Encyclopedia. Volume 6. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1967. Godwin, Malcom. Angels: An Endangered Species. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1990. Pope, Hugh. "St. Gabriel the Archangel." In Charles B. Hervermann, ed. Catholic Encyclopedia. Nashville, Tenn.: T. Nelson, 1913. Available on the World Wide Web at: Strauss, Mark L.

"Gabriel." In David Noel Freedman, ed. Eerdmans Dic-tionary of the Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2000. Web Site "Gabriel the Archangel," a page available through Catholic Forum, a web site affiliated with Liturgical Publications of St. Louis, at: lic-forum.com/saints/saintg03.htm Gabriel Angels - Crystalinks Angels There are many ways to perceive angels, but more than likely they were ancient aliens who visited the planet and were part of the creation of this reality. Angels are usually viewed as emanations of a supreme divine being, sent to do the tasks of that being. Traditions vary as to whether angels have free will or are merely extensions of the supreme being's will. While the appearance of angels also varies, many views of angels give them a human shape. The word 'Angel' is taken from the Greek word 'Angelos' which means 'Messenger'. Angels are those souls who from the beginning of creation never lost contact with the Creator, never had physical lives, and seek only to fulfill the will of the Creator.

Angels can vary in form, depending on the needs and expectations of those requesting help. They may appear as either male or female, but are neither. They are beings of light energy. They came into being as a link between the Creator and humanity. They bring us messages to guide and protect us during the spiritual transformation that is taking place now on the planet. Angels are different in many respects from Spirit Guides. They usually come with a frequency of unconditional love whereas spirit guides have personalities and are often humorous and talk a lot! In the Middle Ages Angels were depicted as bringing messages, such as the birth of Christ. They were usually depicted as human-like beings, which huge wings, halos, and radiating white light. Angels have been recognized by major religions as having a very important place in the overall plan of creation. The idea of Angels is significant in Judeo-Christian religious thought. In both the Old and New Testaments, angels are identified as belonging to specifically named groups, in a kind of celestial hierarchy, consisting of Nine Orders.

Before the advent of Christianity, angels as messengers had their belief counterparts in Ancient Greece, where Hermes - ( Thoth - Tehuti ) was considered a messenger of God, and in Rome , where he was called Mercury. The Vikings also had a messenger God called Hermod. As we prepare to return to a higher level of consciousness many people are connecting with Angels. Though they usually do not remain with one person exclusively, they can come to when you call them. The Choir The Choir is the name used for the order of angels, a method of organization that proposes a kind of celestial hierarchy for the entire angelic realm. The term choirs is probably derived from one of the most central roles of all angels, the singing of praises to God so that all of heaven and Creation reverberate with the joyous sound. The inderlying principle of the angelic choirs is rooted in the metaphysical understanding of varying degrees of angelic perfection or the extent to which each order reflects the perfect light of God's illuminative love. The Angels of creation are a group of seven angels who are said to have been in existence before Creation of the world.

That angels may have been created before the birth of the world is attested to by this passage in Job (38). According to the Second Book of Enoch, a useful source for angelic lore, the seven angels reside in the sixth heaven.There remains, however, serious discussion among angelologists as to when God created the angels. Angel Choir The ninth and final order of angels according to the organization of the celestial hierarchy as created by the sixth-century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite; the angels belong to the third and final triad of choirs, with the archangels and principalities, the primary focus of their existence being the caretakership of humanity and the world. While the lowest rank of all angelic beings-if one accepts the idea of a regulated angelic organization-angels are nevertheless members of the heavenly host and thus possess the profound and beautiful attributes given to them by their Creator. They are beings of pure spirituality and exist to fulfill the tasks given to them by God. Chief among these are to act as messengers of the Lord to the Earth and guardians of the human soul. We are most familiar with the angel realms. Angels work most closely with humanity.

There are angels for healing, illumination, creativity, nature, music, dance, writing and literature, protection, emotions, politics, science and technology, devotion, purity, information, salvation, environment, transformation, peace, art, relationships, ceremonial order and magic. All you have to do is call (invoke) them and they will come. Guardian Angels Also called tutelary angels, the well established and widely accepted belief that all people (as well as nations, cities, and churches) have a special angel who stays with them, watching over their lives and encouraging their spiritual well-being and happiness. Many deny that guardian angels could possibly exist, but others state, with the support of Scripture, theological writings, and common sense, that they do live, even if mortals forget or refuse to acknowledge their presense. The idea of the guardian angel is found in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and the roots of the belief date to the earliest times. St. Thomas Aquinas, one of history's foremost experts on angels, stated that all people have guardian angels. They remain with one throughout life, staying ever at one's side even during sin.

They foster good works and help to direct the soul to salvation, but only if the soul is so inclined to be led.They cannot influence the will, but they do act upon the senses and project themselves upon the imagination and intellect, discouraging evil acts. According to Thomas, the angels remain even after death, standing with the soul in heaven; there, however, it does not encourage salvation, but assists in the glimpsing of the final brightness of eternal bliss. All guardian angels are taken from the lowest ranks of the celestial hierarchy, namely the choir of angels. Angels of the Last Judgment The angels who are to appear at the Last Judgment, the final day, when all who have ever lived will be brought before the throne of God. The idea of the Last Judgment is especially prominent in Islamic and Christian lore. In the latter, the angel Israfel shall play a blast upon his mighty trumpet to awaken the slumbering dead. Some angels will be spared the effects of the first blasts, but after the third or fourth even they shall be destroyed by the Lord and the end of time will have descended upon all of creation.

In the Christian tradition, the Second Coming of Christ will be announced not by Israfel, but by Gabriel, who will likewise sound an irresistible note upon his trumpet. Also prominent in the expected Day of Judgment is St. Michael the Archangel, captain of the hosts of the Lord, who will presumably have just led the heavenly hosts in their final triumph over Satan and the legions of darkness. Garden of Eden The Earthly Paradise that was the first abode of Adam and Eve until their expulsion from the garden, an event recorded in the Old Testament Book of Genesis. Deriving its name perhaps from the Sumerian word eden, meaning "plain" (or perhaps from a word denoting "pleasure"), Eden was supposedly located in the Near East, close to Israel, its precise locale narrowed by the position of four rivers that formed out of the river that flowed out of Eden and nourished the garden: the Pishon, the Gihon, the Trigris, and the Euphrates, rivers that would seem to place the garden in the fertile crescent. Attempts to locate the garden, however, have (not surprisingly) proven unsuccessful.

Beyond the fearsome cherubim (listed often as Metatron or Jophiel), there are a number of associations between angels and the garden. For example, the famed archangel Raphael is said to be the angel responsible for guarding the tree of life; this angel was also named by John Dryden in his poem "State of Innocence, or the Fall of Man," as being the very angry angel who tossed Adam and Eve out of Paradise. In Paradise Lost by John Milton, however, this task was given to the archangel Michael. Angel of Egypt The angel who is charged with the special protection and guardianship of Egypt. Ranked as one of the guardian angels of nations (see Guardian Angels), this angelic patron has been given various identifications, including Samael (a chief angel of the fallen angels), Mastema (the accusing angel), and Duma. The latter angel is most often considered the proper angel of Egypt.

He was most vociferous in defense of his charges, going so far in legend as to empower the accomplished wizards of Egypt to perform the same feats of magic as Moses when the Lawgiver arrived at the court of the pharaoh and tried to impress him enough that the Israelites should be freed from their bondage (an event recorded in the Old Testament Book of Exodus). According to legend, recounted in Louis Ginzberg's The Legends of the Jews, the angel descended to the land of the Nile to give succor to his people upon departure of the Jews, stopping long enough to put a fright into the Israelites by an impressive demonstration in the air. As Jewish custom declares all the guardian angels of nations to have fallen (save, of course, for the ever-redoubtable St. Michael), the angel of Egypt joined denizens of the hoary netherworld; it is unclear whether the Lord ever appointed a successor. Elders The collective name given to a group of twenty-four beings who sit upon thrones encircling the throne of God, as described by St. John in the Book of Revelation.

It is often believed by scholars and interpreters of Revelation that the elders are, in fact, to be counted as great angels, perhaps a secret or distinct order of angelic beings. It is unclear where exactly the elders reside, although the Second Book of Enoch lists them as inhabiting part of the first of Elohim The Hebrew name for God (Yahweh), the plural of eloha, meaning "god"; while technically a plural word, the singular Elohim was used and understood as the Hebrew conception of the God of Israel, the one true God. In Hebrew texts of the Old Testament, the word Elohim was used variously with other words or conjunctions such as ha- to make entirely clear that this is "the" God and not some other deity or personage. This grammatical addition was considered essential because elohim had also been used for earlier goddesses-its root, in fact, came from the Canaanite word el-and for such beings as angels. The application of elohim (perhaps to be defined as "sons of God") has been given to angels in the sense that they represent God as messengers and thus are equatable or synonymous with God himself.

It can be argued, however, that the elohim might constitute their own order or choir, as was maintained by the fifteenth-century scholar Pico della Mirandola. When he compiled his own list of the angelic choirs, he placed the elohim in ninth place. Watchers Also termed the grigori, a group of angels who figure in Jewish legend; they are reputed to have members who fell onto sin and others who stayed devoted to the cause of the Lord. Originally the watchers were apparently some of the most august angels in all of heaven. They never slept, kept eternal vigilance over heaven, and were some of the tallest beings in all creation. According to the Book of Jubilees (supported to some degree by the First Book of Enoch), they were sent to earth to give instruction to mortals on nature and other knowledge considered useful for them to have by the Lord. Unfortunately several watchers became enamored with human women and so cohabited with them. Their offspring were the nephilim, the giants who were mentioned in the Book of Genesis and who supposedly troubled the world with their cruelty and evil; the nephilim were all but exterminated in the Flood.

There is also another group of mighty angels called the watchers. Known in Hebrew as the irin or irin qaddisin, these angels are said in the Third Book of Enoch to number only two and are the close companions of the holy ones. They are greater than all the other angels combined, matched by no other other creatures in the entire heavenly host. They reside directly next to the very throne of God and, with the holy ones, act as the court officials of heaven, debating every case that comes before the blessed throne. The watchers and the holy ones were mentioned in the Book of Daniel (4:17). Angels of the Week The angels who have authority over the seven days of the week-in much the same fashion as there are angels presiding over the planets, hours of the day, and months of the year. The angels give their particular day their special attention and in legend can be invoked to assist a person in some endeavor or need. The angels and their days are reported in The Magus (1801) by Francis Barrett: Sunday-Michael Pisces: Barchiel Flames A choir or order of angels that appears in a certain aspect of Jewish lore.

An angelic choir by the name of flames is not normally counted among the traditionally accepted orders of angels. They can perhaps be equated with one of the recognized choirs of angels. Manna By tradition, the food of the angels and the blessed in heaven; it is best known as the food sent to the Israelites as they fled from Egypt and wandered in the desert under the leadership of Moses. Meaning in Aramaic "What is this?" manna was described in the Book of Exodus as "like coriander seed, white, and the taste of it was like wafers made with honey." This is generally accepted meal of the angelic hosts, although there is naturally some question why angels, being entirely spiritual creatures, might have need for substantial food. Merkabah Angels The collective name for those angels appearing in the lore and traditions of the mystical Jewish sect of the Merkabah. The Merkabah ( or Merkava)-meaning "Chariot"-flourished in Judaism from the time of the first century A.D. and continued in various centers throughout the early Middle Ages.

Adherents of the sect believed in the necessity and desirability of using esoteric and mystical means to ascend through the great seven heavens or mansions, called hekhalot ( or hechaloth), to the glorious throne of God, which rests upon an in comparable chariot-the Merkabah. The seal-keeping angels are sometimes equated with the seven merkaboth, a group of angelic beings who stand as the corresponding figures of the seven heavens. They can perhaps also be identified as the virtual embodiment of the heavens themselves. Aside from these angels, the Merkabah accepted that there were groups of angels always surrounding the throne of God. These were said to include the seraphim, the galgallim, and especially the hayyoth. Messengers One of the most important of all duties of angels, so much so that the very Hebrew word mal'akh and greek word angelos, denoting these beings, both mean "messenger." The angel stands as one of the central intermediaries or representatives of the Lord to humanity.

Existing entirely at the will and in the service of God, the angel is frequently dispatched to earth to deliver some important revelation or declaration, usually having much impact upon the lives of the recipients. Aside from the other tasks given to them in relating to earthly affairs, angels are mentioned frequently in the Bible in the ministering role of messengers. While angels have many other duties in tradition, both in heaven and on earth, their role as messengers is still one central to their existence, serving to remind an often forgetful world that God loves all of his Creation and is concerned for its well-being. Spiritual Hierachy of the Angelic Kingdom The name given to certain powerful and highly placed angels who are honored with the title of prince or ruling princes of heaven. The angelic princes are found especially in Jewish lore, with princes governing not only the seven heavens, but the angelic orders or choirs.

Following are some of the princes of the individual choirs: Seraphim: Michael, Metatron, Uriel, Seraphiel, and Satan (before his Fall) Cherubim: Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Zophiel, and Sata (before his fall) Thrones: Zaphkiel, Raziel, Orifiel, and Jophiel Dominations: Zadkiel, Zacharel, and Muriel Virtues: Gabriel, Michael, Uzziel, Tarshish, Sabriel, and Peliel Powers: Camael, Gabriel, Verchiel, and Satan (before his Fall) Principalities: Amael, Nisroch, and Haniel Archangels: Metatron, Raphael, Michael, Gabriel, Barachiel, Jehudiel, and Satan (before his Fall) Angels: Gabriel, Chayyliel, Phaleg, and Adnachiel First - Highest Sphere Seraphim - Choirs The highest and most splendid of the nine accepted angelic orders as developed by the sixth-century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite and largely embraced by the Christian Church.

Not only are the seraphim the highest of the nine choirs, they are ranked first in the first triad of the Dionysian scheme, with the cherubim and the thrones. Without question they are the closest in all of heaven to the very throne of God, and their primary function is to circle the incomprehensibly beautiful throne in perpetual adoration of the Lord. According to Enoch, each seraphim has six wings. The last detail is corroborated by the Old Testament Book of Isaiah (6:1-3). They are celestial angels that are said to surround the throne of God. They are the regulators of the movements of the heavens and have untold responsibilities in the administration of God's infinite universe. Heavenly counselors - guardians of the Light throughout the universe. Have little contact with beings on Earth. They keep celestial records. The Sumerian original version of them was that they were entities that were relatively fierce looking beings that had the body of an ox or horse and the face of a man with a long beard and wings. They were supposed to have been sent to guard the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden. There are twelve master seraphim: 1.

Epochal angels: direction of the affaires of each generation and root race 2. Progress angels: initiate the evolutionary process of creatures 3. Religious guardians: angels of the church 4. Angels of national life: angels of the trumpets, direct political performance 5. Angels of the races: work for conservation of the evolutionary process 6. Angels of the future: forecast and predict the future 7. Angels of enlightment: planetary education, mental and moral training 8. Angels of health: angelic healing corps 9. The home seraphim: preservation and advancement of the home. 10. Angels of industry: foster industrial development 11. Angels of diversion: play, humor, rest, and human leisure 12. Angels of superhuman ministry: angels of the angels. Cheribum - Choir The second of the nine accepted choirs of angels, placed second as well in the first triad of the angelic hieraechy (with the seraphim and thrones) devised by the sixth-century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite.

The cherubim are some of the most powerful and awe-inspiring of all angels, standing below only the seraphim in direct closeness to God; they thus are second only to their seraphic brethren in the degree to which they emanate the love of God and possess knowledge and wisdom. Their illuminative knowledge and wisdom are thus so great as to be utterly incomprehensible to the mortal mind, blinding the blessed human who has the honor of actually beholding them in this world. The cherubim are additionally given the arduous task of maintaining the records of heaven and seeing to the myriad details that must be fulfilled to maintain the heavenly host. Dionysius declared them to be guardians of the fixed stars. By the Hebrews they were called kerub, a name that may mean "one who intercedes"; Their chiefs are named as being Cherubiel Kerubiel), Ophaniel, Gabriel, Uriel, Raphael, and Zophiel. Thrones - Choir They are heavenly counselors and companion angels of all of the planets. One of the nine choirs of angels, as accepted on lore and determined by the sixth century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite.

Called the ophanim or galgallim in Hebrew traditions, the thrones are also termed the "wheels" and the "many-eyed ones." The name 'wheels' was derived from the Hebrew word ophanim (later galgallim, "wheels" or "spheres"), itself based on the vivid description of these angels found in the Old Testament Book of Ezekiel (1:13-19). They belong to the first and highest triad of the heavenly host, standing just below the seraphim and the cherubim; this position makes them some of the most powerful angels in the service of the Lord. According to St. Thomas Aquinas, the thrones have the task of pondering the disposition of divine judgments, meaning that they carry out or fulfill the divine justice of the Lord. Like their counterparts in the first angelic triad, they come the closet of all angels to spiritual perfection and emanate the light of God with mirrorlike goodness. In some Jewish lore the thrones function within the heavenly scheme of things as either the chariots upon which the throne of God rests (the Merkabah) or as the wheels of the chariot.

This imagery is expressed fully in the Old Testament Book of Ezekiel (1:13-21), where they appeared with the cherubim. Second Sphere - Heavenly Governors Domination Choir One of the nine accepted orders or choirs of angels, called also the dominions and the lords and termed in the Hebrew the hashmallim. In the celestial hierarchy as organized by sixth-century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite, the dominations belong to the second triad, with the virtures and powers, and are ranked fourth overall among the angelic choirs. The chief or ruling princes of the order are said to be Hashmal, Zadkiel, Muriel, and Zacharael. According to Dionysius, the denomintions have the duty in the heavenly host of regulating the tasks of the angels, and "through them the majesty of God is manifested.' Through the efforts of the dominations-who are naturally seen only rarely by mortals-the very order of the cosmos is maintained. They handle the minute details of cosmic life and existence, designating tasks to the lower orders of angels.

By custom they are believed to wear green and gold, and their symbols are the sword and scepter, denoting their lordship over all created things. In turn, the dominations receive their instructions from the cherubim or thrones. Virtues Choir One of the nine choirs of angels as listed by the sixth-century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite. The virtues are ranked fifth in the heavenly host and belong to the second triad of angelic orders, with dominations and powers; as members of the second triad, they take part in the duties given to the three choirs, namely the ordering of the universe. The virtues specifically preside over the elements of the world and the process of celestrial life. Thus all heavenly bodies-from the stars and planets to the galaxies themselves-are kept in their divinely appointed routes and progress. On earth the angels maintain a watch over nature, marking and guiding every facet of natural life; rain, wind, snow, etc. In legend, two angels from this choir served as the angels of the Ascension, appearing at the moment of the Ascension of Christ. The virtues are called in the Hebrew the malakim and the tarshishim.

Powers - Choir One of the nine accepted choirs of angels according to the celestial organization developed by the sixth century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite; also called potentates, authorities, dynamis, and forces, the powers are placed in the second triad of the nine choirs and are numbered sixth overall. The powers were supposedly the very first of the angels created by God, although this disagrees with the teaching that all angels came into existence at the same moment. They are described as having the task of defeating the efforts of the demons in overthrowing the world and are declared the awesome defenders of the cosmos against all evil and the maintaners of all cosmic order and equilibrium. They are guardians of the heavenly paths, policing the routes to and from heaven to the earth, which means that they concern themselves as well with humanity. Third Sphere - Heavenly Messengers Principalities - Choir One of the nine accepted choirs of angels as organized by the sixth-century theologian Dionysius and adopted largely by the Christian church. The principalities are placed first in the third triad of angels (with the archangels and angels) and are ranked seventh overall.

Also called princedoms and princes, these angels are the first of the choirs most concerned with the earth and are traditionally declared to have the roles of caretakers over every nation, province, county, district, city, town, village, and house, working with the guardian angels, who are assigned to every spot and person; while this seems to be bureaucratic doubling of angelic activity, it can be argued that guardian angels function as the personal angelic protectors, while the principalities are the administrative or technical writers. Archangel - Choir One of the accepted choirs of angels as established by the sixth-century theologian Dionysius the Areopagite; the archangels are ranked eighth in the nine choirs, above angels and below principalities. The chiefs of the choir are given as Metatron, Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Barachiel, and Barbiel, although of them Michael is most commonly mentioned as leader the seven heavens; here they act as "rulers of the stellar orders." Archangel Michael Michael is an archangel mentioned in the Book of Revelation 12:7; in the Hebrew Bible Michael is only mentioned by name in the Persian context of the post-Exilic Book of Daniel.

Only there in Daniel does Michael appear as "one of the chief princes" who in Daniel's vision comes to the angel Gabriel's aid in his contest with the angel of Persia, and is also described there as the advocate of Israel (10:21, 12:1). The Talmud tradition rendered his name as meaning "who is like El (God)? (but literally "El's Likeness")" (compare the late prophet Micah), but according to Rabbi Simeon ben Lakish (230-270 CE), all the specific names for the angels were brought back by the Jews from Babylon, and many modern commentators would agree. Michael is one of the principal angels in Abrahamic tradition; his name was said to have been the war-cry of the angels in the battle fought in heaven against Satan and his followers. The figure of Michael probably originated in Chaldaea as a protective god or spirit. Accepted by the Jews, he emerged as so major an angel in Jewish lore that he was honored as the patron angel of the nations (out of seventy, or seventy-two according to other sources) who did not fall from grace, his bias entirely understood since it favored God's Chosen People.

Much of the late Midrash detail about Michael was transmitted to Christian mythology through the Book of Enoch whence it was taken up and further elaborated. In late medieval Christianity, Michael together with St George became the patron of chivalry, and the patron of the first chivalric order of France, the Order of Saint Michael of 1469. In the British honors system, a chivalric order founded in 1818 is also named for these two saints, the Order of St Michael and St George. St Michael is also considered in many Christian circles as the patron saint of the warrior. Police Officers and Soldiers particularly American paratroopers regard him as their patron saint. Catholics refer to him as St. Michael the Archangel and also simply as Saint Michael while Orthodox Christians refer to him as the Taxiarch Archangel Michael or simply Archangel Michael. Gabriel Gabriel is an archangel whose name means "God is my strength" and who is the one of the most beloved of all members of the heavenly host. Gabriel is also one of the highest ranked of all angels and is only one of two (or three) actually named angels in the entire Bible, with Michael and Raphael.

Among the Jews, Gabriel's power and strength-as implied by his very name-were frequently noted in legends and tales. He has been called the angel of the power of God and also the angel of judgment and has been equated with thunder and majesty. In the role of judgment angel he will supposedly appear on the last day and blow the final trumpet that will call all of the living and the dead to come forth and face the final, irrevocable judgment of the Lord. Known in the Arabic as Jibril, Gabriel has a prominent role in Islamic teachings, for he believed to have dictated the entire Qur'an, surah by surah, to Muhammad and is called the angel of truth and the chief of the four favored angels. Raphael Raphael is one of the seven archangels and one of the best loved of all angels. Raphael is honored as the regent of the sun, the angel of healing, the angel of science, the angel of knowledge, head of the guardian angels, and chief of the angelic orders of virtues, although he is also a member of the seraphim, the dominations, and the cherubim.

Raphael, whose name means "God has healed," is best known for his appearance in the Book of Tobit. Raphael is said to possess the happiest disposition of any of the angels, having as well the best sense of humor. This may well be a result of his close relationship with the sun; he is, after all, regent of the orb and was called by the poet Longfellow the angel of the sun. He delights in bringing health, happiness, and joy everywhere he goes and encourages the guardian angels in their work. Uriel Uriel is one of the archangels of post-Exilic Rabbinic tradition, and also of certain Christian traditions. His name may have analogies with Uriah. In apocryphal, kabbalistic and occult works Uriel has been equated or confused with Urial, Nuriel, Uryan, Jeremiel, Vretil, Sariel, Suriel, Puruel, Phanuel, Jehoel, Jacob, Ezrail/Azrael and Israfil/Raphael. Elijah Elijah is a prophet of the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament.

His name has been variously translated as "the Lord is God", "whose God is the Lord", "God the Lord", "the strong Lord", "God of the Lord", "my God is the Lord", "the Lord is my God", and "my God is Jehovah". Metatron is linked with creation and Sacred Geometry. Enoch History and Legends of Saint Gabriel and The Horn History and Legends of Saint Gabriel and The Horn The San Gabriel's Horn Story History How It Came to Be 'The Horn', as it has come to be known, is the result of more than one dream. It was originally designed and then finally built in 1985 by Georgetown Medical Doctor, Tom Parker. Parker raised his family on the site for two decades, relishing in its natural and un-retouched beauty. In 2005 the property of 5 acres and panoramic views of the San Gabriel Georgetown River Valley was placed on the market for sale by Parker. After almost 2 years of poor economy and the failure of the property to find a buyer, time gave way to attrition. Attrition took a heavy toll on the once proud and secluded private river retreat.

Left un-maintained and empty, the property depreciated while time altered some things. Toll Road TX 130 was built, Georgetown grew to need a larger high school and expanded east on TX 29, and Williamson County became the fastest growing county in the Texas Hill Country, which literally translated to mean 'one of the most popular places in the US'. Other things, some really tough things occurred in nature. The record breaking drought of '06 and then worse, the sustained floods of early-summer 2007 came unpredicted. Time saw 'The Horn' become the unwitting home to numerous wild animals, snakes and vagrants that elevated with the river. Exposed to the elements and unrelenting moisture, foundation failures forced walls out and down as much as four inches on both sides and across the front of the house. The once beautiful brick face of the unique architecture became broken, weathered, and near enough to complete collapse, that most restoration contractors declared it a 'tear-down and rebuild'. In the fall of '07 the property was purchased by Ray Palla, a native son of Williamson County. Born in Taylor, TX, Ray had the idea of a rebirth for the San Gabriel River home.

Using a map of 'the horn of the river' as his template, Ray began reinventing the property with the hope of returning to the community a gift of private sanctuary alongside San Gabriel River harmony and relaxation. Realizing the potential and growth in Georgetown and Williamson County Ray determined to build, 'San Gabriel's Horn'. Today 'The Horn' is exquisitely and proudly ongoing in its renewal and improvement. Browse our 'Photos' gallery or come see for yourself the magic of 'The Horn'!* "When Gabriel blows the horn we all go to paradise... 'The Horn' of the San Gabriel River is paradise now." - ray - 2007 (prior to restoration, unrefined) "'Left alone the Horn is just another diamond in the rough... A caring touch will give it some polish... I want to give it some 'Big State' style." * Tours by appointment: Tue-Thurs Noon-7PM - - - Legend Although San Gabriel's Horn is not affiliated with any particular religious bearing, organization, denomination or belief; the following information is provided for interest and the purpose of reporting historical legend and to reference and recognize otherwise documented literature. - - - Who is San (Saint) Gabriel?

Source: The Archangel Gabriel is called the Angel of the Annunciation because it was he who informed Mary that she had found favor with the Lord and that she would conceive in her womb the Son of God. The lilies Gabriel carries symbolize the purity of Mary. The Archangel Gabriel also announced to Zacharias that he would have a son born to him who would be John the Baptist. It was the Archangel Gabriel who inspired Joan of Arc to go to the aid of the King of France. There is a tradition that Gabriel is the Angel of Birth. It is said that he carefully spends the nine months of the pregnancy watching over each unborn child and instructing that child on the necessary knowledge of Heaven that is an inherent part of all people. Just before birth, though, Gabriel touches each baby on the upper lip to make the child unable to remember all of the information about Heaven until the child returns to the spiritual state at death. The sign of Gabrielï¿½s Touch is the cleft just below the nose. Gabriel is the Governor of Eden, the ruler of the Cherubim. He is one of the two angels mentioned by name in the Old Testament, along with Michael.

Gabriel is the Angel of the Resurrection and the Angel of Mercy. He rules the first heaven, which is the heaven closest to humankind. In Jewish legend, it was Gabriel who dealt death and destruction to the sinful cities of Sodom and Gommorah. According to the Talmud (Sanhedrin 95b) it was Gabriel who destroyed the armies of Sennacherib "with a sharpened scythe which had been ready since Creation." The poet Longfellow, in his ï¿½The Golden Legendï¿½, makes Gabriel the angel of the moon who brings man the gift of hope. - - - The Archangel Gabriel Source: Gabriel is the third of the 4 Great Archangels, and Master of the Powers of Love. To visualize Him, you need to turn your minds' eye to the West, and imagine you are facing the shimmering image of this gentle Archangel of Water. His image before you is one of magnetic intensity; passive yet undeniably compelling.

The rich copper tones of sunset reflect in the sheen of his hair, as he stands in a muslin robe of gossamer blue, bedecked by a mist of sequined stars, as fragile and tenuous as an evening sky. He holds a brilliant chalice, encrusted in precious jewels, and filled to overflowing with the waters of life. Gabriel touches the heart and emotions, for he is the bringer of Love, and his chalice represents the notion of compassion amidst the sorrows of life. - as in much the same way we can find more time to rest at the end of a challenging day, sharing our feelings with those we care about, and maybe finding some forgiveness for ourselves and the wrong doing of others. The chalice represents the Holy Grail, the Cup of contentment, tenderness and joy, and reminds us that there is no need to fight for Love, for we can find it within ourselves. Great strength can be found in vulnerability. Gabriel is sometimes seen with the silhouette of an Eagle, fused in silver across his breast, which shimmers as he moves.

This represents the higher side of Scorpio, the invincible bird of prey that transcends the stars, and signals Transformation, Rebirth, and the rising of the Phoenix in a blaze of new life. If you watch carefully, Gabriel will smile down at you, an all pervading softness emanating from the lunar blue of his eyes, which hold within them the shadowy whisper of a hundred memories, born from yesterday. He turns and faces outwards across the shaded skies of dusk, raising the crystal flowing nectar high above his head, and remains, with wings outspread, in a stance of unconquerable receptivity. The cup of Gabriel is the cup of Love, and lies in the depths of our feelings and the ebb and flow of the tides. - - - ARCHANGEL GABRIEL, MESSENGER OF GOD (San Gabriel, Saint Gabriel Archangel, Angel Gabriel) Source: by: Cat Yronwode The Archangel Gabriel is the exalted Messenger of God, whose name means "The Strength of God" and whose deeds are recorded in the Jewish scriptures, where the spirit aided the Prophet Daniel in the interpretation of his dream-visions.

Although an important Jewish angel, Gabriel has touched the lives of those of different religions as well. In the Christian Bible, it is Gabriel who brings important news to Zachary and the Virgin Mary concerning their children-to-be, and many Christians believe that at the Last Judgment Gabriel will blow a sacred trumpet horn. Furthermore, according to Muslims, Gabriel dictated the Koran to Mohammed over a period of 23 years and also accompanied the Prophet on his Night Journey. Some people believe that Gabriel is a female spirit; others hold that angels have no gender. Because of Gabriel's role as a communicator and mediator between Heaven and Earth, Catholics hold the Archangel to be a Patron Saint of broadcasters, telecommunications workers, diplomats, messengers, postal workers, and stamp collectors. Because Gabriel helped the prophet Daniel interpret his dreams, those seeking similar aid with their own dream work may petition the Archangel for help. Additionally, because Gabriel announced the births of both John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, women hoping for heavenly assistance in trying to conceive children have reported benefits from keeping an Angel Gabriel novena candle burning in the home.

The picture of the Angel Gabriel on this page is taken from a Lucky Mojo brand Catholic novena candle label and shows the spirit appearing as an annunciator, a bringer of good news and understanding. Because of Gabriel's eminent position, holy cards, candles, and anointing oils bearing the likeness of this archangel have long been available in the marketplace. These are used by spiritual practitioners who wish to keep the image of Gabriel before them as a simple adjunct to their prayers and devotions. It is said that those who light a novena candle to the Archangel Gabriel will receive news they have been awaiting. There are a total of seven Archangels according to ancient Jewish beliefs -- of whom four are most commonly petitioned, those being Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel. In African American hoodoo folk magic or rootwork, two of them are associated with a powerful natural curio called Angelica Root or Archangel Root. Archangel Michael, the eldest, is used with Angelica Root as a defender of women. Archangel Gabriel who is concerned with the announcements of pregnancy, is allied with this root in its role as an herbal tonic for women's reproductive health.

It is my hope that the following prayer to the Archangel Gabriel will be of use to all, and will find service among those who request the intercession of this great and powerful heavenly being. PRAYER TO ARCHANGEL GABRIEL Alleged to Help in Communication and Conception Beloved Gabriel, Glorious Messenger of the Court of Heaven and most excellent Saint and Archangel, first minister of God, interpreter for Daniel the Prophet, instructor of Zachary the Priest, annunciator to our Holy Mother Mary, bringer of the word of truth: Please favor my devotions and help me to love and serve you, and, through you, to love and serve the Lord. O Gabriel Archangel, Angels (All parts) - The Religion of Islam Emailed: 5 Commented on: 1 Angels are beings created by God, from light.� They carry out the duties prescribed for them without flinching or hesitating. �Muslims gain their understanding of angels from the Quran and the authentic traditions of Prophet Muhammad.� In part one we established that angels are beautiful winged creatures, which come in various sizes and by the permission of God, are able to change their form.� The angels have names and duties they are required to perform.

The name most familiar to Muslims and non-Muslims alike is Gabriel (Jibreel). The angel Gabriel is referred to in both Jewish and Christian traditions as an archangel and messenger of God, and he [1] �holds great status in all three monotheistic religions. �Verily, this is the Word (this Quran brought by) an honourable messenger (Gabriel), from God to the Prophet Muhammad.� Owner of power, and high rank with (God, the Lord of the Throne). �Obeyed (by the angels), trustworthy there in the heavens.� (Quran 81:19-21) Gabriel brought down the words of God � the Quran � to Prophet Muhammad. �...Jibreel - for he brings down the (revelation) to your heart by God�s will, a confirmation of what went before, and guidance and glad tidings to those who believe�. (Quran 2:87) Michael (Mikaeel) is the angel responsible for rain and Israfeel is the angel who will blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgement. �These three are from the greatest of the angels due to the great importance of their duties.

Each of their duties deals with an aspect of life. Angel Gabriel brought the Quran from God to Prophet Muhammad, and the Quran nourishes the heart and the soul. Angel Michael is responsible for the rain, and it nourishes the earth and thus our physical bodies, Angel Israfeel is responsible for the blowing of the trumpet and it signals the beginning of life everlasting, either in Paradise or in Hell. When Prophet Muhammad rose in the night to pray he would begin his prayer with the words, �O God, Lord of Jibreel, Mikaeel and Israfeel, Creator of heaven and earth, Knower of the unseen and the seen. You are the Judge of the matters in which Your slaves differ.� Guide me with regard to disputed matters of Truth by Your permission, for You guide whomever You will to the Straight Path.� [2] We also know the names of several other angels.` Malik, is the angel known as the gatekeeper of Hell. �They [the people in Hell] will cry: �O Malik! Would that your Lord put an end to us!�. . .� (Quran 43:77) Munkar and Nakeer are the angels responsible for questioning people in their graves.

We know these names and understand that we will be questioned by angels in the grave as is mentioned in �the traditions of Prophet Muhammad. �When the deceased is buried, there come to him two blue-black angels, one of whom is called Munkar and the other Nakeer. They ask him, �What did you used to say about this man?� and he says what he used to say: �He is the slave and Messenger of God: I bear witness that there is no god except God and that Muhammad is the slave and Messenger of God. They say, �We knew beforehand that you used to say this.� Then his grave will be widened for him to a size of seventy cubits by seventy cubits and it will be illuminated for him. Then they tell him, �Sleep.� He says, �Go back to my family and tell them.� They tell him, �Sleep like a bridegroom whom no-one will wake up except his most beloved,� until God raises him up...� [3] In Quran we find the story of two angels named Haroot and Maroot, who were sent to Babylon to teach the people magic.

�The use of magic is forbidden in Islam but these angels were sent as a test for the people.� Before revealing or teaching magic Haroot and Maroot clearly warned the inhabitants of Babylon that they were sent as a trial, and that the buyers of magic would have no share in the hereafter, i.e. they would go to hell. (Quran 2:102) Although it is sometimes assumed that the Angel of Death is named Azraeel, there is nothing in Quran or the authentic traditions of Prophet Muhammad that indicates this.� We do not know the name of the Angel of Death but we do know his duty and that he has assistants. �Say: �The Angel of Death, who is set over you, will take your souls. Then you shall be brought to your Lord.� (Quran 32:11) Until when death approaches one of you, Our messengers (i.e. the Angel of Death and his assistants) take his soul, and they never neglect their duty. Then they are returned to God, their Master, the Just Lord.� (Quran 6:61-62) There are a group of Angels who travel throughout the world, seeking out people remembering God.

From the traditions of Prophet Muhammad we know that, �God has angels who travel the highways seeking out the people of remembrance.� When they find people remembering God, they call out to one another, �Come to what you hunger for!� and they enfold them with their wings, stretching up to the lowest heaven.

Their Lord asked then, and He knows better than them, �What are My slaves saying?� They say: �They are glorifying, magnifying, praising and extolling You.� He asks, �Have they seen Me?� They say, �No, by God, they have not seen You.� He asks, �And how would it be if they saw Me?� They say, �They would be even more fervent and devoted in their praise and worship.� He asks, �What are they asking me for?� They say, �They ask You for Paradise.� He asks, �And have they seen it?� They say, �No, by God, O Lord, they have not seen it.� He asks, �And how would it be if they saw it?� They say: �They would be even more eager for it and they would beseech You even more earnestly.� He asks, �And what do they seek My protection from?� They say, �From the Fire of Hell.� He asks, �Have they seen it?� They say, �No, by God, they have not seen it.� He asks, �And how would it be if they saw it?� They say: �

They would be even more afraid and anxious to escape it.� God says: �You are My witnesses that I have forgiven them.� One of the angels says: �So-and-so is not really one of them; he came (to the gathering) for some other reason.� Allah says, �They were all in the gathering, and one of them will not be excluded (from forgiveness).� [4] Muslims believe that angels have special duties to perform pertaining to human beings.

They guard and protect them, and two angels write down good and bad deeds. They witness prayers and one is even responsible for the foetuses in wombs.� In part three we will go into more detail and describe the associations between angels and human beings. Footnotes: [1] The use of the term he is for grammatical ease and in no way indicates that the angels are male. Emailed: 26 Commented on: 0 Muslims believe that angels play an active part in the lives of human beings.� This begins soon after conception and continues until the moment of death.� Angels and human beings even interact in the afterlife.� Angels usher people into Paradise and guard the gates of Hell.� Belief in the angels is one of the fundamental beliefs of Islam. From the traditions of Prophet Muhammad, we understand that a few months after conception life is breathed into it by the permission of God.� An angel then writes the answer to four questions in this human being�s book of deeds.� Will it be male or female?� Will this person be happy or sad?� How long will his or her life span be, and will this person perform good or bad deeds? [1] There are angels responsible for guarding people throughout their lives.

�For each (person), there are angels in succession, before and behind him.� They guard him by the Command of God.� (Quran 13:10) Each person has been assigned two recording angels.� These angels have honourable scribes and their duty is to write down all the good and bad deeds.� �. . . and He sends guardians (angels guarding and writing all of one�s good and bad deeds) over you . .

.� (Quran 6:61) �Or do they think that We hear not their secrets and their private counsel?� (Yes We do) and Our Messengers (appointed angels in charge of humankind) are by them, to record.� (Quran 43:80) �(Remember!) that the two receivers (recording angels) receive (each human being after he or she has attained the age of puberty), one sitting on the right and one on the left (to note his or her actions).� Not a word does he (or she) utter, but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it).� (Quran 50:17-18) �But verily, over you (are appointed angels in charge of humankind) to watch you,Kiraaman (honourable) kaatibeen - writing down (your deeds).� (Quran 82:10-11) The angels record in an honourable yet strict manner.� Not a single word is left unrecorded.� However, as always, God�s mercy is evident.� Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, explained that God has defined and given details about

 the methodology of recording good and evil deeds.

��Whoever intended to do a good deed, but did not do it, it is written for him as a complete good deed.

�If he actually performed the good deed then it is written as ten good deeds, or up to seven hundred times or more.� If a person intended to do an evil deed, but did not do it, it is written as a good deed, while if he entertained the thought and acted on it, it is written as a single evil deed.� [2] The renowned Islamic scholar Ibn Kathir commented on Quran 13:10-11� by saying, �Each person has angels who take turns in guarding him by night and day, who protect him from evil and from accidents, just as other angels take turns in recording his deeds, good and bad, by night and by day.� �Two angels, on the right and the left, record his deeds.� The one on the right writes down good deeds and the one on his left writes down evil deeds.� Two other angels guard him and protect him, one from behind, and one from in front.� So there are four angels by day and four others by night.� Apart from the four angels constantly with each human being, guarding, and recording, other angels continually visit human beings.� In his traditions, Prophet Muhammad reminds his followers that they are constantly being visited by angels.� He said, �Angels

 come to you in succession by night and day and all of them get together at the time of the Fajr (early morning) and Asr (afternoon) prayers.� Those who have passed the night with you (or stayed with you) ascend (to the Heaven) and God asks them, though He knows everything about you well, �In what state did you leave my slaves?�� The angels reply: �When we left them they were praying and when we reached them, they were praying.� [3] � They gather to witness the prayer and listen to the recited verses of Quran.

It can therefore be understood that angels are very much involved with the life of human beings and this interaction does not end when the angel of death removes the soul, nor does it end after the angels question the deceased person is his grave [4] .� Angels are the gatekeepers of Paradise. �And those who kept their duty to their Lord will be led to Paradise in groups, till, when they reach it, its gates will be opened and its keepers will say: Assalamu alaikum (May God�s peace be upon you!).� You have done well, so enter here, to abide therein.� (Quran 39:73) �And angels shall enter unto them from every gate (saying), �Assalamu Alaikum (May God�s peace be upon you) for you persevered in patience!� Excellent indeed is the final home!� (Quran13:23) Angels are also the gatekeepers of Hell.

�And what will make you know exactly what Hell-fire is?� It spares not (any sinner), nor does it leave (anything unburnt)!� Burning the skins!� Over it are nineteen (angels as guardians and keepers of Hell).� And We have set none but angels as guardians of the Fire, and We have fixed their number only as a trial for the disbelievers - in order that the People of the Scripture may arrive at a certainty and the believers may increase in Faith.� (Quran74:27-31) God created the angels from light.� They are unable to disobey God and follow His orders without flinching or hesitating.� Angels worship God. �It is their sustenance.� These noble creatures play a significant role in the life of human beings.� They guard and protect, record and report, and gather with human beings who remember God.� Footnotes: Register & Why? Registration Why register? This web site has several customizations made specifically for you, such as: your favorites, your history, marking articles you have previously viewed, listing articles published since your last visit, changing font size, and more.

These features are based on cookies and will work correctly only when you use the same computer. To enable these features from any computer, you should login while browsing this site. (Note: All your account details are kept private and not given to any third party.) The fields below are optional but the E-mail field will be necessary should you forget your password. Please enter below word Login Retrieve Your Password Please enter your Username and e-mail address then click on the Send Password button. You will receive a new password shortly. Use this new password to access the site. Please enter below word Gabriel (angel) | Article about Gabriel (angel) by The Free Dictionary Gabriel (angel) | Article about Gabriel (angel) by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Wikipedia . Gabriel (gā`brēəl), archangel, the divine herald. In the Bible he appears to Daniel (twice), to Zacharias, and to the Virgin Mary in the Annunciation (Dan. 8.16; 9.21; Luke 1.19,26,27). Christian tradition makes Gabriel the archangel trumpeter of the Last Judgment (1 Thes. 4.16).

In Islam, Gabriel revealed the Qur'an to Muhammad, becoming the angel of truth. In art and literature Gabriel is mainly treated as the angel of the Annunciation. In the Annunciation he often carries a lily, properly the symbol of the Virgin. He is often represented on churches with trumpet raised and facing east, ready to proclaim the second coming of Christ. Feast: Sept. 29 (jointly with other archangels). Gabriel The Bible names only one of the angels who appear in connection with Jesus' birth. The Gospel according to Luke states that the angel Gabriel appeared to the Blessed Virgin Mary to tell her that she would bear a son whom she should name Jesus (Luke 1:26-35). Christians call this event the Annunciation. Gabriel in the Bible Who is Gabriel and why was he sent to bear such important news? Religious scholars often begin a discussion of the angel by analyzing the meaning of his name.

Some say it means "God is my warrior"; others translate it as "man of God." Still others believe it should be translated as "power of God" or "hero of God." Gabriel is one of only two angels mentioned by name in the Hebrew scriptures, or Old Testament (the other is Michael). In the Book of Daniel, Gabriel helps Daniel interpret his visions and informs him of God's plan for the end of time (Daniel 8-12). Gabriel returns again in the New Testament, or Christian scriptures. In the Gospel according to Luke he appears to Zechariah to tell him that he and his wife will conceive a child, John, who will serve as the forerunner to Jesus Christ (Luke 1:11-20). Shortly afterwards Gabriel visits the Virgin Mary to announce her forthcoming pregnancy (Luke 1:26-38). Thus the Bible tends to cast Gabriel as God's herald. Because he frequently brings news of God's doings to human beings, he is sometimes referred to as the Angel of Revelation. Gabriel in Christian Art In the Gospel according to Luke Gabriel identifies himself as someone who "stand[s] in the presence of God" (Luke 1:19).

This has led many Christians to conclude that he is one of the few high-ranking angels known as archangels. Over the centuries Christian artists have portrayed Gabriel as a solemn, male figure wearing beautiful robes. In earlier works of art Gabriel often carries a scepter. In more recent works he holds a lily, a symbol of the purity and goodness of the Virgin Mary. Jewish and Muslim Beliefs Jewish lore assigns Gabriel many different jobs. The Book of Enoch portrays him as an overseer of the Garden of Eden (see also Adam and Eve Day). Other apocryphal texts and legends have shown him as one of the four angels who stand round the throne of God, a participant in the destruction of Sodom and the army of Sennacherib, and one of those who prayed for the world at the time of the Great Flood. Muslims, too, honor the angel Gabriel, whom they know as Jibril. They believe him to be the angel who dictated the Qur'an - the holy book of Islam - to the prophet Muhammad. Christian Lore Christian lore not only places Gabriel at the scene of Jesus' birth but also at the scene leading up to Jesus' death.

Perhaps because of his biblical role as a herald, Christian legends have suggested that Gabriel was the unnamed angel that brought the good news of Jesus' birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-12). Another folk belief places Gabriel in the Garden of Gethsemane as Jesus prayed and waited for the men who would come to arrest him and condemn him to death. Both of these tales emphasize Gabriel's role as the angel of mercy. Michael, by contrast, functions as the angel of judgment. (In Jewish lore these roles are reversed, with Michael serving as the angel of mercy while Gabriel acts as the angel of judgment.) Patronage In 1951 Pope Pius XII gave Gabriel a new role to play, modernizing his ancient task as a transmitter of messages. He declared Gabriel to be the patron saint of all those who work in the field of telecommunications. Gabriel also serves as the traditional patron of messengers, diplomats, clergy members, postal workers, and stamp collectors. Further Reading Davidson, Gustav. A Dictionary of Angels. New York: Free Press, 1967. Fallon, T. L. "Gabriel, Archangel." In New Catholic Encyclopedia. Volume 6.

New York: McGraw-Hill, 1967. Godwin, Malcom. Angels: An Endangered Species. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1990. Pope, Hugh. "St. Gabriel the Archangel." In Charles B. Hervermann, ed. Catholic Encyclopedia. Nashville, Tenn.: T. Nelson, 1913. Available on the World Wide Web at: Strauss, Mark L. "Gabriel." In David Noel Freedman, ed. Eerdmans Dic-tionary of the Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2000. Web Site "Gabriel the Archangel," a page available through Catholic Forum, a web site affiliated with Liturgical Publications of St. Louis, at: lic-forum.com/saints/saintg03.htm Gabriel

Question: According to Christian tradition, which angel will blow his trumpet on judgement day?
Answer: Gabriel