ANGELS

Angels: {Latin: angelus} ~ {Greek: angelos; "a supernatural being"} ~

{Hebrew: malak; "a messenger"}

A being empowered as a messenger of the divine, for divine justice, guidance and/or protection.

Overview

Humankind has been interested in the Angel kingdom since centuries. All those who believe in the existence of angels have their own theories and explanations.

It is a misconception that Angels are strictly Christian or non-pagan. They're not. Mythology of Angels existed long before Judaism and Christianity.

Angels also are major figures in Buddhism, Hinduism, Celtic and Norse mythology as well as in many Shamanistic legends. But not all of them call these entities "angels", just like not everyone refers to a prayer as a mantra, or a spell of protection a prayer, and so on. We all have our "labels" for what fundamentally are the same things.

The Buddhist for instance refers to angels as devas, or celestial beings. Some paths of Buddhism use the label Dharmapala's or dharma protectors. In Tibetan Buddhism, devas are sometimes considered to be emanations of bodhisattvas or enlightened beings.

Other paths of Buddhism have specific important devas, as they are often derived from pre-Buddhist cultures and religions and not from Buddhist philosophy itself. So, these paths incorporated pre-Buddhist local or regional mythology into their Buddhist paths long ago.

Hinduism has many different types of spiritual beings who act in a similar capacity to Angels. One example are the minor gods, or devas, referred to as the "shining ones". They inhabit the higher astral plane of the divine world. Gods, devas, planets like Sani (Saturn), gurus (teachers), and ancestors can all play a protective role for humans. The Asuras are also a component of Hinduism. They are also referred to as evil spirits or demons.

They are fallen devas who inhabit the lower astral plane, the mental plane of existence. Much like the fallen angels outlined in Christian philosophy. If an Asuras does a good dead, they can be reincarnated into devas and do not have to remain eternally in the lower plane.

Hinduism also includes Apsaras, who are heavenly nymphs, who preside over sacrifices, and lipika, who regulate karma. Devas and asuras can inspire or bring down aspirants, helping or hindering people on their spiritual journey.

In Norse mythology, the equivalent angels are the Valkyries who were originally sinister spirits of slaughter, dark angels of death who soared over the battlefields like birds of prey, carrying out a warrior’s fate in the name of Odin. They chose the heroes of the battle and took them away to Valhalla, the heavenly home of honor for Odin's ghostly army.

In later Norse mythology, the Valkyries were romanticized as Odin's Shield-Maidens, virgins with golden hair and snowy arms who served the chosen heroes everlasting mead and meat in the great hall of Valhalla. They also soared over the battlefield as lovely swan-maidens or splendid mounted Amazons. This was portrayed in the Volsung Saga and Niebelungenlied, where the heroine Brynhild was a beautiful fallen Valkyrie.

In Celtic mythology, the Faeries were often seen as the helpers of mankind. They too have many correlations to their deeds as an angel would. There are a few lesser Goddesses which also acted as Angels; and perhaps that's why they're often referred to as the lesser Goddesses. Such as the goddess Sirona.

While Metaphysics, Pagan Metaphysics and non-Pagan religions all have their concepts of Angels and Demons they are not exactly the same. The theories or beliefs coincide and overlap at some points, and others set in stone details or structures that cannot be crossed.

Where Have Angels Been?

Why now has there been a large increase in Angelic sightings and encounters? Why haven't they been here before? Well they have, but some mythologies suggest, they've been restricted from contact. Some of these mythologies also explain why the Angels left the Earth for a time and have now returned. One of the most common of these comes from the legends of Atlantis.

It seems to have started with the height of the Atlantean civil war which resulted in that continent's final destruction. This destruction created an enormous karmic shift in the Universal energies which cast our planet into a quarantine segregating our connection to the rest of the universe. Sort of Divine punishment.

After the fall of Atlantis, some believe the survivors spread out across the globe in what we know as the 12 Tribes of Abraham (the first children of God). It was at this time that the quarantine began in full steam, casting our wisdom and knowledge back a few hundred years and diminishing the guidance of the Angel kingdom.

Many call this time, "The Vail of Forgetfulness". Without the guidance and direct interaction of the Angel kingdom, we have floundered, sometime terribly, through our process of redemption. The "old" ways of spiritual communication, belief, even healing was almost lost during this time as new egos emerged and new political or even religious powers tried to enforce their influence of the societies of earth.

It has taken all these past centuries for the karma gained during the Atlantean destruction and the egotistical ventures to be redeemed. The result of this redemption is the shrinking of the Vail. Or as some put it, the walls of the quarantine are shrinking to the point where the Angels can begin to come through and once again provide guidance and knowledge to incarnated spirits.

What Are Angels? 

Angels are beings of spirit who have never been incarnated in physical form. One aspect of Angels that is often misunderstood is that Angels have never ever been incarnated! Ever. 

Simply put, they are highly evolved souls who have taken on the commitment with the Divine structure to be the messengers, guardians and teachers of spirit between the Divine force and incarnated beings.

Why is this needed?

Well, think of it this way. The Divine force is like a major Nuclear power plant and you are a wonderfully constructed crystal chandelier. If you were to plug directly into the core of the power plant, you'd probably be overwhelmed with energy and you just might explode.

For those who have not yet learned how to build their own sub-station to handle the massive energy flow from the power plant and filter it into their personal filaments, the Angels step forward to assist.

Now that's a long-winded way of saying, some people have learned through many lifetimes and spiritual lessons how to connect to the Divine force directly without being overwhelmed. But to be honest, these people are very few and far between.

It is an awesome responsibility and takes a great deal of commitment between the individual's soul and the Divine forces. For those people who have not selected that "job" in this incarnated life, the Angels can step forward and assist you in your communications with the divine energies.

 

 

Angels in Islamic Beliefs: Messengers, Guardians, and Divine Servants

In the rich tapestry of Islamic beliefs, angels hold a significant place as celestial entities created by Allah to carry out specific tasks within the cosmic order. Angels are regarded as a fundamental part of the unseen realm, and their presence and roles are outlined in the Qur'an and the Hadiths (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). Their multifaceted roles include serving as messengers, guardians, and divine servants, each contributing to the overall harmony of the universe and the spiritual journey of believers.

Messengers and Conveyors of Revelation

One of the most well-known angelic figures in Islam is Archangel Gabriel (Jibril in Arabic). Gabriel's primary responsibility is delivering messages from Allah to His prophets and messengers. It was through Gabriel's divine communication that the revelations of the Qur'an were conveyed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years. The process of revelation is believed to be a direct interaction between Allah and Gabriel, who then faithfully conveyed the messages to the Prophet. The Qur'an itself is often referred to as "The Word of Allah," emphasizing the role of angels in transmitting divine guidance to humanity.

Guardians and Recorders of Deeds

In Islamic beliefs, angels also serve as guardians and recorders of human deeds. Each individual is believed to have two angels assigned to them: Raqib (the watcher) and Atid (the record keeper). Raqib observes a person's external actions, while Atid records their deeds in a divine record. On the Day of Judgment, these records will be presented, and individuals will be held accountable for their actions. Angels also guard the gates of Heaven and Hell, ensuring that only those deserving of paradise enter its blissful abode.

Divine Servants and Instruments of Worship

Angels in Islam are considered devoted servants of Allah, consistently fulfilling their designated roles without question. They engage in acts of worship that differ from human worship, as they are not subject to the same desires and limitations as humans. In the famous story of the Angel Israfil, it is said that this angel stands poised to blow the trumpet to signal the end of the world, signifying the ultimate fulfillment of Allah's plan.

Respecting the Unseen Realm

Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of acknowledging the unseen realm, including angels, as an essential aspect of faith. While angels are revered and respected, Islamic beliefs caution against assigning angels divine attributes or engaging in excessive angel worship, as this could detract from the central focus on Allah as the one true God.

Cultural Influence and Representation

Throughout Islamic history, angels have inspired art, literature, and architecture. However, visual representations of angels are less common in Islamic cultures compared to other religious traditions. Islamic art often employs intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy as a means of expressing spiritual concepts, reflecting the belief that Allah's creations are beyond human representation.

Summary: Angels as Divine Messengers and Spiritual Guides

In Islam, angels play a crucial role as divine messengers, guardians, and servants within the intricate framework of the cosmos. Their significance is rooted in their unwavering commitment to Allah's commands and their pivotal role in delivering divine revelations to prophets. As integral components of Islamic beliefs, angels provide a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, guiding believers on their journey of faith and encouraging a steadfast connection with Allah.

 

Angels in Christian Mythology: Divine Messengers and Heavenly Guardians

Christian mythology is adorned with the presence of angels, celestial beings that serve as messengers, intermediaries, and guardians in the grand tapestry of divine interactions. Rooted in the Christian scriptures and religious beliefs, angelic figures have captured the imagination of believers and artists alike, inspiring a myriad of interpretations and narratives that deepen the understanding of their roles in the cosmic drama.

Angels as Messengers and Agents of Divine Will

At the heart of Christian mythology, angels are often portrayed as divine messengers entrusted with the task of delivering God's word to humanity. The most renowned of these angelic messengers is Archangel Gabriel, who delivered the announcement of the miraculous conception of Jesus to the Virgin Mary. Similarly, angelic appearances in the New Testament, such as the visitation to the shepherds announcing the birth of Jesus, emphasize their role in conveying pivotal messages that shape the course of salvation history.

Guardians and Protectors of Humanity

Christian mythology also ascribes a role of protection to angels. These celestial guardians are depicted as watchful beings who guide and safeguard individuals on their earthly journeys. This belief in guardian angels fosters a sense of divine care and companionship, assuring believers that they are never alone in their struggles and triumphs. It's a belief that extends beyond the realm of mythology and has taken root in the spiritual consciousness of many Christians.

Angelic Intervention and Spiritual Warfare

In Christian mythology, angels are not limited to benevolent messengers; they are also depicted as participants in spiritual warfare. Archangel Michael is often portrayed as a warrior who leads the angelic forces against evil entities. This theme of celestial battles underscores the cosmic struggle between good and evil and reinforces the idea that spiritual forces are at play beyond the material realm.

Mythical Interpretations and Folklore

Christian mythology has also given rise to various artistic and literary interpretations of angels, ranging from their physical appearance to their interactions with humans. These interpretations sometimes add layers of symbolism and meaning to the angelic narrative. Angels are frequently depicted with wings, representing their swift and ethereal nature, while their radiant presence often serves as a representation of divine glory and purity.

Angelic Hierarchies and Diversity

Throughout Christian history, theologians and scholars have speculated on the hierarchical structures and different orders of angels. These speculations, though not explicitly outlined in the Bible, have contributed to the complexity and depth of angelic mythology. The divisions of angels into categories like Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, and more, showcase the diverse roles and functions attributed to these celestial beings.

Harmony of Myth and Doctrine

It's important to note that while Christian mythology adds layers of interpretation and narrative to the concept of angels, the core teachings are derived from the Christian scriptures. The Book of Revelation, for instance, is rich with angelic imagery, depicting angels as worshipers, messengers, and participants in cosmic events.

Conclusion: Angels as Mythical Messengers of Divine Grace

In Christian mythology, angels symbolize the bridge between the divine and human realms. Their appearances, messages, and roles are woven into the fabric of sacred stories, enriching the understanding of God's interaction with creation. From the majestic figures depicted in classical art to the spiritual companions believed to accompany believers, angels stand as enduring symbols of divine grace, guidance, and protection in the intricate narrative of Christianity.

Regardless of which groups or hierarchies you believe in, most people can't help but acknowledge a new connection and interaction with the Angel kingdoms. Just walk into your nearest bookstore and peruse the shelves lined with new material on Angel stories, tales and contact. Take some time to reach out to your personal Guardian Angel and as for guidance and assistance during your day. But perhaps you could also thank them for their efforts and provide a little offering for their services. A nice candle lighting ceremony might be an appropriate offering, or better yet, plant a nice tree or flowering bush in their honor.

 

 

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