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ArchangelsThe concept of the Archangel is more established in the Judaic rabbinic tradition than in the Christian one. The Christian Bible barely mentions archangels and only one, Michael, is named.Judaism generally acknowledges seven archangels - their names are Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, Uriel, Sariel, Raguel, and Remiel. Zadkiel, Jophiel, Haniel and Chamuel are also sometimes included. Of these, modern Christian angelic lore usually recognises three - Michael, Gabriel, Raphael. Some people also include Uriel. It is sometimes said that Satan was initially an archangel - Lucifer - before he fell. The exact list of archangels varies depending on source, perhaps because few of the ancient texts are definitive on the matter. Other archangels sometimes mentioned include Metatron and Raziel. What Are Archangels?An archangel is essentially a "superior" angel - one of higher rank. The prefix "arch" is derived from the Greek arkhos, "chief" and arkhe, "to rule". Thus the term archangel would seem to be a job title rather than indicating a different manner of being to the lower angels.Although the archangels are the most powerful and majestic of the angels, they are usually atributed to the Third Triad (Eight Choir) in the divine hierarchy. This is possibly because they are often working with or for the benefit of mortals - hence although the greatest of the angels they are also the closest to humanity. They are often described as divine messengers bridging the gap between God and humnanity. Angelic scholars usually give the archangels particular responsibilities. However the exact nature of these varies from text to text - as indeed do the exact names of the archangels themselves! The archangels are often depicted with large, impressive wings fitting their status in the angelic hierarchy. According to some sources, the archangel Gabriel has 140 pairs of wings!
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