Seraphim

In the Christian angelic tradition, the Seraphim (plural of Seraph) are the highest of the angels, being at the top of the first triad of the angelic hierarchy. The Seraphim aren't mentioned in the New Testament, having originated in Judaism and later been adopted by Christianity.

They're often discussed alongside the Cherubim. In modern culture they've inspired many artists and craftsmen including the famous Seraphim Classics collection, a range of figurines from Roman, Inc. that you can buy in the stores.

What Are The Seraphim?

The Seraphim are tall and, as would be expected given their exalted position, highly devout. The name Seraphim has been suggested to arise from a Hebrew term meaning fiery serpent. This derivation is often reflected in pictures which depict them as creatures of fire.

A key feature of traditional Seraphim angels is that they have six wings. Two are on their back as usual for flying. Two cover their eyes since they stand in the presence of God. The final two are to cover to their "feet" (this is possibly a euphemism). In heraldic depictions only a head is shown with all six wings emerging - two at the top, two at the bottom and one at each side.

Early accounts say that there were only four Seraphim. This was later amended to suggest that there are four Seraphim "princes" who rule over the rest. This confusion is confounded by the way that that some angels - such as Metatron - are classed as both Seraphim and as Archangels in different accounts.

Lucifer himself is said by some to have been a Seraph before his fall. This is appropriate given the possible etymological connection between "Seraphim" and the fiery serpent.

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