Angel

Supernatural being in religions and mythologies / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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In various theistic religious traditions, an angel is a supernatural spiritual being who serves God.

GuidoReni_MichaelDefeatsSatan.jpg
The Archangel Michael wears a Roman military cloak and cuirass in this 17th-century depiction by Guido Reni.
Bernhard_Plockhorst_-_Schutzengel.jpg
Schutzengel (English: "Guardian Angel") by Bernhard Plockhorst depicts a guardian angel watching over two children.
Jacob_Wrestling_with_the_Angel.jpg
Jacob Wrestling with the Angel, by Gustave Doré in 1855

Abrahamic religions often depict angels as benevolent celestial intermediaries between God (Creator of all) (or Heaven) and humanity.[1][2] Other roles include protectors and guides for humans, such as guardian angels, and servants of God.[3] Abrahamic religions describe angelic hierarchies, which vary by religion and sect. Some angels have specific names (such as Gabriel or Michael) or titles (such as seraph or archangel). Those expelled from Heaven are called fallen angels, distinct from the heavenly host.

The_Wounded_Angel_-_Hugo_Simberg.jpg
The Wounded Angel, Hugo Simberg, 1903, voted Finland's "national painting" in 2006

Angels in art are usually shaped like humans of extraordinary beauty, though this is not always the case—sometimes, they can be portrayed in a frightening, inhuman manner.[4] They are often identified in Christian artwork with bird wings,[5] halos,[6] and divine light.