Archangel Cassiel is often referred to as the Angel of Tears and Temperance. His essence encapsulates the dualities of sorrow and comfort, restraint, and moderation.
Cassiel is a multifaceted figure in Jewish mysticism. His roles are diverse, stretching from a guardian of heavenly realms to an astrological entity associated with Saturn.
As we unfold the layers of Cassiel’s story, we will explore his traditional depictions, the powerful symbols associated with him, and the profound roles and responsibilities he holds in the celestial order.
This journey will not only illuminate the historical and mythological aspects of Archangel Cassiel but also provide insights into how you can harness his energy to support your spiritual growth.
Let’s go
List of Archangels: Who They Are and How They Support Us
Cassiel in Various Religious Texts
While Cassiel is not explicitly mentioned in the canonical texts of the Hebrew Bible, he appears prominently in various apocryphal and mystical writings.
Sefer Raziel
The Sefer Raziel HaMalakh, also known as the “Book of Raziel the Angel,” is a Jewish mystical text considered a grimoire of Practical Kabbalah from the Middle Ages. This text includes various aspects of Jewish mysticism and angelology.
In the Sefer Raziel, Cassiel is identified as the angel of Saturn, the planet associated with discipline, structure, and judgment.
He is described as a powerful and benevolent angel who governs the constellation Scorpio and oversees the influence of Saturn on Earth.
The Zohar
The Zohar, a central text of Jewish mysticism, also mentions Cassiel in connection with Saturn and its influence on the physical and spiritual realms.
He is the fiery angel who governs Binah, the sephirah of understanding.
Zohar 2:72a
The Zohar also introduces Cassiel as a prominent aide to the archangel Gabriel.
And these two angels, Cassiel and Hizqiel, are always with Gabriel, and they are his chief aides.
Zohar 3:131b
Jewish Merkavah Mysticism
The Hekhalot Rabbati is a collection of rabbinic texts describing the heavenly realm and the mystical experiences of rabbis who ascended to heaven.
In one passage of the Hekhalot Rabbati, Cassiel is described as the guardian of the sixth palace of heaven.
The name of the angel who guards the sixth palace is Cassiel. He is one of the most powerful of all the angels, and he is armed with a lightning-dripping sword (which shouts “Ruin!”) as well as a bow, tempests, light, and powerful winds—weapons which he uses against anyone not fit to see God.
Hekhalot Rabbati
Some believe that Cassiel may also have been associated with the seventh palace. However, the Hekhalot Rabbati clearly identifies Qaspiel, Dumiel, and Gabriel as the guardians of the seventh palace.
Islamic Tradition
In Islamic tradition, Cassiel is known as Kasfiyail, one of the eight archangels mentioned in the writings of Ahmad al-Buni, a prominent Islamic scholar and mystic.
Kasfiyail is the angel of Saturn, and he is responsible for the realm of spirits and jinn.
Ahmad al-Buni, “Shams al-Ma’arif wa Lata’if al-Awarif” (The Book of the Sun of Gnosis and Subtleties of Insights)
Kasfiyail is also mentioned in the works of other Islamic scholars, including Ibn Arabi and Abd al-Karim al-Jili. He is described as a mighty and majestic angel and said to be responsible for bringing order to the cosmos.
The concept of archangels is less prominent in Islam than in Christianity. However, Kasfiyail is one of the most well-known and respected angels in Islamic tradition.
Roles and Responsibilities
Angel of Solitude and Contemplation
Cassiel’s most distinctive role is as the Angel of Solitude. Unlike many of his celestial counterparts, he is not known for direct intervention in human affairs.
Instead, he represents the solitary path of introspection and the contemplative journey towards self-discovery and understanding the divine.
This aspect makes him a patron of hermits, monks, and spiritual seekers who pursue the path of inner wisdom.
Angel of Tears
Archangel Cassiel is often called the “Angel of Tears” due to his association with the deeper, more reflective aspects of human experience, particularly sorrow and contemplation.
This title reflects several key aspects of his role and symbolism:
Compassion and Empathy
He is seen as a figure of immense compassion and empathy.
He is believed to be present during times of grief, loss, or profound sadness, offering silent support and understanding. This presence is seen as a form of divine empathy, acknowledging and sharing in the pain of human suffering.
Solitude and Reflection
His association with solitude and introspection also ties into this title. Tears are often a manifestation of deep personal reflection and emotional processing.
As the Angel of Solitude, Cassiel oversees these moments of introspection, where individuals confront their deepest emotions, often leading to tears as a natural expression of their inner journey.
Purification and Emotional Release
Tears are also seen as a means of purification and emotional release. In spiritual traditions, crying is often viewed as a cathartic process, helping to cleanse the soul of pain and sorrow.
Cassiel guides individuals through this cleansing process, releasing emotional burdens and facilitating healing.
Connection to the Divine
He also acts as a bridge between humans and the divine, helping individuals find spiritual meaning and comfort in times of distress.
Guardian of Divine Order and Karma
As the Ruler of Saturn, Cassiel’s influence extends over time, destiny, and karmic justice.
He is the overseer of karma, upholding the cosmic laws of cause and effect.
This role is pivotal in maintaining the balance of divine order, emphasizing a deeper understanding of cosmic justice where every action is met with corresponding consequences.
Angel of Temperance
His title as the “Angel of Temperance” is intricately linked to his role as the Guardian of Divine Order and Karma, emphasizing the principles of balance, moderation, and karmic responsibility:
Enforcer of Karmic Balance
Cassiel is inherently connected to the cosmic laws of cause and effect as the Guardian of Divine Order and Karma. His designation as the Angel of Temperance reflects his role in maintaining the delicate balance of these laws.
He guides individuals to understand the importance of their actions and the karmic consequences that follow, promoting a life of moderation and thoughtful decision-making.
Regulator of Destiny and Time
His rulership over Saturn, associated with time and destiny, further cements his role as the Angel of Temperance.
He oversees the unfolding of events in a measured and orderly fashion, ensuring that the natural order of the universe is maintained.
Promoter of Spiritual Discipline
Cassiel advocates for a disciplined approach to spiritual practices. Temperance, in this context, is about finding a balance between worldly desires and spiritual duties.
His guidance helps individuals strike this balance, ensuring their actions align with their karmic path and spiritual evolution.
Harmonizer of Cosmic Laws
The role of temperance extends to harmonizing the various cosmic laws he oversees.
He aids in integrating the principles of divine justice, karmic retribution, and cosmic order, helping individuals navigate these complexities with a balanced and moderate approach.
Cultivator of Inner Wisdom
Cassiel’s role is also about cultivating inner wisdom—an essential aspect of understanding and aligning with karmic laws.
By practicing temperance, we develop a deeper insight into the nature of our actions and consequences, fostering a more profound understanding of the divine order.
Cassiel’s Association with the Thrones in Angelic Hierarchy
The Nature of Thrones
To understand Cassiel’s association with the Thrones, we must first understand what the Thrones represent.
In Christian angelology, particularly as outlined In the Celestial Hierarchy by Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, the Thrones are depicted as the third choir in the first sphere of angels.
They symbolize God’s justice and authority as bearers of divine will and cosmic order. Their role is closely tied to implementing and maintaining divine law and the balance of cosmic justice.
Introducing the Ophanim Angels (Thrones) “Wheels within Wheels”
Cassiel’s Attributes Aligning with Thrones
Cassiel’s characteristics align closely with those ascribed to the Thrones:
Guardian of Divine Order and Karma
Cassiel is the overseer of karma and the keeper of cosmic order. This role resonates with the Thrones’ duty of upholding divine justice, making Cassiel a fitting member of this celestial choir.
Connection with Saturn
Cassiel’s rulership over Saturn, a planet often associated with limitations, destiny, and time, parallels the Thrones’ focus on divine order. Saturn’s attributes of discipline and restraint echo the Thrones’ embodiment of divine will and judgment.
Spiritual Solitude and Contemplation
While Thrones are not typically associated with solitude, Cassiel’s contemplative nature, which fosters a deep understanding of divine will and justice, complements the reflective aspect of maintaining cosmic balance, a key trait of the Thrones.
Facilitator of Karmic Justice
As a facilitator of karmic justice, Archangel Cassiel’s actions reflect the Thrones’ principles, which are considered instrumental in administering God’s judgment.
Mystical and Esoteric Traditions
While not universally recognized in all theological traditions, Cassiel’s association with the Thrones is an important aspect of his identity in certain mystical and esoteric circles.
This placement highlights his profound role in the cosmic scheme as a guardian of divine order, a ruler of Saturn, and a facilitator of karmic justice. In these respects, he embodies the essence of the Thrones, serving as a divine agent of balance, discipline, and cosmic law.
Symbolism Associated with Archangel Cassiel
Saturn
The most notable symbol associated with Cassiel is the planet Saturn.
In astrology and mythology, Saturn represents time, karma, trials, and the lessons learned through hardship.
Dark or Subdued Colors
Cassiel is often portrayed wearing dark or subdued colors in religious art.
These colors often include deep blues, blacks, or dark grays, reflecting his role as the Angel of Solitude and the contemplative nature of his presence.
Tears or Water Imagery
Water elements, particularly tears, are a significant symbol associated with Cassiel. They represent the emotional depth, cleansing, and transformative power of sorrow and introspection.
In artistic representations, he may be shown with tears or surrounded by water, signifying the emotional processes and the purifying aspect of grief and reflection.
Hourglass or Time-Related Symbols
Given Cassiel’s association with time, hourglasses or other time-related symbols are often used to depict him. These symbols represent the transient nature of the physical world and the importance of divine timing.
The imagery of an hourglass, in particular, emphasizes the cyclical and ongoing nature of time, resonating with his role in overseeing life’s temporal aspects.
What Archangel Cassiel Can Assist With
Archangel Cassiel, with his deep connections to solitude, time, and karma, is a significant spiritual guide in various aspects of personal and spiritual development.
His assistance is often sought in introspection, understanding divine timing, and navigating the complexities of spiritual growth and life’s trials.
Guidance in Personal Introspection and Understanding Divine Timing
One of the primary ways Cassiel assists individuals is by guiding them through deep self-reflection and understanding the divine timing in their lives.
His presence helps to foster an understanding that every event unfolds according to a divine timeline, encouraging individuals to trust in the flow of life and the timing of their personal experiences.
Insights into Patience, Time, and Spiritual Evolution
Cassiel is also instrumental in teaching the virtues of patience and the significance of time in the process of spiritual evolution.
His influence helps individuals to understand that spiritual evolution is a journey that unfolds over time, and each step, no matter how small, is significant in the broader tapestry of one’s spiritual path.
Assistance in Spiritual Growth and Facing Life’s Trials
Cassiel’s role extends to offering support and guidance during life’s trials and challenges. He is especially relevant for those going through periods of solitude, grief, or introspection.
His energy can provide a sense of calm and resilience, helping us navigate difficult times with a deeper understanding and acceptance.
Cassiel encourages embracing these challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth and learning, reinforcing the idea that trials are not merely obstacles but essential parts of the soul’s journey toward enlightenment and wisdom.
Invoking Archangel Cassiel: Practices and Rituals
In many spiritual traditions, archangels must be invited to participate in our lives, respecting the principle of free will, which is fundamental to personal spiritual development and autonomy.
Prayer to Archangel Cassiel
Prayer is a primary means to invite Archangel Cassel’s guidance into your life. When praying to Cassiel, it’s important to focus on your intentions, whether for guidance through life’s trials, patience, or understanding divine timing.
Consider this example for your prayer. Feel free to personalize it:
Dear Archangel Cassiel,
I seek your guidance and wisdom in my journey through life. Help me to embrace the lessons of time, to find strength in solitude, and to understand the divine order of my life’s events. Support me in my moments of introspection and during the challenges I face. Please guide me in accepting and appreciating the divine timing in all things.
I am grateful for your watchful eye and comforting presence in times of solitude and change.
Thank you, Archangel Cassiel, for your profound insights and unwavering support.
Meditation Techniques
Visualization: Imagine the imagery of Saturn or an hourglass, representing his connection to time and patience, filling your space and mind.
Mantra Meditation: Recite a mantra such as “Cassiel, guide me in understanding and patience,” focusing your intent on inviting his essence into your life.
Reflective Meditation: Use quiet moments to reflect deeply, allowing Cassiel’s energy of introspection to guide your thoughts and emotions.
Symbols and Tools Used in Invocations
Candles
Dark or gray candles can be used to represent the introspective aspect of his nature.
Crystals
- Black tourmaline or onyx can align with Cassiel’s energy, representing protection and grounding.
- Smoky quartz for its properties of emotional release and acceptance of change.
Incense
Myrrh or frankincense can be used for their grounding and purifying properties, conducive to introspection and contemplation.
Essential Oils
Cypress or cedarwood oil can evoke feelings of grounding, strength, and longevity, inviting Cassiel’s stabilizing presence into your environment.
By engaging in these practices and rituals with sincerity and an open heart, you can find a deeper connection with Archangel Cassiel, experiencing the profound support and wisdom he offers in understanding life’s deeper rhythms and challenges.
Conclusion
As we conclude this exploration, it becomes evident that Archangel Cassiel’s influence extends beyond the boundaries of traditional religious contexts, reaching into the heart of our spiritual journeys.
His presence is a gentle reminder of the importance of embracing the flow of divine timing, understanding the gradual nature of spiritual evolution, and finding strength and wisdom in life’s challenges.
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