Known as the Angel of Temperance and Tears, Archangel Cassiel is a figure deeply rooted in Jewish mysticism. He embodies solitude, patience, and the passage of time.
He guides individuals through personal introspection and the understanding of divine timing, helping them navigate through life’s trials with grace.
This article explores Cassiel’s symbolism, attributes, and practices to invoke his guidance for spiritual growth.
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, mentions Cassiel in connection with Binah on the Tree of Life.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Final Thoughts from A Higher View
Through the influence of Archangel Cassiel, we are reminded that true growth often comes from within, through the quiet moments of reflection and the heartfelt release of our deepest emotions.
Embracing these moments, rather than shying away from them, allows us to fully experience and benefit from our spiritual journey.
Tears are a form of purification, a way to cleanse our souls of pain and sorrow. They are a testament to our vulnerability and our capacity for deep emotional connection. Cassiel helps us navigate through this emotional landscape, encouraging us to embrace our tears as a necessary part of healing and growth. Through tears, we release what no longer serves us, making space for new insights and emotional clarity.
Solitude offers us the quiet space needed for introspection and connection with our inner selves. In the silence of solitude, we can hear the whispers of our soul and the guidance of the divine. Cassiel teaches us the value of withdrawing from the noise of the world to find peace and wisdom within. This sacred alone time is essential for grounding ourselves and aligning with our true purpose.
Introspection allows us to delve deep into our thoughts, feelings, and motivations. It is a process of looking inward to understand our actions and their impacts on our lives and those around us. Cassiel’s role as the overseer of karma and divine order emphasizes the importance of self-examination in maintaining balance and harmony. By reflecting on our experiences and behaviors, we gain valuable insights that guide our spiritual evolution.
We must not dismiss these parts of our spiritual experience due to feelings of discomfort. Instead, we should embrace them.
Discomfort often signals areas where growth is needed and where significant transformation can occur.