Known as both a Fallen Angel and also as a guardian and enforcer of divine law, Archangel Sariel is perhaps one of the most paradoxical figures in angelology.
He stands at the crossroads of rebellion and righteousness.
In this article we look at the dual aspects of Sariel’s character: his role as a Watcher who defied divine boundaries in the Book of Enoch, and his contrasting portrayal as Saraqael, an enforcer of celestial law.
We investigate his story, from his descent to Earth as a rebel angel captivated by mortal beauty, to his duty as a guardian of spiritual order, overseeing the spirits who sin.
We seek to unravel the complexities of Sariel’s identity, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of angelic beings and the delicate balance they maintain between divine transgression and sacred duty.
List of Archangels: Who They Are and How They Support Us
Archangel Sariel and the Watchers in the Book of Enoch
The story of the Watchers in the Book of Enoch is a profound element in understanding the enigmatic character of Archangel Sariel.
With themes of rebellion, wisdom, and consequence, it serves as a crucial backdrop for Sariel’s actions and his eventual fall from grace.
The Descent of the Watchers
The story of the Watchers begins with their descent to Earth.
And it came to pass when the children of men had multiplied that in those days were born unto them beautiful and comely daughters.
And the angels, the children of the heaven, saw and lusted after them, and said to one another: ‘Come, let us choose us wives from among the children of men and beget us children.’
And Semjâzâ, who was their leader, said unto them: ‘I fear ye will not indeed agree to do this deed, and I alone shall have to pay the penalty of a great sin.’
And they all answered him and said: ‘Let us all swear an oath, and all bind ourselves by mutual imprecations not to abandon this plan but to do this thing.’ Then sware they all together and bound themselves by mutual imprecations upon it.
And they were in all two hundred; who descended ⌈in the days⌉ of Jared on the summit of Mount Hermon, and they called it Mount Hermon, because they had sworn and bound themselves by mutual imprecations upon it.
And these are the names of their leaders: Sêmîazâz, their leader, Arâkîba, Râmêêl, Kôkabîêl, Tâmîêl, Râmîêl, Dânêl, Êzêqêêl, Barâqîjâl, Asâêl, Armârôs, Batârêl, Anânêl, Zaqîêl, Samsâpêêl, Satarêl, Tûrêl, Jômjâêl, Sariêl. These are their chiefs of tens.
Book of Enoch, Chapter 6
Explanation of Book of Enoch, Chapter 6
The passage begins by noting the increase in the human population and the birth of beautiful women. The “children of heaven,” referring to angels, saw these women and developed a desire for them.
The angels, led by their chief Semjâzâ, decide to descend to Earth to take human wives. This decision is significant as it represents a direct violation of the boundaries set between celestial beings and humans.
Semjâzâ expresses concern about the consequences of this action, fearing that he alone would bear the sin. To address this concern, the angels collectively swear an oath, binding themselves to this plan, ensuring that all share the responsibility.
The group of two hundred angels descends on Mount Hermon (Hermon in Hebrew can mean “curse” or “oath”). This event marks the angels’ physical and moral descent.
It concludes with a list of the leaders of these angels, including Semjâzâ and Sariel, each being a chief of a group of ten. This listing emphasizes the organized nature of their rebellion and the shared responsibility among these leaders.
The Fall and Judgment
The actions of the Watchers, led in part by Sariel, had far-reaching consequences.
Their interactions with human women led to the birth of the Nephilim, beings of immense size and power. This event drastically altered the course of human history and led to a series of divine judgments.
Sariel, along with the other Watchers, faced divine retribution for their actions.
“And again the Lord said to Raphael: ‘Bind Azazel hand and foot, and cast him into the darkness: and make an opening in the desert, which is in Dudael, and cast him therein.’”
The Book of Enoch, Chapter 10
This passage, while specifically mentioning Azazel, is indicative of the fate that befell all the Watchers, including Sariel – a punishment for their rebellion against divine law.
Sariel as Saraqael in the Book of Enoch
In some traditions, Archangel Sariel is also identified as Saraqael in the Book of Enoch
This aspect diverges from his involvement with the Watchers, showcasing a more judicial and supervisory role in the heavenly hierarchy.
The Role of Oversight and Judgment
As Saraqael, he is entrusted with a significant responsibility within the celestial realm.
Saraqael, one of the holy angels, who is set over the spirits, who sin in the spirit.
Enoch 20:7-8
This passage clarifies his duty as an overseer of angels’ conduct, particularly those who transgress in spiritual matters.
His position as a guardian and enforcer of divine law involves a meticulous observation and judgment of celestial beings, ensuring they adhere to the spiritual statutes set forth.
Guardianship Over Spiritual Transgressions
This guardianship over spiritual transgressions places Saraqael in a role that is less about direct interaction with humans, and more about maintaining the sanctity and order within the angelic community.
His duties involve a discerning and judicious approach to the actions of other angels, reflecting a deep commitment to the preservation of divine order and justice.
Concern with Divine Law Violations
Sariel’s identification as Saraqael accentuates his deep involvement in upholding divine law.
This role emphasizes the gravity with which divine statutes are regarded in the celestial sphere and the seriousness of their violation.
As an archangel set over the spirits who sin, Archangel Sariel serves as a pivotal figure in maintaining the moral and spiritual equilibrium of the heavens.
A Teacher of Forbidden Knowledge
In the narrative of the Watchers from the Book of Enoch, Sariel emerges as a teacher of forbidden knowledge, a role that encapsulates the dual aspects of enlightenment and transgression.
This role is crucial to understanding the multifaceted nature of his character and his ongoing influence on both the celestial and earthly realms.
Imparting Esoteric Wisdom
The Book of Enoch provides a specific instance of Sariel’s teaching.
And Sariel taught men about the courses of the moon.
Enoch Chapter 8, verse 3
This act of imparting knowledge about the lunar cycles, which was deemed forbidden, signifies a crucial moment where divine wisdom was shared with humanity.
This knowledge, traditionally reserved for celestial beings, was considered too profound and esoteric for human comprehension.
Crossing the Divine-Mortal Boundary
Sariel’s teaching is not just an act of imparting wisdom but represents a significant transgression of the boundaries set between the divine and the mortal.
By teaching humans about the courses of the moon, Archangel Sariel effectively blurred the lines that separated celestial knowledge from human reach.
This act demonstrates the intricate relationship between knowledge and power, and the responsibilities that come with possessing and sharing such profound insights.
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A Higher View on The Journey of Archangel Sariel
On reflection, I have come away with a bit of a different perspective on the story of Archangel Sariel and how it relates to our own spiritual journeys.
The story of Archangel Sariel, marked by both rebellion and redemption, suggests that even celestial entities are not immune to imperfection and the challenges of moral choices.
Archangel Sariel’s Descent
Sariel’s involvement with the Watchers, where he, along with other angels, succumbed to the allure of the mortal world, highlights a moment of profound transgression.
This act of rebellion against divine law showcases a side of celestial beings often not explored – their vulnerability to imperfection and error.
Learning from Transgressions
The narrative of Sariel taking part in the descent of the Watchers could be interpreted as a crucial phase in his spiritual journey.
It’s a story not just of falling but also of the potential for learning from one’s mistakes.
The consequences faced by Sariel and his fellow angels serve as pivotal moments for reflection and growth.
Applying Wisdom as an Enforcer of Divine Law
As an enforcer of divine law, Sariel (Saraqael) appears to embody the lessons learned from his earlier transgressions.
This role could be seen as a form of applying the wisdom gained from his experiences with the Watchers, now dedicated to upholding the order he once defied.
The Journey of Spiritual Evolution
Sariel’s journey can be viewed as a symbol of spiritual evolution, suggesting that even divine beings can grow and transform through their experiences.
His story resonates with the idea that understanding and wisdom often come from navigating the complexities of moral dilemmas.
Conclusion
The story of Archangel Sariel, encompassing both his fall with the Watchers and his role as a divine law enforcer, offers a nuanced perspective on the spiritual journey.
With its themes of rebellion, consequence, learning, and redemption, his story presents a powerful metaphor for the ongoing journey of spiritual growth, relevant to both celestial and human realms.
It suggests that imperfection and error can be pathways to growth and wisdom. I can relate to that.
