Central to the understanding of the angelic realm is the concept of a celestial hierarchy.
A system that classifies angels according to their proximity to the divine and the roles they play in the cosmos, culminating in the nine choirs of angels.
This hierarchy is not just a simple, linear progression. It reflects a divine order and a chain of command, mirroring earthly notions of structure, authority, and duty while transcending them to connect to the mysteries of the universe and the divine.
In this article, we will delve into the heart of this angelic hierarchy.
Beginning with its origins and development, we will introduce each of the nine choirs of angels – the Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels – detailing their roles and responsibilities, and how they are interpreted across different religions and cultures.
The Hierarchy of Angels in Kabbalah
Origin of the Celestial Hierarchy
The concept of a celestial hierarchy is deeply rooted in history, with its tendrils reaching back through time and across civilizations. While angels appear in some form across many different cultures, the idea of a structured, ordered hierarchy among these divine beings has evolved, heavily influenced by religious texts and interpretations.
Angels have been a part of human spirituality since ancient times. In ancient Zoroastrianism, they were known as Amesha Spentas, the holy immortals. They also appeared as messengers of gods in ancient Greek and Roman mythology.
However, the roots of the celestial hierarchy, as we understand it today, are primarily found in the Abrahamic religions, which encompass Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
In the Hebrew Bible, angels are often mentioned as God’s messengers.
The New Testament of the Christian Bible builds upon this foundation and introduces the different types of angels; however, the idea of an angelic hierarchy was not yet introduced.
Development of the Concept of the Celestial Hierarchy
The celestial hierarchy as a structured system was developed and refined over the centuries, influenced by interpretations and theological reflections.
The nature and roles of angels were a topic of speculation for early Church Fathers such as Saint Augustine and Saint Jerome. However, Pseudo-Dionysius, the Areopagite, provided the most influential and long-lasting model of the celestial hierarchy.
In his 5th-century work, “The Celestial Hierarchy,” Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite proposed a model of nine orders of angels divided into three spheres or triads.
This model, steeped in Neoplatonic philosophy, has had a profound influence on Christian theology and has been widely adopted and adapted in Western spiritual thought.
The Three Spheres of the Celestial Hierarchy
According to Pseudo-Dionysius, the Celestial Hierarchy is divided into three spheres or triads, each containing three choirs of angels.
The first sphere includes the Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones, closest to God, and focused on pure contemplation.
The second sphere comprises the Dominions, Virtues, and Powers, responsible for governing the universe.
The third sphere consists of the Principalities, Archangels, and Angels, more involved in human affairs and guidance.
The spheres in the angelic hierarchy are symbolic of their proximity to the divine. Those in the higher spheres possess a greater share of divine knowledge and purity, while those in the lower spheres are more involved in the governance of the universe and human affairs.
First Sphere: Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones
The first sphere, composed of Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones, plays the most direct role in worshiping and serving God.
Seraphim
Seraphim hold the highest rank in the hierarchy, and their primary role is to praise and worship God.
They are often depicted with six wings and flames, earning them the nickname “Fiery ones.”
Cherubim
The Cherubim are ranked just below the Seraphim in the angelic order and are responsible for guarding God’s throne and glory.
Despite being commonly depicted as chubby babies, they are traditionally represented in religious iconography with four wings and four faces of a lion, ox, eagle, and man.
Thrones
Thrones or Ophanim, occupying a position further down the hierarchy, are frequently depicted in religious imagery as chariot-like structures carrying divine emblems.
Thrones serve as the bearers of divine justice, mediating the will of God to the lower spheres.
Second Sphere: Dominions, Virtues, and Powers
The second sphere ensures the cosmos runs according to divine law and order.
Dominions
Dominions have the important responsibility of overseeing the duties of lower angels and enforcing divine law across the cosmos.
They are seen as leaders and authorities among angelic beings and are often depicted holding scepters or swords to symbolize their governing nature.
Virtues
The Virtues play a crucial role in imbuing courage, grace, and bravery in the world. They are often linked with miraculous occurrences and are believed to infuse the world with the divine energy that enables these miracles.
The Virtues are represented symbolically through images of light or specific emblems that embody courage and grace. This highlights their unique position as carriers of divine strength and catalysts for miraculous events.
Powers
The Powers serve as the cosmic police force, representing the boundary between the upper and lower spheres.
They maintain cosmic order and balance between celestial and earthly realms, holding the line against any disruptive or destructive forces.
In iconography, they may be depicted with shields, swords, or other defensive symbols, highlighting their crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of the divine creation and acting as vigilant warriors against evil.
Third Sphere: Principalities, Archangels, and Angels
These angels are the most involved with human affairs.
Principalities
Principalities play a crucial role in safeguarding nations, inspiring human leadership, and promoting the well-being of humanity.
They act as guardians and are commonly represented by symbols such as crowns or flags in religious imagery, reflecting their responsibility for governing and protecting the collective good.
Their position highlights their commitment to shaping societal structures and influencing leadership to enhance the advancement of human civilization.
Archangels
The archangels serve as heavenly messengers who bridge the gap between God and humanity.
Typically portrayed clutching trumpets or scrolls, they symbolize their role as carriers of spiritual knowledge and direction.
Their rank in the celestial hierarchy underscores their duty to convey divine messages and insights directly to people.
Angels
Angels, the closest to humans in the angelic hierarchy, are assigned as personal guardians, guiding and protecting individuals throughout their earthly journey.
Often symbolized with comforting images, such as gentle wings or guiding lights, their iconography emphasizes their nurturing and protective nature.
Their role underscores their intimate connection with human life, accompanying individuals in their daily struggles, providing guidance, and watching them with compassionate care.
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Interpretations Across Different Religions and Cultures
While the celestial hierarchy finds its roots in Christian theology, interpretations of angelic orders vary significantly across different religions and cultures. Here, we’ll explore how these interpretations align and differ.
Angelic Hierarchy in Jewish Tradition
The Jewish tradition has a diverse perspective on angels that differs in various texts and interpretations. The Hebrew Bible provides simple and practical descriptions, while the Zohar offers elaborate and mystical categorizations.
In the Hebrew Bible, angels are often depicted as messengers or agents of God, carrying out specific tasks or delivering divine messages.
No systematic hierarchy of angels is presented in the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible), but certain classes and types of angels are mentioned, such as cherubim and seraphim.
Angelology in the Zohar (Kabbalah)
The Zohar, a foundational work of Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), offers an intricate hierarchy of angels, often associated with the Sefirot, the divine emanations in Kabbalistic cosmology.
According to the Zohar, the celestial hierarchy is as follows:
- Malakim: These angels are often associated with virtue and righteousness. They function as messengers and fulfillers of God’s will, especially concerning governance and authority over earthly matters.
- Erelim: Positioned as symbols of divine courage and strength, Erelim are fearless warriors in the heavenly realms. They are sometimes linked with the natural world and the element of Earth.
- Seraphim: The depiction of the Seraphim in Jewish Tradition echoes that of Christianity. They are described as winged celestial beings with a fiery passion for doing God’s good work.
- Chayot: Also known as “Holy Living Creatures,” Chayot are connected with divine wisdom and understanding. They are mentioned in the Book of Ezekiel and are positioned close to the divine, singing praises to God.
- Ophanim: Often equated with the Christian Thrones, Ophanim, or “Wheels,” are described in the visions of Ezekiel. Characterized by their many eyes, they are associated with divine wisdom, cosmic order, and the perpetual motion of the celestial spheres.
- Hashmallim: These luminous beings embody divine energy and illumination. They are sometimes linked with the glowing appearance described in mystical visions, representing enlightenment and the electrifying presence of the divine.
- Elim: Representing divine power and might, Elim is often associated with strong leadership and governance within the heavenly hierarchy. They symbolize aspects of divine judgment and authority.
- Elohim: In some contexts, Elohim refers to a class of ministering angels who work as extensions of divine justice. They are engaged in various aspects of creation and are sometimes considered manifestations of divine attributes.
- Bene Elohim: Translated as the “Sons of God,” Bene Elohim oversee various parts of creation and human affairs and may function as guardian angels.
- Ishim: Occupying the closest rank to human beings, Ishim are the liaisons between the divine and earthly realms. They interact with individuals, facilitating communication of divine will, and are involved in the guidance and protection of humanity.
Angelic Hierarchy in Islam
Unlike Christian angelology, which often categorizes angels into different “choirs” or spheres, Islamic tradition does not have a standardized hierarchical organization of angels.
The subject of angelic hierarchy is not directly discussed in the Quran, but various Islamic scholars and texts allude to a set order or hierarchy among angels.
The hierarchy of angels in Islam is based on the roles, tasks, and functions assigned to them by God. Different scholars and traditions have varying classifications for Islamic angels, with some suggesting up to fourteen groups. Certain higher orders are regarded as archangels within these groups.
Qazwini’s Description
In his work “Aja’ib al-makhluqat,” Zakariya al-Qazwini describes an angelic hierarchy with Ruh at the head of all angels, considered to be the Holy Spirit in some interpretations.
Surrounding Ruh are the four archangelic cherubim.
Below this tier are the seven angels of the seven heavens, each entrusted with various divine duties.
Division by Fakhr al-Din al-Razi
The famed Islamic scholar Fakhr al-Din al-Razi (d. 1209) offers another perspective on angelic hierarchy, dividing the angels into eight groups.
This division bears some resemblance to Christian angelology:
- Hamalat al-‘Arsh: These angels carry the ‘Arsh (Throne of God) and are comparable to the Christian Seraphim.
- Muqarrabun (Cherubim): Surrounding the throne of God, they are constantly praising God (tasbīḥ).
- Archangels: This includes well-known figures like Jibrāʾīl (Gabriel), Mīkhā’īl (Michael), Isrāfīl (Raphael), and ‘Azrā’īl (Angel of Death).
- Angels of Heaven: Such as Riḍwan, the guardian of Paradise.
- Angels of Hell: Including Mālik and his subordinates, the Zabānīya, who are the guardians of Hell.
- Guardian Angels: Assigned to individuals, they are responsible for protecting them throughout their lives.
- Recording Angels: Tasked with recording the deeds and actions of human beings.
- Angels of Nature: Entrusted with the affairs of the natural world, such as the angel of thunder.
The descriptions provided by various scholars reflect the multifaceted and dynamic nature of angelology within Islamic tradition. While there is no strict and uniform hierarchy, the different categorizations emphasize angels’ functional diversity and profound interconnectedness within the cosmic order.
Summary
In its varying interpretations, the celestial hierarchy serves as a tool to understand the divine order, the cosmos, and our place within it. Despite differences in detail and structure, the underlying themes of angels serving as messengers, guardians, and executors of Divine Will remain consistent across these religious traditions.
Whether it’s the passionate Seraphim, the wise Ophanim, or the valiant Erelim, each class of angels embodies different aspects of divinity and serves distinct roles in the heavenly realms.
The intricacies of the celestial hierarchy, the roles and attributes of various angelic beings, and their connections with moral and cosmic principles form a rich tapestry worth exploring.
So, if you would like to learn more about the Angelic Realms or other related topics, our other related articles may be a good starting point 🙂
