Each religion that believes in only one God has its own version of the story of angels, dealing with their organization, hierarchy, and duties. Although guardian angels and archangels seem to be more closely related to Christianity, it was not Christians who formed the notion of angels. They adopted much of their basic concepts of angels from other religions, particularly Judaism.

Although the different types of angels are given somewhat different names and duties, all major religions agree on one thing: these special angels are God’s messengers and come here to guide and protect us. Another thing they seem to agree on is that angels were created before humans. Higher spiritual beings, considered archangels, have never “lived” on earth in human or incarnate form. However, earth angels (or guardian angels as we call them), spirit guides, and ghosts have had at least one (and often many) incarnations here on earth.

Although they have never incarnated, archangels have the ability to… and have been known to… take human form to help in an emergency or when the need is greatest. Many stories abound of “strangers” suddenly showing up to help, only to suddenly disappear when we’re not looking, leaving no traces or any kind of sign that they were there.

There are many, many angels and archangels in heaven, however the most notable are the seven archangels which are: Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Raguel, Sariel, and Remiel. These seven archangels are based on the seven angels of Essence. The Essences were a particularly spiritual group practicing more esoteric than usual Judaism over 4,000 years ago, and were said to still be around at the time of Christ.

If you notice, all the names of the archangels end in el, which is the title of “angel”. The most detailed account of the angels’ activities is given by Enoch, who supposedly lived before the flood (and was Noah’s grandfather). He was recruited by angels to perform tasks such as messenger and record keeper (scribe) between angels and men. Accounts of him were written down and have been passed down for thousands of years and are now contained in The Book of Enoch.

Here is a brief look at each archangel:

Miguel – His name means: “Who is like God.” Michael is believed to be the warrior, protector and defender of heaven and earth. He is the angel that is called upon when protection is needed.

Gabriel – His name means “God is my strength.” She is the only female archangel and is associated with conception and birth.

raphael – His name means “The Shining One Who Heals”. Rafael has the power to heal the sick. He is also considered the “Head of the Guardian Angels”.

Uriel – His name means “Fire of God”. He has two responsibilities: the Angel of Repentance, the Angel of Music and Poetry.

Sariel (Saraqael) – Sariel’s responsibilities are more related to dealing with earth angels in the capacity of the fate of such angels who break the Laws of the Universe.

Raguel – His name means “Friend of God”. Raguel takes care of the land, nature and its resources. He is also responsible for justice, equality and fairness.

remiel – His name means “God lifts up” and “Face of God”. Remiel is the Angel of Hope.