Angels and Divine Messengers and Protectors🪽
The concept of angels, or divine messengers or protectors, appears across a multitude of cultures and religions. Reflecting beliefs about guardianship and strength through history, these beings carry our stories, our prayers and our fears into the skies. From ancient temples to modern cathedrals, something in us has always looked upward, hoping there’s someone, or something, watching out for us.
In Greek and Roman mythology these creatures were called angelos, which means “messenger” in Greek. These divine creatures functioned similarly to angels by delivering messages between gods and humans. Hermes is one of the best examples. He was the Greek god of communication, commerce and travel, often depicted with winged sandals and caduceus (staff). He functioned as a messenger between the gods and humans. Other creatures similar to angels are daimones, sprirituals beings that acted as protectors or guides that weren’t gods or demons, but mediators between humans and the divine. And genius, that was a divine spirit that accompanied every man, while juno did so for women. These spirits were connected to the individual’s well-being and personal fate.
In Christianity, angels are messengers of God who carry out divine will. They protect, guide and serve humans in various ways. Gabriel is one of the most important archangels in Christianity. He delivered important messages, like announcing the birth of Jesus. Angels in Christianity are guiding souls that carry out God’s orders.
In Islam, angels are spiritual beings created from light, who do not have free will but are perfectly obedient to Allah. Jibril (Gabriel in Christianity) is the most importan angel, delivering Gods revelations, such as the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Also in Islam, two angels are assigned to each person recording their every action, good or bad. These records are presented on the Day of Judgment affecting one’s fate. While angels in Islam are not seen by humans, their presence is essential in guiding, protecting and recording human actions.
In Zoroastrianism, the Amesha Spentas are divine immortals who serve the supreme god Ahura Mazda. They embody divine attributes such as truth, righteousness and creation, helping to maintain the balance of the world. These beings are seen as spiritual protectors, guiding humans to live virtuous lifestyles. Similar to angels, the Amesha Spentas act as protectors and helpers, assisting humanity in its pursuit of goodness.
In Hinduism, Devas are celestial beings associated with natural forces and cosmic order. They are not “angels” in the strict sense of the word, but share similarities like protecting, guiding and blessing humans. They maintain balance in the universe, often intervening to help people live virtuous lives. Each Deva governs a specific aspect of life, such as health, wealth and wisdom. In some tradition, individuals pray to particular Devas or divine figures for protection and guidance, much like invoking guardian angels.
In Buddhism, particularly in the Mahayana tradition, celestial beings known as Devas live in heavenly realms, often representing forces of compassion, wisdom and protection. Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who remain in the world to help others achieve enlightenment, acting as guides and protectors. Additionally, some Buddhist deities, known as a wrathful deities, appear fierce, but their anger is focused on protecting the Dharma and guiding individuals along the spiritual path.
In Norse mythology, Valkyries are winged women who choose which warriors die in the battle and escort them to Valhalla. They act as divine protectors of those who show valor in the battle. Unlike the traditional protective angels, Valkyries are fierce warriors who ensure that only the bravest souls enter Valhalla to prepare for Ragnarök (the end of the world). They carry the worthy to the afterlife, acting as spirituals guardians for those who fight with honor.
Many indigenous cultures around the world believe in spiritual beings that guide and protect individuals, often through the natural world or ancestors. In Native American beliefs, spirits animals, ancestors and nature spirits serve protective roles, deeply linked to the land and natural cycles. Similarly, in Aboriginal Australian culture, ancestral spirits are believed to have shaped the land and continue to protect it, guiding people through life’s challenges and helping them stay connected to both the earth and the divine.
In various African cultures, spiritual beings similar to angels serve as protectors and guides, though the identities and roles of these beings vary across regions. In East Africa, for example, the Kikuyu people believe in guardian spirits that protect individuals and communities, often linked to ancestral linage. Similarly, in South Africa, the Zulu and Xhosa cultures honor Amadlozi, ancestral spirits who guide and protect through rituals and ceremonies. In West Africa, among the Yoruba, there are spiritual beings known as Orisha, who serve as intermediaries between the divine and humanity, offering guidance and protection. These beliefs illustrate how different African cultures view spiritual beings as guardians, each with their unique practices and identities, yet all emphasizing in protection, guidance and the deep connection to the ancestors.
In conclusion, the concept of angels and divine messengers is common across many cultures, each with their own interpretation of these spiritual beings. From Greek daimones to Amesha Spentas in Zoroastrianism, Gabriel in Christianity, and Jibril in Islam, these beings serve as guardians, guides and protectors. The similarities across religions highlight humanity’s universal desire of protection and connection to something greater that themselves. Whether through ancestral spirits, celestial beings or divine intermediaries, these figures continue to play a central role in shaping the spiritual practices and worldviews of cultures worldwide.
If you want to learn more about the topic:
Greek and Roman mythology
Detailed information on Greek gods and mythology
Biblical reference to angles, including Gabriel
Article about angels in Islam
Encyclopedia entry on Amesha Spentas and their function
A scholarly approach to Zoroastrian belief and practices
An explanation of Devas in Hinduism
Information on Bodhisattvas and their role
Details on Buddhist celestial beings
Valkyries and their role in the afterlife
Encyclopedia entry on Valkyries
Native American Religious and Cultural Freedom
Ancestral spirits in Aboriginal Australian culture
Detailed exploration of guardian spirits and their roles in East Africa myths
Information on Amadlozi spirits and ancestral worship in South Africa
Orisha and their role in West African Yoruba culture
Henry Ossawa Tanner, Angels Appearing before the Shepherds
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