There are nine choirs or types of angels recognized by the Christian faith. These distinct groups were meticulously outlined by the Greek author and theologian Pseudo-Dionysius in his renowned work “On The Celestial Hierarchy.” According to this hierarchy, the angels are organized into choirs or spheres, with the highest choir residing closest to God. These choirs are further divided into three spheres, and each sphere comprises three orders of angels, forming a comprehensive framework for understanding the celestial hierarchy.
First Sphere’s Angels: Seraphim, Cherubims, Thrones
Second Sphere’s Angels: Dominations, Dominations, Virtues
Third Sphere’s Angels: Principalities, Archangels, Angels
The nine types of angels as described by Pseudo-Dionysius are:
Seraphim
The Seraphim hold the highest position within the celestial Hierarchy of Angels, devoted entirely to worship and praise of God. Their very name, “Seraphim,” derives from the Hebrew word meaning “the fiery ones,” reflecting their radiant nature. Described in biblical accounts, these angelic beings possess faces, hands, and feet, adorned with six majestic wings. With four wings, they modestly shield themselves in the presence of God, while utilizing the remaining two to soar through the heavens.
The Seraphim holds a significant presence in religious art, capturing their essence and ethereal beauty. These celestial beings exist in the closest proximity to God’s divine throne, enveloped in a resplendent and intense fiery light that signifies the boundless love emanating from the Almighty. Revered as “fiery serpents,” their celestial radiance is so overwhelming that even other divine entities dare not gaze directly upon them. Within the celestial realm, there are only four Seraphim, each adorned with four distinct faces. Yet, when they descend to Earth, they shed their serpent-like form, choosing instead to embody tall, slender figures, exuding a refined and pristine human appearance.
The Seraphim are described by prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 6:1-3: He quotes: Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one cried to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!
Cherubims
In the celestial hierarchy, Cherubim occupy the second highest order of angels. These angelic beings are portrayed as awe-inspiring and majestic, surrounding the throne of God with their presence (Ezekiel 1:5-14; 28:12). Serving as custodians of celestial records and bearers of divine knowledge, Cherubims hold a profound understanding of God’s wisdom. They are entrusted with significant tasks, including the expulsion of humankind from the Garden of Eden.
Contrary to the popular depiction of cherubim as chubby-winged infants, ancient art portrays them as sphinx-like creatures with wings and human faces. Their portrayal emphasizes their power and magnificence rather than their infant-like form. Notable cherubim in their ranks include Ophaniel, Rikbiel, and Zophiel, all esteemed members of this angelic order. It is important to note that Satan himself was once counted among the cherubim before his tragic fall into evil.
Thrones
The Thrones, ranking third in the celestial order of angels, possess a remarkable appearance described as magnificent glowing wheels adorned with numerous eyes. These angelic beings serve as divine charioteers, fulfilling the role of executing God’s judgments and carrying out his desires for humanity. They are also known as the Wheels and the Many-eyed Ones, reflecting their unique attributes.
According to the biblical account in Ezekiel 1:13-19, the Thrones exhibit fascinating features. They are depicted with four wings and four faces, radiating a lustrous hue resembling burnished brass. Under their wings, human hands can be seen, and their wings are interconnected, allowing them to move straight ahead without turning. The Thrones possess four faces, including that of a man, along with the visages of a lion, an ox, and an eagle adorning their helmets.
Intriguingly, the Thrones navigate on wheels within wheels, adorned in a captivating blue-green shade. Above their heads, a firmament of crystalline color is observed, with their wings extending on each side of their bodies. The sound produced by their wings is likened to the roar of mighty waters, echoing their power and presence.
Dominations
Dominions are the fourth-ranking order of angels. The angels comprising the second group embody a unique existence, residing in a state of transition between the celestial and human realms. These celestial beings are recognized as heavenly governors, tasked with harmonizing the realms of matter and spirit, as well as navigating the delicate balance between good and evil.
Within the celestial hierarchy, they receive directives from the esteemed Seraphim and Cherubim and subsequently delegate responsibilities to angels belonging to lower orders. This particular group, known as the Order of Guardian Angels, holds the pivotal role of determining the fate and prosperity of nations.
The Dominations, belonging to this order, are often depicted attired in long flowing albs, extending to their feet, adorned with a golden belt and embellished with a vibrant green sole. In their right hand, they carry staffs crafted from pure gold, while in their left hand, they hold the sacred Seal of God. At times, they may also bear an orb or a specter, symbolizing their authority and divine purpose.
The primary objective of the Dominations is to uphold cosmic order by bestowing divine power upon heads of government and other figures of authority. Their influence ensures that the intricate fabric of the universe remains intact and balanced. Among this esteemed order, Zadkiel, also known as Hashmal, assumes the role of chief, leading and guiding his angelic brethren in fulfilling their sacred duties.
Virtues
The Virtues are the fifth-ranking order of angels. Appearing as sparks of divine light, these angelic beings are entrusted with the sacred task of upholding and preserving the natural world. They serve as a wellspring of inspiration, particularly in the realms of science and knowledge. Known as the Angels of miracles, encouragement, and blessings, they offer solace and guidance to individuals navigating the challenges of faith.
Operating under the guidance of higher-ranking angels, the Virtues translate celestial directives into tangible miracles, bestowing them upon those who are deserving. When they choose to reveal themselves in earthly forms, they assume roles as musicians, artists, healers, and scientists. They harness the power of love and wield the principles of physics to bring about transformative change and enlightenment.
It is believed that two angels present in the significant event of Jesus’ ascension were Virtues, witnessing the divine moment and participating in the manifestation of heavenly grace. Their presence signifies the profound connection between the ethereal and the mortal realms, bridging the gap between the divine and humanity.
Powers
Credited as being the first Order of Angels created by God, Powers are the sixth-ranking Order of Angels. Tasked with maintaining the sacred boundary between Heaven and Earth, they assume the role of an elite guard, ever vigilant against the threat of demonic forces. In the celestial realm, they are the frontline warriors, engaging in heavenly warfare to safeguard the world from the infiltration of malevolent entities.
As formidable defenders, the Powers act as a shield, shielding our souls from the influence of these wicked beings. They serve as ministers of God, enacting divine justice and avenging evil in the world. Furthermore, it is believed that during the transition from earthly life to the realm of Heaven, the Powers guide and accompany our souls, ensuring a safe and harmonious passage.
In their celestial forms, the Powers manifest as vibrant and ethereal mists, radiating with captivating hues. They embody the role of border patrol agents, diligently maintaining the sacred boundary between the realms. Beyond their protective duties, the Powers also possess profound wisdom and serve as esteemed advisers in matters of religion, theology, and ideology.
Principalities
Principalities, also known as Princes are the seventh ranking Order of Angels. With their role as guardians over nations and leaders of the world, they bear the responsibility of overseeing and carrying out divine acts within their respective jurisdictions. Unlike the lesser angels below them, the Principalities are believed to possess greater freedom of action. Clad in resplendent soldier’s uniforms adorned with golden girdles, these angelic beings radiate an ethereal brilliance reminiscent of rays of light.
The Principalities serve as overseers of the entire world, guiding and influencing the destiny of nations, cities, and towns. Their divine jurisdiction extends beyond mere geographical boundaries; they hold sway over the realms of religion and politics, shaping the course of human affairs.
One notable instance attributed to the Principalities is the assistance rendered by an angel from this Order to aid David in his fateful encounter with the giant Goliath. They are also tasked with the management and coordination of angelic duties. They ensure that the work of angels is carried out harmoniously and effectively, contributing to the divine order and the fulfillment of God’s will.
Archangels
Archangels are the eighth-ranking order of angels. They are responsible for matters that pertain to the welfare and justice of all humankind. Among the angelic hierarchy, the Archangels are the most widely recognized and celebrated, with several being specifically named in the Bible, such as Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
The Archangels engage in spiritual warfare, actively combating against malevolent forces. They also serve as messengers of God, delivering divine revelations and important messages to individuals. One notable instance is Gabriel’s visit to Mary, informing her of her divine destiny to become the mother of Jesus.
Traditionally, seven Archangels are believed to exist, each possessing unique attributes and responsibilities within the celestial hierarchy. Among them, Archangel Michael stands as the highest-ranking warrior in God’s heavenly host. It is believed that in the prophesied end times, Archangel Michael will play a pivotal role, heralding the return of the Lord Himself. With a mighty command, accompanied by the voice of the archangel and the trumpet call of God, the dead in Christ will rise first, marking a transformative moment of divine intervention.
Angels
Guardian Angels, representing the final order of angels, hold a special role as protectors and caretakers of both humanity and the physical world. They can be considered to be “regular angels,” they are the most prevalent and familiar type of celestial beings. Within this order, personal guardian angels are assigned to individuals, offering guidance, support, and watchfulness.
Guardian Angels serve as protectors, issuing warnings and safeguarding individuals from harm. They act as warriors on behalf of God, defending against spiritual adversaries and intervening in times of need. It is traditionally believed that only angels and archangels are allowed to directly engage with humanity in everyday life.
The nature of their interaction varies. In some instances, angels function solely as messengers, delivering divine messages and guidance. However, in other cases, they manifest in visible form, actively assuming responsibility for the well-being of individuals facing adversity. They act as guardians, shielding from danger, providing sustenance, and guiding them away from harm’s way.
Fallen Angels vs Unfallen Angels
Angelic beings can be categorized into two primary groups: the “unfallen” angels and the fallen angels. Unfallen angels are characterized by their unwavering holiness and righteousness, earning them the distinction of being called “holy angels”. When angels are mentioned in the Scriptures, it typically refers to this class of holy angels. In contrast, fallen angels are those who have deviated from their initial state of purity and goodness, succumbing to disobedience and rebellion.
The focus of this distinction lies primarily on the class of holy angels. These unfallen angels are further categorized into specific classes, with certain individuals receiving mention and recognition. Among them, Michael the archangel is often regarded as the leader or head of all the holy angels. The name “Michael” itself holds significance, as it means “who is like unto God?”—an acknowledgment of his exceptional nature and divine connection.