Do angels exist?

Answer

The Bible portrays angels as genuine, actual beings. However, the biblical depiction of angels differs significantly from the popular perception of them. Angels are described in the Bible as immensely powerful, awe-inspiring, and enigmatic creatures. They serve God with specific purposes and do not appear to be aimless or arbitrary beings. While the Bible does not provide extensive information about angels, the available details are sufficient to dispel many common misconceptions.

The term “angel” originates from the Greek word aggelos (or angelos), which translates most literally to “messenger.” In the Old Testament Hebrew, these beings are referred to as mal’ak, which carries the same meaning, “messenger.” Communication appears to be the primary role of angels in the Bible. Most mentions of angels involve them delivering messages or commands on behalf of God. They are sometimes portrayed as safeguarding specific individuals (Daniel 6:20-23) or nations “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.”, (Daniel 12:1). However, there is no direct biblical support for the concept of a “guardian angel”—a singular spiritual entity assigned to a specific person for protection or guidance—although such beings may exist.

In contemporary times, popular portrayals of angels often include elements like halos, feathered wings, blond hair, harps, and white robes, or cherubic infants with small wings and radiant eyes. In reality, the Bible does not offer a general physical description of angels. It only mentions a few specific types of beings, such as cherubim.

Angels, including cherubim and seraphim, are depicted with direct visual details (Isaiah 6:2-6; Ezekiel 1:4-28). Some angels, like those at the ascension, are described as wearing white «And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; », (Acts 1:10). Scripture indicates that angels can take on a mundane human form (Genesis 19:1-4).

That being said, most people in Scripture who encounter angels react with fear. Almost every time an angel appears to someone, the angel’s first words are, “Don’t be afraid!” (Luke 1:13, 30; 2:10; Matthew 28:5). Their presence can be so overwhelming that even apostles like John had to be warned not to worship them (Revelation 19:9-10). This makes sense, given the level of power ascribed to angels by the Bible. As spiritual beings created to serve God, angels are not so much “cute” as they are powerful and otherworldly.

Looking at the Bible, we can affirm that angels are real beings. Biblical angels exist. However, the exaggerated versions of angels often portrayed in movies and commercials do not.