You’ve probably heard of archangels Michael and Gabriel, but did you know there are seven major archangels traditionally listed?
The names and meanings of the 7 archangels show us a lot about their purpose – and they’re not linked to the 7 trumpets in Revelation as some people think.
Each name tells a story—not just about who they are, but what they do and why some religions and people pray to them.
Now, praying to angels is forbidden in the Bible, and not all of the 7 archangels are actually mentioned in it…
So if you’ve ever wondered, “How many archangels are there?” or “Who are they and what do they even do?” you’re in the right place – let’s check each of them out and where they come from, Bible or elsewhere.
How Many Archangels Are There?
Technically, the Bible only names two: Michael and Gabriel.
But through different publications and traditions—like the books 1 Enoch and 2 Esdras—we get the full list of seven.
So depending on who you ask, there could be two, or there could be seven.
As Christians, we don’t take anything outside of our Bible as truth, but we’ll cover all 7 here today with some extra context.
These seven are often seen as the top-tier angels, each with a specific job from God.
Some protect, some heal, some deliver messages, and some straight-up go to battle.
The 7 Archangels Names and Meanings
1. Michael – “Who is like God?”
Michael’s the fighter.
The protector.
The one who leads heaven’s army against evil.
He shows up in Revelation 12:7-9, Daniel 10:13, and Jude 1:9.
He’s often pictured with a sword, standing over a dragon (aka Satan).
2. Gabriel – “God is my strength”
Gabriel is the messenger.
He delivered the big news to Mary in Luke 1:26-38 about Jesus’ birth.
He also shows up in Daniel 8:16 and Daniel 9:21, helping Daniel understand visions.
If God has a message, Gabriel is often the one delivering it.
3. Raphael – “God heals”
Raphael is the healer.
He shows up in the Book of Tobit, especially in Tobit 12:15, where he identifies himself as “one of the seven angels who stand ready and enter before the glory of the Lord.”
Important note: Tobit is part of the Apocrypha and is not included in the Bible.
He helps Tobit’s son on a journey, healing both physical and emotional wounds.
4. Uriel – “God is my light”
Uriel doesn’t show up in the Bible, but he’s mentioned in 2 Esdras 4:1, an apocryphal book.
Important note: 2 Esdras is not part of the Christian Bible.
Uriel is described as the angel of wisdom, light, and truth.
He helps the prophet Ezra understand divine mysteries.
5. Selaphiel – “Prayer of God”
Selaphiel is the archangel of prayer and worship.
Important note: Selaphiel is not mentioned in the Bible but comes from Eastern Orthodox tradition.
He’s often portrayed deep in prayer, hands folded, eyes lifted.
6. Jegudiel – “Glorifier of God”
Jegudiel is all about righteous work and leadership.
Important note: Like Selaphiel, Jegudiel is not found in the Bible but is honored in Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition.
People in positions of responsibility often pray to him for wisdom and strength.
He represents God’s reward for those who work faithfully.
7. Barachiel – “Blessings of God”
Barachiel is the angel of blessings, especially over families.
Important note: Barachiel is not mentioned in the Bible and is known mainly through Eastern Orthodox tradition.
He’s often shown with roses or a rose petal-covered robe.
If you’re praying for protection or peace in your home, this is the archangel you want on your side.
Why Do the Archangels Matter?
Each of these names of archangels tells us something about God’s nature—strength, healing, wisdom, blessing.
They’re not just celestial beings floating around in the clouds.
They have roles.
They have jobs.
And they show up in moments that matter.
But it’s important to remember that not all of them are Biblical – and that’s enough reason to be wary of what some of them represent, especially if people pray to them.
Final Thoughts: 7 Archangels Names and Meanings
So, how many archangels are there?
Well, two for sure in the Bible.
Seven if you’re looking into different traditions and texts beyond Scripture.
Again, it’s important to note that the Bible says not to worship angels, which is where things get iffy with a lot of the “extra” archangels mentioned outside of the Bible.
FAQs
What are the 7 archangels in Christianity?
The 7 archangels are Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selaphiel, Jegudiel, and Barachiel. Only Michael and Gabriel are named in the Bible, while the others come from apocryphal texts and Eastern Orthodox tradition.
Is Uriel an official archangel?
Uriel isn’t mentioned in the Bible, so he’s not considered an “official” archangel in Christianity. However, he’s included in some apocryphal texts like 2 Esdras and is recognized in Orthodox and some Catholic traditions.
How are archangels different from angels?
Archangels are like the generals of God’s angelic army—higher in rank and given special assignments. Regular angels serve in many ways, but archangels are known for carrying out major missions, like delivering messages or fighting spiritual battles.
Who are the seven archangels and what do they do?
Michael protects and fights evil, Gabriel delivers messages, Raphael heals, Uriel brings wisdom, Selaphiel guides prayer, Jegudiel supports hard-working leaders, and Barachiel blesses families. Each one has a unique role.
Should you worship angels?
No, you shouldn’t worship angels. The Bible is clear that worship belongs to God alone. Even angels themselves reject worship—Revelation 22:8-9 shows an angel telling John not to worship him, but to worship God instead. Angels are servants, not the ones we serve.
How do I know who is my guardian angel?
The Bible doesn’t name personal guardian angels, so there’s no way to know for sure. But Scripture does suggest angels watch over us. Some people pray for discernment or simply ask God to guide them through the protection of angels.
Who is God’s strongest angel?
Michael is often considered the strongest angel. He’s the only one explicitly called an “archangel” in the Bible and is shown leading heavenly armies against Satan in Revelation 12.
Who is the leader of the 7 archangels?
Michael is seen as the leader of the 7 archangels. He’s the one leading battles in Scripture and is the only angel called “archangel” by name in the Bible.
What was Lucifer’s angel name?
The name “Lucifer” comes from a Latin translation of Isaiah 14:12, and it’s not originally a name. Tradition sometimes refers to him as a fallen archangel, but the Bible never names him as such. Some say he was once a high-ranking angel, or even the angel of music, but Scripture is not fully clear.
Are there angels on Earth?
Yes, the Bible says angels are active on Earth. Hebrews 13:2 even hints that some people have entertained angels without knowing it. They often work behind the scenes as messengers or protectors.
Which archangels fight demons?
Michael is the primary archangel who fights demons. Revelation 12 shows him leading the heavenly army against Satan and his forces. Tradition also sees Uriel and Raphael as spiritual warriors in certain texts.
Are there any female archangels?
In the Bible and most Christian tradition, angels—including archangels—are not described with human gender. They’re spiritual beings. While some artistic or New Age representations show female angels, Scripture doesn’t support gendered angels.