Archangel Michael
Archangel Michael ("Who is like God?" in Hebrew) is the warrior commander archangel of the Judeo-Christian-Islamic tradition. Defender of the divine Light, leader of the angelic host that defeated the rebel angels, victorious over the dragon (Satan). The most invoked archangel for spiritual protection, defence against evil and courage in adversity. Associated with the element fire, the South and colour blue / gold.
Origin in the three Abrahamic religions
Judaism: Michael appears in the book of Daniel (Old Testament) as defending prince of the people of Israel. He is described as "one of the chief princes". Christianity: Revelation describes him leading the angelic legions against the dragon (Satan) and defeating him (Revelation 12:7-9). He is patron of soldiers, police officers, paramedics, anyone who is in dangerous life with mission of protecting others. Islam: Michael (Mikail in Arabic) is one of the major angels — controls celestial weather and provisions, the rain, the sustenance.
Michael's name is paradoxical: "Who is like God?" — was apparently his rhetorical war cry against Lucifer, the proudest angel that had said "I will be like God". The implicit answer of Michael, "Nobody is like God", is the founding humility of his service. He is therefore archangel of true power that does not put itself in front of God but at His service.
Symbolism and modern invocation
Iconography: Michael is represented as warrior with armour, sword in hand, foot stepping on the defeated dragon. Sometimes also with scales (he weighs the souls in alternate Christian tradition, an attribute also given to Saint Peter). Symbolism: sword of light (cuts the binding of evil with truth), armour (divine protection), blue and gold colours (ardent celestial fire), the dragon at his feet (chaotic forces dominated by divine order).
Michael is invoked for: 1) Spiritual protection against psychic attacks, harmful entities, evil eye, "low vibrations". 2) Cleansing of "infested" spaces — places with heavy energies are cleansed in his name. 3) Courage in adversity. 4) Cutting energetic ties (especially "cords" with toxic people or unhealed traumatic past — his sword of light cuts what tied you). 5) Justice and truth (when you face injustice). His recommended invocation: prayer to Saint Michael Archangel (very used in popular Catholic tradition); modern channelling: simply ask "Archangel Michael, please protect and accompany me, cut what does not serve". His colour candle: blue royal or gold. His day: Sunday (solar). His liturgical festival: September 29.
Also known as
- Mikael (Hebrew)
- Mikail (Arabic Islam)
- Saint Michael Archangel