Angels 101
Your Guide to Understanding the Angelic Realm
Angels are divine messengers created by God to worship him and serve humanity. They are energetic allies who exist beyond the physical realm, ready to support, guide, and protect you.
Angels are pure celestial beings created by God to serve him and watch over God’s people. They vibrate at a high frequency of unconditional love and are always available to help—but they honor your free will and typically wait to be invited in.
The angelic realms are highly organized and structured in a divine hierarchy of light. The angelic realm is a multi-dimensional system in which different orders of angels hold specific roles, responsibilities, and vibrational frequencies.
A History of Angels
Angels were created on a frequency and vibration that is pure love by God. You don't need to be religious to work with angels. These benevolent beings serve humanity regardless of your spiritual background or beliefs. Angels were first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis, when God places Cherubim to guard the Garden of Eden. They are mentioned again when the Angel of the Lord appears to Hagar in Genesis. Since the dawn of time, angels have been assisting God and helping humanity; they can help you as well.
The Angelic Realm
There are nine choirs of angels. Many refer to this as an hierarchy, but I prefer to list them out based on their roles and responsibilities, along with their vibrational frequency. We are all energetic beings, the angels are on an energetic frequency far greater than humans. As humans continue to raise their vibration and live with light and love, more and more people are able to connect with and channel the angelic realm.
Below, you'll find detailed guides for each choir of angel—who they are, what they oversee, and exactly how they work for God and the universe. Most importantly, how they work for you day in and day out to create a better world for everyone in it. “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14)
Seraphim
The highest order of angels. Surrounding God, the Godhead, and the Throne of God. Radiating pure light and love. Holding the highest frequency of all the angels. Known to hold the vibration of creation itself.
Who Are the Seraphim?
Among all angelic beings described in sacred texts, none radiate the intensity, mystery, and divine proximity of the Seraphim. Known as the “Burning Ones,” the Seraphim are traditionally understood to be the highest order of angels — beings of pure light, fire, and unceasing devotion to God.
For those exploring the angelic realms, the Seraphim represent the original flame of divine love — the vibration closest to Source itself.
What to Know
The word Seraph comes from the Hebrew śārāf (שָׂרָף), meaning to burn, set aflame, or fiery one. The Seraphim are therefore understood not simply as angels made of fire — but as beings who burn with divine love itself. Fire throughout sacred tradition symbolizes divine presence, such as the Burning Bush in Exodus, purification, illumination, and transformative power. The Seraphim embody all of these qualities simultaneously. The clearest scriptural account of the Seraphim appears in the Book of Isaiah 6:1–7. In the Prophet Isaiah’s vision the Seraphim stand above the throne of God. They each possess six wings; two cover the face, two cover the feet, and two are used for flying. They proclaim continously:
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts;
the whole earth is full of His glory.”
Symbolism Within the Vision
Every detail is rich with meaning:
Covering the face → Reverence before divine glory
Covering the feet → Humility in service
Flying → Readiness to carry out divine will
Burning coal → Purification and spiritual transformation
The triple proclamation of “Holy” (known as the Trisagion) remains foundational in Christian liturgy to this day.
What the seraphim represent for us
Contemporary spiritual teachings often describe the Seraphim as multi-dimensional beings of pure frequency, extremely high vibrational light, catalysts for deep spiritual purification. They are the guardians of the original blueprint of creation. They can be linked symbolically with the crown chakra, solar divine fire, and spiritual awakening through energetic refinement. The Seraphim are rarely called upon for daily concerns. Instead, they are invoked in moments of profound transformation — when the soul is ready to be refined by divine fire.
When to Call Them In
The Seraphim remind us that divine love is not passive — it is transformative. It burns away illusion. It purifies ego. It restores clarity. To contemplate the Seraphim is to contemplate the intensity of God’s presence, and within that contemplation, we are invited to ask:
Where in my life is divine fire calling me to rise?
When thinking through divine love, contemplating the love of God, and being ready and called to ascension; think of the Seraphim channeling the highest vibration and pure unconditional love.
Cherubim
The second highest order of angels. They are the guardians of divine wisdom and sacred knowledge. They hold the blueprint of divine intelligence. They are protectors of holiness — guardians positioned where Heaven and Earth meet.
Who are the cherubim?
Among the highest orders of angels, the Cherubim stand as guardians of divine wisdom, sacred knowledge, and the mysteries of creation. While modern imagery often reduces cherubs to small winged children, the biblical and mystical Cherubim are far more awe-inspiring, complex, and powerful beings. If the Seraphim burn with divine love, the Cherubim radiate divine wisdom.
What to Know
The Cherubim appear throughout the Bible in powerful and symbolic roles.
Guardians of Eden
In Book of Genesis 3:24, after Adam and Eve are expelled from the Garden of Eden, God places Cherubim and a flaming sword to guard the way to the Tree of Life. From the very beginning, Cherubim are associated with protection of sacred space, guardianship of divine access, boundary between humanity and divine immortality. In Book of Exodus 25:18–22, God instructs Moses to fashion two golden Cherubim atop the Ark of the Covenant, their wings overshadowing the mercy seat. The Cherubim become symbolic throne-bearers — guardians of God’s dwelling among His people. The most detailed and mystical description appears in Book of Ezekiel 1 and 10. Ezekiel describes living creatures with:
Four faces (human, lion, ox, eagle)
Four wings
Straight legs with feet like a calf
Wheels within wheels filled with eyes
These beings are later identified as Cherubim.
Symbolism of the Four Faces
The four faces traditionally represent:
Human → Intelligence and reason
Lion → Strength and majesty
Ox → Service and endurance
Eagle → Spiritual vision and transcendence
Together, they symbolize the fullness of creation and divine intelligence operating in harmony. In Jewish mysticism, Cherubim are often seen as Bearers of the Divine Throne (Merkabah mysticism,) guardians of sacred mysteries, and channels of higher intelligence. In mystical literature, they are not merely symbolic creatures, but cosmic beings holding the architecture of spiritual reality. Their presence in Ezekiel’s vision later became foundational for Jewish Merkabah (chariot) mysticism — a tradition focused on ascending spiritually toward the divine throne.
What the cherubim represent for us
Spiritually, the Cherubim invite us into higher awareness, discernment, sacred boundaries, protection of what is holy within. They remind us that not all knowledge is casual — some wisdom is earned through reverence, humility, and spiritual maturity. While the Seraphim purify with fire, the Cherubim illuminate with understanding.
Thrones
The third highest celestial beings in angelic theology are the Thrones — mysterious, radiant entities associated with divine justice, balance, and the direct transmission of God’s authority into creation. They are stability in motion. Justice in perfect alignment. The architecture of heaven itself.
Who Are The thrones?
Making up the third highest first hierarchy, Thrones are representation of divine justice, as Seraphim are divine love, and the Cherubim are divine wisdom. They remind us that the universe is not chaotic, justice exists beyond our limited perspective, and sacred order operates even among the unseen.
What to Know
They are known as bearer’s of God’s authority, foundations of divine justice, and instruments which divine will is stabilized into reality. They are referenced most clearly in the New Testament in Epistle to the Colossians 1:16, which states:
“For by Him all things were created… whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities…”
This passage affirms that Thrones are part of the created spiritual hierarchy — celestial beings that exist within the structure of divine governance. Many theologians connect the Thrones symbolically with the “wheels” seen in Book of Ezekiel 1, described as:
Wheels within wheels
Covered in eyes
Radiant and full of movement
Moving in perfect harmony with the living creature
In theological tradition, they are understood to carry the presence of God, anchor divine decrees, and ensure universal harmony.
What the thrones represent for us
They represent alignment — living in harmony with divine law. When life feels unstable or unjust, contemplation of the Thrones can bring a profound truth:
There is structure beneath the surface.
There is balance beyond the moment.
There is order even in apparent disorder.
In the Book of Revelation, the imagery of thrones expands into a heavenly vision of divine authority and governance.
Book of Revelation 4:4
“Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads.”
This passage reveals:
A structured heavenly court
Multiple thrones positioned around the central throne of God
Order, governance, and divine authority in operation
While the “twenty-four elders” are distinct figures, the repeated throne imagery reinforces the concept of a celestial hierarchy and structured divine rulership.
When to Call in your angels for help alongside the thrones
Trust in the universe that your path will unfold
When you feel like you have lost all control
Thinking through the sense of justice in the world
Thinking of stability and balance in your life
Knowing that God is by your side along with his heavenly realm to guide and support you
The promise "I will never leave you nor forsake you" is primarily found in Hebrews 13:5 in the New Testament, where it is quoted to encourage contentment and trust in God's presence. It is also rooted in the Old Testament, specifically Deuteronomy 31:6 and Joshua 1:5.
Dominions
As we move into the Second Sphere of the celestial hierarchy, we encounter the Dominions. These angels are associated with divine authority, governance, and the regulation of angelic duties. The Dominions ensure that heavenly order is carried out with precision.
Who Are the dominions?
If the First Sphere (Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones) contemplates and directly reflects God’s essence, the Second Sphere begins the outward movement of divine will into structured administration. In traditional Christian angelology the Dominions:
Regulate the duties of lower-ranking angels
Ensure divine commands are properly distributed
Maintain cosmic order
Oversee the movement of grace and authority
Unlike guardian angels or archangels who directly assist humanity, Dominions function more like celestial administrators — guiding and directing the angelic hosts beneath them.
They are calm, balanced, and free from emotional turbulence. Their energy is stable and composed.
What to Know
In sacred art, Dominions are sometimes depicted wearing crowns or holding scepters, carrying orbs representing authority, and clothed in royal garments. These symbols reflect leadership without ego, authority aligned with divine will, governance rooted in humility.
They do not dominate — despite their name.
Rather, they channel divine dominion without distortion. Thomas Aquinas described the Dominions as completely surrendered to God’s authority, free from attachment to power, and transmitters of divine order.
Their power is not self-generated — it is received and transmitted.
What the dominions represent for us
The Dominions invite reflection on sacred leadership. They ask:
Where in your life are you called to lead?
Are you governing from ego — or alignment?
Is your authority rooted in service?
Divine order flows through those who surrender to something greater than themselves. This is the hallmark of a servant leader, a type of leadership that is paving the way for a new type of leader. A leader who is rooted in their people, their mission, and their purpose.
Divine Leadership
In contemplative or mystical spirituality, the Dominions represent:
Leadership in alignment
Structured divine purpose
Governance rooted in humility
The balance between authority and surrender
They remind us that true authority comes not from force, but from alignment with higher will.
For those in positions of leadership — whether spiritual, corporate, or personal — the Dominions model clear decision-making, emotional neutrality, integrity in governance, and service-driven leadership.
When to call on them
I call on them when life feels chaotic. When you need grounding, order, and process. When you think your life is spiraling out of control. Know that the heavenly realms and our universe is vast and majestic, incomprehensible to the human brain; but above -it is filled with order and precision. The universe knows how to work with you, take care of you, and will always support you for your highest good. In leadership I think of the Dominions; it is not about you, it is the people, the process, and the highest good.
For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. Psalms 91
Virtues
Within the Second Sphere of the celestial hierarchy dwell the Virtues — luminous beings associated with divine grace, miracles, courage, and the movement of heavenly energy into the world. They are the quiet power behind transformation.
Who are the virtues?
If the Dominions oversee structure and governance, the Virtues infuse creation with spiritual vitality. They are often described as the angels through whom divine blessings flow. The word virtue stems from the Latin virtus, meaning strength, excellence, moral courage, and divine power.
The Virtues are therefore associated not only with miracles, but with inner strength — fortifying souls during hardship and empowering individuals to rise above fear.
They do not merely perform miracles. They activate divine momentum.
What to Know
In sacred art, the Virtues are often depicted radiating light, surrounded by stars, bearing symbols of blessing, and with uplifted hands, suggesting the transmission of grace.
Their imagery emphasizes flow — energy moving from heaven into creation.
When to Call Them In
From a contemplative perspective, the Virtues represent:
The invisible support during times of transition
The surge of courage before a breakthrough
The grace that carries us through the impossible
When miracles occur — subtle or dramatic — the Virtues are traditionally understood to be at work. They operate quietly, but powerfully.
For seekers walking a spiritual path, the Virtues remind us:
Grace is active.
Divine help is moving.
Strength flows when we surrender.
“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.” Acts 12:7
What the Virtues Represent for Us
The Virtues call us into spiritual resilience.
They ask:
Where do you need courage?
Where is grace already working behind the scenes?
Can you trust divine momentum, even when you cannot see it?
Do you believe in miracles?
In the unfolding hierarchy, we begin to see the flow of heaven:
Love (Seraphim)
Wisdom (Cherubim)
Justice (Thrones)
Governance (Dominions)
Grace in Motion (Virtues)
Each order reveals another layer of divine structure — not distant or abstract, but alive and active within the spiritual architecture of our world.
“For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” Psamls 91
Powers
They are the guardians of divine order and spiritual protection. As we complete the Second Sphere of the celestial hierarchy, we encounter the Powers — formidable guardians charged with maintaining divine order and protecting the cosmos from spiritual chaos.
Who are the powers?
They are often described as the heavenly warriors — not aggressive, but resolute. Their role is preservation, boundary, and balance. The term “powers” appears repeatedly in the New Testament as part of the celestial hierarchy.
Epistle to the Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world…”
And again in:
Epistle to the Colossians 1:16
“…whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities…”
These passages affirm that there are structured spiritual ranks operating within creation — some aligned with divine will, others fallen or distorted. Traditional angelology identifies the loyal heavenly Powers as protectors against spiritual disorder.
What to Know
The word Power derives from the Greek exousiai, meaning authority, jurisdiction, spiritual power.
Unlike the Dominions, who administer, the Powers actively protect. Their authority is exercised in defense of divine order.
They do not seek battle — but they are prepared for it. Their responsibilities include defending the cosmos from chaos, maintaining spiritual boundaries, guarding against demonic influence, enforcing divine law, and ensuring balance within the universe.
They are often described as the angelic order that prevents lower forces from disrupting divine harmony.
when to Call Them In
From a contemplative perspective, the Powers represent boundaries rooted in love, strength aligned with integrity, the courage to stand firm, and spiritual discernment.
They remind us that protection is holy.
In our own lives, the energy of the Powers manifests as:
Saying no when necessary
Guarding what is sacred
Upholding truth without aggression
Protecting spiritual integrity
The Powers embody strength without ego.
what the powers represents for us
The Powers ask:
Where do you need stronger spiritual boundaries?
What truth are you being called to defend?
How can strength coexist with compassion?
As we reflect on the Second Sphere as a whole, we see a complete pattern:
Dominions — Divine Governance
Virtues — Divine Empowerment
Powers — Divine Protection
Together, they ensure that heavenly intention becomes earthly reality — safely, steadily, and in alignment with divine law.
Principalities
The guardians of nations and collective destiny. The Principalities — angels entrusted with the oversight of nations, cities, institutions, and large groups of people. They are guardians not of individuals — but of civilizations.
Who are the principalities?
In biblical tradition, hints of national angelic guardianship appear in the Book of Daniel 10, where spiritual “princes” are described in connection with regions such as Persia and Greece.
While interpretations vary, many theologians understand this as evidence of spiritual beings associated with national oversight.
Principalities are therefore often seen as angels assigned to particular territories, protectors of cultural evolution, and guardians of societal direction. The Principalities begin the Third Sphere:
Principalities
Archangels
Angels
This sphere is closest to the human race with the most human intervention. Their primary functions include overseeing nations and regions, guiding leaders and governments, protecting institutions, inspiring cultural movements, and influencing collective consciousness. They work quietly behind the scenes of history, yet rooted in love.
What to Know
The Principalities are known as supervisors of earthly rulers, influencers of human systems, and directors of large-scale divine plans.
They do not override human free will — but they may influence the flow of events in alignment with divine purpose. In sacred art, Principalities are sometimes depicted wearing crowns (symbol of governance,) holding scepters, positioned above cities or landscapes, and surrounded by protective light.
These symbols reflect authority without domination, oversight without interference, and protection at scale. Their energy is steady, strategic, and long-range.
How to work with the principalities
From a contemplative perspective, the Principalities represent the collective awakening, cultural shifts, leadership influence, and the rise and fall of movements.
They remind us that history is not random.
There is spiritual architecture behind societal change.
For those who feel called to impact communities, organizations, or global movements, the Principalities embody responsibility beyond self, vision beyond the present moment, and leadership rooted in service.
What the Principalities Represent for Us
The Principalities invite reflection on our role within community, leadership beyond personal gain, and influence used for the collective good. It is alignment with a larger divine plan.
As we descend further into the Third Sphere, the angelic realm becomes more personal:
Principalities — Guardians of nations
Archangels — Messengers to humanity
Angels — Personal guides and protectors
Heaven’s structure moves from cosmic fire to cultural influence — and ultimately, to the angels who walk beside you.
Archangels
The Archangels were created by God to look out for and watch over humanity. They look out for the entire universe and all its peoples. God loves you so much that he created them specifically to watch over you, guard you, and protect you.
Who are the archangels?
As we move deeper into the Third Sphere of the celestial hierarchy, we encounter the Archangels — perhaps the most recognized and beloved order of angels in religious and spiritual tradition. If the Principalities oversee nations, the Archangels guide humanity directly. They are messengers, protectors, healers, and warriors of light — powerful beings entrusted with carrying divine communication into the human realm. In Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, archangels are cited and written about to help God’s people.
What to Know
The term “archangel” appears explicitly in Scripture:
First Epistle to the Thessalonians 4:16
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel…”
And in:
Epistle of Jude 1:9
“But Michael the archangel, when he disputed with the devil…”
The Greek word archangelos means chief messenger, leading angel, and angel of highest rank. The word “El” in Hebrew is frequently used to indicate a relationship with God such as Gabriel, Mighty One of God, Michael, Who is like God. Only one archangel is explicitly named in the Protestant Bible — Michael — though additional names appear in other traditions. Their responsibilities include:
Delivering divine messages (Archangel Gabriel)
Assisting during major life transitions, birth and death (Archangel Azrael)
Protecting individuals and communities (Archangel Michael)
Guiding spiritual awakening (Archangel Metatron)
Missions on healing and abundance (Archangel Raphael)
They operate at the intersection of heaven and earth.
How to Call Them In
While guardian angels assist individuals daily, archangels are often called upon in moments of profound change or spiritual significance. However, I call on my archangels every day. The angels prefer that you call them out loud, even if it is a whisper, that way they are not sifting through every single thought in your mind. When you call on them, they are there in an instant.
Channeler and master intuitive, Sonia Choquette, has a wonderful way of calling in her archangels. In her “Ask Your Guides” book she explains calling on the archangels by chanting their name and separating it out in three syllables. Mi-Cha- el, Ga-bri-el. She does this three times and asks them to stand by her side as she calls them in for their energy and protection. In the back of Sonia Choquette’s book is a link to a special meditation that calls in several of the archangels. I have done this chant and meditation thousands of times. The chanting is akin to a frequency that they are attracted to and can hear.
When to Call Them In
They remind us that heaven is not distant — it speaks. In times of crisis, clarity, or calling, many turn to the archangels for strength and direction. As we complete the Third Sphere, the hierarchy becomes deeply personal:
Principalities — Guardians of nations
Archangels — Messengers to humanity
Angels — Your personal companions
From cosmic fire to individual guidance, the celestial hierarchy reveals a beautiful truth: Divine love descends — step by step — until it walks beside you.
The archangels want to help and stand side by side with you. They want to connect with you and the easiest way to do this is via meditation. Try to call one in each time you meditate. Feel their energy and how they come in and attune with you. Each one will feel different. Be open to how you feel them and receive them. The archangels can present themselves differently to different people. Sometimes they appear human like, can appear as an orb, or a colorful essence. It will be unique to you.
Angels
The millions of angels in existence were created to serve God and serve humanity. Think of them as personal guardians and divine companions. There are legions of angels that you can tap into for anything you might need to live the life you were meant to lead.
Who are the angels?
At the foundation of the celestial hierarchy — and closest to daily human life — are the Angels themselves. Often called guardian angels, this order is the most intimately connected to humanity. If the Seraphim burn with divine love and the Archangels deliver world-shaping messages, the Angels walk quietly beside you. They are protectors, guides, and companions. They are heaven’s most personal expression of care.
Biblical Foundations
The presence of personal angels is woven throughout Scripture.
Gospel of Matthew 18:10
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”
This passage strongly suggests individual angelic guardianship.
And in:
Psalm 91 91:11
“For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
Angels are portrayed as protectors, messengers, and servants of divine will — actively involved in human affairs.
What to Know
Unlike higher choirs that operate on cosmic scales, Angels work at the level of the individual heart. They may prompt sudden insight, create “coincidental” protection, provide comfort in grief, and inspire courage. They also offer reassurance through signs.
They do not interfere with human free will — but they guide wherever invited. Angels are often depicted with two wings, clothed in white or light, radiating softness and peace or positioned protectively beside or behind a person. While artistic depictions vary, their essence remains consistent, protection rooted in love.
How to Call Them In
You don’t need to meditate deeply to call upon your angels or ask the angels for help. Again, I often ask out loud, even in a whisper. I simply state what I need, ask my angels for help and guidance, and then end with “….and so it is.” Something as easy as a long drive or road trip, I will say “angels- I’m asking for guidance and protection on this trip, no car accidents, or no tire issues, please angels - protect me and see me on my way with no disturbance, and so it is.”
In a challenging work situation I call upon my angels for protection, guidance, and state what I need clearly and specifically. They can’t help unless you ask them for it! One piece to working with and calling upon your angels is faith. Having faith in God, having faith in the universe, and having faith in the angelic realm.
In Anthony Williams NYT best-selling book The Medical Medium he states that there are 21 Essential Angels. These include the Angel of Mercy, Angel of Faith, Angel of Healing, and the Angel of Peace, plus many more. You have so many angels that can help you in specific ways, but you have to ask.
The Unknown Angels
One of my favorite categories of angels to call upon is what Anthony Williams refers to as The Unknown Angels. I have called upon them many times and have witnessed incredible miracles. Miracles of healing and miracles of seeing my life turn around when I needed it most, support when I needed it most. These angels don’t have names, there are exactly 144,000 angels in existence. The number 144 is a number that is revered by God. The Unknown Angels are some of the most powerful and the least in demand, because no one knows them. You can ask for just one Unknown Angel, or many. I often ask for 2-4 at a time, depending on what I need. In your darkest hour, when you feel there is no hope, ask out loud for the help of the Unknown Angels and watch what happens.
What the Angels Represent for Us
The Angels ask us to consider:
Where have you been protected without realizing it?
When has intuition gently redirected you?
Are you open to divine guidance in ordinary moments?
The celestial hierarchy begins in blazing divine fire — and descends all the way to personal companionship.
Seraphim — Divine Love
Cherubim — Divine Wisdom
Thrones — Divine Justice
Dominions — Divine Governance
Virtues — Divine Grace
Powers — Divine Protection
Principalities — Guardians of Nations
Archangels — Messengers to Humanity
Angels — Your Personal Guides
From throne room to quiet whisper, heaven is structured — and profoundly intimate.
“In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:10
An angelic realm to call on, when you feel there is no hope,
The Unknown Angels.
The journey through the Nine Choirs reveals something beautiful; divine love is not distant, it is layered, structured, and intentional. And at the closest level, it walks beside you, always protecting you and supporting.
On a History of Angels, we explore not only who the angels are — but how they invite us into deeper awareness, trust, and alignment with divine light. Invite the angels in and watch your life transform. Over time, we will continue to highlight and call upon very specific angels and angelic teams that you can call on. Know that your team is by your side and willing to help you lead the life you were meant to live.