An examination of angels and their purpose in life and religion.
This paper provides a review of the relevant literature to determine the origin of angels, whether humans can become angels, and the duty or purpose of angels. It examines some angelic interactions with people from Genesis to Revelation and discusses whether angels should be worshiped or prayed to. It also looks at how humanity in general should live in light of this doctrine.
Outline
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Can Humans Become Angels?
Duty or Purpose of Angels
Angelic Interaction with People from Genesis to Revelation
Should Angels be Worshiped or Prayed To?
How Should Humanity Live in the Light of this Doctrine
Conclusion
Outline
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Can Humans Become Angels?
Duty or Purpose of Angels
Angelic Interaction with People from Genesis to Revelation
Should Angels be Worshiped or Prayed To?
How Should Humanity Live in the Light of this Doctrine
Conclusion
“The primary function of angels is to praise and serve God and do his will. This is true of angels in both Christianity and Zoroastrianism, as well as in Judaism and Islam. The purpose of angels in the early accounts appears to be connected with the views of theologians who recognized the need for human forms and voices to convey the presence of the unseen God. “In these stories, it is through angels that divine help comes to men. Abraham could promise his servant, about to set out on his search for a wife for Isaac, that “the Lord, the God of heaven . . . will send his angel with you . . . and prosper your way”” (Genesis, chapter 24). Similarly, in his dream at Bethel, Jacob saw “a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven, and behold the angels of God were ascending and descending on it,” suggesting that a primary purpose of angels was to deliver earthly news to heaven, thereby confirming their responsibilities as messengers (Genesis, chapter 28).”