Categories of Angels

Categories of angels First category: Ordinary Angels Whether or not you've served in the armed forces, it's likely you're aware of the military's hierarchical classification of recruits. Similarly, God categorizes angels, demonstrating His divine orderliness. Among the heavenly host, the largest and most frequently mentioned group of angels in the Bible are what we might term "ordinary angels." This designation may seem paradoxical when describing these extraordinary, unique, and specially created beings, but it serves to distinguish them from the various special orders of angels mentioned in Scripture.

Second category: Cherubim Cherubim are celestial beings created by God, and they hold a significant place in the angelic hierarchy. The first biblical reference to cherubim occurs in Genesis 3, following Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden. These beings were entrusted with guarding the way to the Tree of Life, preventing humanity from returning to its fallen state.

Moses received specific instructions from God in Exodus 25 on how to craft sacred items for the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant and the Mercy Seat. The presence of cherubim was integral to these holy objects, symbolizing God's glory and the separation of sinful humanity from His divine presence.

Ezekiel's vision in Chapter 10 reveals cherubim with multiple wings, hands, and eyes, emphasizing their connection to God's splendor. Yet, this vision also serves as a harbinger of Jerusalem's impending destruction, indicating the cherubim's role in declaring human sinfulness and protecting God's presence from sinful individuals.

Third category: Seraphim The seraphim, whose name means "burning ones" in Hebrew, are another group of angels with specific characteristics. Isaiah's encounter with the seraphim in Isaiah 6 highlights their role in conveying God's holiness. These beings, with six wings, cover their faces and feet in the presence of the Almighty, underscoring their profound reverence and awe.

John's vision in Revelation 4 parallels Isaiah's, depicting heavenly creatures surrounding God's throne, proclaiming God's holiness continuously. This unity in the portrayal of God's holiness in both the Old and New Testaments reinforces the idea that God's character remains consistent across the Bible.

In conclusion, the angelic categories of ordinary angels, cherubim, and seraphim serve to illustrate the diversity and majesty of God's heavenly beings while emphasizing their roles in declaring God's holiness and guarding His presence.