Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael hold a special place in humanity’s spiritual tradition. From biblical writings to contemporary Spiritist interpretations, these celestial messengers appear as symbols of protection, healing, revelation, and divine justice.

In Spiritism, archangels are not considered privileged beings created in perfection, but Spirits who reached a very high degree of evolution throughout the ages. This broader perspective expands our understanding of who these protectors are and how they relate to humanity.

In this article, you will discover:

• The origin and meaning of the archangels’ names.
• Their appearances in Scripture.
• How they are viewed in different religious traditions.
• The Spiritist interpretation of angels and archangels.
• Prayers, teachings, and reflections for spiritual growth.

Who Are the Archangels in Spirituality?

The term “archangel” comes from the Greek archángelos, meaning “chief angel” or “greater messenger.” In Christian tradition, they are among the “seven spirits” who stand before the throne of God, mentioned in Revelation 8:2.

Each of the three best-known archangels has a specific mission, expressed through their names:

• Michael – “Who is like God?” → Guardian of justice and defender against evil.
• Gabriel – “God is my strength” → Messenger of divine revelations.
• Raphael – “God heals” → Intercessor for physical and spiritual health.

According to Spiritism, all angels and archangels were created by God as simple and ignorant beings. They achieved their greatness through effort, work, and experiences across many incarnations.

Archangel Michael: Guardian and Warrior of Light

Name and Meaning
Michael comes from the Hebrew Mikha’el, meaning “Who is like God?” The name itself is a declaration that no one equals the Creator. It represents reverence and loyalty to divine sovereignty.

Spiritual Role

• Celestial guardian.
• Chief commander of angelic hosts.
• Defender of God’s people.
• Archangel of justice and repentance.

Michael is remembered as the great warrior who defeats darkness and triumphs over evil.

In Scripture
Michael is mentioned directly three times:

• Daniel 10:13; 12:1 – Protector of Israel.
• Jude 1:9 – Defender against Satan.
• Revelation 12:7-9 – Leader in the battle against the dragon.

Devotion and Worship
From early Christianity, prayers and devotions to Michael sought:

• Protection against temptation.
• Strength in times of trial.
• Courage to walk in God’s light.

Archangel Gabriel: Messenger of Divine Revelation

Name and Meaning
Gabriel, from the Hebrew Gavri’el, means “God is my strength.” His mission is to announce God’s will and prepare hearts for spiritual transformation.

In the Old Testament
He appears to Daniel, explaining visions about Israel and the coming Messiah.

In the New Testament
Gabriel plays a central role:

• Announces to Zechariah the birth of John the Baptist.
• Reveals to Mary that she will be the Mother of the Savior.
• Appears to Joseph in dreams to confirm the divine origin of Jesus’ conception.
• Is associated with the shepherds of Bethlehem, the Magi, the agony in Gethsemane, and the Resurrection.

Gabriel and the Hail Mary
His greeting to Mary — “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you” — gave rise to one of the world’s most recited prayers: the Hail Mary.

Archangel Raphael: Divine Healer

Name and Meaning
Raphael combines Rafa (healing) and El (God), meaning “God heals.” He is remembered as:

• Angel of Providence.
• Protector of travelers.
• Patron of doctors and nurses.
• Intercessor for physical and spiritual healing.

In the Book of Tobit
Raphael appears in human form to guide Tobias:

• Protects him during his journey.
• Helps him marry Sarah and reclaim his father’s debt.
• Heals Tobit’s blindness.
• Reveals himself as one of the seven angels before God.

Spiritual Mission

• Bearer of divine healing.
• Protector of travelers.
• Guide of souls toward God.
• Patron of mercy and charity.

Spiritist Perspective on Angels and Archangels

According to Allan Kardec (Heaven and Hell), angels were not created perfect. They are Spirits who achieved purity after multiple incarnations and moral progress.

Key Spiritist Principles

• All Spirits are created simple and ignorant.
• Through free will, they advance toward perfection.
• No privileges exist: all evolve step by step.
• Angels are perfected human souls.

André Luiz and Guardian Spirits
In Between Heaven and Earth, psychographed by Chico Xavier, André Luiz explains that:

• Protectors are not always perfect but are devoted companions.
• They can be deceased relatives or benefactors.
• No one is spiritually abandoned; divine help is always present.

Prayers to the Archangels

Prayer to Saint Michael
“Glorious Prince of Heaven, Saint Michael, defend us in battle. Protect us from evil spirits and present our prayers before God. Amen.”

Prayer to Saint Gabriel
“Saint Gabriel, faithful messenger of God, help us understand His Word and obey His call. Keep our hearts ready for service. Amen.”

Prayer to Saint Raphael
“Saint Raphael, bearer of divine healing, intercede for us in illness and guide us safely on life’s journey. Amen.”

Final Reflections: Lessons from the Archangels

The archangels symbolize three divine forces:

• Justice and protection (Michael).
• Revelation and truth (Gabriel).
• Healing and mercy (Raphael).

In Spiritism, they are not privileged beings but advanced brothers who achieved greatness through progress. Their example reminds us that we, too, can rise spiritually by choosing love, work, and goodness.

👉 Want to go deeper? Read our article on Spiritist views of guardian angels.

FAQ – Archangels in Spiritism

1. Does Spiritism believe in angels and archangels?
   Yes. They are Spirits who achieved high levels of purity through evolution.
2. Do archangels accompany individuals?
   Usually, our protectors are closer guides, while archangels carry out universal missions.
3. What’s the difference between guardian angels and archangels?
   Guardian angels protect individuals; archangels oversee broader missions for humanity.
4. Can we pray directly to Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael?
   Yes. Prayers lift our hearts to the good, though Spiritism emphasizes that intercession ultimately comes from God.
5. Can we all become angels or archangels one day?
   Yes. According to Spiritism, all souls are destined for relative perfection.