Raphael
Raphael · Archangel — Angel of Healing and Guide of Travelers
Archangel of Judaism and Christianity. His name means 'God Heals' (Rapha-el). The angel who heals the sick and guides travelers safely. He is famed for the deuterocanonical Book of Tobit, in which he accompanied young Tobias in human form and healed his father Tobit's blindness. Medicine, herbs, and both bodily and spiritual healing fall within his domain.
Origin
One of the seven archangels named in the Book of Enoch and the Book of Tobit. In Tobit, going by the alias 'Azarias,' he accompanied Tobias on his journey, drove out the demon Asmodeus, and cured Tobit's blindness with fish gall.
Features
- Pilgrim angel with staff and traveler's robes
- A fish (Tobit story) and gourd of healing herbs
- Often depicted with young Tobias at his side
- Green or teal garments, gentle countenance
Usage
Patron saint of the sick, the blind, travelers, pharmacists, and nurses. His image is common in hospitals and apothecaries; invoked in prayers before journeys and surgeries. His feast is September 29th, with the other archangels.
Related
Metatron
Metatron · Scribe of Heaven — Voice of God and Recorder of Divine Acts
Gabriel
Gabriel · Archangel — Messenger of God, Bearer of the Annunciation
Lucifer
Lucifer · Bearer of Light — Fallen Archangel, Prince of Pride
Mammon
Mammon · Demon of Wealth — Prince of Greed
Anubis
Anubis · Egyptian God — Guardian of Death and Mummification
Leviathan
Leviathan · Vast Sea Monster — Prince of Envy
Ra
Ra · Egyptian Sun God — Creator and King of the Gods
Indra
Indra · God of Thunder — Supreme Deity of Hindu Mythology