Introduction to the Seven Archangels and Their Meanings

Archangels are viewed as powerful beings who offer help, support, love and wisdom, but how do they differ to other angels? All sentient beings, animal and human, have an angel that was assigned to watch over them from birth. These are known as guardian angels, and you might think of them as your own personal helpers.

Archangels are believed to have a more direct link with God, working together for the good of mankind and dealing with larger universal tasks. Both are servants of God, and it's funny to think of spiritual beings having a rank of sorts, but the word arch translates to "highest" or "chief". You could say that archangels are the commanders that carry messages from Source.

Archangels are mentioned in the Bible and other religions, including Judaism and Islam. Different cultures interpret them in different ways, but the meanings of archangels are usually the same. If you believe in the energetic beings that we call angels, it's likely that the winged, halo-wearing figures depicted in Christianity are merely a symbol of what they represent. After all, isn't it more relatable than a floating ball of light?

It's also fair to say that humans assigned genders to archangels based on their unique energies and qualities that can support you on your journey and assist with any difficulties you might be having. Whether you're seeking guidance, inspiration or a deeper connection to the divine, archangels can bring comfort and clarity to your life.

Traditionally there are seven archangels, but who those angels are varies from faith to faith and personal beliefs. Some names you might have heard of include: Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, Uriel, Zadkiel, Chamuel, Ariel, Jophiel, Cassiel and Azrael (although there are many more!).

Here we explore, what I believe to be, the most popular identifications of the seven archangels, including helpful affirmations and practical methods of connecting with them. Remember, there is no right or wrong - you should work with whichever archangel that you feel most drawn to, even if they're not mentioned here.

The Seven Archangels and Their Meanings

Some people assign different colours, days, elements, planets and numbers with each archangel; but these are as variable as the archangels themselves. You can communicate with angels on any day of the week and at any time of your choosing.

Spirituality is as individual as personal style, and restrictions only exist in the 3D. I encourage the freedom to explore your gifts by letting your imagination soar. The most important factor during any spiritual connection is approaching it with a calm and peaceful mind so the messages can flow through.

Messages from Your Angels Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue

1. Archangel Michael

Name meaning: "Who is like God"

Representation: Courage and protection

Colour: Blue

Affirmation:

"I am safe and protected in all that I do. I am strength and my path is clear of all blockages."

Archangel Michael is the leader of angels and often depicted wearing armour and wielding a sword. He's known as the warrior angel who offers strength and protection from negativity. He fights the forces of darkness, inspires bravery and lends the courage to face challenges. Ask Michael to surround you with his aura of blue light, shielding you from any fears or uncertainties.

I like using labradorite to connect with Archangel Michael for its trademark blue flash, as well as angelite or lapis lazuli.

Messages from Your Angels Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue

2. Archangel Raphael

Name meaning: "God heals"

Representation: Healing of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual

Colour: Green

Affirmation:

"My body is filled with healing energy. I am restored and protected."

Known as the angel of healing and miracles, Archangel Raphael helps to restore health on every level. He's sometimes shown holding a staff that represents medicine, protection and guidance. His gentle green energy reflects health, growth and vitality. You can visualise this to nurture yourself and others.

Call on Raphael to boost any area that's lacking in your life by bringing you closer to God for personal healing. He's also connected to animals, nature and wisdom.

I like using malachite or green aventurine to connect with Archangel Raphael.

Messages from Your Angels Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue

3. Archangel Gabriel

Name meaning: "God is my Strength"

Representation: Communication and clarity

Colour: White

Affirmation:

"I express myself with clarity and confidence. My truth shines brightly."

Archangel Gabriel is known as the divine messenger and one of the most significant figures in religious history. He was the angel that told Mary she'd give birth to the son of God, although many have since described Gabriel as female or with feminine qualities.

The colour white embodies purity and clarity, opening up pathways for clear communication and expression. The moon resonates with intuition, and many creatives call upon Gabriel for inspiration. He can support you during challenging conversations when you need your voice to be heard and boost your communication skills.

I like using clear quartz, selenite or rainbow moonstone to connect with Archangel Gabriel.

Messages from Your Angels Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue

4. Archangel Uriel

Name meaning: "God is my Light"

Representation: Wisdom and enlightenment

Colour: Gold

Affirmation:

"I am open to receiving wisdom and trust my inner guidance."

Archangel Uriel shines his golden light on our paths during times of uncertainty or when more information is needed. He's the angel of wisdom and problem solving, lending insight through life's challenges so we can make informed decisions for the highest good. If you're in need of clarity and peace, summon Uriel's warm light to enlighten your mind and heart.

I like using citrine or topaz to connect with Archangel Uriel.

Angel Tarot Cards by Radleigh Valentine

5. Archangel Zadkiel

Name meaning: "God is my Righteousness"

Representation: Forgiveness and mercy

Colour: Purple

Affirmation:

"I release all that no longer serves me with love and forgiveness."

Archangel Zadkiel teaches the power of forgiveness by helping people to let go of resentment and move forwards. The colour purple is associated with transformation, reflecting the importance of releasing old burdens to achieve emotional healing and spiritual growth. Ask Zadkiel to bring about change in difficult circumstances and be your guiding light to freedom.

I like using amethyst or ametrine to connect with Archangel Zadkiel.

Angel Tarot Cards by Radleigh Valentine

6. Archangel Chamuel

Name meaning: "He who seeks God"

Representation: Love, relationships and peace

Colour: Pink

Affirmation:

"I am surrounded by love and I radiate compassion to all beings."

Archangel Chamuel embodies unconditional love of the self and others; harmonious relationships and peace. She encourages us to open our hearts to love, joy, compassion and forgiveness. Her guidance can lead to deeper connections in friendships, romantic partnerships and family relations. Call on Chamuel when you wish to reconnect with things or people you've lost, and bask in her soft pink glow to remind yourself of the joy that love brings.

I like using rose quartz or rhodonite to connect with Archangel Chamuel.

Angel Tarot Cards by Radleigh Valentine

7. Archangel Ariel

Name meaning: "Lion of God"

Representation: Animals, nature and abundance

Colour: Gold, pink, green, blue

Affirmation:

"I am open to blessings from the universe. I am connected to Mother Earth and all of her abundance."

As the archangel of animals, Ariel has a powerful aura of pinks, greens, blues and gold that are associated with nature, healing and love. Her role is to protect animals, and some believe she's gatekeeper to the land of fairies, sprites and elementals. She's a symbol of courage and infinite abundance within the physical world.

You may call on Archangel Ariel for attracting prosperity, protection and healing. To feel her presence, step out into nature and listen for her voice on the wind, in the whisper of leaves and the crashing of the ocean's waves.

I like using rainbow fluorite, green aventurine, unakite, rose quartz or moss agate to connect with Archangel Ariel.

Connecting with the Archangels

Angels cannot interfere with free will, whether human or animal. You must ask for help or assistance from a place of positivity and love, for the highest good of all concerned. Establishing a connection with archangels or guardian angels is a beautiful, fulfilling journey that can transform your life in whatever way you desire.

To begin your journey, let's explore some simple and effective methods of communicating with angels.

1. Set Your Intention

Clearly define what you want to achieve and which archangel you wish to call upon. You might ask Archangel Gabriel to lend clarity in a situation, or Raphael to bring healing and comfort to a sick family member. It's perfectly fine to ask for the assistance of more than one archangel.

Maybe you're afraid of entering into a new relationship due to past trauma, in which case Archangel Zadkiel can help you to release and forgive, while Chamuel works on self-love and attracting a suitable partner into your life.

A focused intention invites the archangel to assist you. It might help to make some notes or jot down any thoughts and intentions before beginning communication.

2. Create a Sacred Space

Choose a calm, quiet area that you can dedicate to meditation without interruption. You can play soft music, light a candle in your archangel's colour, hold some crystals or use an image to help you focus. A small altar dedicated to your archangel is a wonderful tribute that reminds you of their presence and influence in your life.

3. Meditate and Pray

Dedicate a few minutes each day, or however long you like, to meditation. Take a few deep breaths before inviting the specific archangel into your thoughts by silently or verbally asking them to come forwards.

Visualise their presence and express your desires with an open heart - you can say this in the form of a prayer if preferred. If you struggle to concentrate or calm your thoughts, there are lots of guided meditations on YouTube for communicating with angels.

4. Use Affirmations

Recite the affirmations associated with each archangel. Speaking affirmations out loud can inspire their qualities to manifest in your life. You don't have to use the ones given here, you can invent your own or look online for some that resonate.

5. Journal Your Experiences

Document any feelings, insights, visions or messages received during your communications. Journaling helps to clarify your spiritual journey and strengthen your relationship with the archangels. Keep a record of any changes or shifts, whether in the 3D world or your thought patterns. Always remember to express gratitude by thanking your angels for their presence and assistance.

Don't worry if nothing happens instantly, we're not asking for miracles. Archangels have an entire planet of human souls to guide, each with their own thoughts, emotions, concerns, beliefs and life paths. In a world full of distractions, we're so busy that it's easy to miss important signs and synchronicities from the divine. It's crucial to remain open and alert to signs - or better yet, ask for them!

Remember, you're never alone. Angels are always by your side whispering words of comfort and guidance, whether you feel their presence or not.

If you found this article helpful, you might want to check out Little Moon Tree's collection of gemstone neckales and rings so you can wear the colour of your archangel and carry their essence wherever you go!