Who is Michael?
Q: Who is Michael?
A: Michael is an archangel in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic teachings. Roman Catholics, the Eastern Orthodox, Anglicans, and Lutherans call him "Saint Michael the Archangel" or simply "Saint Michael". Orthodox Christians call him the "Taxiarch Archangel Michael" or simply "Archangel Michael".
Q: What does his name mean?
A: In Hebrew, his name means "who is like God?".
Q: How did Jews view him?
A: Jews saw Michael as their supporter. They were normally not allowed to appeal to angels as a link between God and his people but they made an exception for Michael. He became important in Jewish liturgy.
Q: What does the New Testament say about him?
A: The New Testament states that he leads God's armies against Satan's forces in the Book of Revelation and defeats Satan during the war in heaven. The Epistle of Jude also mentions him by calling him “the archangel Michael”.
Q: When did devotions to Archangel Michael start among Christians?
A: Devotions to Archangel Michael began appearing among Christians in the 4th century. At first he was seen as a healing angel but later on he was viewed as a protector and leader of God's army against evil forces. By the 6th century these devotions had become common both among Eastern and Western Churches.
Q: How have teachings on Saint Michaels changed over time?
A: Over time teachings on Saint Michaels have evolved among Christians with different interpretations being given to his role within Christianity such as being seen as a healer or protector of believers from evil forces.
