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Theology & Dogma

Angelic & Demonic Realm

Angelic & Demonic Realm, by Anonymous Russian icon painter (before 1917), XVII-XVIII c
Synaxis of Archangels (Novgorod, 17 18 c., priv.coll) Anonymous Russian icon painter (before 1917), XVII-XVIII c Public domain

Angels are bodiless spiritual beings created before the material world. Orthodox tradition follows Pseudo-Dionysius in describing nine angelic orders in three triads: Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones; Dominions, Powers, Authorities; Principalities, Archangels, Angels. Satan (Lucifer) and the demons are fallen angels who rebelled through pride. Guardian angels are assigned to each person at baptism.

Sources

  • Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, The Celestial Hierarchy archive.org, Parker
  • St. John of Damascus, Exact Exposition II.3 NPNF
  • St. Basil the Great, Against Eunomius III.1

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