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Archangel

Archangels () are the second-lowest rank of angel in the Christian hierarchy of angels, put forward by Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite in the 5th or 6th century in his book ''De Coelesti Hierarchia'' (''On the Celestial Hierarchy''). However, they are the highest rank to interact directly with humans, seraphim and the like remaining close to God.

The Bible itself uses the term only two times, with no mention in the Old Testament, and does not mention a hierarchy of angels in any detail. The word is usually associated with the Abrahamic religions. Similar beings exist in several other religions.

''Archangel'' is derived from Greek (), with the Greek prefix meaning 'chief'. A common misconception is that archangels constitute the highest rank of angel in Christianity; this likely stems from the etymology of their name, as well as their presentation in John Milton's ''Paradise Lost''.

In Judaism, the highest ranking angels such as Michael, Raphael, Gabriel and Uriel, who are usually referred to as archangels in English, are given the title of (Hebrew: 'princes'; ), to show their superior rank and status. Two examples of this can be seen in Daniel 10:13 and 12:1, where Michael, Chief of the Heavenly Host, is referred to as ( 'one of the chief princes') in the former, and ( 'the great prince') in the latter. Provided by Wikipedia