Gabriel

ANGELICO, Fra Annunciation, 1437-46 (2236990916)

The Annunciation, Philadelphia Museum of Art, W1899-1-1-pma, by Henry Ossawa Tanner

Annonciation portail Reims

Llanbeblig Hours (f. 1r.) The Annunciation, Gabriel kneeling on one knee

Gabriel from Vysotsky chin (14c, Tretyakov gallery)

Gabriel is a figure who appears in the texts of the Abrahamic religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Known as an archangel in some traditions, Gabriel is often depicted delivering messages from God to humans, making him one of the most significant angelic figures in religious lore.

In Judaism

In Judaism, Gabriel is mentioned in the Book of Daniel, found in the Hebrew Bible. He appears to Daniel to interpret his visions, playing a role as a messenger and revealer of God's mysteries. Gabriel's presence in Jewish tradition underscores his role as a communicator between God and man, a theme that is consistent across the religions in which he appears.

In Christianity

Christianity expands on Gabriel's role, most notably in the New Testament, where he is best known for the Annunciation: the announcement to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Luke 1:26-38). This event highlights Gabriel's pivotal role in Christian theology as the bearer of good news and the divine plan of salvation.

In Islam

In Islam, Gabriel (known as Jibril in Arabic) holds a place of immense respect and is considered one of the primary messengers among the angels. He is most famously known for revealing the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years. Gabriel's appearances in the Hadith literature further emphasize his key role in Islamic eschatology and theology, acting as a guide and protector of the prophets.

Iconography and Cultural Depictions

Gabriel's iconography varies across cultures but often depicts him with certain attributes, such as a trumpet, a sign of his role as a herald, or holding a lily, which he presented to the Virgin Mary during the Annunciation. In art, literature, and music, Gabriel has been represented in various ways, reflecting his significance across different periods and in different contexts.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of Gabriel lies in his role as a messenger and intermediary between the divine and the human. His appearances are moments of pivotal change and revelation in the religious texts in which he is featured. Gabriel's messages often pertain to the delivery of God's will and the revelation of future events, underscoring the theme of divine guidance and intervention in human affairs.

See Also

• Archangel Michael
• Archangel Raphael
• Virgin Mary
• Prophet Muhammad

Further Reading

While this article cannot include external links or references, further information on Gabriel can be found in religious texts such as the Bible, the Quran, and various theological commentaries and interpretations within Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.