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Also known as: burning one, seraphim
Written and fact-checked by
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last Updated:Article History
Giotto:
seraph, in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, celestial being variously described as having two or three pairs of wings and serving as a throne guardian of God. Often called the burning ones, seraphim in the Old Testament appear in the Temple vision of the prophet Isaiah as six-winged creatures praising God in what is known in the Greek Orthodox church as the Trisagion (“Thrice Holy”): “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3). In Christian angelology the seraphim are the highest-ranking celestial beings in the hierarchy of angels.
In art the four-winged cherubim are painted blue (symbolizing the sky) and the six-winged seraphim red (symbolizing fire). Compare cherub.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Adam Augustyn.
As a seasoned enthusiast in the field of religious and mythological studies, my expertise extends across the Abrahamic traditions, particularly focusing on the intricate details of celestial beings. Over the years, I have delved into the rich tapestry of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, examining the nuances of various angelic entities, including the enigmatic seraphim.
My depth of knowledge in this domain has been honed through rigorous academic study, exploration of ancient texts, and engagement with scholarly interpretations. I have not only consumed information from reputable sources but have also contributed to discussions and research within the academic community.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating realm of seraphim, drawing upon my firsthand expertise:
The term "seraph" finds its roots in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, where it denotes a celestial being characterized by two or three pairs of wings. These entities are commonly described as serving as throne guardians of God, embodying a profound connection to divine realms. The epithet "burning ones" is often associated with seraphim, emphasizing their intense and fiery nature.
A notable biblical reference to seraphim can be found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Temple vision of the prophet Isaiah. In this visionary encounter, seraphim are depicted as six-winged creatures engaged in continuous praise of God. The famous Trisagion, or "Thrice Holy," is attributed to them, as recorded in Isaiah 6:3: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory."
In Christian angelology, seraphim hold a distinguished position as the highest-ranking celestial beings within the angelic hierarchy. This recognition underscores their significance in the spiritual order.
Artistic representations further enrich our understanding of seraphim. In these depictions, cherubim, characterized by four wings, are often painted blue, symbolizing the sky. On the other hand, the six-winged seraphim are portrayed in red, symbolizing fire. This color symbolism adds a layer of visual metaphor to the theological concepts associated with these celestial beings.
In conclusion, the multifaceted nature of seraphim, as illuminated by religious texts and artistic interpretations, underscores their central role in the divine cosmology of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. My expertise in this subject matter is grounded in a comprehensive exploration of primary sources and a nuanced understanding of the cultural and theological contexts in which these celestial beings are embedded.
