Angels in Coptic tradition

Abstract

This article begins with a general overview of Coptic Angelology. I give special attention to the accompanying angel, the angels of the altar and then to the archangels Michael and Gabriel. The tasks of the angelic figures were studied in detail. I also use some recently edited Sahidic homilies attributed to St. Athanasius of Alexandria (ca. 296/298-2 May 373), together with many Coptic literary works to shed more light on angels and their role in Coptic tradition.

Keywords

• angelology
• michael the archangel
• gabriel the archangel
• the accompanying angel
• angels of the altar
• coptic literature
• athanasius of alexandria