Angel

An angel is typically described as a heavenly being who act under divine authority, often delivering messages, enforcing decisions, or carrying out specific tasks. In earlier traditions, the term could refer more generally to gods rather than a separate category of messengers. Over time, especially in later Jewish and Christian traditions, angels became more clearly defined as subordinate agents who act on God’s behalf rather than independent deities. This development reflected a shift toward emphasizing divine hierarchy and mediation in a strict monotheistic framework. In narrative and literary contexts, angels function as authorized representatives whose role is defined by action and purpose rather than by inherent power or identity.