Archangel Michael: who is he and how does his image differ in Orthodoxy and Catholicism

Archangel Michael is one of the most revered angels in Christianity. His image is present in both the Orthodox and Catholic traditions, but in each denomination it is given special importance and depicted in different ways. What are the similarities and differences between the veneration of the archangel in the two branches of Christianity — in the material of Izvestia.

Who is Archangel Michael: what is he known for

Archangel Michael holds a special place in the Christian tradition. He is revered as the heavenly protector, the conqueror of demons and the leader of the angelic army. The name Michael in Hebrew means "Who is like God?", which emphasizes his exceptional loyalty to the Creator and special spiritual status.

In Orthodoxy, Archangel Michael bears the title of Archangel Michael, the "commander—in-chief" of the heavenly forces. His name is repeatedly found in the Holy Scriptures, including the Revelation of John the Evangelist, where he leads the battle against Satan and his minions.

According to church tradition, Michael was one of the four supreme angels created by God, along with Gabriel, Raphael and Lucifer. When Lucifer, arrogant, rebelled against God, Michael remained faithful to God and led the army of light. Since then, it has been considered a symbol of strength, righteousness and protection from evil.

On Orthodox icons, Archangel Michael is usually depicted in military armor, with a sword or spear in his hands — as a guardian of truth and defender of faith. His patronage traditionally extends to the military, judges, police officers and all those who stand on the side of justice.

When is Archangel Michael's Day celebrated?

The memory of Archangel Michael, known as Michaelmas, is celebrated in the Orthodox calendar on November 21 (November 8 according to the Julian style). The holiday has its full name — the Cathedral of Archangel Michael and other Celestial Bodiless Forces. In the Catholic Church, Michael is honored on September 29, along with Archangels Gabriel and Raphael.

This day occupies an important place in the church year and symbolizes the triumph of goodness over the forces of darkness. Believers remember the heavenly host, pray for protection and strengthening in faith. They try to spend the day in peace and repentance.

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Archangel Michael in Orthodoxy and Catholicism

The visual representation of Michael in Orthodoxy and Catholicism has common elements, as well as cultural and historical differences. Orthodox iconography emphasizes the sacral static nature of the image: the archangel appears as a warrior, often with a sword and a radiance around his head, less often with scales.

Russian iconographic traditions preserve the rigor of composition and symbolism, where every detail carries a theological burden. In Catholic art, especially in the West and in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the image of Michael can be more dynamic, rich in plot and plastically diverse — sculpture, relief, monumental murals.

In Orthodoxy, separate services, short petitions, and akathists are dedicated to Archangel Michael. In popular practice, it is common to turn to him for protection. The Orthodox tradition also associates Michaelmas with a number of folk traditions and customs, especially in Eastern European countries.

In Catholicism, the role of Michael is often integrated into the theological corpus on angelic miracles and the saving story: prayers to Michael (including the "Prayer to Saint Michael", written by Pius IX and later widely distributed) are used to ask for protection from evil, but the emphasis in Western practice is more often shifted to the pastoral and personal dimension — prayers for protection in everyday spiritual struggles.