Bible verses for all occasions.
Angels have long been a fascination for believers and non-believers alike. These celestial beings are often depicted as beautiful and majestic creatures in art and literature. But what does the Bible say about what angels actually look like? While the Bible does not provide a detailed physical description of angels, it does offer glimpses into their appearance and nature. Let us explore some of these verses to gain a better understanding of what angels may look like according to scripture.
1. Genesis 18:2
“The Lord appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day.”
In this verse, the Lord appears to Abraham in the form of three men. Although it is not explicitly mentioned that these men are angels, many scholars believe that they are indeed heavenly beings. This suggests that angels can appear in human form, which aligns with numerous other instances in the Bible where angels take on human-like appearances.
2. Daniel 10:5-6
“I looked up and there before me was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like topaz, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude.”
In the book of Daniel, the prophet has a vision of a heavenly being, possibly an angel. This description portrays a figure with a radiating appearance, a face like lightning, and eyes like flaming torches. The description emphasizes the celestial nature of this being and suggests that angels may possess an awe-inspiring and brilliant appearance.
3. Ezekiel 1:4-5
“I looked, and I saw a windstorm coming out of the north—an immense cloud with flashing lightning and surrounded by brilliant light. The center of the fire looked like glowing metal, and in the fire was what looked like four living creatures.”
In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel sees a vision of heavenly creatures, often interpreted as angels. These creatures are described as having a dazzling appearance, surrounded by brilliant light, and resembling living beings. This depiction suggests that angels possess a heavenly and glorious appearance.
4. Matthew 28:3
“His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.”
When the women arrive at Jesus’ tomb, they encounter an angel who has descended from heaven. This angel is described as having a radiant appearance like lightning and wearing garments as white as snow. This depiction aligns with the idea that angels possess a luminous and pure appearance.
5. Luke 1:11-12
“Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear.”
When Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, receives a visitation from an angel, he is filled with fear. This suggests that angels may have a presence that is both awe-inspiring and overwhelming, causing humans to react with fear and astonishment.
6. Acts 12:7
“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.”
In this verse, an angel appears to Peter who is imprisoned. The angel’s presence is accompanied by a shining light, which suggests a radiant and glorious appearance. This portrayal aligns with the notion that angels possess a divine and luminous nature.
7. Hebrews 13:2
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
This verse reminds us that angels can appear in human form. It suggests that angels may not always reveal their true nature when interacting with humans, but rather take on a human appearance. This highlights the idea that angels can appear in various guises, making it difficult to discern their true form.
8. Psalm 91:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
This verse speaks of the protective role of angels. Although it does not provide a physical description, it emphasizes the presence and intervention of angels in our lives. It suggests that angels are not only messengers but also guardians who watch over and protect believers.
9. Revelation 4:6-8
“Also in front of the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings.”
In this vivid description of heavenly beings, the apostle John sees four living creatures around the throne of God. These creatures are depicted with multiple wings and eyes. While it is unclear whether these creatures are angels, they provide us with a glimpse of the diverse and awe-inspiring nature of heavenly beings.
10. Isaiah 6:2-3
“Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.'”
In Isaiah’s vision of the heavenly temple, he sees seraphim, which are believed to be a high-ranking class of angels. These seraphim are described as having six wings, covering their faces and feet. Their primary purpose is to worship and proclaim the holiness of the Lord. This depiction suggests that angels have a reverent and humble nature.
While these verses offer some insights into the appearance of angels, it is important to remember that the physical form of angels is not the primary focus of the Bible. The emphasis is often on their divine purpose, their role as messengers and servants of God, and their interaction with humanity. The Bible encourages us to remain open to the mystery and wonder of these celestial beings, rather than getting caught up in their physical appearance.
