Western Spirituality

If you've ever heard of Abaddon, you might know him as a mysterious figure of destruction and judgment. In religious texts, Abaddon is the angel of the bottomless pit, a powerful being connected to the underworld and the end of days.

By Zach Taras

Many Greek gods and goddesses were associated with battle, but Ares was known as the one true Greek god of war (not to be confused with Kratos, the protagonist of the "God of War" video game franchise).

By Mitch Ryan

Abrahamic religions often refer to angels who are servants of God, often coming down to Earth to perform miracles and give guidance to humans. Above even the angels are what believers call archangels, who are an elite class basically serving as the Lord's chief princes, reporting to him directly.

By Talon Homer

Although there are plenty of named and unnamed angels mentioned in both the Torah and the New Testament Bible, Archangel Raphael is likely one of the most recognized by scholars as well as casual readers of ancient mythology.

By Talon Homer

In many New Age spiritual practices, it's believed that angelic beings — such as the archangel Zadkiel — can be called upon to help guide and empower the passionate seeker. Here, we'll take a look at this celestial figure, and how you might draw upon his angelic wisdom and power to improve your life.

By Zach Taras

Archangel Ariel, whose name means "Lion of God" or "Lioness of God," tends to the natural world and the physical universe. Sometimes depicted as a male and sometimes as female (we use she/her pronouns in this article), Ariel's role extends to overseeing the elements, wild animals and the environment.

By Mack Hayden

While the popular understanding of most major, monotheistic religions tends to emphasize God, certain prophets and the written teachings of the spiritual tradition, there is a whole world of lesser-known entities who can be deeply significant.

By Zach Taras

Lucifer, whose name means "light bearer," is one of the most complex and significant figures in Christian tradition. Originally a high-ranking angel created by God, Lucifer's fall from grace is a powerful narrative that has shaped religious and literary depictions of evil for centuries.

By Talon Homer

The figure of Saint Michael, or Michael the Archangel, is one of the most powerful and revered beings in religious history. Known as the protector of the faithful and a warrior against evil, Archangel Michael is venerated across Christianity, Judaism and Islam.

By Mitch Ryan

In Christian tradition, an archangel is among of the most revered and powerful spiritual beings in the celestial hierarchy. Mentioned directly in both the Old and New Testaments, these angels serve as messengers, protectors and agents of God's divine will.

By Mitch Ryan

Archangel Gabriel is one of the most revered and influential figures in religious traditions across the world, often seen as a messenger of divine will and a guide to those seeking spiritual clarity.

By Karina Ryan

Metatron, angel and mediator between God and humanity, is one of the most mysterious and powerful figures in angelology.

By Mack Hayden

The Archangel Uriel is one of the seven angels who sit at the top of the heavenly food chain. He's one of seven archangels mentioned throughout Christian tradition. These archangels oversee God's legions of heavenly servants and help run the world as we know it.

By Mack Hayden

Archangel Jophiel, whose name means "Beauty of God," is said to emanate divine inspiration and wisdom, transforming negative emotions into positive energy. His energy encourages both inner and outer beauty, helping people cultivate not just physical grace but also a deeper sense of spiritual self.

By Mack Hayden

When you think of angels, you probably imagine beautiful beings with flowing white robes, gentle faces and perhaps a pair of wings. However, you might be surprised to learn that a biblically accurate angel can be a far cry from these modern depictions.

By Marie Look

The New Testament is filled to the brim with symbolic acts, but the Christian messiah, Jesus of Nazareth, was a master of this tactic. Jesus answered the toughest philosophical questions with stories and miracles to help each follower find spiritual fruitfulness and lead a fruitful life.

By Mitch Ryan

Poseidon, god of the sea, was an integral figure in ancient Greek mythology. Although the name Poseidon means "lord of the earth," this powerful god mostly controlled the oceans and waterways. The Aegean Sea fell and rose by his hand, and sailors prayed for mercy during every nautical voyage.

By Mitch Ryan

Unlike monotheistic religions based on the belief in an omnipotent, all-powerful overseer god who judges actions and determines justice in the mortal world, in Norse mythology, gods and goddesses were powerful entities that experienced human flaws, trials and conflicts.

By Mitch Ryan

The true appearance of Jesus Christ has been a topic of fascination and debate for centuries. Traditional Western art often portrays him with long, flowing hair, blue eyes and a beard, but these depictions are more reflective of European aesthetics than historical accuracy. This begs question: What did Jesus look like?

By Desiree Bowie

Have you ever wondered how the historical figure known as Jesus was actually referred to in his own time and place? Hint: It wasn't by that name.

By Desiree Bowie

Roman gods and goddesses reflected the diverse Roman people who worshipped them. Since Roman civilization was built on top of the ruins of Greek influence in Europe, Northern Africa and the Middle East, Greek mythology became the foundation of ancient Roman religion.

By Mitch Ryan

There was no singular overarching Celtic religion. As ancient Celts made their homes in widespread regions across Western Europe, they developed different Celtic gods and goddesses to fulfill their spiritual needs.

By Mitch Ryan

All squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares; the same goes for the Catholic vs. Christian distinction. All Catholics are Christian, but not all Christians consider themselves Catholic.

By Mitch Ryan

In the realm of religious literature, the Bible stands as one of the most influential in human history. Its words have shaped the beliefs and practices of millions worldwide. But amidst its teachings, a fundamental question persists: Who wrote the Bible?

By Yara Simón

From the earliest appearance of the five-pointed star in ancient times to its former role as a Christian symbol, there are millennia of history surrounding the pentagram, meaning it's one of the oldest symbols in the world. The pentagram's significance has evolved, leaving an indelible mark on culture and spirituality.

By Desiree Bowie