In the Christian-Orthodox calendar, the th of November marks a special moment, a feast that is equally important and beloved by both believers and laymen. Therefore, on the eve of the celebration today, we are going to talk about The Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, between religion and myth.
First of all, who are Michael and Gabriel? Both the Christian Church and popular tradition seem to agree on their essence: they are angels (Archangels, leaders of herds of angels). In the Bible, they are defined as “heavenly beings”. insubstantial creatures lacking a material body, but fierce servants of God in the “unseen world”.
Wearing proud wings and fire swords, angels are represented both in the Christian-Orthodox iconography and in popular tradition as the emissaries of God. They are also said to be the guides of the souls of the hollow to Heaven. There are differences between the two Archangels, each of them being represented in a different way.
The Archangel Gabriel is a herald, sent by God to announce to Mary the mystery of the Incarnation. The Archangel Michael enjoys more popularity, being a fighter against the devil, a guide of souls and possessing control over natural phenomena and disease.
According to popular tradition, the “Summer of the Archangels” lasted for one day. They were also responsible for the several warm sunny days before Christmas, called the “winter’s summer”.
Tradition also talks about the way to celebrate the wake of the Feast of Archangels Michael and Gabriel. On the Saturday before the celebration, offerings are made for the dead and candles are lit both for the living and for the hollow. These candles will light in the “afterworld” forever.
The Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, between religion and myth, are an excellent occasion to travel in Romania and visit the most beautiful churches and monasteries on a beautiful late autumn day.