Christian Art | Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Saint Raphael The Archangel
Matthew 4: 8-11 | King James Audio Bible | King James Version KJV
‘Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him.’ (Matthew 4:11)
Saint Raphael the Archangel is one of the three named angels in the Bible, alongside Gabriel and Michael. Saint Raphael is a significant figure in Judeo-Christian tradition, recognized for his role as a healer and protector. In the Book of Tobit, an ancient Jewish text, Saint Raphael is portrayed as a guide and companion to the protagonist Tobit, helping him overcome various challenges and ultimately bringing about his healing.
In Catholicism, Saint Raphael is venerated as a patron of travellers, the blind, the mentally ill, and those seeking to find a spouse. His feast day is celebrated on September 29th, and he is often depicted in art and iconography holding a staff and a fish, in reference to his role in guiding Tobit on his journey.
In the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, Saint Raphael is similarly revered as a healer and protector. He is celebrated on the first Saturday of November, this is accordance with the Julian calendar, and is often depicted in iconography holding a vial of healing oil. While there are some differences in the way Saint Raphael is venerated between western Catholicism and the Eastern traditions, Saint Raphael’s role as a compassionate intercessor and helper remains central to his legacy in both.
Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Saint Raphael The Archangel In The Book Of Tobit
The Book of Tobit is an ancient Jewish text that tells the story of Tobit, a devout Israelite who is blinded and oppressed by various misfortunes. Saint Raphael appears in the story as a guide and companion to Tobit’s son Tobias, who is sent on a journey to retrieve a sum of money that Tobit had deposited in a distant land.
Throughout the journey, Saint Raphael helps Tobias overcome various challenges, including driving away a demon that had been tormenting him and healing his father’s blindness. Saint Raphael also helps Tobias find a wife, Sarah, who had been tormented by a demon that killed each of her previous seven husbands on their wedding night. With Saint Raphael’s guidance, Tobias is able to successfully overcome the demon and marry Sarah.
Saint Raphael is portrayed in the Book of Tobit as a wise and compassionate guide, who provides both practical and spiritual guidance to Tobit and Tobias. Saint Raphael’s presence in the story emphasizes the importance of faith, trust, and compassion in navigating life’s challenges, and his role as a healer and protector remains central to his legacy in Judeo-Christian tradition.
Here are some quotations from the Book of Tobit:
- ‘I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels, which present the prayers of the saints, and which go in and out before the glory of the Holy One.’ (Tobit 12:15, KJV)
- ‘Blessed be God that liveth for ever, and blessed be his kingdom. For he doth scourge, and hath mercy: he leadeth down to hell, and bringeth up again: neither is there any that can avoid his hand.’ (Tobit 13:1, KJV)
- ‘And when he had said these things, he was received up into heaven, and they saw him no more. Then they confessed the great and wonderful works of God, and how the angel of the Lord had appeared unto them.’ (Tobit 12:20, KJV)
Raphael’s role in the Book of Tobit is significant, as he is a central character in the story.
Throughout the book, Raphael is depicted as a wise and powerful guide, providing guidance and protection to Tobias. He also acts as a healer, both physically and spiritually, as he cures Tobit’s blindness and helps to restore his faith in God. Additionally, Raphael plays a role in bringing together Tobias and Sarah, who become husband and wife.
Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Saint Raphael The Archangel In Eastern Iconography.
In the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, Saint Raphael the Archangel is a revered figure. Icons portray Saint Raphael as a powerful and benevolent figure, often dressed in a richly decorated robe and holding a staff or a fish, which are symbolic of his role in the Book of Tobit.
One of the most common depictions of Saint Raphael is as a companion to the young Tobias, as he guides him on his journey to find a cure for his father’s blindness. In these icons, Saint Raphael is often shown as a bearded and mature figure, while Tobias is depicted as a young and innocent boy. Saint Raphael is also shown carrying a small container of gall, which he uses to cure Tobias’ father’s blindness.
Another popular depiction of Saint Raphael is as a healer and protector of travellers. In these icons, Saint Raphael is often shown holding a staff and wearing a traveller’s hat, symbolizing his patronage of those who are on a journey. Saint Raphael is also shown with his wings outstretched, representing his role as an angelic protector.
In addition to his role as a healer and protector, Saint Raphael is also venerated as a patron of those seeking a spouse. In these icons, he is often shown holding a wreath or garland of flowers, symbolizing the union of marriage. He is also sometimes depicted with a scroll, on which is written the names of those seeking a spouse.
Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Traditional Prayers To Saint Raphael The Archangel
The Catholic Church has a prayer to Saint Raphael that dates back to the 18th century. This prayer is often included in novenas and devotions to the saint. The Eastern Orthodox Church also has a prayer to Saint Raphael, which is recited by believers in Eastern Christianity.
Text of a traditional Prayer to Saint Raphael from the Catholic Church:
‘O Raphael, lead us towards those we are waiting for, those who are waiting for us! Raphael, Angel of Happy Meetings, lead us by the hand towards those we are looking for! May all our movements, all their movements, be guided by your Light and transfigured by your Joy.
‘Angel, guide of Tobias, lay the request we now address to you at the feet of Him on whose unveiled Face you are privileged to gaze. Lonely and tired, crushed by the separations and sorrows of earth, we feel the need of calling to you and of pleading for the protection of your wings, so that we may not be as strangers in the Province of Joy, all ignorant of the concerns of our country.
‘Remember the weak, you who are strong–you whose home lies beyond the region of thunder, in a land that is always peaceful, always serene, and bright with the resplendent glory of God. Amen.’
Text of a traditional Prayer to Saint Raphael from the Eastern Orthodox Church:
‘O Holy Archangel Raphael, standing before the throne of God and interceding for our souls with the Heavenly Father, pray for us for the glory of God and for His immense mercy. Obtain for us the grace of purity, meekness, humility, patience, and the love of God.
‘O Holy Archangel Raphael, the healer of our souls and bodies, intercede for us that we may be strengthened in the love of Christ and may turn away from all the paths of sin and wickedness. Deliver us from every illness and affliction, especially from the coronavirus, and guide us towards the salvation of our souls.
‘O Holy Archangel Raphael, companion of the young Tobias, we pray that you will guide and protect all travellers in their journeys and keep us safe from all harm and danger. Amen.’
These traditional prayers illustrate the faith and devotion of believers in both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches, and their reliance on Saint Raphael as a powerful intercessor and guide.
Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Novena To Saint Raphael
The Novena to Saint Raphael is a traditional Catholic prayer that is prayed over nine consecutive days. It is a form of intercessory prayer that asks Saint Raphael, the patron saint of travellers, the blind, the mentally ill, and those seeking to find a spouse, to intercede on behalf of the person praying.
The Novena to Saint Raphael is often prayed as a way of seeking guidance and protection during times of travel or during times of difficulty in finding a spouse. It is also prayed by those who are seeking healing or comfort for themselves or for loved ones who are suffering from mental illness or blindness.
Text of the Novena Prayer to Saint Raphael:
‘Glorious Archangel Saint Raphael, great prince of the heavenly court, you are illustrious for your gifts of wisdom and grace. You are a guide of those who journey by land or sea or air, consoler of the afflicted, and refuge of sinners.
‘I beg you, assist me in all my needs and in all the sufferings of this life, as once you helped the young Tobias on his travels. Because you are the medicine of God, I humbly pray you to heal the many infirmities of my soul and the ills that afflict my body. I especially ask of you the favour (make your request here) and the great grace of purity to prepare me to be the temple of the Holy Spirit. Amen.’
This prayer can be said once a day for nine consecutive days, or it can be said continuously over the course of nine days. It is often concluded with the recitation of one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be.
Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Prayer For Healing With Saint Raphael
Saint Raphael is known for his healing powers, and many people pray to him for physical and spiritual healing. The following prayer can be used as a petition for healing to Saint Raphael:
‘O Raphael, lead us toward those we are waiting for, those who are waiting for us! Raphael, Angel of happy meeting, lead us by the hand toward those we are looking for! May all our movements, all their movements, be guided by your Light and transfigured by your Joy.
‘Angel, guide of Tobias, lay the request we now address to you at the feet of Him on whose unveiled Face you are privileged to gaze. Lonely and tired, crushed by the separations and sorrows of life, we feel the need of calling to you and of pleading for the protection of your wings, so that we may not be as strangers in the Province of Joy, all ignorant of the concerns of our country.
‘Remember the weak, you who are strong–you whose home lies beyond the region of thunder, in a land that is always peaceful, always serene, and bright with the resplendent glory of God. Amen.’
This prayer acknowledges Saint Raphael as the guide of Tobias and asks for his intercession and guidance in bringing people together. It also asks for protection and healing for those who are lonely, tired, and facing separations and sorrows in life.
The prayer emphasizes the role of Saint Raphael as an angel of joy and a guide towards happiness and peacefulness. It also highlights his connection to the glory of God and his ability to offer protection and strength to the weak and vulnerable.
Love Revealed By Jesus Christ | Prayer For A Spouse With Saint Raphael
Saint Raphael is also known as a patron of those seeking a spouse, and there are prayers that can be recited to ask for his intercession in this matter. The prayer for a spouse with Saint Raphael is a powerful supplication that seeks the assistance of the archangel in finding a life partner.
Text of the prayer for a spouse with Saint Raphael:
‘O blessed Archangel Raphael, guide of those who journey by land or sea, patron of the young, dear friend of the aged, thou art also a helper in choosing a spouse. To thee have I recourse, with the firm hope that thou wilt hear my prayer and obtain for me the grace and favour I ardently desire.
[mention your request]
‘Guardian of the Word Incarnate, I feel confident that through thy help I shall obtain what I ask of thee. I am weak and unworthy, but I trust in thy powerful intercession. Speak for me, Saint Raphael, and help me find the spouse God has chosen for me.
‘Bring together two people destined to be united in love and in the holy bond of marriage, and help them to establish a happy and peaceful home. May our mutual love bind us so closely, that our future home may ever be most like the home of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Offer thy prayers to God for the both of us and obtain the blessing of God upon our marriage, as thou wert the herald of blessing for the marriage of Tobias and Sara.
‘Saint Raphael, Friend of the Cross, pray for us. Amen.’
The Gospel of Matthew tells us of the moment when Saint Joseph discovered that Mary, his betrothed, was pregnant. At first, Saint Joseph planned to divorce her quietly, but an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and revealed the truth of Mary’s pregnancy. In response, Saint Joseph showed great faith and obedience, taking Mary into his home and raising Jesus as his own son. Matthew 1:20-21 reads: [ … ]
The people have gathered to be with Jesus, following Jesus on foot, out of the cities, to be near Jesus and to be healed, in a desert place. It may seem strange to us that the disciples wanted to send the people away! The disciples’ thought is that the people must go and buy themselves food to eat. Jesus knows differently. Jesus tells the disciples themselves to give the people the food they need to eat [ … ]
Christian Art | Life Of Jesus In The Gospels | King James Audio Bible KJV The Gospel Of Saint John 14: 1-7 | King James Audio Bible YouTube: Connection With The Life Of Jesus In The Gospels | King James Audio Bible The Gospels are not just a collection of stories or teachings, but a window into the life of Jesus. By reading and reflecting on the Gospels, we gain a deeper understanding of who Jesus was and what he came to do. As we read the Gospels, we see that Jesus was a man of great compassion and love. Jesus showed mercy to the outcasts and the marginalized, and he offered healing and hope to those who were in need. He also taught with authority, challenging the religious leaders of his day and offering a new way of living based on love and service. But the Gospels are not just a history lesson. They are also an invitation for us to enter into a relationship with Jesus. By reading and meditating on the Gospels, we can come to know Jesus more personally and deeply. We can learn from his example and seek to follow in his footsteps. So we may be encouraged to read the Gospels, perhaps starting with the Gospel of Mark or the Gospel of John, as we read paying attention to how Jesus interacted with others and how he responded to different situations. We may ask ourselves what you can learn from his words and actions, and how we can apply them to our own lives. And as we read, we can allow ourselves to be drawn into a closer relationship with Jesus. There truly is an historical Jesus. May the Gospels be a source of guidance, inspiration, and transformation for us all. How Much In The Gospels Is Historical, And How Much Is Myth, Legend, Trope, Figurative Thinking? It is difficult to say with certainty how much of the Gospels is historical in the modern sense of the word and how much is myth, legend, trope, or figurative thinking. The Gospels were written some years after the events they describe, and they were written from the perspective of the early Christian community. This means that the Gospels may contain a mix of historical facts and interpretation, as well as elements of myth, legend, and figurative thinking. That being said, scholars believe that the Gospels contain a good deal of historical information. For example, the Gospels describe specific places and events, such as the places where Jesus preached and the events of his trial and Crucifixion. These details suggest that the writers of the Gospels had access to historical information and intended to provide an accurate account of what happened. On the other hand, the Gospels also contain elements that are not seen by all as historical, howsoever this goes to the root of the faith, such as the miracles performed by Jesus and the accounts of his resurrection. Some see these as legends or myths that were added to the Gospels to help convey the message of the early Christian community. The question of how much of the Gospels is historical and how much is myth, legend, or figurative thinking is complex. What is important is that we approach the Gospels with an open mind and a willingness to engage with the stories and teachings they contain. We are in the Gospels in conversation with God – and with the many people who have had such faith and conversations – as with the historical Jesus. Why Do The Gospels Say Were People Afraid Of Jesus? There are several reasons why people may have been afraid of Jesus, according to the Gospels. One reason is that Jesus was a powerful and charismatic figure who challenged the religious and political authorities of his time. He spoke out against corruption and injustice, and he called on people to repent and turn to God. This type of behaviour was seen as threatening by those in positions of power, and they may have been afraid of losing their influence or authority. Another reason is that Jesus performed many miracles, such as healing the sick and casting out demons. These miracles were seen as evidence of his divine power, and they may have made people afraid of him. Some people may have been afraid of being healed or possessed by Jesus, while others may have been afraid of what would happen if they did not believe in him. Finally, some people may have been afraid of Jesus because of the prophecies and expectations of the coming of a messiah. The Jews of Jesus’ time were looking for a saviour who would deliver them from oppression and establish a kingdom of God on earth. When Jesus arrived on the scene, he may have been seen as a threat to the status quo, and some people may have been afraid of what he might do. Might The Fear Be Related To The Fear Of God – The Injunction To Fear God? Yes, it is possible that the fear of Jesus mentioned in the Gospels may be related to the fear of God. In the Old Testament, the fear of God is often used to describe a deep reverence and awe for God, as well as a sense of humility and obedience in the face of his greatness. This fear of God is seen as a positive and necessary quality for a faithful believer, and it is often linked to the idea of fearing God’s punishment or judgement. In the New Testament, the fear of God is also mentioned, but it is often portrayed in a more positive light. For example, in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells his followers not to be afraid of those who can only kill the body, but to fear God, who can destroy both body and soul (Luke 12:4-5). This suggests that the fear of God is not just about punishment, but about a deep respect for […]
