Prayer Rope with Silver Medallion “Archangel Michael”

Prayer Rope with Silver Medallion “Archangel Michael”

Saint Archangel Michael is placed above all the angelic ranks; his name in Hebrew means “Who is like God?”

In Scripture, Archangel Michael is called “prince” and “leader of the Lord’s army,” the chief warrior against evil in the world. Hence his church title “archistrategos,” meaning chief among warriors, commander, or general.

One of the angels closest to God, Lucifer (from Latin “light-bringer,” morning star, “Daystar”), distanced himself from God and became the source of evil, leading a third of the angels with him, saying: “I will ascend to heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God… I will be like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:13-14). Then Saint Archangel Michael first called the angels who did not follow this destructive path to battle the devil’s temptation: “Who is like God? None is like God!” Together with his army, he defeated Lucifer and his demons (the fallen angels), who were cast “into hell, to the depths of the abyss” (Isaiah 14:15).

The Book of Revelation recounts: “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The great dragon, that ancient serpent, called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world, was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him” (Revelation 12:7-9).

This ongoing struggle between good and evil continues on earth, with all people participating, knowingly or unknowingly.

Saint Archangel Michael will play a key role in future trials described in Revelation, helping the righteous during persecutions in the time of the Antichrist.

He is also responsible for the Book of Life: “At that time Michael, the great prince, will stand up, protecting the sons of your people; and there shall be a time of distress, unequaled since humans have existed; but those found written in the book will be delivered” (Daniel 12:1).

For believers’ comfort, Revelation chapters 19 and 20 describe the ultimate triumph over the enemy by the Lamb, with Archangel Michael as chief protector and guardian.

In icons, Archangel Michael is depicted in warrior form, holding a spear or sword. The cross atop the spear signifies that the battle against the kingdom of darkness is fought in Christ’s name, with humility, patience, and self-denial.

For Orthodox Christians, Archangel Michael is a protector from visible and invisible enemies and evil spirits, a victor over adversaries, and a deliverer from troubles and sorrows.

His feast is celebrated on November 8, honoring Saint Archangel Michael and the united ranks of the angels.