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Synaxis of Archangel Michael and the Bodiless Powers · Saints and Scripture

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  SPEAKER_00: Welcome to the Saints and Scripture Podcast.
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  SPEAKER_00: Today is Sunday, November 8, 2026.
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  SPEAKER_00: Today we remember the synaxis of the chief of the heavenly hosts, Archangel Michael, and the other bodiless powers.
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  SPEAKER_00: This feast was established in the early 4th century at the Council of Laodicea.
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  SPEAKER_00: It honors the nine ranks of angels and their service to God.
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  SPEAKER_00: The council made clear that while worship of angels as gods is wrong, proper veneration of them is right.
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  SPEAKER_00: The feast is celebrated on November 8, because the number nine corresponds to the nine ranks of angels, and the eighth day symbolizes the day of the last judgment.
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  SPEAKER_00: The angels are divided into three hierarchies: the highest, the middle, and the lowest.
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  SPEAKER_00: The highest hierarchy includes the seraphim, cherubim, and thrones.
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  SPEAKER_00: The seraphim are six-winged and closest to God, burning with love for him.
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  SPEAKER_00: The cherubim are many-eyed and full of wisdom, enlightening people to know God.
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  SPEAKER_00: The thrones bear God's justice and help rulers judge rightly.
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  SPEAKER_00: The middle hierarchy includes dominions, powers, and authorities.
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  SPEAKER_00: Dominions guide earthly rulers to govern wisely and help us master our will.
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  SPEAKER_00: Powers carry out God's will, perform miracles, and give strength to the faithful.
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  SPEAKER_00: Authorities protect us from the devil and guard those who struggle with evil thoughts.
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  SPEAKER_00: The lowest hierarchy includes principalities, archangels, and angels.
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  SPEAKER_00: Principalities command lower angels and watch over nations.
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  SPEAKER_00: Archangels are messengers of great news and reveal God's mysteries.
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  SPEAKER_00: Angels are closest to people, guiding us to live holy lives, and helping us when we fall.
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  SPEAKER_00: All these ranks are called angels, but each has its own role.
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  SPEAKER_00: God reveals his will to the highest ranks, who then inform the others.
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  SPEAKER_00: Archangel Michael is the chief commander of all the heavenly hosts.
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  SPEAKER_00: His name means, who is like God?
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  SPEAKER_00: He cast down Lucifer and the fallen angels when they rebelled.
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  SPEAKER_00: Michael called the angels to stand firm before God and avoid sin.
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  SPEAKER_00: Michael appears in many Old Testament events.
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  SPEAKER_00: He led the Israelites during the Exodus as a pillar of cloud and fire.
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  SPEAKER_00: He helped defeat the Egyptians and Pharaoh.
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  SPEAKER_00: He appeared to Joshua before the Battle of Jericho.
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  SPEAKER_00: He destroyed the Assyrian army and protected the three holy youths in the fiery furnace.
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  SPEAKER_00: Michael also transported the prophet Habakkuk to feed Daniel in the lion's den, and disputed with the devil over Moses' body.
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  SPEAKER_00: There is a story of Michael saving a young man thrown into the sea near Mount Athos.
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  SPEAKER_00: In Russia, Michael was known for many miracles, protecting cities like Novgorod from enemies.
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  SPEAKER_00: Churches and monasteries were dedicated to Michael throughout Russia, including a cathedral in Kiev and the burial church in the Moscow Kremlin.
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  SPEAKER_00: We ask Saint Michael for protection from enemies and for help in spiritual battles.
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  SPEAKER_00: The other archangels we remember today include Gabriel, who announces God's mysteries, Raphael, the healer, Uriel, the enlightener, Celephel, who prays for us, Jehudiel, who encourages us to glorify God, Barakel, who distributes God's blessings, and Jeremiah, who raises souls to God.
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  SPEAKER_00: On icons, Michael is shown trampling the devil, holding a spear and a branch.
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  SPEAKER_00: Gabriel holds a branch or lantern.
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  SPEAKER_00: Raphael carries healing vessels and leads to Bias.
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  SPEAKER_00: Uriel holds a sword and flame.
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  SPEAKER_00: Celephel is shown praying.
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  SPEAKER_00: Jehudiel holds a crown and whip.
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  SPEAKER_00: Barakiel has a white rose.
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  SPEAKER_00: Jeremiel holds scales.
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  SPEAKER_00: Through their prayers and protection, these bodiless powers help us grow closer to God and live holy lives.
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  SPEAKER_00: Lord, help us to honor and listen to your heavenly angels, protect us from harm, and guide us in your truth.
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  SPEAKER_00: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, one God.
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  SPEAKER_00: Amen.