A Catalogue of Angels: The Heavenly, the Fallen, and the Holy Ones Among Us

"Angel: a spiritual being superior to humans in power and intelligence; also an attendant spirit or guardian." We think of angels as winged creatures with supernatural powers that assist us when we are in danger. Where did that image of wings come from? how much contact is possible between humans and angels? Popular novelist Vinita Hampton Wright answers these and other questions in this illuminating and richly informative guide to angels in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Explore the origin and nature of angels, where they dwell, what they do, and how they relate to humanity. Discover what the three Abrahamic faiths have to say about fallen angels (or demons), and see how doctrine and theology sometimes merge with legend and superstition. Included at the book's end is an encyclopedia of terms and names that will enlighten the study of angelic beings in the religions of the world.