Gabriel

Gabriel (meaning: God is my strength) is one of only two angels named in the canonical Old Testament, the other being Michael. He appears four times in Scripture, always as a messenger bearing revelations of divine import. In Daniel 8:16 he is commanded to explain the vision of the ram and goat to Daniel, and in Daniel 9:21 he comes to Daniel swiftly while the prophet is at prayer to explain the seventy weeks prophecy. His arrivals are described as rapid and his form as man-like.

In the New Testament, Gabriel announces the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah in the temple (Luke 1:11–20), striking him mute when he doubts the message. Gabriel then appears to Mary in Nazareth to announce the conception of Jesus — the most significant of his recorded missions (Luke 1:26–38). He identifies himself with the words I am Gabriel who stands in the presence of God, placing him among the highest order of angels. Jewish tradition ranks Gabriel among the archangels, and his consistent role as bearer of messianic and eschatological revelation makes him a pivotal figure in the unfolding of Scripture's redemptive narrative.