Samael facts for kids
Samael (Hebrew: סמאל), also known as Sammael or Samil, is an important figure in ancient Jewish and Christian stories. He is often described as an archangel. Some stories also mention Samael in other religions.
Samael is seen as both good and evil in different tales. He is sometimes called the guardian angel of Esau, a person from the Bible. He is also linked to the ancient Roman Empire.
People sometimes confuse Samael with Satan because he often has serious and powerful jobs. He is sometimes thought of as a fallen angel, like Satan. In some Jewish beliefs, Samael is known as the Angel of Death. Even as a fallen angel, he is still seen as one of God's servants. Some stories say Samael lives in the seventh heaven, while others say he is the main angel of the fifth heaven.
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Samael's Powers
Samael is described as a "Power" in some beliefs. This means he is a leader of many warrior angels.
What are Powers?
Powers are like warrior angels. They fight against evil spirits. These spirits try to cause problems for people. Powers work to protect the world and its people. The main angel of the Powers is said to be either Samael or Camael. Both are sometimes linked to darkness.
Samael in Jewish and Christian Stories
In Jewish beliefs, Samael is often called the Angel of Death. He is also said to rule the Fifth Heaven. Some stories say he is one of the seven main angels who guide the world. He is believed to have two million angels working for him. He lives in the Seventh Heaven.
Samael and Important Bible Figures
- The Yalkut I, 110 and Sotah 10b from the Talmud say Samael was the guardian angel of Esau.
- In the Sayings of Rabbi Eliezer, Samael is said to have tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden.
- Some stories also say Samael was the angel who wrestled with Jacob.
- He is also sometimes named as the angel who stopped Abraham from sacrificing his son.
Samael and Other Angels
Samael is sometimes confused with Camael. Camael is another archangel of God. His name means "He who sees God."
Images for kids
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Jacob Wrestles with the Angel, by Gustave Doré (1855).
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A carving of the Archangel Samiel in a red robe, seen on the left side of the altar at Saint Bartholomew's Church, in Sydenham, London.
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A lion-faced figure found on an ancient Gnostic gem. This might show the Demiurge, who some believe is Samael.
See also
In Spanish: Samael para niños
