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Erelim

Erelim, meaning "valiant ones" in Hebrew, are a class of angels whose existence is inferred from a verse in the Book of Isaiah. They are primarily associated with moments of death and national tragedy, appearing in various Jewish and Kabbalistic texts and literature.

Key Facts

  • The name 'Erelim' translates to 'valiant ones' in Hebrew.
  • Their existence is derived from a verse in the Book of Isaiah.
  • They are frequently linked to occurrences of death and national tragedy.
  • Erelim are featured in multiple Jewish and Kabbalistic angelic hierarchies.
  • Their rank varies across different texts, appearing first, second, third, and tenth in noted hierarchies.
Also Known As

ʾErʾellīm, ʾErʾēl (singular)

Primary Role

Associated With Death, Associated With National Tragedy

Scriptural References

Book of Isaiah

Associated Virtues

Valiance, Strength

Etymology
Hebrew: אֶרְאֶלִּים (ʾErʾellīm), singular אֶרְאֵל (ʾErʾēl), meaning 'valiant ones'.

About Erelim

The Erelim (Hebrew: אֶרְאֶלִּים, ʾErʾellīm; singular: אֶרְאֵל, ʾErʾēl), a name translating to "valiant ones," represent a class of angels whose existence is inferred from a specific verse within the Book of Isaiah. This scriptural reference is associated with the historical context of Sennacherib's impending invasion of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah.

While the Erelim are attributed a variety of functions within Jewish and Kabbalistic texts and literature, their most prominent association is with moments of death and national tragedy. They are understood to appear during significant and often solemn events, playing a role connected to such occurrences.

Their place within the celestial hierarchy is not fixed, as the Erelim appear in multiple angelic orders across different traditions. Their rank varies significantly; they are listed as the first among the ten orders of angels in the Berit Menuchah, second in the Zohar, third according to Maimonides, and tenth in the Maseket Azilut. This variation highlights different interpretations of angelic structures within Jewish mysticism and theology.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Erelim mean?

The name Erelim is Hebrew and translates to 'valiant ones'. This name suggests a connection to strength and bravery.

Where does the concept of Erelim originate?

The concept of Erelim is derived from a verse found in the Book of Isaiah. This verse pertains to the impending invasion of Jerusalem by Sennacherib during the reign of King Hezekiah.

What are the primary roles or associations of the Erelim?

In Jewish and Kabbalistic texts, the Erelim are most often associated with moments of death and national tragedy. They are depicted as appearing during significant, often somber, events.

How are Erelim positioned within angelic hierarchies?

The Erelim appear in multiple angelic hierarchies within Jewish and Kabbalistic literature. Their recorded rank varies, positioning them first in the Berit Menuchah, second in the Zohar, third by Maimonides, and tenth in the Maseket Azilut.