Marfeil
Marfeil is an uthra, a type of angel or guardian, within Mandaeism, a Gnostic religion. Marfeil is consistently mentioned alongside Urfeil as a pair of celestial beings who inhabit the World of Light. Their primary recorded function is to oversee and guard specific domains.
Key Facts
- ›Marfeil is an uthra, a Mandaean term for an angel or guardian.
- ›They are always mentioned in conjunction with Urfeil.
- ›Marfeil and Urfeil reside in the World of Light.
- ›In Mandaean scripture, they are appointed to watch over specific regions, such as the east.
- ›The name Marfeil is linguistically related to the Hebrew word for 'healing'.
Marpʿil
Guardian, Watcher
Right Ginza, Book 3, Right Ginza, Book 5, Qulasta Prayer 168
Urfeil, Yawar Ziwa
About Marfeil
Marfeil is recognized as an uthra within Mandaeism, a Gnostic religion. The term 'uthra' signifies an angel or guardian, and Marfeil is consistently described as a benevolent celestial being. They are invariably mentioned in conjunction with another uthra named Urfeil, forming a pair that resides together in the World of Light, the Mandaean realm of purity and divinity.
Scriptural Mentions and Roles
The primary religious texts that document Marfeil's existence include Books 3 and 5 (specifically Chapter 1) of the Right Ginza, a significant Mandaean scripture. Marfeil also appears in Qulasta prayer 168. In Right Ginza 5.1, a divine figure named Yawar Ziwa is recorded as appointing Urfeil and Marfeil to oversee and guard the east, indicating a role related to protection and stewardship of specific cosmic regions.
Etymology
The name Marfeil carries a significant meaning, derived from a linguistic connection to the Hebrew word 'marpe,' which translates to 'healing.' This etymological link suggests an association with restorative or protective qualities, aligning with their function as guardians.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Marfeil in Mandaeism?
Marfeil is an uthra, which translates to an angel or guardian, within the Mandaean religion. They are considered a benevolent celestial being.
What is Marfeil's role?
Marfeil, always mentioned with Urfeil, is appointed to watch over specific domains. In Right Ginza 5.1, they are described as being appointed over the east to watch over Ur.
Where are Urfeil and Marfeil mentioned in Mandaean texts?
Urfeil and Marfeil are mentioned together in Books 3 and 5 (Chapter 1) of the Right Ginza, as well as in Qulasta prayer 168.
What is the meaning of the name Marfeil?
The name Marfeil is cognate with the Hebrew word 'marpe,' which means 'healing.'
Related Angels
Adathan
Angels are spiritual beings, often depicted as messengers or guardians, found in various religious and mythological traditions. They serve as intermediaries between the divine and the human realms, playing roles such as divine messengers, protectors, and worshippers of a higher power. Their presence is significant across Abrahamic religions and other belief systems, where they embody divine will and offer guidance.
Bihram Rabba
Bihram Rabba, often referred to as "Bihram the Great," is a significant uthra, or angel, within Mandaeism. He presides over the masbuta, the Mandaean baptismal ritual, and plays a role in Mandaean scriptures where he is depicted as assisting in a rebellion against Yushamin and his sons. His name likely originates from Persian royal names.
Gubran
Gubran is an uthra, a type of angel or guardian figure within Mandaeism. He is known for his role in assisting in a rebellion against Yushamin and his followers, and is also described as being appointed to watch over Ur. Gubran is sometimes referred to as Gubran Uthra, and his consort is Guban.