Sheetil
Sheetil is an uthra, or guardian angel, originating from the World of Light within Mandaeism. Considered the Mandaean equivalent of Seth, Sheetil is depicted as a son of the first Adam and a teacher of John the Baptist. This angelic figure played a role in revealing Mandaean teachings.
Key Facts
- ›Sheetil is an uthra, a type of guardian angel in Mandaeism.
- ›Sheetil originates from the World of Light.
- ›Sheetil is identified as the Mandaean equivalent of Seth.
- ›Sheetil is described as a son of Adam Qadmayya (the first Adam).
- ›Sheetil taught John the Baptist alongside his brothers Anush and Hibil Ziwa.
- ›Sheetil was taken alive to the World of Light without undergoing a death mass.
Šitil
Guardian, Revealer, Teacher
Qulasta, Book of John, Genzā Rabbā, Left Ginza
Seth, Adam Qadmayya, John the Baptist, Hibil Ziwa, Anush
About Sheetil
Sheetil in Mandaeism
Sheetil, also known as Šitil in Classical Mandaic, is a significant angelic figure within Mandaeism, originating from the World of Light. This being is identified as an uthra, a term often translated as guardian or angel, and is considered the Mandaean equivalent of the biblical figure Seth.
Role and Teachings
Mandaean scriptures, including the Qulasta, Book of John, and Genzā Rabbā, describe Sheetil as a son of Adam Qadmayya, the "first Adam." He is depicted as playing a crucial role in the transmission of Mandaean knowledge, notably teaching John the Baptist alongside his brothers, Hibil Ziwa (Abel) and Anush (Enosh). Sheetil is thus recognized as one of the revealers of Mandaeism.
Departure from the Earthly Realm
Uniquely, the Left Ginza records that Sheetil did not experience a mortal death. Instead, he was taken alive into the World of Light, without the customary ritual of a masiqta (death mass). This event highlights Sheetil's elevated status and direct connection to the divine realm within Mandaean cosmology.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sheetil in Mandaeism?
Sheetil is an uthra, an angelic or guardian being from the World of Light in Mandaeism. They are considered the Mandaean counterpart to the biblical figure Seth.
What is Sheetil's relationship to Adam and John the Baptist?
According to Mandaean scriptures, Sheetil is a son of Adam Qadmayya, the first Adam. Sheetil taught John the Baptist, along with brothers Hibil Ziwa and Anush.
What is Sheetil's significance in Mandaean teachings?
Sheetil is recognized as one of the revealers of Mandaeism. Prayers in the Qulasta frequently mention Sheetil in conjunction with Hibil and Anush.
How did Sheetil depart from the earthly realm?
The Left Ginza states that Sheetil was taken alive into the World of Light. This occurred without the need for a masiqta, which is a death mass.
Related Angels

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.

Simat Hayyi
Simat Hayyi, whose name translates to 'Treasure of Life,' is a significant figure in Mandaeism, representing the feminine personification of life. She originates from the World of Light and is considered an uthra, or divine being, often functioning as a guardian. Her theological significance lies in her role within the Mandaean cosmology and her connection to fundamental concepts of life and redemption.
Yurba
Yurba is an uthra, or angelic being, within the Mandaean tradition, often identified with Shamish, the sun. He is known as the fighter and is frequently depicted in conversation with Ruha. Yurba is also associated with Adonai of Judaism and Yao in some interpretations.