Angel Hierarchies

Back in the 5th century, Dionysius wrote a book called ‘The Celestial Hierarchy’. Here a 9-fold hierarchy of supe
atural beings was postulated and, although other writers have modified it or added detail since, this has been the largely accepted version. That said, it appears to have been written for philosophical reasons – the groupings are not reflected in the Bible (although most are mentioned) nor did they correspond to the Angel experiences of the faithful. The order from high to low – in terms of perfection, spiritual evolvement etc. - is:

Seraphs, Cherubs, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels and Angels. These are known as the Nine Choirs of Angels.

Seraphs are the highest order (choir) of angels. These angels are attendign and guarding God's throne. The only Bible reference is Isaiah 6:1-7, where it says that they praise God, calling, "Holy Holy Holy is the Lord of Hosts". It is said that one of them touched Isaiah's lips with a live coal from the altar, cleansing him from sin. Interestingly, Lucifer was also a member of this choir before his fall.

Cherubs rank after the seraphim and are the second highest in the nine hierarchies or choirs of angels. They are manlike in appearance and double-winged and were guardians of God's glory. They symbolized then, God's power and mobility. Catholic tradition describes them as angels who have an intimate knowledge of God and continually praise Him.
Thrones are the Angels of pure Humility, Peace and Submission. They reside in the area of the cosmos where material form begins to take shape. Lower Choirs of Angels need the Thrones to access God.

Dominions are Angels of Leadership. They regulate the duties of the angels, making known the commands of God.

Virtues are known as the Spirits of Motion and control the elements. They are sometimes referred to as "the shining ones." They govern all nature. They have control over seasons, stars, moon; even the sun is subject to their command. They are also in charge of miracles and provide courage, grace, and valor.

Powers are Warrior Angels against evil defending the cosmos and humans. They are known as potentates. They fight against evil spirits who attempt to wreak chaos through human beings.

Principalities are placed first in the third triad of angels among archangels and angels and ranked seventh overall. Also called princedoms and princes, these angels are the first of the choirs most conce
ed with earth and are traditionally declared to have roles of caretakers over every nation, province, county, district, city, town, village, and house.

Archangels are generally taken to mea
"chief or leading angel" (Jude 9; 1 Thes 4:16), they are the most frequently mentioned throughout the Bible. They may be of this or other hierarchies as St. Michael Archangel, who is a princely Seraph. The Archangels have a unique role as God's messenger to the people at critical times in history and salvation as in The Annunciation and Apocalypse. A feast day celebrating the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael is celebrated throughout the Church.