Angel
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(Gen. 16:7–14). This word, in Greek and Hebrew, means “messenger.” The word “angel” (messenger) is often applied to men as well (Luke 7:24; 9:52). Used in its general sense, it expresses the concept of spiritual beings and their ministry, since through them the Lord makes known His will and makes them instruments for carrying it out. From Holy Scripture and tradition we know, concerning their dwelling-place and ministry, that they possess knowledge and purity far exceeding our understanding.
They are spiritual, bodiless beings, endowed with will, mind, and power, and occupy the highest rank in the order of creation. The expression “who maketh His angels spirits; His ministers a flaming fire” (Ps. 103 [104]:4; Heb. 1:7) directly points to the bodilessness of angels.