seraphim etymology

Etymology

  • Ancient Greek: σεραφείμ (serapheím), plural of σεραφείν (seraphín)

Meaning

  • Burning ones
  • Ardent ones

Origin

The word "seraphim" comes from the Hebrew root שרף (saraph), which means "to burn" or "to consume." It is first used in the Bible in the book of Isaiah, where it refers to a class of angelic beings who attend to God's throne.

In Christian tradition, seraphim are the highest order of angels, known for their purity and their close proximity to God. They are often depicted as having six wings, with two covering their faces, two covering their feet, and two used for flying.

The term "seraphim" has also been used figuratively to refer to people who are filled with zeal or passion. For example, the early Christian mystic, Seraphim of Sarov, was known for his intense love of God and his desire to serve others.

seraphim relate terms

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  • glean

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