Saint Raphael the Archangel
Saint Raphael the Archangel is one of the seven archangels who stand before the throne of God (Tobit 12:15), and is especially revered in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. His name means “God heals” or “Healing of God”, reflecting his primary role as a divine healer and guide.
🕊️ Biblical Foundation: The Book of Tobit (Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Text)
Saint Raphael appears primarily in the Book of Tobit, found in the Catholic and Orthodox biblical canons. In this story:
- Tobit, a righteous Israelite, becomes blind.
- Sarah, a young woman in Media, is tormented by a demon that kills each of her seven husbands on their wedding night.
- Raphael is sent by God to heal both Tobit and Sarah.
- Disguised as a human named Azariah, Raphael journeys with Tobit’s son, Tobiah, offering protection and guidance.
- He teaches Tobiah how to use a fish’s organs to drive away the demon tormenting Sarah and to heal Tobit’s blindness.
- At the end of the story, Raphael reveals his true identity, saying:“I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand and serve before the Glory of the Lord.”
— Tobit 12:15
🌿 Roles and Symbolism
- Healer – Patron of healing, physicians, and the sick.
- Guide – Patron of travelers, migrants, and those on spiritual journeys.
- Matchmaker – Invoked by those seeking godly marriage, due to his role in uniting Tobiah and Sarah.
🕯️ Christian Tradition
- Feast Day:
- Western Christianity (Roman Catholic): September 29, shared with Archangels Michael and Gabriel.
- Eastern Orthodox Church: November 8 (Synaxis of the Archangels).
- Recognized as one of the three named archangels in the Bible alongside Michael and Gabriel.
- Often depicted holding a staff, a fish, or a medicine box, recalling his role in the Book of Tobit.
🌍 Patronage
Saint Raphael is considered the patron of:
- Healers and medical professionals
- Travelers and pilgrims
- The blind and physically afflicted
- Marriages and young lovers
- Migrants and refugees
✨ Reflection Prompt
How do I welcome God’s guidance when I face uncertainty or hardship? Can I recognize the quiet “Raphaels” in my life… those who guide, heal, or protect me?
✨ Prayer to Saint Raphael the Archangel
O glorious Archangel Raphael,
Messenger of God’s healing and guide of those who wander,
you faithfully accompanied young Tobiah on his journey,
protecting him from harm and leading him to his true purpose.Be with me now, as I walk the uncertain paths of life.
Heal my wounds, both seen and unseen.
Deliver me from the snares of evil and guide me toward the peace and joy of God’s will.Intercede for all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit.
Watch over travelers, unite the lonely,
and restore wholeness where there is brokenness.Saint Raphael, gentle companion and divine healer,
lead me safely on my journey and bring me ever closer to the heart of God.Amen.
