seraph

seraph (ser'uf) [key], plural seraphim (–im) [key], supernatural being. The name seems to derive from the Hebrew word “to burn.” According to the Book of Isaiah, seraphim have six wings. Scholars have suggested that seraphim were winged serpents. In Numbers, the word “seraph” denotes a “fiery” (i.e. poisonous) serpent. Like cherubim, seraphim are associated with the glory of God, as in the liturgy. See also cherub.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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