Abdiel

Abdiel (servant of God) In medieval Jewish folklore, an angel appearing in The Book of the Angel Raziel. Milton’s Paradise Lost (book 5:805–808, 896) makes Abdiel the angel who opposes Satan’s plans to overthrow God’s rule. Milton may have borrowed the name Abdiel from 1 Chronicles (5:15) where it is given as the name of the son of Guni and the father of Ahi in the genealogy of Gad. Or Milton may have known the medieval Jewish work since he was well read in rabbinical writings.

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow– Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante

Abdiel (Abadiel): “Servant of God.” During the war in Heaven, Abdiel refused to rebel against God, and argued with Satan, saying that Satan had to be weaker than God because God had created him. According to John Milton’s Paradise Lost , Abdiel flew away, leaving Satan and his supporters behind. He later fought against Satan’s forces, and even struck Satan with his sword. Abdiel’s fighting skills were commemorated in World War II. Six Abdiel-class minelayers were named after the angel, and they played a valuable role in the war effort. Three of Britain’s Royal Navy ships have also been called HMS Abdiel . The first of these was launched in 1915. You can call on Abdiel in any matters concerning faith in yourself and faith in God.

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Angels written by Richard Webster – Copyright 2009 by Richard Webster