Gabriel

Gabriel (Arabic: جبرائيل / جبريل) is a figure appearing in the sacred texts of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. According to the traditions of these three religions, Gabriel is the angel through whom God conveys messages to prophets and chosen people.

The term 'angel' refers to a being believed to be created by God and to carry out His commands. The name Gabriel derives originally from Hebrew (Gabri'el), commonly translated as 'God's strength' or 'man of God'. This name passed into other languages, with Somali taking it through the Arabic form.

Islam

In Islam, Gabriel is recognized as the angel who brought the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. He is also called Ruh al-Qudus (the Holy Spirit) and al-Ruh al-Amin (the Trustworthy Spirit), as mentioned in various Quranic verses. He appears by name or reference in Surah Maryam (Chapter 19) and Surah al-Baqarah (Chapter 2). In Islamic tradition, Gabriel is ranked among the highest of the angels.

Christianity and Judaism

In the Book of Daniel in the Hebrew Bible, Gabriel is described interpreting visions. The Gospel of Luke relates that Gabriel came to Mary to announce the birth of Jesus, an event known as the Annunciation. In some Christian traditions, particularly Catholic and Orthodox Christianity, Gabriel is venerated as an archangel and commemorated on specific feast days.

Artistic and cultural depiction

In European art of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Gabriel is typically depicted with wings, holding a lily or blowing a trumpet. In Islamic art, particularly in Persian and Ottoman manuscript painting, he appears in various forms, though mainstream Islamic tradition generally avoids depiction of living beings.