All our lives, we have seen images of angels. The images we have come to expect are usually beautiful females with outstretched white wings. We would probably question if they were portrayed in any other way. In fact, these images have been presented to us for hundreds of years.

Interestingly, most of the angelic beings described in the Bible are male figures, dressed in white robes, but without wings. So, what is the source of these lovely lady flying angels?

Like so much of the pomp and ceremony of the church, the image of angels is probably the result of human interpretation that appealed to human senses and was adopted over time. Early artists probably created the first images, and later generations, in their zeal, elaborated. No doubt, devout believers, in the passion of their faith, wanted to present the messages of the Bible in the most appealing fashion, and so, the image of an angel evolved.

This is a perfect example of how the messages of the Bible are sometimes distorted, modified, or misinterpreted in the fog of cultural and political events, or by the personal views of an influential person or group. For better or worse, this is also how Christianity has become divided over the centuries. Todays’ churches are separated by subtle, yet significant differences in interpretation. Too many churches have veered off course to address human desires rather than Christian principles.

It is a trap that many have fallen victim to.

The history of Christianity is tarnished by extreme interpretations that have led to warfare and atrocities that are in direct conflict with core Christian principles. Regardless of which church we might choose to identify with or attend, we must constantly embrace the core of Christian principles and reject any distortions or abuse of Christianity.

The question of whether angels are male or female, or whether or not they dress in white robes and have wings is unimportant.

What is most important is to remember that, as emissaries of God, they are clothed in love.