Archangel Michael

The Holy Archangel Michael is the Commander-in-Chief of the Heavenly Hosts and the greatest of all the Archangels. His name in Hebrew means "Who is like God?" — the battle cry he raised against Lucifer and the fallen angels when they rebelled against God. He is venerated in the Orthodox Church as the protector of the faithful, the guardian of the Church, and the fearsome warrior of God who stands against all the powers of darkness.

Archangel Michael appears throughout Holy Scripture as the defender of God’s people: he appeared to Joshua before the battle of Jericho, contended with the devil over the body of Moses, and is described in the Book of Daniel as the great prince who stands guard over Israel. In the Book of Revelation, he leads the heavenly army against the dragon.

In Orthodox iconography, Archangel Michael is depicted in military garb, bearing a sword or spear and a shield, often trampling the devil underfoot. He is invoked for protection, courage, and deliverance from evil. His principal feast day is November 8, the Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and All the Bodiless Powers. Browse our handcrafted Orthodox icons and devotional items honoring Archangel Michael, made in our Ohio workshop using traditional Byzantine embroidery techniques.