BEFORE ME RAPHAEL

Raphael is an archangel responsible for healing in the traditions of most Abrahamic religions. In Christianity, Raphael is generally associated with an unnamed angel mentioned in the Gospel of John, who stirs the water at the healing pool of Bethesda. Raphael is recognized as an angel in the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, as he is briefly mentioned in the Doctrine and Covenants. Raphael is an important figure in the Book of Tobit, which is accepted as canonical by Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and some Anglicans. In Islam, Raphael is the fourth major angel; and in the Muslim tradition, he is known as Isrāfīl. Though unnamed in the Quran, hadith identifies Israfil with the angel of Quran 6:73. Within Islamic eschatology, Israfil is traditionally attributed to a trumpet, which is poised at his lips, and when God so commands he shall be ready to announce the Day of Resurrection. Raphael is associated with the East and the season of Spring. Because Air energy is connected with the power of the intellect, Raphael is also the archangel of logic and reason. Some books that were left out of the Bible present Raphael walking back roads to meeting with strangers. In one story, a traveler runs into Raphael and tells the archangel that he's in love with a woman, but every time someone attempts to marry her, a demon interferes and kills the suitor. He asks Raphael for help, and Raphael gives him the recipe for a special incense to make - if the man burns it near the woman the demon will flee. It works and the man and woman are finally able to get married.
Keys to visualization: radiant yellow robes, holds a caduceus, anything associated with spring, for example dampness, or warm wind. Reasons to invoke: to better articulate your ideas to others, for safe passage, for healing of any sort, for assistance with meditation and mental clarity, to enhance the intellect and learn the deeper truths of philosophical and spiritual teachings.

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Raphael's Sigil