According to popular culture, wings are the defining characteristic of angels. Without wings how would we distinguish angels from humans? But does the Bible say that angels have wings?
Cherubim and Seraphim
The primary biblical support for angelic wings comes from the description of cherubim and seraphim. In the Bible cherubs aren’t chubby babies with wings. Instead they are “living creatures” with both human and animal features, including wings (Ezek. 1 & 10). They serve as guardians blocking Adam and Eve’s return to the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:24). And the top of the ark of the covenant features two golden cherubim facing each other with wings outstretched (Ex. 37:7-9). The only place where seraphim appear mentions that they have six wings.
If angels are in the cherubim or seraphim category then perhaps they also have wings. However, the Bible doesn’t identify angels as cherubim or seraphim.
A Simple Argument
So here’s my biblical argument for wingless angels:
- Nowhere in the Bible are angels described as having wings.
- Angels are usually described as men and men don’t have wings.
- While cherubim and seraphim are described as having wings, the Bible doesn’t categorize them as angels.
- Therefore, in the Bible angels don’t have wings.
Additionally, if angels have wings this verse would not make sense: “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it” (Heb. 13:2). If angels have wings, entertaining angels without knowing it would be impossible.
Of course, although the Bible doesn’t describe angels as having wings, they could still appear with wings from time to time. In general, though, throughout the Bible, they are not described as creatures with wings.
After graduating from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, I served as a high school Bible teacher in Asia. I enjoy traveling, writing, and playing the drums. My latest book focuses on Paul’s work as a tentmaker and what it means for today.
So, Satan is not an angel? Because he is most definitely a cherub (Ezekiel). There is also precedence in Scripture that angels, including demons, can change their appearance (“angel of light” anyone?). There are also copious times in Revelation where angels are seen flying; and just because they don’t mention wings, doesn’t mean they don’t have them (yes, yes, it also doesn’t mean they do, I get it). But, that just means you can’t emphatically argue from silence – in either direction. Etc, etc. This debate in definitely not over, and won’t be until Glory I’m afraid.
Hello Chris,
Thanks for your comment. It’s true that many think Ezekiel 28:1-19 refers to Satan, but we should first place it in its historical and literary context. Ezekiel is actually prophesying against the wicked and arrogant king of Tyre using poetic language.
I could only find one reference to a flying angel in Revelation: “Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people” (14:6). Again, no reference to wings.
I do think it’s possible that spiritual creatures, such as angels or Satan, can change their appearance so I have no problem with angels appearing with wings. It’s just that there is no explicit biblical reference to angels having wings. Yes, that could be an argument from silence, but there is more data to consider. Angels are generally described as “men” or “young men” (think of the angels at Christ’s tomb) and men don’t have wings. And the author of Hebrews says that people can entertain angels without knowing it. That can only be possible if angels don’t have, or at least, don’t appear, with wings.
Let the Bible establish itself I, agree. if it isn’t there then. it isn’t so. That’s Finale