| The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2001-07. |
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| seraph |
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(s r´ f) (KEY) , plural seraphim (– m) (KEY) , supernatural being. The name seems to derive from the Hebrew word “to burn.” According to the Book of Isaiah, seraphim have six wings. Scholars have suggested that seraphim were winged serpents. In Numbers, the word “seraph” denotes a “fiery” (i.e. poisonous) serpent. Like cherubim, seraphim are associated with the glory of God, as in the liturgy. See also cherub. |
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| | | The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright © 2007 Columbia University Press. |
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