November is the month dedicated to the celebration of the holy angels of the Lord, as it is the ninth month after March, which in ancient times marked the beginning of the year. The number nine is symbolic, referring to the nine orders of the angels.
According to the Holy Scripture and the tradition of the Church, the Archangels known by name are Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selaphiel, Jegudiel, Barachiel, and Jeremiel. Together, they are regarded as the leaders of the angelic hosts.
Archangel Raphael is the healer of human infirmities, the Lord's guide and physician. His name is derived from the Hebrew language and means "God has healed" or "the healing of God." Taking the form of a young man, he accompanied the righteous Tobit, protected him from danger, delivered him from the evil spirit, gave him Sarah as his wife and restored his sight.
When Tobit reached the River Tigris, Archangel Raphael instructed him concerning the fish that sought to attack him and showed him how he could be delivered from demons and healed of physical illness. In Ecbatana, where Sarah lived, he protected him from an unclean spirit. After their marriage, Raphael restored Tobit's sight by applying the gall of the fish to his eyes.
After his healing, Raphael instructed Tobit and his wife to glorify the Lord. He then revealed to them that he was one of the seven holy angels who stand before God.
Archangel Raphael also taught that love is cultivated through fasting and almsgiving, for almsgiving cleanses a person from sin and triumphs over death.
In the Orthodox iconography, Archangel Raphael is traditionally depicted holding a vessel containing medicinal remedies, symbolizing his God-given ministry of healing.
