Raphael
Archangel, Healing Companion
8th–7th century BC (Tobit narrative)
One of the seven archangels who stand before God. Disguised as a kinsman, he guided young Tobias on his journey, defeated the demon Asmodeus, and healed Tobit's blindness.
“I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels, who present the prayers of the saints.” — Tobit 12:15Talk with Raphael
The story of Raphael
Raphael is one of the angels named in Scripture, and his name means God heals. He appears in the Book of Tobit, where he describes himself as one of the seven angels who stand ready before the glory of the Lord.
When the prayers of Tobit and Sarah rise to God on the same day, Raphael is sent to answer them. He takes a human form and the name Azarias, and offers to guide Tobit's son Tobias on a long journey. Along the way he teaches Tobias how to use a fish to drive away the demon tormenting Sarah and to heal Tobit's blindness, and he guides the marriage of Tobias and Sarah.
At the end of the journey Raphael reveals who he is. He tells the family that he brought their prayers before God, urges them not to be afraid, and asks them to bless God and write down what happened. In later Christian tradition he is honored as an archangel alongside Michael and Gabriel and is linked with healing, safe travel and guidance.
Key passages
Tobit 3:16–17
God hears both prayers and sends Raphael to heal Tobit and free Sarah.
Tobit 5:4–22
Raphael appears as Azarias and agrees to guide Tobias.
Tobit 6:1–18
The fish in the river and Raphael's instructions for healing and protection.
Tobit 11:1–15
Tobit's sight is restored.
Tobit 12:6–22
Raphael reveals that he is one of the seven angels before the Lord.
Key books
- Tobit
Common questions
Is Raphael mentioned in the Bible?
By name, only in the Book of Tobit, which is in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles. He also appears in 1 Enoch. Protestant Bibles that leave out Tobit do not name him.
What does the name Raphael mean?
It is Hebrew for God heals, which fits his role of healing Tobit's blindness and freeing Sarah.
Is Raphael an archangel?
Tobit calls him one of the seven angels who stand before the Lord. Catholic and Orthodox tradition honor him as an archangel, with Michael and Gabriel.