The angels are not all of one species.
The concept of angels as a single species is more prevalent in certain religious traditions, such as Christianity and Islam, where angels are generally considered heavenly beings created by a higher power. However, the specific attributes, roles, and classifications of angels can vary within these traditions.
In Christian theology, angels are often considered a distinct order of spiritual beings, and they are sometimes categorized into different hierarchies or choirs, each with its own unique characteristics and functions. Theologians like St. Thomas Aquinas, for example, proposed a hierarchical structure of angels that includes categories such as Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels.
Scripture frequently speaks of distinctions and differences some angels, some archangels, &c.
Theologians generally teach that different gifts of grace have been bestowed on the angels, marking out, therefore, different capacities, i.e., different species.
St. Dionysius, writing on the heavenly hierarchy, says : ” The sacred volumes declare that these holy superior beings differ from one another by different grades”.
St. Jerome, writing against Jovinian : “Among the invisible creatures there is a manifold and an indefinite diversity “.
St. Augustine and St. Anselm teach the same.
Reason would tell us, if we look at bird differing from bird, beast from beast, flower from flower, tree from tree, that the variety of the species enhances the beauty and harmony of the creation. The same way is it with the beautiful angels in heaven.
In Islam, angels are also considered a distinct creation of Allah, and they have specific roles and responsibilities. While there isn’t as elaborate a hierarchy as found in some Christian traditions, Islamic beliefs include angels like Jibril (Gabriel), Mikail (Michael), Israfil, and others, each with their own duties.
