In the age of social media and viral videos, it’s not uncommon to come across extraordinary claims that often excite, confuse, or even alarm us. One such claim making the rounds is a video supposedly capturing an angel on a white horse fighting in Israel. As a Catholic scholar, it’s important to approach such claims not just with curiosity but with a firm grounding in the teachings of the Church and the Bible. So, let’s unpack this viral phenomenon from a Catholic perspective.
What Does the Catholic Church Say About Angels?
Firstly, the Catholic Church is clear on the existence of angels. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, angels are “spiritual creatures who glorify God without ceasing and who serve his saving plans for other creatures” (CCC 350). These beings were created by God to be messengers and servants, always carrying out His will.
The Church also teaches that angels interact with human beings. The Archangel Gabriel, for instance, appeared to the Blessed Virgin Mary to announce the coming of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38). But it is crucial to understand that any angelic interaction with our world operates under the full authority and divine plan of God.
Are Angels Really Captured on Camera?
While modern technology has made it easier to document extraordinary events, the Catholic Church urges caution when interpreting these phenomena. The Church insists on thorough investigation and discernment when claims of supernatural occurrences are made.
A viral video claiming to capture an angel may easily be doctored, misinterpreted, or entirely fabricated. Even if the video is genuine, the Church teaches that personal revelations or phenomena are not necessary for salvation and are not guaranteed to be part of the universal faith (CCC 67). In other words, even if someone truly captures an angelic appearance on camera, it doesn’t mean that the whole Church has to accept it as a part of its teaching.
Biblical Accounts of Angelic Warfare
The Bible contains numerous accounts of angels involved in battles or protective actions. One example is the story of the Archangel Michael fighting against the devil in the Book of Revelation: “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels” (Revelation 12:7).
While it’s tempting to compare the viral video to Biblical accounts, it’s essential to remember that scriptural events happen within a specific context and are part of God’s divine plan. They are not to be equated loosely with modern phenomena without serious theological reflection.
Theological Opinions and Interpretations
While the Church’s teachings on angels are clear, how we interpret extraordinary claims like a viral video capturing an angel in Israel can vary among theologians. Some might argue that it’s possible for angels to be caught on camera, given that they can interact with the physical world. Others may argue that the very nature of angels—being spiritual and not physical—makes it impossible for them to be captured on camera.
It’s crucial to understand that these are theological opinions, not universal teachings of the Church. What is consistent is that any claim of angelic appearances or actions must be in line with Church teaching and Scripture.
What’s the Final Take?
A claim like an angel on a white horse fighting in Israel is certainly extraordinary and can easily catch the public’s imagination. However, as faithful Catholics, we should approach it with both open-mindedness and caution. The Church advises thorough investigation, discernment, and reflection on any claims of the supernatural.
We must also remember that our faith does not hinge on extraordinary phenomena but on the saving grace of Jesus Christ. In the words of the Catechism, “By His death and His Resurrection, Jesus Christ has ‘opened’ heaven to us. The life of the blessed consists in the full and perfect possession of the fruits of the redemption accomplished by Christ” (CCC 1026).
In summary, while the viral video might be intriguing, it is not central to our faith or salvation. Whether angelic or not, extraordinary claims should always be weighed against the teachings of the Church and the Bible. Only then can we navigate the complexities of our modern world while keeping our faith firmly anchored in Christ.