Ouriel

Ouriel is the form of Uriel used in the Greek Old Testament. As a Greek variant of the archangel's name, it appears in the Septuagint and other Greek translations of the Hebrew Bible, particularly in apocalyptic and deuterocanonical books.

The name Uriel itself means "God is my light" (Hebrew: אוּרִיאֵל, ʾŪrīʾēl), from ʾur "light, flame" and ʾel "God". In Rabbinic tradition and Christian angelology, Uriel is one of the archangels, often associated with wisdom and truth. He appears in the Book of Enoch, where he warns Noah of the coming flood. The name has a deep theological resonance, evoking divine illumination and guidance.

Other variant forms include the Slavic Orel and the original Hebrew 'Uri'el. The Greek form Ouriel is used predominantly in Eastern Orthodox contexts, while the Latinized Uriel is more common in Western traditions. Notably, Uriel (and by extension Ouriel) has been recognized in Anglican, Russian Orthodox, and folk Catholic traditions as one of the seven principal archangels.

Historical and Religious Significance

While Uriel is not named in the canonical Old Testament, the name gained prominence through the Apocrypha, particularly the Book of Enoch (2nd–1st century BCE). According to this tradition, Uriel was sent by God to Noah to explain the impending deluge and guide him in constructing the ark (Old Testament narrative). Over time, Uriel became fixed in angelic hierarchies as the angel of wisdom, who offers truth to humanity. This role has led to his veneration in liturgical art and prayers, especially in eastern Christian iconography.

The etymology "God is my light" connects the name directly to themes of enlightenment, prophecy, and salvation. Given its historical use in Greek biblical manuscripts, Ouriel embodies a specific cultural and linguistic transmission—carrying the weight of rabbinic and Christian angelology into Hellenized Judaism and later Orthodox Christianity.

• Meaning: God is my light/flame
• Origin: Hebrew (via Greek Bible)
• Type: Archangel name
• Usage: Primarily in Greek Christian contexts, also Eastern Orthodox; related to Uriel in angelology.