Archangel Zadkiel
The angel Zadkiel (Hebrew: צִדְקִיאֵל Ṣīḏqīʾēl, 'God is my Righteousness') is the archangel of freedom, benevolence, kindness and mercy, and the patron angel of all who forgive.
In the Sephirot, Zadkiel is fourth, which corresponds to Chesed.
Alternate names
Zadkiel is also known by a variety of other names. Among them are Hasdiel, Sachiel, Zedekiel, Zadakiel, Tzadkiel, and Zedekul.
Abilities and function
In most Kabbalistic grimoires, Zadkiel is the ruler of the Dominions choir in the hierarchy of angels. In rabbinic writings, Zadkiel belongs to the order of Hashmallim. He is considered by some sources to be chief of that order. In Maseket Azilut, it is listed as co-chief with Archangel Gabriel of the order of Shinanim.
Zadkiel is one of two standard bearers (along with Jophiel) who follow directly behind Archangel Michael as the head archangel enters battle. Its magical image is "An angel with four immaculate white Wings, clothed in a long Robe the color of purple, holding a Crown in one hand and a Scepter in the other."
The Grimoire of Armadel states that Zadkiel will teach all the sciences active and passive, with a remarkable facility, with all honesty and courtesy, together with every kind of benediction. They who avail themselves of this angel will possess all things in contentment. He is to be invoked on a Monday morning and is associated with the planetary intelligence of Jupiter.
Abraham's sacrifice
As an angel of mercy, some texts claim that Zadkiel is the unnamed biblical Angel of the Lord who holds back Abraham to prevent the patriarch from sacrificing his son, and because of this is usually shown holding a dagger. Other texts cite Michael or Tadhiel or some other angel as the angel intended, while others interpret the Angel of the Lord as a theophany.