I always assumed that Gabriel has always meant messenger. The roots and meaning s are from the Hebrew name גַבְרִיאֵל (Gavri’el) meaning “God is my strong man”.
Gabriel was one of the seven archangels in Hebrew tradition. He appears in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, where he serves as the announcer of the births of John to Zechariah and Jesus to Mary.
According to Islamic tradition he was the angel who dictated the Qur’an to Muhammad.
Do you believe in ANGELS? I would like to, especially guardian angels.
I like the idea of ARCHANGEL GABRIEL conveying messages.
M.C.V. EGAN ❧Defining Ways❧ 
I do believe in angels. But I also believe that some claims about visitation of angels is hokum. I have to weigh the source with the outcome.
Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
A Faraway View
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I agree that many “special stories” tend to be most questionable!
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Gabriel is a beautiful name–I’m not as crazy about the nickname “Gabe.”
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I am not too keen on nicknames in general, thanks for dropping by.
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yes I do and also that they come in all shapes and sizes – I am of the idea that it is wise to leave a door open on beliefs especially ones we havent got a clue about- do we think we could possibly know all there is about life – it is a Mystery and sometimes we get a peek at ‘something else’ . that is what I love… those possibilities …
sandra
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I so second EVERYTHING you said. OPEN MINDS lead to great things
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I do have a fondness for angels. 🙂
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‘Tis a good fondness to have
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When iconographers begin to write icons, they make a progression that starts with angels. This beautiful icon is a perfect introduction to iconography. I’m delighted you picked Gabriel for your letter G. Love this about the #Challenge. Stopping by leads to surprises that make you smile. Thanks for all the hard work it takes to participate.
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I did not know that about Iconographers, and it makes great sense. Loving A to Z
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