Who is Metatron? The Origins of the Angel from the 3rd Book of Enoch - Sefer Hekhalot Mysticism

Metatron is a highly revered and enigmatic angel in Jewish mysticism, known for his vast knowledge and spiritual power. He is often referred to as the "Prince of the Countenance," and is considered one of the highest-ranking angels in the celestial hierarchy. In this article, we will explore the origins of Metatron, his role in Jewish mysticism, and the fascinating history behind his mysterious name.
Origins of Metatron
The origins of Metatron can be traced back to the 3rd Book of Enoch, a Jewish mystical text that dates back to the early centuries CE. In this text, Metatron is depicted as a powerful angel who serves as a celestial scribe and mediator between God and humanity. According to the text, Metatron was originally a human prophet named Enoch, who was transformed into an angelic being after he ascended to heaven and was given the name Metatron by God.
Role of Metatron in Jewish Mysticism
In Jewish mysticism, Metatron plays a vital role in the celestial hierarchy, serving as the "chariot" of God's presence and the guardian of the heavenly secrets. He is also believed to be the keeper of the "Book of Life," which contains the names of those who are destined for eternal life. As such, Metatron is often invoked in Jewish prayers as a powerful intercessor and protector.
The name Metatron itself is shrouded in mystery and has been the subject of much debate among scholars and mystics. Some believe that the name is derived from the Greek "metathronos," which means "beside the throne," while others suggest that it comes from the Hebrew "metator," meaning "guide" or "leader." Still, others propose that the name is a combination of both Greek and Hebrew, reflecting Metatron's dual nature as both a human prophet and a divine angel.
Sefer Hekhalot Mysticism
One of the most significant sources of information about Metatron in Jewish mysticism is the Sefer Hekhalot, a collection of texts that describe the ascent of the mystic to the divine throne. In these texts, Metatron is depicted as a powerful and awe-inspiring figure, who is surrounded by a fiery throne and the four holy creatures of the heavenly throne. He is also said to possess immense knowledge of the divine secrets, and to be able to communicate with God in a way that no other angel can.
In addition to his role as a scribe and mediator, Metatron is also associated with the mystical practice of "merkavah" or "chariot" mysticism, which involves the contemplation of the divine throne and the ascent of the soul to the celestial realms. According to this tradition, Metatron serves as the guide and protector of the mystic, leading them through the perilous journey to the heavenly realms and helping them to navigate the complex spiritual terrain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Metatron is a fascinating and complex figure in Jewish mysticism, whose origins and role continue to inspire debate and speculation. Whether he is seen as a human prophet transformed into an angelic being, a powerful intercessor and guardian of the divine secrets, or the guide and protector of the mystic, one thing is certain: Metatron is a powerful symbol of the profound mysteries of the divine, and an enduring source of inspiration for those who seek to explore the hidden realms of the spiritual universe. #strange,#enigma,#mystery,#odd,#unexplained,#real,#weird,#ghost,#real,#terror,#horror,#sighting,#stories,#occult,#scary,#parapsychology,#discovery,#hunt,#extraño,#paranormal