Raphael (Archangel)

In the narrative tradition preserved in the Book of Tobit, an angel who identifies himself as Raphael is sent by God to accompany Tobias on a journey, guide him, and restore his father's sight. The figure is attested in Hellenistic‑period apocryphal literature and is incorporated into later Jewish and Christian devotional and liturgical practice, where Raphael functions as a named heavenly agent charged with healing and guidance.

Ancient textual sources cited in the supplied material do not give a detailed physical description; instead Raphael is represented in later devotional and artistic traditions (for example, Renaissance paintings of "The Archangel Raphael and Tobias") as an angelic companion accompanying Tobias. Iconography in these sources typically shows him as an angelic figure traveling with a human companion, often bearing the attributes of a guide (staff) in artistic treatments, though the cited materials emphasize narrative and liturgical identity over precise physical detail.

Primary functions attributed to Raphael in the cited sources are healing, guidance, companionship on journeys, and acting as a divinely sent messenger/agent. The Book of Tobit tradition recounts that he "restored sight and gave guidance to young Tobit," and devotional prayers and liturgical texts present him as one to be petitioned for protection of travelers and assistance in sickness, functioning as an intercessory heavenly figure in Christian piety.