The direct translation for a fallen angel in Irish is Aingeal an uabhair. This phrase literally means "angel of pride," reflecting the theological understanding that pride was the sin leading to the angels' expulsion from heaven.
Understanding "Aingeal an uabhair"
The term Aingeal an uabhair is composed of:
- Aingeal: The Irish word for "angel."
- An uabhair: Meaning "of pride." "Uabhar" is the noun for pride, and "an uabhair" is its genitive form, indicating possession or association ("of pride").
This specific phrasing highlights the core reason for their fall within Christian theology.
Singular and Plural Forms
To provide a clear understanding, here's how the term is used for both singular and plural fallen angels:
| English Term | Irish Term | Literal Translation | Contextual Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fallen Angel (singular) | Aingeal an uabhair | Angel of pride | A single angel who fell due to pride |
| Fallen Angels (plural) | Aingil an uabhair | Angels of pride | The group of angels who fell from grace collectively |
The plural form, Aingil an uabhair, is commonly used to refer to "the fallen angels" collectively in Irish.
Theological and Cultural Context
In Irish culture and Christian tradition, the concept of fallen angels aligns with broader Abrahamic faiths, where a group of angels rebelled against God, often led by Lucifer, and were subsequently cast out of heaven. Their sin is often attributed to pride or disobedience. The direct translation in Irish reinforces this specific theological perspective by explicitly naming "pride" as the defining characteristic of these beings.
For further exploration of Irish language terms, you can consult reputable online dictionaries such as Teanglann.ie.
