The concept of God's angels appearing to people is primarily rooted in religious beliefs and traditions. Different religions and cultures have various accounts of angelic appearances throughout history. The idea of angelic interactions may vary from one religion to another, but the common thread is the belief that angels are divine beings or messengers from God.
From a religious perspective, there is no definitive evidence or consensus on why angelic appearances have seemingly become less common or ceased altogether in recent times. Here are a few possible explanations or interpretations:
Evolution of Religious Beliefs: Some religious scholars argue that the way people perceive and interpret divine interactions has changed over time. In ancient times, supernatural experiences might have been interpreted as angelic encounters, but in modern times, they might be seen as psychological or natural phenomena instead.
Role of Angels in History: According to religious texts, angels often played a significant role in specific periods of history or during the revelation of religious teachings. As time progressed and religious revelations ceased, the need for direct angelic appearances might have diminished.
Change in Spiritual Sensitivity: Some believers suggest that angelic encounters require a certain level of spiritual sensitivity or purity, and as humanity has become more distant from spiritual practices, such experiences have become rarer.
Divine Hiddenness: Some religious thinkers have pondered the concept of "divine hiddenness," suggesting that God might intentionally withhold direct signs or manifestations, allowing humans to exercise free will and develop their faith through more subtle means.
Symbolic Interpretation: In some religious traditions, the concept of angels may be interpreted more symbolically or metaphorically rather than as literal beings. In this perspective, angelic appearances could represent divine messages or guidance through internal reflection rather than external manifestations.
Individual Experiences: While there may not be widespread, publicized angelic appearances, some individuals claim to have had personal encounters with angels even in recent times. These experiences are often deeply personal and subjective.
It is essential to understand that beliefs in angelic appearances and their frequency vary widely among different religious groups and individuals. The absence of widespread reports of angelic appearances in recent times does not invalidate the beliefs or experiences of those who still hold them dear. Faith and spirituality are complex and personal matters, and interpretations of divine interactions will always remain diverse.