Azriel is an angelic name whose functions vary with the source. Gustav Davidson’s A Dictionary of Angels (1967), printed page 65, brings together reports about a heavenly supervisor, destructive angels and protective charms.
The northern supervisor
Citing the Zohar, Exodus 202a, Davidson describes a supervisor called Azriel the Ancient, also called Mahniel. In his account, the figure commands sixty myriads of legions and receives prayers on the northern side of heaven. This description is presented here as Davidson’s report of that passage.
Other uses of the name
The same entry cites Ozar Midrashim for Azriel among chief angels of destruction and references charms bearing the name. These reports should retain their separate source settings rather than becoming one continuous biography.
Davidson also includes Azriel among forms listed under Azrael. The dictionary therefore does not support a blanket rule that the names always denote wholly unrelated figures.
Explore related entries
Read Azrael, Azbogah, browse the name directory, or explore the guide to source traditions.