Angelology is the theological study or doctrine concerning angels. It is a branch of theology that explores the nature, roles, hierarchy, and characteristics of angels, which are believed to be supernatural beings in various religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and others.

Here are some key aspects of angelology:

1. Nature of Angels: Angelology delves into questions about the nature of angels. In many religious traditions, angels are often considered as spiritual beings created by a deity or divine entity. They are usually depicted as messengers or servants of the divine, with qualities such as immortality, holiness, and purity.

2. Hierarchy of Angels: Many angelic traditions propose a hierarchical structure among angels. For example, in Christian angelology, angels are often categorized into different orders or choirs, such as seraphim, cherubim, thrones, dominions, virtues, powers, principalities, archangels, and angels. Each choir is believed to have specific roles and attributes.

3. Roles and Functions: Angelology explores the various functions and roles that angels are believed to play in religious narratives. This can include acting as messengers between God and humans, guiding and protecting individuals, delivering revelations and prophecies, and carrying out divine judgments.

4. Interactions with Humans: Many religious texts and traditions recount instances of angelic interactions with human beings. Angelology examines these interactions, including angelic appearances, messages, and interventions in human affairs.

5. Angelic Appearances: Angelology often deals with the descriptions of angels in religious texts and art. Angels are commonly depicted with wings, often in human form, but sometimes with additional attributes or features that symbolize their divine nature.

6. Comparative Angelology: Angelology can be compared and contrasted across different religious traditions. For example, Christian angelology has its own set of beliefs about angels, while Islamic angelology has a distinct understanding of angels, known as "malakology." Comparative angelology helps scholars and theologians understand the similarities and differences in angelic beliefs across cultures and faiths.

7. Eschatological Role: In some religious traditions, angels have an eschatological role in the end times, where they are believed to play a crucial role in the final judgment and the ultimate fate of humanity. Angelology explores these eschatological aspects.

It's important to note that beliefs about angels and the study of angelology can vary widely among different religious traditions and denominations. While angels are a common theme in many religions, the specifics of their nature, roles, and functions can differ significantly.