Angels, or messengers of God, feature frequently in the Bible record, but only rarely does the Bible give their names. One of those whom it names is Gabriel.
In the time of Judah’s captivity, Gabriel made an appearance to Daniel as a man-like figure and explained the meaning of one of Daniel’s visions (Daniel 8:15-17). Later he appeared again, this time to bring God’s answer to Daniel’s prayer of confession on behalf of the nation. He assured Daniel that God would now restore the Jews to their land and bring his age-long purposes to fulfilment with the coming of the Messiah (Daniel 9:20-27).
Centuries later, Gabriel was again used by God to reveal developments of these divine purposes. He announced to Zechariah the coming birth of the Messiah’s forerunner (Luke 1:11-20), and then to Mary the coming birth of the Messiah himself (Luke 1:26-38). (See also ANGELS.)