What role did the archangel Gabriel play in the annunciation of the incarnation?

St. Jacob of Sarug describes the Virgin St. Mary as a vivid example of spiritual knowledge through faith. She spoke with the archangel Gabriel, striving to understand the mystery of the divine incarnation; not merely for the sake of debate but in a spirit of submission, humility, and sincere love for God. Thus, she delighted the incarnation of the Word of God in her womb, while remaining a virgin forever. Therefore, it is fitting for us to abstain from dry debates and instead welcome God’s work within us in sincere faith, that Christ may dwell within us and grant our souls the gift of boundless spiritual virginity. St. Jacob says:

“That moment was full of wonder when Mary was standing, conversing in argument with Gabriel.

One humble daughter of poor folk and one angel met each other and spoke of a wonderful tale.

A pure virgin and a fiery Watcher spoke with wonder: a discourse which reconciled dwellers of earth and heaven .

One woman and the prince of all the hosts

had made an agreement for the reconciliation of the whole world.

The two had sat between heavenly beings and earthly ones; they spoke, attended to and made peace for those who were wroth.

Maiden and Watcher met each other and conversed in argument on the matter until they abolished the conflict between the Lord and Adam.

That great strife which occurred amidst the trees⁶⁹⁹ came up for discussion, and it all came to an end; there was peace.

An earthly being and a heavenly one spoke with love;

the struggle between the two sides ceased, and they were at peace.”⁷⁰⁰

Archangel Gabriel was the angel who spoke to Philip the deacon (Acts 8:26–40). He was one of the two angels who appeared to the women at the Savior’s tomb in luminous garments.

The Church celebrates his feast on the thirteenth of Hathor, the twenty-second of Kiahk, the third of Paremhat, and the thirteenth of Paone. In the doxology of the archangel Gabriel, we sing: “Gabriel the Archangel was seen by Daniel, standing on his feet on the shore of the river. He stretched out his right hand to heaven and he swore to the High One who endures forever. Saying ‘From a time and times to half a time until the completion of the visions, I will show to you.’ Michael and Gabriel, Your great archangels, sing to You O King of glory proclaiming and saying: Holy God, heal those who are sick. Holy Mighty, those who slept, O Lord, repose them. Holy Immortal, bless Your inheritance. May Your mercy and Your peace be a fortress unto Your people. And when they say ‘Alleluia,’ the heavenly respond saying, ‘Holy Amen Alleluia. Glory be to our God.’ Intercede on our behalf, O holy archangels, Michael and Gabriel, that He may forgive us our sins.”