Mentioned in the Apocalypse (4,4; 5,5,8; 7,13; 19,4; 21,12-14) as part of the Court of the Lamb of God whom they adore and to whom they offer the prayers of the saints. They are clothed in white garments, have gold crowns, and number 24. The number is perhaps symbolical, representing the twelve Apostles and the twelve tribes of Israel or according to Bishop Blane, the twelve patriarchs of the Old Law.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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