Being Mistaken For An Angel Taught Superman His True Purpose

Since his first appearance in 1938, Superman has sparked conversations about his role as a messianic figure, with many comics and movies invoking religious imagery to explore Kal-El’s heroic nature. But years before Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel popularized this concept, 2007’s Superman#659 addressed the idea head on, through a story in which a religious woman believes Superman to be an angel sent by Heaven – a belief that nearly costs the woman her life.

In Superman #659 by Kurt Busiek, Fabian Nicieza, and Peter Vale, Superman reflects on his early days in Metropolis, when he met a woman named Barbara Johnson. One day, a reckless driver almost ran her down, and Barbara prayed to God to save her life. At that very moment, Superman swooped in and brought her to safety. Later, while watching another tragedy unfold on the news, Barbara again prayed to God. As Superman rescued the citizens, Barbara began to believe that God was answering her calls for help by sending one of his angels – Superman. Ultimately, this belief led her to confront a group of gang members, thinking that the Man of Steel would save her and stop them. Unfortunately, Superman was busy fighting a creature many miles away and could not save Barbara from getting shot for her troubles.

At the time that this story was released, Superman was questioning whether or not his presence on Earth was preventing humanity’s natural evolution. While Superman was initially concerned about harming humanity by acting as their imperfect savior, this chain of events actually helped him find peace in his relationship with the people of Metropolis. Barbara Johnson’s actions nearly cost her everything, but instead they helped elevate her community. In the wake of getting shot, Barbara inspired those around her to work together to clean up their neighborhood. This was only possible because they were inspired by Barbara – who was herself inspired by Superman. When Superman reflected on this moment, he saw that not only could he cause good through his actions, he could help motivate people to take action for themselves, proving that his doubt was misguided.

Beyond that, this story shows Superman’s humanity. When he doubts himself, Superman doesn’t reflect on an epic battle, he remembers a personal memory shared with a citizen. In that moment, it wasn’t important that Superman was more powerful than a locomotive, it was important that he did his best every day. Superman works as a character when he is an earnest man doing everything he can, and this showcases that.

This issue doesn’t just address the concept of Superman as a godlike figure – it shows that while it’s an interesting angle, it’s a concept that ultimately misunderstands who Kal-El is. At the end of the day, Superman is still a man. Falling short of the role of a divine being is humbling and shows that the most important aspect of Superman’s character is his drive to save those around him. Though he may ponder his role as humanity’s savior, he never lets that stop him from saving the day – something that the Man of Steel movie struggled with. That drive to protect humanity despite his inability to be everywhere at once is what makes him special, not his powers.

Ultimately, it is impossible to detach Superman from the idea that he has godlike powers. However, his connection to mundane life and his awareness of his own limitations are just as important. Despite his offensive abilities, Superman’s powers don’t make him a warrior, they make him an inspiration to the people of Earth. And in return for this gift of inspiration, Superman is rewarded with confidence in his own actions and the resolve to push through whatever difficult tasks stand in front of him. Superman #659 stands as a testament to the depths of Superman’s humanity, humility, and potential as a hero.

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