A miracle is an event which contradicts or modifies the ordinary operation of nature. Those in biblical based religions refer to transgression of the laws of nature by a deity as true miracles, and transgressions through acts of will in consort with paranormal powers as magic. A miracle is never a mere coincidence, and is understood as not just a product of divine intervention in the natural order, but as an extraordinary event with great significance that is different from what would have occurred in the natural or normal course of events.

Since the late 1980s the number of miracles being reported and documented has been growing at a rapid rate, including anything from weeping icons to crop circles and encounters with angels. Angel encounters have been widely reported during the last decade and are often connected with healing, both of a spiritual as well as a physical nature. When the witness of the miracle is said to be receptive, results may include positive changes in lifestyle, comfort, and reassurance.