Aureole

Definition:

(n.) A celestial crown or accidental glory added to the bliss of heaven, as a reward to those (as virgins, martyrs, preachers, etc.) who have overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil.
(n.) The circle of rays, or halo of light, with which painters surround the figure and represent the glory of Christ, saints, and others held in special reverence.
(n.) A halo, actual or figurative.
(n.) See Areola, 2.

Compare aureole with other words:

aureole vs. oriole