What is ars goetia?

Ars Goetia: Unveiling the Lesser Key of Solomon

The Ars Goetia is the first book of The Lesser Key of Solomon, also known as the Lemegeton Clavicula Salomonis Regis. It is a grimoire focused on the evocation of 72 demons. "Goetia" itself refers to a branch of magic, often associated with darker or less socially acceptable forms of sorcery.

Key Aspects of the Ars Goetia:

• The 72 Demons: The core of the Ars Goetia is the detailed descriptions of 72 demons, their seals, and their purported abilities. Each demon has a specific rank (king, duke, president, etc.), a legion of spirits under their command, and is associated with particular skills or powers. Examples include Baal, Paimon, and Astaroth.
• Evocation Rituals: The book provides instructions for ritually summoning these demons, including the construction of magical circles and triangles, the use of specific prayers and invocations, and the necessary precautions to take. The rituals are designed to bind the demon to the will of the conjurer.
• Purpose of Evocation: The Ars Goetia suggests that demons can be evoked for a variety of purposes, ranging from obtaining knowledge and treasures to inflicting harm on enemies and gaining personal power.
• Origins and Authorship: The authorship of the Ars Goetia is uncertain. It's generally attributed to the legendary King Solomon, but this is largely considered pseudepigraphical. The work likely draws upon earlier grimoires and magical traditions, with the existing text probably compiled in the mid-17th century.
• Relationship to Other Grimoires: The Ars Goetia is part of a broader tradition of grimoires, books detailing magical knowledge and practices. It shares similarities with other grimoires like the Pseudomonarchia Daemonum which describes many of the same demons.
• Modern Interpretations: In modern times, the Ars Goetia has been interpreted in various ways. Some view it as a historical artifact, while others treat it as a practical guide to magic. There are even those who view the demons as psychological archetypes rather than literal entities. The revival of interest in occultism has led to renewed study and practice based on the Ars Goetia.