Goetic Demons

Explore the 72 demons of the Ars Goetia, their powers, seals, and historical significance in Western occultism.

What is the Ars Goetia?

The Ars Goetia is the opening section of the Lesser Key of Solomon (Lemegeton Clavicula Salomonis), a mid-17th-century grimoire that has become a cornerstone of Western ceremonial magic. It catalogues 72 spirits—often called the 72 demons of the Goetia—each with distinct names, ranks, powers, seals, and methods of invocation. The text draws from earlier sources such as Johann Weyer's Pseudomonarchia Daemonum (1577) and reflects the Renaissance fascination with cataloguing supernatural hierarchies.

The 72-spirit count corresponds to the 72 angels of the Shemhamphorasch in Kabbalistic tradition, creating a symmetrical structure between angelic and demonic realms. Figures like Aleister Crowley later popularised the text, making it central to modern Goetic practice.

Hierarchy of the 72 Spirits

The spirits are organised in a pseudo-feudal hierarchy. Understanding rank helps practitioners choose spirits suited to their goals and experience:

  • Kings — Broad authority, major transformations (9 spirits)
  • Dukes — Love, wealth, nature, diplomacy (23 spirits)
  • Princes — Wisdom, foresight, revelation (7 spirits)
  • Marquises — Time, illusions, emotions, conflict (15 spirits)
  • Earls / Counts — War, alchemy, treasures (14 spirits)
  • Presidents — Secrets, sciences, teaching (3 spirits)
  • Knights — Arts, philosophy (1 spirit)

For Modern Practitioners

Working with Goetic spirits requires preparation and respect. Before evoking any spirit, we recommend reading our guides on modern Goetic practice:

Spirits by Power

Find spirits by their primary function. Click a spirit to read its full entry with sigil, enn, offerings, and correspondences.

Divination & Knowledge

Love & Desire

Wealth & Treasures

Strategy & Warfare

Healing & Transformation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ars Goetia?
The Ars Goetia is the first book of the Lesser Key of Solomon, a 17th-century grimoire that catalogues 72 spirits. It describes their names, ranks, powers, seals, and methods of invocation. The text draws from earlier works like the Pseudomonarchia Daemonum and has profoundly influenced Western occultism.
How many demons are in the Goetia?
There are exactly 72 spirits in the Ars Goetia. This number corresponds to the 72 angels of the Shemhamphorasch in Kabbalistic tradition, creating a symmetrical structure between angelic and demonic hierarchies.
Are Goetic demons dangerous?
Traditional grimoires treat these spirits with caution. Modern practitioners emphasise preparation: mental clarity, proper ritual framework, and clear boundaries. With respect and proper technique, many practitioners work with Goetic spirits safely. We recommend reading our guides on protection and mental health preparation before beginning.
How do I safely work with Goetic spirits?
Start by studying the spirits and their correspondences. Prepare your mind and space, use protective circles or boundaries, and approach with clear intentions. Our guides on beginning Goetic work, self-protection, and mental preparation offer practical steps for modern practitioners.

All 72 Spirits of the Ars Goetia