Rank: Duke
Ruling Angel: Ieliel
Associated Symbols: Crocodiles, old men, goshawks, hawks
Associated Colours: Deep blood red and green
Suggested Offerings: Red sandalwood, mandrake, carnation, mugwort, myrrh, copper, sandalwood
Warnings: –
Enn
Rean Ganen Ayar Da Agares
Agares, also known as Agreas in some texts, is the second spirit listed in the Ars Goetia of the Lesser Key of Solomon. He is a mighty Duke of Hell, commanding 31 legions of infernal spirits. Agares is a highly respected entity in demonology, valued for his multifaceted abilities that range from causing earthquakes to bringing fugitives back and teaching languages.
Historical Origins and Mythological Background
The name Agares has linguistic roots in Latin, where the verb agare means “to act” or “to do.” This etymological connection hints at his active and dynamic nature, often invoked for spells requiring movement or change. In various grimoires, Agares is often described as a demon of action, embodying the power to shift circumstances, initiate events, and instil a sense of urgency.
In medieval demonology, Agares was considered one of the fallen angels, originally of the order of Virtues. The Virtues were responsible for bestowing blessings of strength and courage, and remnants of these attributes linger in Agares’ modern portrayal as a demon who can motivate the stagnant and return those who have strayed from their path. His transition from a holy entity to a demon reflects the common narrative found in the demonisation of ancient spiritual beings throughout Christian texts.
Appearance and Iconography
Agares is depicted in the Ars Goetia as an elderly man of fair complexion, riding a crocodile and carrying a goshawk on his fist. This imagery is rich in symbolism. The crocodile, an ancient symbol of power, resilience, and the primal forces of nature reflects Agares’ dominion over the earth, particularly his ability to cause earthquakes. The goshawk, a bird of prey, symbolises precision, speed, and control, hinting at his ability to manipulate situations swiftly, track down fugitives, and guide those in need of direction.
The dual imagery of an elderly man and fearsome animals suggests that Agares is a spirit of contrasts—both gentle and forceful, wise and formidable. His appearance as an old man conveys his wisdom and calm demeanour, while the crocodile and goshawk showcase his ability to unleash chaos and destruction when necessary.
Powers and Abilities
One of Agares’ most famous abilities is his power to make runaways or fugitives return, whether they are physical persons or metaphorical concepts such as lost opportunities or forgotten goals. This power makes Agares particularly useful in situations where something has been lost—whether a person, an object, or even a state of mind—and needs to be recovered or re-established.
Agares also possesses the power to teach all languages and tongues. This ability makes him a valuable ally for anyone seeking to improve communication skills, learn new languages, or understand different forms of expression. His linguistic expertise extends beyond simple language acquisition; he can help the practitioner navigate the complexities of interpersonal communication, diplomacy, and persuasion.
Another significant ability attributed to Agares is his control over the earth. He can cause earthquakes and other shifts in the ground, symbolising his ability to instigate profound changes in a person’s life or environment. This ability makes him a potent force in spells that aim to shake things up, break stagnation, or bring about transformation.
Additionally, Agares can destroy spiritual and temporal dignities, meaning that he can help dismantle power structures or hierarchies that no longer serve the practitioner. This power can be useful for those seeking to overthrow oppressive authorities or liberate themselves from restrictive situations.
Summoning Agares: Ritual and Offerings
Summoning Agares requires careful preparation, as with any Goetic spirit. His sigil, which can be found in most versions of the Lesser Key of Solomon, serves as the focal point of the summoning ritual. Practitioners typically chant his enn—”Rean ganen ayar da Agares”—to draw his presence into the ritual space and align themselves with his energies.
Practitioners should be clear in their intentions when calling upon Agares, especially if they seek his help in returning lost people or opportunities. Because of his expertise in teaching languages, it is also advisable to summon him in contexts where communication is crucial, such as negotiations, learning endeavours, or situations requiring persuasion.
Offerings to Agares can be drawn from his symbolic associations. As a bird of prey, the goshawk suggests offerings related to flight and precision, such as feathers, small animal bones, or even symbolic representations of birds. The crocodile’s connection to the earth and water elements can also guide offerings—candles representing the earth’s colours (greens and browns) or water-related items (such as seashells or salt) could be appropriate. Additionally, offerings related to learning, such as books, parchment, or writing instruments, are well-suited given Agares’ linguistic expertise.
Planetary and Elemental Associations
Agares is associated with the planet Venus, which governs matters of love, beauty, and relationships. However, in Agares’ case, this Venusian energy is more about harmonising communication and restoring balance to fractured relationships rather than romance. His connection to Venus also enhances his ability to teach languages, as Venus is a planet that encourages connection, understanding, and cooperation.
Elementally, Agares is linked to Fire, which reflects his control over transformative forces and his ability to inspire action and passion. Fire embodies qualities such as transformation, energy, and creativity—attributes that Agares can impart to those who summon him. His connection to this element enhances his role in facilitating communication and bringing about change, making him a powerful ally for those seeking to manifest their ideas into reality.
Practical Applications in Magic
Agares’ broad and versatile powers make him useful in a wide array of magical workings. His ability to return fugitives and restore what has been lost is particularly valuable in spells for reconciliation, both with people and with circumstances. For example, if a person has drifted out of a friendship or relationship, Agares can be invoked to help bridge the gap and encourage their return. Similarly, in situations where opportunities seem lost, Agares can help revitalise stagnant energies and guide the practitioner toward recovering what was lost.
His mastery of languages makes him an ideal spirit for students, travellers, and those working in fields requiring clear communication, such as diplomats, writers, and business negotiators. Agares can aid in mastering new languages, improving public speaking skills, or resolving misunderstandings through better communication.
For those dealing with oppressive power structures, Agares’ ability to destroy dignity can be invoked to dismantle hierarchies or challenge authority figures. This can be particularly helpful in workplaces or social settings where unfair power dynamics are at play.
Warnings and Precautions
While Agares is generally considered a benevolent and wise spirit, his power over the earth and his ability to cause earthquakes should not be underestimated. When summoning him, it is important to remain grounded and focused, as his energy can be overwhelming if approached carelessly. Practitioners should also avoid summoning Agares frivolously or without clear intent, as he prefers to work with those who have genuine needs and goals.
As with all Goetic demons, respect and proper preparation are key to a successful summoning. Offering a gift and maintaining clear and respectful communication with Agares will ensure a harmonious and beneficial relationship.
Conclusion
Agares, the second spirit of the Ars Goetia, is a powerful and multifaceted demon with a wide range of abilities. From teaching languages and improving communication to returning lost individuals or opportunities, Agares can be a valuable ally for practitioners seeking movement, change, and understanding. His deep connection to the earth and his wisdom in matters of action make him a potent force for personal transformation and success, provided that he is approached with respect and clear intent.
Sigil and Illustration of Agares
