Rank: Duke
Ruling Angel: Iehahel

Associated Symbols: Lions, donkeys, geese, hares

Associated Colours: Green, pink

Suggested Offerings: Copper, sandalwood, dandelion

Warnings: Might tempt you to steal

Enn of Valefor: Keyman Vefa Tasa Valefor

Valefor, also known as Valefar, Malaphar, or Malephar, is the sixth spirit listed in the Ars Goetia of the Lesser Key of Solomon. A Duke of Hell, Valefor commands 10 legions of demons. He is a spirit associated with thievery, deception, and loyalty among thieves. Although he is considered a demon who tempts people to steal, Valefor is also known for his strong sense of camaraderie and loyalty to those who work with him, which has earned him a reputation as a "patron" of thieves.

Historical Origins and Mythological Background

Valefor's name has been linked to the Latin word valere, meaning "to be strong" or "to be worthy," which reflects his association with strength and loyalty, especially among those who engage in criminal activities. His role as a tempter of thieves places him in the broader context of spirits associated with deception and criminality, yet his loyalty distinguishes him from other trickster figures in demonology.

Historically, Valefor appears in several medieval grimoires, including Pseudomonarchia Daemonum by Johann Weyer and Dictionnaire Infernal by Jacques Collin de Plancy, where his powers and characteristics are consistent with his portrayal in the Lesser Key of Solomon. He is described as a Duke of Hell who entices people into thievery but remains loyal to those who work with him. This sense of loyalty makes him somewhat of an enigmatic figure, as he embodies both deception and trustworthiness.

Appearance and Iconography

Valefor is often depicted as a lion with the head of a man or sometimes as a lion-headed entity that speaks with human intelligence. The lion symbolism represents strength, power, and leadership, while the human head indicates wisdom and intelligence, suggesting that Valefor is not only a brute force but also a cunning strategist. This blend of animal and human characteristics reflects his dual nature as both a master of deception and a loyal ally.

The lion's association with kingship and power contrasts with Valefor's role in tempting people to steal, highlighting his complex nature. Lions are typically associated with noble qualities, but Valefor's lion-headed form suggests that strength and leadership can exist even in dishonourable actions such as thievery. His image as a lion also reinforces his status as a Duke of Hell, a rank that denotes authority and command over his legions.

Powers and Abilities

Valefor's primary power lies in his ability to tempt individuals into acts of theft and deception. He is often called upon by those who wish to engage in illicit activities, particularly when subtlety and cunning are required. His influence can aid in avoiding detection or outsmarting adversaries, making him a valuable ally for thieves or those engaged in activities requiring stealth.

Despite his connection to criminal acts, Valefor is also known for his loyalty to those who summon him. He forms strong bonds with his summoners, protecting them from betrayal or harm, even as they engage in morally dubious activities. This sense of loyalty is rare among Goetic demons, many of whom are known for trickery and manipulation. Valefor's protective nature toward his allies makes him an appealing figure for those who value trust and camaraderie, especially in dangerous or high-stakes situations.

Valefor is also skilled in deception and illusion. He can help practitioners disguise their intentions or create false appearances to mislead others. This makes him useful in theft and any situation requiring deception, such as negotiations, espionage, or hiding one's true motives.

Summoning Valefor: Ritual and Offerings

Summoning Valefor involves invoking his sigil, which can be found in Solomon's Lesser Key. His enn—"Keyman vefa tasa Valefor"—is chanted to align with his energy and draw him into the ritual space. Given his association with thievery and deception, summoning Valefor requires clear intent and a strong moral compass, as his influence can easily lead to temptation and moral ambiguity.

Offerings to Valefor should reflect his nature as a spirit of strength and deception. Items related to theft, such as symbolic keys, locks, or tools thieves use, can be appropriate offerings. Additionally, offerings that symbolize loyalty, such as chains, rings, or tokens of trust, may appeal to him due to his strong sense of camaraderie.

Candles in colours associated with stealth and secrecy, such as black or dark blue, are often used in rituals dedicated to Valefor. Incense such as myrrh, patchouli, or sandalwood can help create an atmosphere of intrigue and deception, aligning with Valefor's powers of stealth and illusion.

Planetary and Elemental Associations

Valefor is often associated with the planet Mercury, the celestial body linked to communication, travel, and trickery. Mercury's influence enhances Valefor's abilities in deception, making him an ideal spirit for tasks involving cunning, negotiation, and subtlety. Mercury is also the planet of thieves in traditional astrology, which further strengthens Valefor's association with criminal acts and his ability to guide practitioners through complex or morally ambiguous situations.

Elementally, Valefor is connected with Air, the element of intellect, communication, and strategy. Air's association with mental agility and quick thinking aligns perfectly with Valefor's role as a spirit of cunning and deception. Practitioners can incorporate Air symbolism into their rituals by using feathers, incense smoke, or items that represent communication and movement.

Practical Applications in Magic

Valefor's powers are especially useful for practitioners engaged in stealth, deception, or activities requiring secrecy. Whether it's avoiding detection, outsmarting an adversary, or concealing one's true intentions, Valefor can provide the cunning and strategic insight needed to succeed. His influence can be applied in situations ranging from personal disputes to business dealings, especially when diplomacy or deception is required.

For those involved in illegal or morally grey activities, Valefor's guidance can help minimize the risk of being caught or betrayed. He can offer protection from those seeking to expose or harm the practitioner, ensuring that loyalty is maintained among accomplices. This protective quality makes him an ideal spirit for individuals in dangerous or high-stakes environments, where trust and secrecy are essential.

Valefor is also useful for those seeking to master the art of illusion or disguise. He can teach practitioners how to manipulate appearances, deceive others, and create false impressions, whether in magical workings or in everyday interactions. His guidance in this area can be applied to glamour magic, shapeshifting rituals, or any spellwork involving deception and misdirection.

Warnings and Precautions

While Valefor's loyalty is one of his most appealing traits, practitioners should be cautious when working with him. His strong association with theft and deception means that his influence can easily lead to moral ambiguity or temptation. It's important to approach Valefor with clear intentions and a strong ethical foundation, as his power can be both seductive and dangerous if misused.

Additionally, practitioners should be mindful of their relationships with others when working with Valefor. His power to strengthen bonds of loyalty can create dependencies or alliances that may not always be in the practitioner's best interest. While he can protect against betrayal, Valefor's influence may also entangle the practitioner in webs of deception that are difficult to escape from.

Conclusion

Valefor, the sixth spirit of the Ars Goetia, is a complex and multifaceted demon known for his powers of theft, deception, and loyalty. As a Duke of Hell, he commands a significant following and offers protection and guidance to those who summon him. His ability to tempt individuals into acts of theft is balanced by his strong sense of loyalty, making him both a dangerous and trustworthy ally, depending on the circumstances. For those seeking to engage in secretive or morally ambiguous activities, Valefor offers cunning, protection, and strategic insight. However, his influence should be cautiously approached, as his powers of deception can easily lead to unforeseen consequences if not carefully managed.

By working with Valefor with respect and clear intent, practitioners can benefit from his unique abilities while avoiding the moral pitfalls associated with his domain. Whether for personal protection, strategic advantage, or the pursuit of hidden knowledge, Valefor remains a powerful ally for those who seek his aid.

Attributes

6. Valefor