Rank: Earl
Ruling Angel: Ariel
Associated Symbols: –
Associated Colours: Green, black, red
Suggested Offerings: Rocks, herbs, bones, green candles
Warnings: –
Enn
Avage Secore Bifrons Remie Tasa
Bifrons is the forty-sixth spirit listed in the Ars Goetia of the Lesser Key of Solomon. A powerful Earl of Hell, Bifrons commands 60 legions of demons. He is known for his mastery of necromancy, his knowledge of astrology, geometry, and other sciences, as well as his ability to move bodies from graves. Bifrons can also alter the appearance of the dead and guide practitioners in gaining knowledge of the celestial bodies and their influences. He is often invoked by those seeking to communicate with spirits, understand the mysteries of the stars, or uncover hidden knowledge related to the dead.
Historical Origins and Mythological Background
The name Bifrons is believed to derive from Janus Bifrons, the Roman god of transitions and dualities, who is depicted with two faces. This connection suggests Bifrons’ ability to navigate between life and death, past and future, and the earthly and celestial realms. In medieval demonological texts, such as Pseudomonarchia Daemonum and Dictionnaire Infernal, Bifrons is described as a spirit who can move the dead, alter their appearance, and instruct in the sciences, particularly astrology, necromancy, and geometry. His knowledge of the physical world and the celestial heavens positions him as a powerful spirit of wisdom and death.
As an Earl of Hell, Bifrons holds a high rank within the infernal hierarchy, with power over both life and death. His expertise in necromancy makes him a potent spirit for those seeking to commune with the dead, while his knowledge of astrology and the sciences makes him valuable for practitioners looking to expand their understanding of the natural and cosmic laws. Bifrons is often invoked by those who wish to learn about the stars, work with the dead, or explore hidden esoteric knowledge.
Appearance and Iconography
Bifrons is traditionally depicted as a monstrous figure, though he is said to take on a more human form when summoned by the practitioner. His monstrous appearance represents his connection to death and the underworld, reflecting the unsettling nature of his power over the dead. Bifrons is often associated with cemeteries, tombs, and other places of death, symbolising his dominion over the physical remains of the deceased.
In some depictions, Bifrons is accompanied by a skull or bones, emphasising his role in necromancy and his ability to manipulate the physical remains of the dead. His connection to the sciences is also reflected in his associations with astrology, geometry, and other esoteric knowledge, which he can impart to those seeking his wisdom.
Bifrons’ association with both death and the stars highlights his dual nature as he bridges the gap between the earthly and the celestial realms. His knowledge of the dead, combined with his understanding of the heavens, makes him a powerful guide for those seeking to explore the mysteries of life, death, and the cosmos.
Powers and Abilities
Bifrons’ primary power is his mastery of necromancy, the magical practice of communicating with and manipulating the dead. He can help practitioners commune with the spirits of the deceased, uncover hidden knowledge from the past, or gain insight into the afterlife. Bifrons’ influence is particularly valuable for those seeking to work with ancestral spirits, uncover hidden knowledge from the dead, or gain guidance from spirits who have passed on. His abilities in necromancy also allow him to move bodies from graves or tombs, giving him control over both the physical remains of the dead and their spirits.
In addition to his necromantic abilities, Bifrons is skilled in altering the appearance of the dead. He can change the way corpses appear, which may be useful for practitioners involved in ritual work related to the dead, particularly when seeking to disguise or protect the remains of the deceased. His ability to alter appearances extends to the spirits themselves, allowing him to manipulate how they present themselves to the living.
Bifrons is also a master of astrology and the sciences, particularly geometry. He can guide practitioners in understanding the influence of celestial bodies, helping them interpret astrological signs, planetary movements, and other cosmic phenomena. His knowledge of geometry and the natural sciences makes him a valuable ally for those seeking to understand the hidden laws that govern the physical and celestial worlds. Bifrons can teach practitioners about the structures and patterns of the universe, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape reality. He also knows about stones, trees and herbs.
Another key aspect of Bifrons’ powers is his ability to reveal hidden knowledge. Whether through necromancy or astrology, Bifrons can help practitioners uncover secrets, whether related to the dead or the stars. His influence is particularly valuable for those seeking to gain insight into the past, uncover hidden truths, or understand the mysteries of life and death.
Summoning Bifrons: Ritual and Offerings
Summoning Bifrons requires respect, focus, and a clear intention, particularly in matters related to necromancy, astrology, or the uncovering of hidden knowledge. His sigil, found in the Lesser Key of Solomon, is essential for invoking his presence, and his enn—”Avage secore Bifrons remie tasa”—is chanted to align oneself with his energy. Practitioners should have specific goals in mind when summoning Bifrons, whether they seek to communicate with the dead, gain astrological knowledge, or uncover hidden truths.
Offerings to Bifrons should reflect his connection to death, the stars, and the sciences. Items associated with necromancy, such as bones, skulls, or symbols of death, can be appropriate tributes. Practitioners may also offer astrological tools, such as charts or instruments used for stargazing, to align with his knowledge of the stars. Black or blue candles, symbolising death and cosmic wisdom can be used in rituals dedicated to Bifrons.
Incense such as sandalwood, myrrh, or frankincense, which are often associated with death, wisdom, and the spirit world, can help create an atmosphere conducive to summoning Bifrons. Since his powers revolve around death, knowledge, and the celestial realm, practitioners should be mentally prepared for the intensity of his energy and the profound insights he may reveal.
Planetary and Elemental Associations
Bifrons is often associated with the planet Mars, which governs action, desire, and assertiveness. Mars’ influence enhances Bifrons’ ability to drive change, take bold actions, and confront challenges. This connection aligns with Bifrons’ role as a spirit of transformation, enabling practitioners to harness his energy for personal empowerment and to assert their will in various situations.
Elementally, Bifrons is linked to Air, representing intellect, communication, and the exchange of ideas. Air governs the realms of thought and understanding, reflecting Bifrons’ powers of insight and the ability to navigate the complexities of existence. Practitioners may incorporate Air symbolism into their rituals by using feathers, incense smoke, or objects associated with intellect and communication. This focus allows individuals to connect with Bifrons’ energies for strategic thinking and effective communication while embracing the transformative power of action inspired by Mars.
Practical Applications in Magic
Bifrons’ powers are particularly valuable for practitioners seeking to communicate with the dead, gain astrological knowledge, or uncover hidden truths. His mastery of necromancy makes him an ideal spirit for those involved in ancestral work, spirit communication, or any magical practice that requires insight from the dead. Practitioners can call upon Bifrons to help them commune with spirits, move bodies, or gain knowledge that has been lost to time. His influence is especially useful for those working with cemeteries, tombs, or other places associated with death.
In addition to his necromantic abilities, Bifrons’ knowledge of astrology and geometry makes him a valuable ally for those seeking to understand the influence of the stars or the hidden patterns of the universe. Practitioners can call upon Bifrons to help them interpret astrological signs, understand celestial movements, or gain insight into the forces that shape reality. His influence is particularly useful for those involved in astrological magic and those seeking to understand the mathematical and geometric structures that underlie the cosmos.
Bifrons’ ability to reveal hidden knowledge also makes him a powerful spirit for those seeking to uncover secrets or gain insight into the past. Practitioners can call upon Bifrons to help them uncover hidden truths, whether related to the dead, the stars, or esoteric knowledge. His influence is especially useful for those engaged in research, investigation, or any practice that requires uncovering forgotten or concealed information.
For those seeking to alter the appearance of the dead or protect physical remains, Bifrons’ powers of transformation provide valuable support. Practitioners can call upon Bifrons to alter the appearance of corpses, protect graves, or disguise the physical remains of the deceased. His influence extends to both the physical and spiritual aspects of death, making him a versatile spirit for those working with necromancy or death magic.
Warnings and Precautions
While Bifrons is a powerful and knowledgeable spirit, practitioners should approach him with respect and clear intentions, particularly when invoking his powers of necromancy or astrology. His ability to work with the dead requires that the summoner be mentally and emotionally prepared for the potential consequences of interacting with spirits. Practitioners should carefully consider the ethical implications of calling upon Bifrons, particularly in matters related to moving bodies or altering the appearance of the dead.
Additionally, Bifrons’ connection to both death and hidden knowledge requires that practitioners use his powers ethically and with caution. Misuse of his gifts, particularly in matters of necromancy or manipulating the dead, can lead to unintended consequences or negative karmic repercussions.
Conclusion
Bifrons, the forty-sixth spirit of the Ars Goetia, is a powerful Earl of Hell known for his mastery of necromancy, astrology, and the sciences. His ability to communicate with the dead, reveal hidden knowledge, and impart wisdom related to the celestial bodies makes him a valuable ally for practitioners seeking to explore the mysteries of life, death, and the universe. Whether you are looking to commune with spirits, gain insight into the stars, or uncover secrets, Bifrons offers powerful guidance and support.
By approaching Bifrons with respect, clear intentions, and appropriate offerings, practitioners can harness his abilities to work with the dead, gain astrological knowledge, and uncover hidden truths. As a spirit of death, knowledge, and transformation, Bifrons guides those who summon him toward a greater understanding of the forces that shape both the physical and metaphysical realms.
Illustration and Sigil of Bifrons
