MARCHOSIAS (35)
Marchosias: The Fearsome Warrior of the 72 Spirits of Solomon
Marchosias, the 35th spirit of the Ars Goetia, is a powerful and fearsome Fallen Angel who commands respect and awe in equal measure. Once a member of the angelic order of Dominions, he now holds the rank of marquis in Hell, governing 30 legions of demons. His tale is one of martial prowess, unwavering loyalty, and a lingering hope for redemption, making him a unique figure in the infernal hierarchy.
Appearance and Form
When summoned, Marchosias takes the form of a monstrous and imposing figure: a cruel wolf with griffin wings and a serpent’s tail. Flames pour from his mouth, symbolizing his destructive nature and raw power. This form conveys his ferocity and unrelenting spirit, marking him as a force to be reckoned with in any conflict.
However, Marchosias is not bound to this fearsome guise. When commanded by a magician, he can take the shape of a noble and striking human, radiating confidence and martial authority. His transformation reflects his adaptability and willingness to serve those who approach him with proper respect and skill.
Powers and Abilities
Marchosias is best known for his exceptional strength and combat abilities, making him one of the most formidable warrior spirits in the Ars Goetia. As a protector and champion, he can be called upon to aid in battles—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—and to help the summoner overcome challenges with unyielding determination. His fiery breath adds an element of elemental force to his arsenal, symbolizing his ability to destroy obstacles and enemies alike.
In addition to his martial prowess, Marchosias is a source of wisdom and truth. He is known to provide honest answers to all questions posed to him, making him a reliable ally for those in need of clarity or guidance. His loyalty to those who summon him properly further underscores his value as a dependable spirit.
Angelic Past and Hope for Redemption
Marchosias’ origins as a member of the angelic order of Dominions add a layer of depth to his character. The Dominions, associated with justice and divine authority, reflect his former celestial role as a servant of higher purposes. Despite his fall, Marchosias retains a spark of his angelic nature, and he harbors a unique hope: he believes that after 1,200 years of service in Hell, he may return to the Seventh Throne in Heaven.
This aspiration for redemption sets Marchosias apart from many other spirits in the Ars Goetia. It suggests a complex inner conflict—a balance between his infernal duties and his longing to reclaim his divine grace. This duality makes him an intriguing figure for those who seek to explore themes of loss, redemption, and transformation.
Role in Summoning and Rituals
Marchosias is a loyal and steadfast spirit who faithfully serves those who summon him with proper rituals and intentions. His honesty and strength make him an excellent ally for magicians seeking guidance, protection, or assistance in overcoming significant obstacles. Whether called upon for wisdom or for his formidable combat abilities, Marchosias delivers with unwavering dedication.
As a fighter, he is particularly effective for those in need of a spiritual champion, capable of confronting adversaries and shielding the summoner from harm. His fiery energy and martial skill embody the essence of a warrior spirit, making him a valuable asset in both practical and metaphysical endeavors.
A Spirit of Strength and Loyalty
Marchosias embodies the qualities of a noble warrior: fierce in battle, loyal to his allies, and driven by an unyielding sense of purpose. While his infernal nature grants him immense power, his lingering hope for redemption adds a layer of vulnerability and complexity. He serves as a reminder that even in the depths of Hell, the desire for transformation and reconciliation with one’s higher self can persist.
Magicians who summon Marchosias are advised to do so with respect, clarity, and resolve. His powers are immense, and his loyalty, once earned, is unshakable. For those who seek protection, guidance, or the strength to face life’s challenges, Marchosias is a steadfast and fearsome ally.
From “The Goetia: The Lesser Key of Solomon the King” (1904) Written by S.L. MacGregor Mathers
MARCHOSIAS. – The Thirty-fifth Spirit is Marchosias. He is a Great and Mighty Marquis, appearing at first in the Form of a Wolf having Gryphon’s Wings, and a Serpent’s Tail, and Vomiting Fire out of his mouth. But after a time, at the command of the Exorcist he putteth on the Shape of a Man. And he is a strong fighter. He was of the Order of Dominations. He governeth 30 Legions of Spirits. He told his Chief, who was Solomon, that after 1,200 years he had hopes to return unto the Seventh Throne. And his Seal is this, to be made and worn as a Lamen, etc.In one Codex of the seventeenth century, very badly written, it might be read “Ox” instead of “Wolf.” – TRANS. [For me he appeared always like an ox, and very dazed.-ED.]
From the “Pseudomonarchia Daemonum” ( 1583 )written by Johann Weyer (Johann Wier)
Marchosias [Marchocias] is a great marquesse, he sheweth himselfe in the shape of a cruell shee woolfe, with a griphens wings, with a serpents taile, and spetting I cannot tell what out of his mouth. When he is in a mans shape, he is an excellent fighter, he answereth all questions trulie, he is faithfull in all the conjurors businesse [commands], he was of the order of dominations, under him are thirtie legions: he hopeth after 1200. yeares to returne to the seventh throne, but he is deceived in that hope.
Original Text: Marchocias magnus Marchio est. Se ostentat specie lupæ ferocissimæ cum alis gryphi, cauda serpentina, and ex ore nescio quid evomens. Quum hominis imaginem induit, pugnator est optimus. Ad quæsita vere respondet: fidelis in cunctis exorcistæ mandatis. Fuit ordinis Dominationum. Huic subjacent legiones triginta. Sperat se post mille ducentos annos ad septimum Thronum reversurum: sed ea spe falsus est.
From the “Dictionnaire Infernal” (edition of 1863 ) Written by Jacques Auguste Simon Collin de Plancy
Original Text :
Marchocias, grand marquis des enfers. Il se montre sous la figure d’une louve féroce avec des ailes de griffon et une queue de serpent; sous ce gracieux aspect le marquis vomit des flammes.Lorsqu’il prend la figure humaine, on croit voir un grand soldat.; Il obéit aux -exorcistes’, est de l’ordre des Dominations et commande trente légions.
FromThe Dictionary of Demons written by Michelle Belanger.
Marchosias: The thirty-fifth demon of the Goetia, Marchosias is id to appear as a cruel she-wolf with the wings of a gryphon. One of the traditional seventy-two Goetic demons, Marchosias is attributed with the rank of marquis in Scot’s Discoverie of Witchcraft. Here, he is said to rule over thirty legions of lesser spirits. He can take a man’s form, and when he does so, he is a powerful fighter. He answers truthfully all questions put to him and he will faithfully carry out any business requested. Marchosias is one of several Goetic demons said to entertain hopes of returning to the seventh throne of Heaven. Wierus’s Pseudomonarchia Daemonum spells his name Marchocias . According to the Goetia of Dr. Rudd, he is constrained by the angel Chavakiah. .
