King of Terrors
The King of Terrors is among those spirits classified as Holy Death. He is closely related to the Grim Reaper. The King of Terrors is a skeleton bearing weapons. He may be crowned. He is a psychopomp but a fierce, scary one. His name says it all: he does not arrive bearing comfort or platitudes.
The name, King of Terrors, derives from the Book of Job 18: 14: He is torn from the security of his tent and marched before the King of Terrors. Thus the King of Terrors is traditionally depicted driving dead souls before him. His image is carved onto tombstones and as ornamental motifs on medieval churches, most famously at Scotland’s Rosslyn Chapel.
ATTRIBUTES:
Arrows; darts; scythe; spear
SEE ALSO:
Ankou; Psychopomps; Santissima Muerte
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.
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