Mermo

Mermo: In the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage, Mermo is named as one of several demons who serve the infernal princes of the cardinal directions. Mathers suggests that the name is connected with the ocean and may mean “across the water.” However, the name of this demon may also be a variation of Marmo, a title associated with the Greek goddess Hecate, later taken up as a patron of witches. The name Mormo was made famous by Hippolytus in a passage from his third century CE work, Philosphumena. Here Hecate is addressed as “Gorgo, Mormo, thousand-faced Moon.” There is some debate as to the origin and meaning of the name Mormo, although the most common explanation is that it is tied to a Greek ogress who was a devourer of children. No solid evidence supports this assertion, however, and the name remains a mysterious title accorded to Hecate in her ancient rites.

SEE ALSO:

• List of Demons
• Demonology

SOURCE:

The Dictionary of Demons written by Michelle Belanger.

NOTE:

Edited and revised for the Web by Occult Media, the 23rd of April 2021. We use British English spelling.