Barbatos is a mythical creature that has been mentioned in various sources of literature and mythology. It is believed to be one of the 72 demons listed in The Lesser Key of Solomon, a grimoire that contains instructions on how to summon and control these demons. According to the tradition, Barbatos holds the rank of Duke and can appear when the sun is in the sign of Sagittarius.
In some sources, Barbatos is depicted as a bearded stag that can speak to animals and humans. He is said to have the ability to predict the future, conciliate friends and rulers, and lead people to treasure hidden by magicians. Barbatos is also known for his power to mend broken relationships and create new ones. His ability to influence men and women in positions of power makes him a valuable ally for those seeking success in their careers or personal lives.
Origins of Barbatos
Etymology
The origins of the name Barbatos are uncertain. However, some scholars have suggested that it may be derived from the Latin word “barbatus,” which means bearded. This interpretation is supported by the fact that Barbatos is often depicted as having a beard in various artworks and texts.
Cultural Context
Barbatos is a mythical creature that appears in various cultures and mythologies. In Christian and Occult demonologies, Barbatos is considered one of the 72 demons of the Ars Goetia. He is described as a great duke of Hell who commands thirty-six legions of demons.
In popular culture, Barbatos has appeared in various forms such as in the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, where the lead mobile suit is known as “ASW-G-08 Gundam Barbatos”.
Overall, the origins of Barbatos are shrouded in mystery, but his presence in various cultures and mythologies has cemented his place in the realm of mythical creatures.
Descriptions in Mythology
Physical Appearance
Barbatos is a demon described in various grimoires as having the appearance of a horned goat or a man with the head of a goat. He is often depicted wearing a long, tattered cloak that obscures his features and carrying a staff. According to some sources, he may also appear with four noble kings and their companions in great troops.
Powers and Abilities
Barbatos is said to possess several powers and abilities, including the ability to speak to animals and to tell the future. He is also known for his ability to conciliate friends and rulers, as well as lead men to treasure hidden by the enchantment of magicians. Like some of his fellow demons, he can also mend broken relationships and create new ones. In particular, he has the power to create friendships between any two people and can influence men and women in positions of power.
According to some accounts, Barbatos is a fallen angel and the eighth of the 72 Spirits of Solomon. He is a great count, earl, and duke of Hell, where he rules 30 Legions of Demons. When the Sun is in Sagittarius, he appears with four kings and three companies of troops. Barbatos is also known to hold the keys to Hell’s gates and to have dominion over birds that consume the recently dead.
Barbatos in Demonology
Ars Goetia
Barbatos is a demon of the eighth rank in the Ars Goetia, a grimoire that contains descriptions of seventy-two demons. He is also known as an earl and duke of Hell, ruling thirty legions of demons. According to the grimoire, he can appear when the sun is in the sign of Sagittarius, and when summoned, he appears “with four noble kings and their companions in great troops.”
Rank and Order
Barbatos is a member of the Angelic Order of Virtues and was once an angel before he fell from grace. He is now a great count, earl, and duke of Hell, where he rules 30 Legions of Demons. He is known to be a powerful demon, and according to demonology, he can give the understanding of the voices of the animals, say past and future, conciliate friends and rulers, and he can lead men to hidden treasures.
In the demonology tradition, Barbatos is a significant figure among his demonic brethren. He is often invoked in rituals and spells, and his name is believed to hold great power. Despite his demonic nature, he is a compelling figure in the world of demonology, and his legend continues to fascinate those who study the occult.
Historical References
Occult Texts
Barbatos is a demon that is often mentioned in various occult texts, including The Lesser Key of Solomon and Pseudomonarchia Daemonum. According to these texts, Barbatos is the 8th spirit among the list of 72 demons in The Lesser Key of Solomon, and holds the rank of Duke. He is said to be able to speak to animals, tell the future, conciliate friends and rulers, and lead men to treasure hidden by the enchantment of magicians.
Literary Works
Barbatos has also appeared in various literary works throughout history. In John Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost, Barbatos is described as one of the fallen angels who sided with Satan in his rebellion against God. In the novel The Magus by John Fowles, Barbatos is mentioned as one of the spirits summoned by the protagonist to help him in his quest for knowledge.
Overall, Barbatos has been a popular figure in both occult and literary circles throughout history. His abilities to speak to animals, predict the future, and locate hidden treasures have made him a fascinating and mysterious creature, inspiring countless stories and legends.
Cultural Impact
Modern Depictions
Barbatos has been a popular figure in modern media, appearing in various forms of entertainment such as video games and anime. In the 2020 game Genshin Impact, Barbatos is one of the names of the Anemo (wind) Archon and god of the nation Mondstadt who currently resides in his vessel as Venti, a bard. In the Japanese Otome game Obey Me, Barbatos is depicted as a butler to the demon prince, and is one of the choices the player can choose to romance.
Symbolism
Barbatos is a powerful and revered demon, and his unholy symbol is a tri-cornered wave of darkness or shadows surrounding three eyes. He is known to facilitate the perception of signs and synchronicity in the world around us. By calling upon this demon, one can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of these signs and how they relate to our lives. In addition, Barbatos is said to hold the keys to Hell’s gates and holds dominion over birds that consume the recently dead.
Overall, Barbatos has had a significant impact on modern media and continues to be a popular figure in the realm of mythology and folklore.
Rituals and Summoning
Barbatos is a demon that can be summoned through specific rituals and invocations. It is important to note that summoning demons is not recommended and should be approached with caution. Here are some rituals and methods that have been used to summon Barbatos:
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Creating a magic circle and triangle: This involves creating a magic circle on the ground with salt, which acts as protection. A triangle is then created with the salt outside the circle, which is where the demon is said to stay during the ritual.
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Using a sigil: A sigil is a symbol that is believed to have magical powers. The sigil of Barbatos can be used in combination with precise rituals and invocations to connect with the demon.
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Offering sacrifices: Some rituals involve offering sacrifices to Barbatos, such as blood or other offerings.
It is important to note that summoning demons can be dangerous and should not be taken lightly. It is recommended to seek the guidance of an experienced practitioner if attempting to summon Barbatos or any other demon.
Comparative Mythology
Barbatos is a mythical creature that has been mentioned in various cultures and mythologies around the world. Comparative mythology is the study of myths from different cultures in an attempt to identify shared themes and characteristics. This approach has been used to analyze the similarities and differences between the Barbatos myth in different cultures.
One interesting aspect of Barbatos is his association with demons and the underworld. In many cultures, he is considered to be a powerful demon who can communicate with animals, predict the future, and lead people to treasure. This association with the underworld and demonic powers is a common theme in many mythologies.
Another interesting aspect of Barbatos is his appearance. In some cultures, he is depicted as a half-human, half-beast creature with wings and horns. This depiction is similar to other mythological creatures such as the centaur and the minotaur, which are also half-human, half-beast creatures.
Overall, the comparative study of Barbatos mythology reveals many interesting similarities and differences between different cultures and mythologies. By studying these similarities and differences, scholars can gain a better understanding of the cultural and historical context in which these myths were created.