Phenex (also spelled Phoenix or Phenix) is the 37th spirit in the Ars Goetia, a grimoire from the 17th-century Lesser Key of Solomon. He is depicted as a phoenix-like bird with the voice of a child, who speaks with a hoarse, raspy tone. Phenex is a Great Marquis of Hell, commanding 20 legions of demons. He is known for his knowledge of arts and sciences (especially poetry, rhetoric, and music), and he teaches these skills to his summoner. He is also said to be obedient to the conjurer and can be persuaded to take a human form. Historically, Phenex is linked to the mythical phoenix, symbolizing rebirth and immortality.
Summoning rituals for Phenex, like those for other Goetic spirits, are rooted in Western occult traditions. These are symbolic, meditative, or ceremonial practices—not literal magic—and are presented here as historical/esoteric knowledge from grimoires. Approach with caution: such rituals can be psychologically intense and are not endorsed as safe or effective by modern standards. Always prioritize mental health and consent in any personal exploration.
Preparation for the Ritual
Before attempting a summoning, traditional texts emphasize preparation to “command” the spirit respectfully. From the Ars Goetia:
Purification and Fasting: Abstain from food, alcohol, and sex for 24–48 hours to “cleanse” your energy. Bathe in holy water (saltwater or blessed herbs like rosemary) and wear clean white robes.
Tools and Circle:
Magic Circle: Draw a nine-foot diameter circle on the ground using chalk or flour, divided into nine equal parts (a unicursal hexagram or pentagram inscribed). This protects the summoner. Inside, place a triangle of art (an equilateral triangle facing east).
Items Needed:
Black-handled knife or wand (for tracing sigils).
Incense: Frankincense or myrrh (Phenex responds to fiery, phoenix-like scents).
Candles: Red or gold (four, one at each cardinal direction).
Offerings: Honey, wine, or feathers (symbolizing rebirth).
Sigil of Phenex: A unique seal (described below; draw it on virgin parchment with red ink).
Location: A quiet, isolated space at night, ideally during a waxing moon (for growth and knowledge).
Mental State: Meditate on your intent—e.g., seeking poetic inspiration. Invoke protective archangels (Michael, Raphael, etc.) for safety.
The Sigil of Phenex
The sigil is key for invocation. It’s a complex glyph resembling a crowned bird or flame motif. Here’s a textual approximation (visualize or draw it clockwise):
/\
/ \
/____\
| |
| () | <- Crowned head
\__/
||
/\
/ \
For accuracy, reference the Ars Goetia illustrations: It features interlocking curves, a central loop, and angular lines evoking wings and fire.
The Summoning Ritual
Perform at midnight, facing east. Time: Approximately 30–60 minutes. Recite with authority, but visualize compassion to encourage obedience.
Enter the Circle: Stand in the center, knife in hand. Trace the circle counterclockwise while saying:
“I conjure thee, O Circle of Art, by the power of the Most High, to be a fortress against all evil spirits. Amen.”
Light Candles and Incense: Ignite them, invoking elements:
“By fire and air, I call the winds of knowledge.”
Invoke Protective Forces: Recite the Preliminary Invocation from the Lesser Key (abridged):
“O Thou, the Great and Mighty God, who art the Lord of Heaven and Earth… I invoke Thee to send Phenex, the Marquis, to appear before me in this triangle, visible and affable.”
Call Phenex: Hold his sigil aloft. Chant the conjuration three times, increasing volume:
“Phenex, Phenex, Phenex! I conjure thee by the power of the Names: Adonai, El, Elohim, Elohe, Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh, Tetragrammaton, Shaddai, and by the Holy Seal of Solomon. Appear thou, Phenex, in fair shape, without deformity or horror. Come peaceably, visibly, and affably, now and without delay, manifesting that which I desire. I charge thee by the virtue of these Names, and by the power of the Supreme Majesty, to obey my commands. Come, Phenex!”
(If no response, repeat with threats of divine punishment, e.g., “By the chains of Uriel, I bind thee if thou dost not appear.”)
Communion: If the spirit “appears” (via vision, voice, or sensation), state your request clearly:
“Phenex, teach me the arts of [poetry/music/etc.], and grant me thy wisdom without harm.”
Offer the prepared items. Listen or journal responses.
Dismissal: Thank and banish:
“Depart, Phenex, in peace, to thy abodes and habitations. By the power of the Names, I license thee to depart. Amen.”
Extinguish candles counterclockwise. Erase the circle at dawn.
Risks and Modern Perspectives
Traditional Warnings: The Goetia cautions that improper summoning can cause madness, illness, or spirit backlash. Phenex is “fiery” and may test the summoner’s will.
Contemporary View: Occultists today (e.g., via Chaos Magick) adapt this as meditation or hypnosis, not literal demon-calling. Psychologists see it as shadow work for creativity. If it causes distress, stop and seek professional help.