Introduction
Marax, also known as Morax or Foraii in various manuscripts, is the twenty-first spirit of the Ars Goetia, the first book of The Lesser Key of Solomon. In this 17th-century grimoire, he is described as a Great Earl and President of Hell commanding thirty legions of spirits.
He appears as a mighty bull with the face of a man, or sometimes as a full bull of immense size and presence. His dominion lies in the transmission of knowledge — particularly in astronomy, the liberal arts, and the properties of herbs and stones. Within the Goetic hierarchy, Marax is both a teacher and guardian of hidden wisdom, embodying the union of strength and intellect.
Attributes and Symbolism
Marax is revered as a patron of scholars, alchemists, and those who seek mastery of the natural world. His dual nature — beast and man — symbolizes the harmony between instinct and intelligence. The bull reflects strength and endurance, while the human face represents reason and learning.
Powers Attributed to Marax
- Reveals truths concerning astronomy, natural philosophy, and science.
- Teaches the virtues of herbs, stones, and metals.
- Bestows familiars that aid in intellectual pursuits.
- Inspires insight into the hidden mechanisms of nature.
His temperament is considered stable but stern; he grants wisdom to those who seek sincerely, yet confounds the arrogant and unworthy.
Tools and Preparations
Traditional Goetic practice prescribes purity and discipline before any evocation. The summoner must approach with clear intent, moral composure, and precise ritual tools.
Required Instruments
| Item | Function | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Protective Circle | Defines the operator’s domain | Draw with chalk, flour, or salt; 9 feet in diameter; inscribe divine names such as Adonai and Elohim. |
| Triangle of Art | Space for the spirit’s manifestation | Placed outside the circle, facing east; contains Marax’s sigil. |
| Seal of Marax | Focal point for contact | Drawn on virgin parchment in red ink or symbolic blood. |
| Incense | Medium for manifestation | Frankincense, myrrh, or storax. |
| Scrying Tool | Visionary focus | Black mirror, obsidian disk, or clear crystal. |
| Offerings | Symbolic tribute | Herbs such as sage, mandrake, or stones associated with learning. |
| Robes and Tools | Personal and spiritual purity | White linen robe, wand or consecrated dagger. |
Preparation of Space
Select a quiet, enclosed area free from interruption. The ritual is traditionally performed on a Tuesday during a waxing moon, aligning with Mars for vigor and intellect.
Fast for twenty-four hours beforehand, purifying both body and mind. Bathe in salt water and meditate on the purpose of the evocation. Memorize all incantations to maintain focus and authority.
The Evocation of Marax
1. Casting the Circle
Draw a double circle upon the floor, inscribed with divine and angelic names. Stand within it facing east.
Light the incense and recite:
“I conjure thee, O Circle of Art, by the power of the Most High, to be a fortress and defense against all spirits of darkness.”
2. Invocation of Authority
Call upon divine powers to establish command:
“O Lord of Hosts, who hast created all things visible and invisible, grant me strength and wisdom to govern this spirit as thou hast decreed.”
3. The Conjuration of Marax
Hold the Seal of Marax aloft and proclaim:
“I do invocate and conjure thee, O Spirit Marax, by Beralanensis, Baldachiensis, Paumachia, and Apologiae Sedes; by the Princes of the Tartarean Abode and the Chief of the Ninth Legion. Appear now before this circle in fair and comely shape, without deformity or terror. Come thou peaceably, visibly, and affably, by the living and true names Adonai, Elohim, Ariel, and Uriel. Come thou now, Marax, and manifest the wisdom I seek.”
Repeat this three times, intensifying the tone with each repetition. Visualize the air darkening, a bull’s silhouette forming from the smoke, and the spirit emerging in radiant stillness.
4. Manifestation and Communication
Gaze steadily into the black mirror or crystal. Should Marax manifest audibly, visually, or through inner impression, state your request clearly:
“Marax, by the authority granted unto me through the divine names, teach me the hidden knowledge of [specific subject].”
Ask precise questions and await impressions, words, or visions. Keep the tone firm but respectful.
5. Binding and Dismissal
Once the task is set, thank the spirit:
“Marax, thou hast answered faithfully; therefore, I release thee to thy appointed place. Depart in peace and return when summoned.”
Recite the License to Depart:
“Marax, because thou hast been willing to come at my call, I license thee to depart unto thy proper dwelling, harming none in thy flight. Depart now in peace, by the power of Adonai and the light of the firmament.”
Erase the circle counterclockwise and extinguish the incense.
Signs and Outcomes
- Successful Manifestation: Flickering candlelight, sudden calm or warmth, whispers, or visions of stars and horns.
- Unstable Energy: Unease, confusion, or oppressive silence — repeat divine names to reassert control.
- Insight Received: Sudden understanding of natural or scientific principles, lucid dreams, or intellectual breakthroughs.
Interpretation and Legacy
Marax stands as one of the most respected intellectual spirits of the Goetia. His domain over astronomy and natural philosophy aligns him with early alchemists and scholars who sought divine order through reason. Symbolically, he represents the disciplined mind — strength under intellect, desire tempered by logic.
In modern esoteric thought, Marax is often viewed as the archetype of the philosopher or scientist, a patron of structured inquiry and inner illumination. His bull-headed form reminds practitioners that knowledge demands endurance, patience, and humility.
Conclusion
Marax, the 21st spirit of the Ars Goetia, embodies the pursuit of wisdom through disciplined power. His presence bridges instinct and intellect, nature and spirit. For the student of esoteric tradition, he remains a symbol of enlightenment earned through study and reverence — the eternal bull of hidden knowledge guiding seekers toward mastery of the cosmos.