Who Is the Demon Valefor, the Treacherous Duke of Hell?

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Written By Razvan Radu

Storyteller. Researcher of Dark Folklore. Expert in Horror Fiction

In the shadowed annals of demonology, Valefor lurks as a treacherous duke of Hell, a master of deception who preys on human weaknesses with insidious charm.

This demon Valefor, known for his cunning temptations toward theft and betrayal, embodies the perilous descent into moral ruin that awaits those who heed his whispers. What drives an honest soul to pilfer treasures in the dead of night, and how does Valefor’s false loyalty mask a path to destruction?

Valefor demon emerges from ancient grimoires as the sixth spirit in infernal hierarchies, a figure whose allure masks profound malice. His role in corrupting alliances among thieves raises chilling questions: Can a demon’s promise of swift riches ever escape the snare of inevitable downfall? As we unravel Valefor’s essence, consider the eternal query—does invoking such a entity invite empowerment or enslavement?

Delving into Valefor mythology reveals a tapestry of greed and guile, where this demon Valefor tempts with visions of hidden fortunes only to orchestrate betrayal. Why do legends portray him as both companion and condemner, and what ancient forces birthed this harbinger of theft? Valefor’s story in demonology beckons the curious, promising insights into the dark undercurrents of human desire.



Key Information

NameValefor, Valefar, Valafar, Malaphar, Malephar, Malafar
TitleDuke, Mighty Duke, Grand Duke, Prince of Theft
GenderMale
RoleTempter of theft, deceiver of loyalties, corrupter of morals through greed, manipulator of alliances among criminals
HierarchyDuke in infernal ranks, sixth spirit in Goetic listings, subordinate in broader demonic structures
Servitors10 legions of lesser demons, possibly up to 36 in variant accounts, including spirits specialized in stealth and betrayal
Superior DemonSargatanas, overseeing operations in regions like ancient Egypt’s cursed domains
PowersInduces temptation to steal, enhances cunning and dexterity for illicit acts, serves as deceptive familiar leading to ruin, reveals hidden treasures with traps, imparts strategic wisdom for corruption, manipulates desires and emotions in modern interpretations
AppearanceLion with an ass’s or donkey’s head bellowing fiercely; alternatively, lion with a thief’s or man’s head, sometimes angelic form with goose head and hare tail
EtymologyRooted in Hebrew “ואלפר” suggesting “strong parting” or “lion’s strength”; Latin “vale” (farewell) combined with “for” (thief), implying “farewell thief” or “strong thief”
Associated FiguresKing Solomon as summoner, Sargatanas as superior, allied demons like Barbatos for familiar manipulations, opposing celestial beings like Vehuiah
WeaknessesBetrayal inherent in his nature exposes vulnerabilities; countered by unwavering faith, protective invocations, and moral restitution
Opposing Angel/SaintVehuiah from Shem HaMephorash angels, Saint Michael as guardian against infernal temptations
Equipment/ToolsSymbolic keys for unlocking secrets, shadows for concealment, tools of thievery like daggers or locks
PantheonAbrahamic demonology, Goetic traditions, with potential echoes in worldwide thief deities and trickster archetypes

Etymology

The name Valefor demon carries profound linguistic layers that reflect his malevolent essence in demonology. Derived from Hebrew roots like “ואלפר,” it may signify “strong lion” or “parting with force,” evoking the demon’s predatory strength and the severance of moral ties through temptation.

This etymological foundation in ancient Semitic languages underscores Valefor’s role as a forceful separator of individuals from their integrity, aligning with his temptations toward theft and betrayal.

Latin influences further shape Valefor’s name, blending “vale” meaning farewell with “for” related to theft or carrying away, crafting “farewell thief” as a ominous moniker. This suggests Valefor bids adieu to stolen possessions, embodying loss and illicit gain in one breath. Such Latin adaptations likely occurred during medieval translations of occult texts, transforming potential pre-Christian entities into Christianized demons.

Scholars trace possible Persian or Syriac origins for Valefor, where phonetic similarities denote elusive predators or spirits of acquisition. In gematria, the numerical value of Valefor’s name often aligns with 365, symbolizing annual cycles of temptation and renewal, hinting at eternal recurrence in human greed. Variant spellings like Valafar or Malephar emphasize malice, with “mal” implying evil in Latin derivatives.

Etymological explorations connect Valefor to broader Indo-European roots, where words for strength and separation merge into concepts of thievery. This demon Valefor’s name evolution mirrors cultural shifts from pagan reverence to demonic vilification, solidifying his identity as a corrupter in esoteric lore. Understanding these linguistic ties enriches comprehension of Valefor’s symbolic power in demonology.

Further details reveal potential Aramaic influences, where “val” relates to valleys or hidden places, and “for” to breaking or forcing entry, painting Valefor as a demon of concealed ambushes. In occult numerology, associations with the number six—his Goetic position—link to imbalance and temptation, amplifying his etymological menace. Valefor’s name thus serves as a verbal sigil, invoking dread and desire in equal measure.


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What does the Demon Valefor Looks Like?

Valefor manifests in a grotesque hybrid form, a majestic lion’s body crowned with an ass’s head, bellowing with infernal fury to instill terror. This chimeric appearance symbolizes brute strength veiled by foolish stubbornness, a deceptive facade that lures victims into false security. His eyes burn with sly malice, piercing through shadows to uncover vulnerabilities in human resolve.

Alternative depictions portray Valefor as a lion with a thief’s head, human-like features twisted in cunning grins, emphasizing his role in mortal corruption. His mane bristles with dark energy, and his tail coils like a serpent ready to strike, enhancing his predatory aura. Claws sharpened for swift thefts dig into the earth, leaving trails of cursed ground.

In some grimoires, Valefor appears angelic at first, with a goose’s head and hare’s tail, masking his true demonic nature until betrayal unfolds. His bellow echoes like thunder, disorienting summoners and amplifying fear. Valefor’s physical traits—golden fur tinged with infernal black—evoke both awe and revulsion, a visual trap for the unwary.

Historical and Mythological Background

Valefor demon originates in medieval European demonology, primarily from Solomonic traditions where he ranks as a fallen angel cast into Hell for rebellion. His roots trace to ancient Near Eastern spirits of mischief and acquisition, possibly Latinized during the Middle Ages from pagan deities vilified by Christianity. Valefor’s emergence in grimoires reflects a blend of Hebrew, Latin, and European occult influences, positioning him as a archetype of greed in Abrahamic lore.

Connections to worldwide ancient deities abound in comparative mythology, linking Valefor to trickster gods who embody theft and cunning. In Greek mythology, he echoes Hermes, the swift-footed messenger and patron of thieves, whose deceptive nature mirrors Valefor’s temptations. Roman Mercury, counterpart to Hermes, shares associations with commerce and thievery, suggesting Valefor as a demonized evolution of these mercurial figures.

Norse lore ties Valefor to Loki, the shape-shifting god whose betrayals lead to downfall, akin to Valefor’s false familiar role. African myths connect him to Anansi the spider, a clever trickster who weaves webs of deceit for personal gain, paralleling Valefor’s manipulation of alliances. Egyptian Set, god of chaos and desert storms, offers another link, with his predatory lion aspects and role in disrupting order reflecting Valefor’s infernal disruptions.

In Mesopotamian traditions, Valefor resonates with Pazuzu, a demon of winds and plagues, whose hybrid form and protective-yet-destructive duality hint at shared origins. Hindu Rakshasas, shape-shifting demons of illusion and theft, provide Eastern parallels, emphasizing Valefor’s deceptive appearances. These global connections illustrate Valefor as a universal symbol of moral subversion, adapted across cultures into a duke of Hell.

Valefor’s mythological narrative warns of the perils in seeking infernal aid, portraying him as a corrupter who exploits human frailties. Legends depict him wandering shadowy realms, whispering promises of wealth to the desperate. His interactions with other demons involve scheming alliances, often fracturing under his innate treachery.

The Fall from Grace and Rebellion in Heaven

As a fallen angel, Valefor joined Lucifer’s uprising against divine order, his cunning aiding in strategic deceptions during the celestial war. Cast into Hell, he embraced his duke title, ruling legions with iron guile. Myths narrate Valefor’s bitterness fueling temptations, targeting those with latent greed to mirror his own descent.

One tale describes Valefor tempting angelic guardians to steal heavenly artifacts, accelerating the rebellion’s chaos. His betrayal of former comrades solidified his infernal status, a cautionary story of ambition’s cost. Interactions with superiors like Sargatanas involve subservient plots, where Valefor executes thefts on cosmic scales.


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Solomon’s Summoning and Binding

King Solomon, master of demons, summoned Valefor to reveal thievery secrets, binding him with divine seals. Legends recount Valefor’s reluctant service, providing knowledge of hidden treasures while plotting escapes. In one account, Valefor tempted Solomon’s servants to pilfer royal vaults, testing the king’s wisdom.

Interactions with other bound demons like Agares involved rivalries, Valefor undermining alliances to gain favor. This myth highlights Valefor’s manipulative essence, even under constraint, as he sowed discord among summoners.

The Betrayal of the Thieves’ Guild

A medieval legend tells of a thieves’ guild invoking Valefor for protection and prowess. He fostered unity, granting dexterity for grand heists, but gradually incited paranoia and greed. The guild imploded in mutual accusations, members hanged as Valefor vanished, laughing at their ruin.

This story features interactions with mortal figures, where Valefor poses as a loyal patron before revealing his treachery. Echoes in folklore connect to real historical bandit groups, attributing failures to demonic interference.

Curses in Ancient Tombs

In Egyptian-inspired myths, Valefor, under Sargatanas, cursed pharaohs’ tombs, tempting robbers with visions of gold. One narrative involves a scribe invoking Valefor for wealth, succeeding briefly before eternal wandering as a cursed spirit. Valefor’s alliances with desert demons like Set amplify his role in arid wastelands of damnation.

Interactions with gods like Thoth, god of knowledge, involve adversarial thefts of sacred texts, blending mythologies into tales of cosmic larceny.

Modern Folklore and Urban Legends

Contemporary myths portray Valefor in urban shadows, tempting hackers and con artists with digital fortunes. A legend speaks of a corporate thief aided by Valefor, rising to power before exposure and suicide. Connections to global tricksters like Coyote in Native American lore emphasize his adaptable malice.

Valefor’s interactions in these stories involve pacts with desperate souls, always ending in betrayal, reinforcing his eternal role as corrupted.


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Historical Mentions

Text/GrimoireYearDescriptionExcerpt
Pseudomonarchia Daemonum1563Strong duke as lion with thief’s head; deceptive familiar leading to gallows; commands 10 legionsValefar, alias Malephar [Malaphar], is a strong duke, comming foorth in the shape of a lion, and the head of a theefe [or “barking”], he is verie familiar with them to whom he maketh himself acquainted, till he hath brought them to the gallowes, and ruleth ten legions.
Ars Goetia (Lesser Key of Solomon)Mid-17th centuryMighty duke as lion with ass’s head bellowing; tempts to steal as familiar; governs 10 legionsThe Sixth Spirit is Valefor. He is a mighty Duke, and appeareth in the shape of a Lion with an Ass’s Head, bellowing. He is a good Familiar, but tempteth them he is a familiar of to steal. He governeth 10 Legions of Spirits.
Dictionnaire Infernal1818Grand duke as angel or lion with goose head and hare tail; knows past/future, gives genius/audacity; commands 36 legionsValafar ou Malafar, grand et puissant duc de l’empiré infernal. Il paraît sous la forme d’un ange, quelquefois sous celle d’un lion avec la têle et les pattes d’une oie et une queue de lièvre.Il connaît le passé et l’avenir, donne du génie et de l’audace aux hommes, et commande trente-six légions.
Grand Grimoire19th centurySubordinate duke under Sargatanas; aids in theft and cursesValefor is under the power of Sargatanas, and he rules over theft and robbery.

Valefor’s Powers and Abilities

Valefor demon possesses specialized powers centered on temptation and deception, setting him apart from generic demonic forces like brute destruction or possession. His primary ability induces irresistible urges to steal, enhancing physical dexterity and mental acuity for covert operations, corrupting individuals by eroding ethical boundaries step by step. Unlike common traits such as fear inducement shared among many demons, Valefor’s focus lies in practical manipulation, turning honest folk into habitual thieves through promises of untraceable gains.

He corrupts by manifesting visions of concealed wealth, fostering addiction to thrill and reward, ultimately isolating victims in webs of paranoia and betrayal. In grimoires, Valefor imparts knowledge of past and future to strategize crimes, granting audacity that blinds to consequences. This differs from broad illusion powers, as his influence targets greed specifically, leading to social ruin.

Modern interpretations expand Valefor’s arsenal, incorporating pop culture depictions where he manipulates desires and emotions. In literature like certain novels, he warps affections to facilitate thefts of intangible assets like trust or secrets. Video game portrayals, such as in role-playing series, attribute wind-based attacks and summoning abilities, symbolizing swift, elusive strikes in contemporary demonology.

Valefor also commands legions for coordinated corruption, deploying servitors to amplify temptations on a larger scale. His familiar service begins loyally, providing strategic wisdom, but inevitably twists into traps, distinguishing him as a demon of calculated downfall. In esoteric practices, he reveals hidden vulnerabilities, corrupting through exploitation of personal flaws.

Pop culture adds layers: In fantasy games, Valefor appears as a aerial summon with destructive gusts, representing control over elements for theft-like raids. Books depict him influencing psychological realms, inducing vampiric drains on vitality to fuel greed. These newer powers reflect evolving views of Valefor as a multifaceted corrupter in media.

Power/AbilityDescriptionSourceHow It Tempts/Corrupts HumansCountermeasure
Temptation to TheftBoosts stealth, speed, and cunning for stealingArs GoetiaAwakens greed, leading to escalating crimes and ethical erosionFaith-based prayers; angelic invocations like Vehuiah
Deceptive FamiliarPoses as loyal aide, reveals secrets before betrayalPseudomonarchia DaemonumBuilds dependency, corrupting through false trust until isolationBanishing rituals with Solomon’s keys; moral reflection
Knowledge of Past/FutureForesees outcomes, aids in planning illicit actsDictionnaire InfernalEncourages risky gambles, fostering overconfidence and downfallDivination countermeasures; Saint Michael’s protection
Granting Audacity/GeniusEnhances boldness and intellect for schemesDictionnaire InfernalInflates ego, corrupting via hubris and disregard for lawsHumility practices; opposing rituals with holy symbols
Manipulation of DesiresWarps emotions to facilitate theftsModern literature interpretationsDistorts affections, leading to betrayal of loved ones for gainEmotional grounding; celestial alignments against Venus influences
Wind/Elemental ControlSummons gusts for swift escapes or attacksPop culture gamesSymbolizes elusive corruption, tempting with power over natureElemental bindings; earth-based wards
Legion CommandDeploys 10 legions for mass temptationsGrand GrimoireOrchestrates group crimes, corrupting societies through organized greedHierarchical disruptions; invocations targeting superiors like Sargatanas
Revealing Hidden TreasuresUncovers valuables with cursed trapsOccult folkloreFuels avarice, leading to obsessive pursuits and spiritual decayTreasure consecrations; protective amulets
Emotional DrainSiphons vitality to amplify greedContemporary demonologyWeakens resolve, corrupting through exhaustion and desperationVitality restorations; herbal rituals with opposing plants

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How to Counter Valefor’s Powers

Countering Valefor demon requires vigilant moral fortifications and ritualistic defenses against his temptations. Strengthening faith through daily affirmations disrupts his influence, as divine light exposes deceptive whispers. Invoking angels like Vehuiah from celestial hierarchies severs familiar bonds, replacing infernal aid with protective guidance.

Protective circles drawn with salt and iron repel Valefor’s enhancements, grounding his ethereal manipulations. Restitution for past thefts reverses corruption, breaking cycles of greed with acts of charity. Meditation on ethical texts fortifies the mind against audacity grants, promoting humility over hubris.

For emotional manipulations, grounding exercises with earth elements neutralize drains, restoring vitality. Banishing spells from ancient keys expel legions, targeting Valefor’s hierarchical weaknesses. Community support thwarts isolation tactics, as shared vigilance dilutes his divisive power.

In cases of deep entanglement, exorcisms invoking Saint Michael dismantle pacts, with holy water purifying tainted spaces. Consistent countermeasures transform Valefor’s traps into lessons of resilience.

Valefor’s Role in the Hierarchy of Hell

Valefor holds a prominent duke rank in Hell’s intricate hierarchy, as outlined in Goetic texts, positioning him as a mid-level commander below kings and princes but above marquises and lesser spirits. This status grants oversight of theft and deception domains, ruling shadowy realms where greed festers. In infernal structures, Valefor governs 10 legions—approximately 50,000 demons—specialized in stealth operations and moral subversion.

His place under superiors like Sargatanas involves executing orders for large-scale temptations, such as cursing ancient treasures or inciting societal thefts. Kings like Bael or Asmodeus outrank him, deploying Valefor in broader wars against celestial forces. Notable subordinates include unnamed spirits of cunning, aiding in familiar deceptions and legion deployments.

Allied demons encompass Barbatos, sharing familiar manipulations for coordinated corruption, and Agares for linguistic deceptions in thievery schemes. Adversaries within Hell include rival dukes like Gusion, competing for influence over secrets, leading to infernal intrigues. Valefor’s relationships often fracture due to his treacherous nature, making alliances tenuous.

In expanded hierarchies from variant grimoires, Valefor rules over barren wastelands symbolizing desolation from greed, commanding armies for raids on mortal realms. His role emphasizes specialized corruption, contrasting with higher demons’ dominion over plagues or wars, underscoring his niche as Hell’s master thief.

Astrological Associations and Symbolism

Valefor demon aligns with astrological forces that amplify his deceptive and acquisitive nature. Zodiac associations tie him to Gemini for duality in loyalty and betrayal, and Taurus for stubborn pursuit of material gains. Planetary influences include Mercury, governing cunning communication and swift thefts, enhancing Valefor’s strategic temptations.

Elements connect Valefor to earth for grounded greed and hidden treasures, with air undertones for elusive movements. Metals like copper, Venus-linked, symbolize alluring conductivity in energy manipulations, while tin represents Saturnian restraint twisted into duality. Colors such as green evoke envy and growth in schemes, black for shadows, and gold for illusory wealth.

Precious stones include emerald for amplified audacity and cunning, diamond for enduring traps, and onyx for protective deception. Numbers like 10 signify legion command and completion in corruption cycles, 6 for his Goetic order implying imbalance. Days favor Wednesday (Mercury) for invocations, planets Venus for temptation allure.

Symbolism extends to crystals like quartz for clarity in visions, malachite for transformation through greed. These associations enrich Valefor’s occult profile, linking celestial patterns to infernal malice.

AssociationDetails
ElementEarth (material greed, hidden depths); Air (swift deception, elusive strikes)
Number10 (legions, cycles of gain/loss); 6 (Goetic order, temptation imbalance)
DayWednesday (Mercury influence for cunning); Thursday (Jupiter for strategic expansion)
MetalCopper (Venusian allure, energy flow); Tin (Saturnian duality, restraint in betrayal)
Precious Stone/CrystalEmerald (envy, intellect boost); Diamond (enduring snares); Onyx (shadow protection); Quartz (vision clarity); Malachite (greed transformation)
ColorGreen (avarice, scheme growth); Black (concealment); Gold (false riches)
ZodiacGemini (duality, communication tricks); Taurus (stubborn acquisition)
PlanetMercury (cunning, speed); Venus (temptation allure)

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Valefor’s Sigil

Valefor’s sigil features interlocking keys and serpentine coils, a geometric emblem from Goetic traditions symbolizing unlocked forbidden paths and entwined deceptions. This design channels his energy in rituals, focusing intentions on theft temptations or strategic revelations. Drawn in red ink on parchment, it activates through chants, binding Valefor’s malice.

Variations include added lion motifs for strength, ensuring potency in summonings. The sigil’s curves mimic wind flows, tying to pop culture elemental associations, serving as a portal for his corrupting influence.

Symbol/ItemAssociation/MeaningUse in Rituals
LionPredatory strength, regal deceptionFocal point for power invocations; talisman against rivals
Ass/Donkey HeadStubborn folly, masked cunningMeditation for persistence in schemes; counter in banishings
KeyAccess to secrets, forced entryEngraved on tools for unlocking; offered in pacts
SerpentBetrayal, elusive movementCoiled in circles for protection; burned for bindings
DandelionAdaptability, wind dispersalScattered for swift temptations; incense for visions
Sandalwood IncenseTwisted purification, allureBurned to attract familiar; aids emotional manipulations
Copper ItemConductive allure, Venus energyPlaced on altars; enhances audacity grants
RavenOmen of loss, resourcefulnessFeathers for revelations; symbolic in legion calls
Tin ObjectDuality restraint, Saturn influenceCombined with copper; wards against overreach
EmeraldEnvy amplification, genius sparkWorn for intellect; crushed in corruption spells

Comparison with Other Demons

DemonRankPowersAppearanceLegions
AgaresDukeTeaches languages, incites earthquakes, destroys honorsElderly man on crocodile with hawk31
BarbatosDukeComprehends animal tongues, uncovers treasures, mends friendshipsHunter with horn, flanked by royals30
AmonMarquisDivines past/future, ignites love, settles disputesWolf with snake tail, flame-spewing40
BuerPresidentInstructs in philosophy, cures ailments, supplies familiarsLion-faced with goat limbs, wheeled50
GusionDukeUnveils all timelines, bestows dignity, reconcilesXenophilus resemblance40
SitriPrinceSparks passion, exposes truths, alters formsLeopard with griffin wings60
BelethKingFosters romance, directs orchestrasFearsome on pale steed with horns85
LerajeMarquisInstigates conflicts, festers wounds from arrowsGreen-clad archer with bow30
EligosDukeDiscloses concealments, predicts battles, aids warriorsKnight bearing lance and snake60
ZeparDukekindles affection, induces infertility, shifts appearancesRed-armored warrior26

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Conclusion

Valefor demon stands as an enduring emblem of infernal treachery, his powers weaving threads of temptation that ensnare the unwary in webs of greed and betrayal. Through ancient grimoires and modern interpretations, Valefor’s malevolence warns of the shadows lurking in human ambition. His legacy in demonology serves as a stark reminder of corruption’s cost.

In exploring Valefor mythology, one confronts the fragility of trust and the allure of forbidden paths. This duke of Hell, with his chimeric form and cunning arts, encapsulates the eternal struggle against inner demons. Valefor’s story compels reflection on moral boundaries.

Ultimately, Valefor demon’s enigma persists, challenging seekers to discern deception from desire in the occult’s vast expanse. His influence echoes through time, a testament to demonology’s gripping hold on the imagination. Valefor’s dark allure endures, inviting caution in the face of temptation.