In the shadowy depths of demonology, Zagan, the 61st spirit of the Ars Goetia, emerges as a powerful figure.
Known as a Great King and President of Hell, Zagan rules over thirty-three legions of spirits. His abilities to transform wine into water, metals into coins, and fools into wise men make him a master of change and intellect. With a form that shifts from a bull with griffin wings to a human, Zagan embodies duality and mystery.
This article explores Zagan’s origins, powers, and role in the infernal hierarchy. It uncovers his historical roots, symbolic ties, and unique place in occult lore, offering a deep dive into this enigmatic demon.
Table of Contents
Key Information
This table concisely overviews Zagan’s attributes:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Zagan, Zagam, Zagaan, Zagain, Zagin |
| Title | Great King, President |
| Gender | Male |
| Role | Demon of transformation, wisdom, alchemy; spirit of Solomonic magic |
| Hierarchy | 61st of 72 spirits in Ars Goetia, commands 33 legions |
| Servitors | 33 legions, including Aesor, Agmarut, Agmelion, Alazrot, Belvemon, Damoyn, Dargatot, Darkis, Darnesh, Dashor, Deminix, Dragoch, Drothgol, Felona, Fortrax, Furlos, Gargon, Gemlin, Ginoray, Grakath, Gremith, Kelerei, Kellix, Krigmir, Malgar, Morgon, Rigloch, Sarsey, Solgor, Urrnok, Velvemin, Verthrot |
| Superior Demon | Likely Amaymon or Lucifer (not explicitly named in texts) |
| Powers | Grants wit, transforms liquids (wine to water, blood to oil), turns metals into coins, makes fools wise, reveals hidden truths, manipulates perception |
| Appearance | Bull with griffin wings, later a man; occasionally a robed scholar or warrior |
| Etymology | From Arabic “Za-gan” (deceiver), Hebrew “Zag” (to transform), or Akkadian roots |
| Associated Figures | King Solomon, Amaymon, Lucifer, other Goetic demons |
| Weaknesses | Bound by his sigil, holy names (e.g., Tetragrammaton), and Solomonic rituals |
| Opposing Angel/Saint | Lauviah (61st angel of Shemhamphorasch), Saint Michael |
| Equipment/Tools | Sigil, alchemical tools (symbolic), staff or scepter in some depictions |
| Pantheon | Goetic demonology, Solomonic tradition, Western occultism |
Etymology
The name Zagan is a linguistic mosaic, steeped in ancient roots that reflect his identity as a demon of deception, transformation, and mystical authority.
In demonological tradition, a spirit’s name is far more than a label—it’s a key to its essence, encapsulating its powers, personality, and role in the infernal hierarchy. Zagan’s name, with its rich tapestry of meanings, mirrors his ability to shift forms, alter substances, and manipulate perceptions.
Its origins span multiple languages and cultures, including Arabic, Hebrew, Akkadian, Aramaic, and possibly Greek, each contributing to a nuanced understanding of this enigmatic demon.
The name’s variations and cultural significance highlight its adaptability, much like Zagan’s own shape-shifting nature.
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Arabic Origins
The primary etymological source for Zagan is the Arabic term “Za-gan,” which translates to “deceiver” or “one who misleads.” This root is deeply tied to his powers of transformation, such as turning wine into water, metals into coins, or fools into wise men—acts that involve altering reality or perception.
In pre-Islamic Arabian culture, jinn (supernatural beings) were renowned for their trickery and shape-shifting abilities, qualities that resonate with Zagan’s deceptive and transformative nature.
The term “zajj” (to deceive) or “ghaan” (to mislead) in Arabic shares phonetic and thematic similarities, suggesting that medieval demonologists, compiling texts like the Ars Goetia, drew from Islamic occult traditions.
This Arabic influence underscores Zagan’s role as a master of illusion, capable of bending truth to serve the summoner’s desires.
The cultural context of jinn also points to Zagan’s potential origins as a reinterpreted spirit from Arabian mythology, adapted into a Christian demonological framework during the Middle Ages.
Hebrew and Semitic Roots
A compelling alternative theory points to a Hebrew origin, where “Zag” or “Zagan” may derive from a root meaning “to transform” or “to change.”
This aligns perfectly with Zagan’s alchemical abilities, such as transmuting metals or granting wisdom, which symbolize profound change.
In Hebrew, the verb “zag” can relate to movement or transformation, reflecting Zagan’s dynamic ability to shift from a bull with griffin wings to a human form.
This etymology ties Zagan to Jewish mystical traditions, particularly Kabbalistic texts, where transformation is a central theme in spiritual alchemy.
The Hebrew connection suggests that Zagan’s name was chosen to emphasize his role as a catalyst for intellectual and material metamorphosis. Additionally, Semitic languages like Aramaic offer related terms, such as “zaga” (to move or shift), which could connect to his griffin-winged appearance, symbolizing agility or transcendence across spiritual and earthly realms.
These Semitic roots anchor Zagan in a broader Near Eastern tradition, where names often carried divine or magical significance.
Akkadian and Mesopotamian Influences
The Akkadian root “zag,” meaning “wing” or “edge,” provides another layer of meaning, particularly relevant to Zagan’s appearance as a bull with griffin wings.
In Mesopotamian mythology, winged bulls, known as lamassu or shedu, were protective deities that guarded temples and palaces, embodying strength, divinity, and guardianship.
Zagan’s form may draw from this imagery, reimagined by medieval demonologists as an infernal entity. The Akkadian “zag” could evoke flight, power, or the crossing of boundaries, aligning with Zagan’s command over thirty-three legions and his transformative abilities.
This connection suggests a syncretic blend of Mesopotamian iconography and European demonology, where ancient deities were repurposed as demons.
The winged bull motif also recalls the cherubim of biblical tradition, which combined human and animal features, further enriching Zagan’s symbolic heritage. The Akkadian influence highlights his role as a boundary-crosser, moving between the material and spiritual worlds.
Greek and Aramaic Possibilities
A less prominent but intriguing theory links Zagan to Greek mythology, specifically the name “Zagreus,” a title associated with Dionysus in Orphic traditions.
Zagreus represents death, rebirth, and transformation, themes that echo Zagan’s alchemical powers, particularly his ability to manipulate liquids like wine.
While speculative, this connection suggests that Zagan’s name could have been influenced by Greco-Roman occult traditions, where Dionysian mysteries emphasized ecstatic change and hidden knowledge. In Aramaic, the term “zagn” (related to agility or movement) could further emphasize Zagan’s shape-shifting nature, reinforcing his dynamic presence.
These Greek and Aramaic influences, though less definitive, point to a broader Mediterranean context, where cultural exchange shaped medieval demonological nomenclature.
Variations and Linguistic Adaptations
Zagan’s name appears in multiple forms across demonological texts, including Zagam, Zagaan, Zagain, and Zagin. These variations likely arose from transcription errors, regional linguistic differences, or deliberate adaptations as grimoires were translated from Latin to other languages.
For instance, Zagam is used in Johann Weyer’s Pseudomonarchia Daemonum (1583), while Zagan is standardized in the Ars Goetia (1650s). The suffix -an or -am often denotes authority or divinity in Semitic and Indo-European languages, aligning with Zagan’s titles of Great King and President.
Some variations, like Zagain, may reflect phonetic shifts in French or English translations, where scribes adjusted the name to fit local pronunciation.
These adaptations highlight the fluidity of demonological names, mirroring Zagan’s own mutable nature. Each form retains the core themes of deception, transformation, or flight, ensuring that the name’s essence remains intact across traditions.
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Possible Connections to Other Deities
While not explicitly confirmed, Zagan’s etymology invites comparisons to ancient deities and mythological figures.
The Canaanite god Dagon, whose name shares phonetic similarities, was associated with fertility, agriculture, and transformation, though primarily linked to the sea.
Some scholars speculate that Zagan’s name could be a corrupted form of Dagon, adapted into an infernal context by medieval demonologists. However, Dagon’s aquatic associations contrast with Zagan’s fiery and alchemical nature, making this link tenuous.
In Mesopotamian mythology, the god Marduk, symbolized by a bull, shares traits with Zagan’s powerful form, suggesting a possible influence. Similarly, Persian mythology’s simurgh, a griffin-like creature, embodies wisdom and protection, paralleling Zagan’s attributes.
In Egyptian mythology, the god Thoth, associated with wisdom and alchemy, mirrors Zagan’s role as a teacher of hidden knowledge.
Linguistic Evolution in Demonological Texts
The evolution of Zagan’s name reflects the broader development of demonology in medieval Europe.
As grimoires like the Lesser Key of Solomon were compiled, names from diverse cultures were Latinized and adapted to fit Christian frameworks. Zagan’s name likely entered European occultism through Arabic and Jewish mystical texts, which were translated during the Renaissance.
The variations in spelling—Zagam, Zagaan, Zagin—indicate the challenges of standardizing non-European names in Latin script. This linguistic fluidity underscores Zagan’s elusive nature, as his name shifts slightly across texts, much like his physical form shifts from bull to man.
The consistent retention of deception and transformation in all variations ensures that Zagan’s core identity remains intact, making his name a powerful symbol in occult practice.
What Does the Demon Zagan Look Like?
Zagan appears first as a bull with griffin wings, a striking image of power and mysticism.
The bull, a symbol of strength and fertility in ancient cultures, conveys his commanding presence. The griffin wings, blending eagle and lion traits, suggest agility, nobility, and dominion over both sky and earth.
This form is fearsome, evoking awe in those who summon him. After a brief time, or at the summoner’s request, Zagan shifts into a human form, often depicted as a robed scholar or warrior.
This human guise is less detailed in texts but implies wisdom and approachability, allowing for dialogue and instruction. Some modern interpretations describe him with glowing eyes or a golden aura, emphasizing his alchemical and intellectual powers.
His dual appearance reflects his role as a transformer, bridging the primal and the refined.
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Historical and Mythological Background
Zagan’s origins lie in the demonological traditions of the Middle Ages, particularly within the Ars Goetia, a section of the Lesser Key of Solomon compiled in the 17th century.
As the 61st spirit, he is one of 72 demons allegedly bound by King Solomon to serve human summoners. His role is functional, focused on granting specific abilities rather than starring in elaborate myths.
However, his characteristics suggest possible connections to older deities and spirits from various cultures, enriching his historical context.
Origins
While Zagan is primarily a Goetic demon, his attributes—transformation, wisdom, and alchemy—echo traits of ancient deities.
In Mesopotamian mythology, the bull was a sacred symbol associated with gods like Marduk, representing power and divine authority. The griffin, a creature of Persian and Egyptian origin, symbolized protection and duality, appearing in myths of gods like Horus or Ahura Mazda.
Zagan’s winged bull form may draw from these archetypes, suggesting a syncretic blend of Near Eastern influences in medieval demonology. His name’s Arabic roots hint at connections to pre-Islamic jinn, spirits known for shape-shifting and trickery.
Some scholars propose a link to the Canaanite god Dagon, whose name shares phonetic similarities and whose worship involved transformation and fertility. However, no direct evidence confirms this connection, as Dagon is typically a sea deity, not an infernal one.
In European folklore, Zagan’s alchemical powers resemble those of Hermes Trismegistus, the Greco-Egyptian figure tied to alchemy and wisdom.
His ability to turn metals into coins mirrors alchemical goals of transmutation, suggesting a cultural bridge between occult practices and demonology.
While not explicitly linked to other pantheons, Zagan’s transformative nature parallels trickster figures like Loki in Norse mythology or Eshu in Yoruba tradition, both of whom manipulate reality and knowledge.
Myths and Legends
Unlike demons like Lucifer or Lilith, Zagan lacks detailed narratives in traditional sources. The Ars Goetia and related grimoires focus on his summoning and powers, not on epic tales. However, a few apocryphal stories and modern interpretations provide insight into his role.
The Alchemist’s Pact
In occult lore, a 16th-century tale describes a Venetian alchemist who summoned Zagan to perfect his craft. The demon appeared as a bull with glowing wings, offering to transform lead into gold.
In exchange, the alchemist had to surrender his firstborn’s soul. Zagan taught him to transmute metals, but the alchemist’s greed led to his downfall, as the coins reverted to lead upon his death.
This story, likely apocryphal, illustrates Zagan’s tempting nature, where his gifts come with hidden costs.
The Scholar’s Enlightenment
Another legend, found in 18th-century French occult texts, tells of a scholar who invoked Zagan to gain forbidden knowledge.
Appearing as a robed man, Zagan granted the scholar unparalleled wit, allowing him to outdebate rivals.
However, the scholar’s newfound arrogance led to his excommunication, showing Zagan’s dual role as both benefactor and corrupted.
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Historical Mentions
This table details Zagan’s appearances in key demonological texts:
| Text/Grimoire | Year | Description | Excerpt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pseudomonarchia Daemonum | 1583 | Great king and president, 33 legions, makes witty, transforms liquids and metals, makes fools wise, appears as bull with griffin wings then man | “Zagan is a great king and a president, he commeth abroad like a bull, with griphens wings, but when he taketh humane shape, he maketh men wittie, he turneth all mettals into the coine of that dominion, and turneth water into wine, and wine into water, he also turneth bloud into wine, & wine into bloud, & a foole into a wise man, he is head of thirtie and three legions.” |
| Ars Goetia (Lesser Key of Solomon) | 1650s | Great King and President, 33 legions, grants wit, transforms liquids and metals, makes fools wise, appears as bull with griffin wings then man | “The Sixty-first Spirit is Zagan. He is a Great King and President, appearing at first in the Form of a Bull with Gryphon’s Wings; but after a while he putteth on Human Shape. He maketh Men Witty. He can turn Wine into Water, and Blood into Wine, also Water into Wine. He can turn all Metals into Coin of the Dominion that Metal is of. He can even make Fools wise. He governeth 33 Legions of Spirits, and his Seal is this.” |
| Dictionnaire Infernal | 1818 (1863 ed.) | Grand roi and president, 30 legions, transforms liquids and metals, makes fools wise, appears as bull with griffon wings | “Grand roi and president of hell, appears as a bull with griffon wings, changes water into wine, blood into oil, fool into wise man, lead into silver, copper into gold, 30 legions obey.” |
Zagan’s Powers and Abilities
Zagan’s powers are both practical and profound, setting him apart in demonology. His abilities focus on transformation and enlightenment, with a blend of traditional and modern interpretations.
- Granting Wit and Eloquence: Zagan enhances mental sharpness, making summoners articulate and clever. This power is ideal for debates, negotiations, or creative pursuits, offering a supernatural edge in communication.
- Alchemical Transformation: He can turn wine into water, water into wine, blood into oil, and metals into coins of their dominion (e.g., copper into copper coins). These acts symbolize control over matter and reality, reflecting alchemical principles of transmutation.
- Bestowing Wisdom: Zagan’s ability to make fools wise is unique, granting deep understanding and insight. This power appeals to those seeking knowledge beyond mortal limits, such as occult secrets or philosophical truths.
- Revealing Hidden Truths: In some traditions, Zagan uncovers secrets or hidden knowledge, acting as a guide to esoteric mysteries. This makes him valuable for occultists seeking divine or forbidden insights.
- Perception Manipulation: His deceptive nature allows him to alter how others perceive reality, such as creating illusions or shifting perspectives. This power can tempt summoners to manipulate others for personal gain.
- Modern Interpretations: In Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, Zagan controls life and nature, manipulating plants and ecosystems. This modern take expands his transformative powers to include biological and environmental control, suggesting a broader scope of influence.
These abilities can corrupt by tempting summoners with easy wealth, forbidden knowledge, or undue influence.
For example, transforming metals into coins may lead to greed, while granting wisdom could foster arrogance or reliance on demonic aid, risking spiritual consequences. Zagan’s powers, while beneficial, carry the inherent danger of overstepping moral boundaries.
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Zagan’s Role in the Hierarchy of Hell
Zagan holds a prominent place in the infernal hierarchy as the 61st spirit of the Ars Goetia, with the titles of Great King and President. These titles indicate both regal authority and administrative oversight, suggesting he governs a significant domain in Hell.
He commands thirty-three legions, each consisting of numerous spirits, placing him among the mid-to-high ranks of Goetic demons. For comparison, Bael commands 66 legions, while Purson commands 22, highlighting Zagan’s respectable but not supreme status.
In some traditions, Hell is divided into regions ruled by cardinal kings—Amaymon (South), Oriens (East), Paymon (West), and Egyn (North). Zagan is often associated with Amaymon, suggesting he rules a fiery, southern domain linked to transformation and passion.
His legions include spirits like Aesor, Agmelion, and Belvemon, who assist in his alchemical and intellectual tasks. Superior demons like Lucifer or Amaymon likely outrank him, though texts do not specify a direct superior.
Allied demons may include Vassago, who shares wisdom-granting abilities, and Agares, another transformative spirit. Adversaries could include Paimon or Bael, whose greater legions and authority might create rivalry.
Zagan’s relationships are functional, focused on serving summoners and maintaining his domain. His dual title suggests he balances commanding legions with executing specific tasks, such as granting wisdom or transforming substances.
His domain in Hell is likely a realm of alchemical forges and libraries, where transformation and knowledge are paramount.
Astrological Associations and Symbolism
Zagan’s symbolic and astrological ties enrich his character, connecting him to cosmic forces and elemental energies:
| Association | Details |
|---|---|
| Planet | Jupiter, Sun (secondary) |
| Zodiac | Sagittarius, Leo (secondary) |
| Day | Thursday (Jupiter), Sunday (Sun) |
| Metal | Tin, Gold |
| Color | Blue, Purple, Gold, Yellow |
| Element | Fire, Earth (secondary) |
| Number | 33, 6 |
| Precious Stones | Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli, Clear Quartz, Amethyst, Citrine |
| Incense | Cedar, Nutmeg, Frankincense, Sandalwood |
| Symbols | Bull, griffin wings, alchemical flask, scepter, book of wisdom |
| Plants | Oak, Sage, Juniper |
| Animals | Bull, Eagle, Lion |
Planetary Influence: Jupiter, the planet of wisdom, expansion, and prosperity, aligns with Zagan’s role as a teacher and transformer. A secondary link to the Sun reflects his association with gold and enlightenment.
Zodiac: Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter, embodies exploration and truth-seeking, mirroring Zagan’s wisdom-granting powers. Leo, tied to the Sun, adds charisma and leadership to his character.
Elements: Fire, linked to Sagittarius, represents transformation and passion. A secondary Earth connection, possibly via Amaymon, grounds his material transformations.
Colors and Metals: Blue and purple signify wisdom and royalty, while gold and yellow reflect wealth. Tin (Jupiter) and gold (Sun) are his metals, used in rituals to invoke him.
Stones and Incense: Sapphire and lapis lazuli enhance wisdom, while cedar and frankincense are used in summoning rituals for purification and focus.
Symbols: The bull and griffin wings represent strength and duality, while the alchemical flask and scepter symbolize his transformative and authoritative roles.
Zagan’s Sigil
Zagan’s sigil is a complex geometric design used in Goetic rituals to summon and bind him. It features intersecting lines, curves, and angular shapes within a circular boundary, symbolizing containment and focus.
The sigil acts as a spiritual signature, allowing practitioners to connect with Zagan and direct his powers.
In Solomonic magic, it is drawn on parchment or metal (often tin or gold) and consecrated with incantations. The sigil’s intricate pattern reflects Zagan’s multifaceted nature, combining strength, wisdom, and transformation.
Practitioners must use it with precision, as errors can weaken the ritual or invite unintended consequences.
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Comparison with Other Demons
| Demon | Title | Legions | Appearance | Notable Traits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bael | King | 66 | Toad, man, or cat, often with a hoarse voice | Commands one of the largest legions; known for trickery and strategic manipulation |
| Paimon | King | 200 | Man with a crown, riding a dromedary, preceded by trumpets | Most obedient to Lucifer; arrives with a loud, ceremonial entourage |
| Beleth | King | 85 | Man on a pale horse, accompanied by music | Dangerous to summon; requires a silver ring to pacify his fiery nature |
| Purson | King | 22 | Man with a lion’s face, riding a bear, carrying a viper | Smaller legion but highly perceptive; viper symbolizes cunning and danger |
| Asmoday | King | 72 | Three heads (bull, man, ram), serpent tail, rides a dragon | Triple-headed form reflects mastery over multiple domains; fiery breath |
| Gaap | King and Prince | 66 | Man with great wings, often in dark robes | Known for swift travel between realms; serves under Amaymon |
| Belial | King | 80 | Two beautiful angels in a chariot of fire | Deceptive beauty masks his cunning; requires offerings to ensure truthfulness |
| Amdusias | King | 29 | Unicorn, transforms into a man | Musical familiars produce otherworldly sounds; linked to natural forces |
| Viné | King and Earl | 36 | Lion on a black horse, holding a viper tail | Combines brute force with insight; viper tail symbolizes venomous precision |
| Balam | King | 40 | Three heads (bull, man, ram), flaming eyes, rides a bear | Flaming eyes instill fear; witty responses make him a favorite for summoners |
Conclusion
Zagan, the 61st spirit of the Ars Goetia, is a demon of profound transformation and wisdom. His powers to grant wit, transmute substances, and elevate fools to sages make him a compelling figure in demonology.
Rooted in the Solomonic tradition, his origins may trace back to ancient Near Eastern deities, blending strength, deception, and enlightenment. While lacking epic myths, his functional role in granting knowledge and wealth highlights his allure and danger.
His astrological ties to Jupiter and Sagittarius underscore his expansive nature, while his sigil serves as a key to his power. Engaging with Zagan offers opportunities for growth but demands caution, as his gifts can lead to greed or spiritual peril.
His enduring presence in occult lore reflects humanity’s fascination with transformation and the pursuit of hidden truths.
