Goetic

Goetic refers to goetia, the practice of invoking and commanding spirits as described in the Ars Goetia, the first section of the Lesser Key of Solomon, a Renaissance–early modern grimoire tradition attributed to King Solomon. The term goetia derives from Greek goētía, sorcery or witchcraft.

The Ars Goetia lists 72 demon rulers, dukes, and princes, with each entry giving the demon’s name, rank, a brief description, the powers attributed, the appearance of the demon, and the seal or sigil used in evocation. Instructions for rituals typically include the creation of a protective circle and a pentagram, the recital of conjurations, offerings or signs, and the use of talismans or seals to command the spirit.

Historically, the goetia forms part of the Lesser Key of Solomon, which is a composite text compiled in the 17th century in Europe, drawing on earlier medieval grimoires and Renaissance magical traditions. As a component of Western ceremonial magic, goetia has influenced later occult orders and practices, including various strands of demonology, ritual magic, and literary representations.

In modern times, goetic material has been studied by scholars of religion and occultism and remains a topic in esoteric circles. It is sometimes used in contemporary ceremonial magic as symbolic psychology or spiritual exploration, while critics note the ethical and safety concerns associated with ritual invocation.