The Lesser Key Of Solomon: A Comprehensive Overview

Chapter 1 What's The Lesser Key Of Solomon by S.L. Macgregor
Mathers

The Lesser Key of Solomon, also known as Lemegeton, is a famous
grimoire, or book of magic, attributed to King Solomon. Compiled
in the 17th century and translated into English by S.L. MacGregor
Mathers, it consists of five distinct parts, detailing the
conjuration of demons and spirits and instructions on how to
control them. The most notable section is the Ars Goetia, which
lists 72 demons, providing descriptions of their powers, symbols,
and how to summon them. Each demon is associated with a unique
sigil and is believed to grant various knowledge or abilities to
the summoner. The text has garnered significant interest among
occult practitioners and historians, influencing modern magical
practices and esoteric traditions.
Chapter 2 The Lesser Key Of Solomon by S.L. Macgregor Mathers
Summary

The Lesser Key of Solomon, also known as Lemegeton, is a
grimoire—a book of magic—compiled in the 17th century that is
attributed to King Solomon. The work consists of five main
sections, with the most notable being the first section, the Ars
Goetia, which deals with the invocation of demons. Here’s a brief
summary of its key components:


Ars Goetia: This section contains descriptions of 72 demons that
Solomon purportedly summoned and bound to serve him. Each demon
is described in detail, including their names, ranks, and the
specific ways in which they can be conjured. The demons are
grouped according to their characteristics, with instructions on
how to establish control over them.


Ars Theurgia-Goetia: This part focuses on 31 aerial spirits who
are invoked for various purposes. Similar to the Ars Goetia, it
provides details about their powers, how to summon them, and the
rituals needed for their invocation.


Ars Paulina: Named after Paul of Tarsus, this section addresses
the summoning of angels and the powers associated with them. The
text outlines methods for invoking angels for guidance,
protection, and knowledge, contrasting the darker themes of the
previous sections.


Ars Almadel: This portion gives instructions for summoning
celestial spirits using a wax tablet (almadel), discussing
rituals for contacting angels and seeking their counsel.


Ars Notoria: The final section is concerned with a system of
prayers and rituals aimed at gaining knowledge, wisdom, and
memory through divine assistance. It emphasizes the spiritual and
intellectual pursuits powered by magical practices.


Throughout the text, there are numerous sigils, seals, and
talismans, which are believed to assist in the summoning of these
entities. The Lesser Key of Solomon remains a significant text
within occult practices and is referenced widely in later magical
writings. Its blend of Christian, Jewish, and classical sources
reflects the syncretic nature of Western esotericism.
Chapter 3 The Lesser Key Of Solomon Author

S.L. MacGregor Mathers, whose full name is Samuel Liddell
MacGregor Mathers, was a prominent figure in the late 19th and
early 20th centuries, known primarily for his work in the field
of Western esotericism and his contributions to various occult
traditions, including the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. He
was born on February 8, 1854, and passed away on November 5,
1918.


The Lesser Key of Solomon


Mathers is best known for his English translation and publication
of "The Lesser Key of Solomon" (also known as "Lemegeton") around
1904. This grimoire details the summoning of demons, and it is
divided into five parts, with the most well-known section being
the first, called "Ars Goetia," which lists 72 demons and
describes how to summon them.


Other Works


In addition to "The Lesser Key of Solomon," Mathers authored or
translated several other significant texts in the realm of
occultism and magic, including:


The Book of Abramelin A translation and adaptation of a
15th-century grimoire...