Valefor; Another Strange Spirit

By James Donahue

In their efforts to describe Valefor, the Sixth Spirit of the Goetia, the old magicians said he looked like a lion with the head of an ass.

Valefor looks somewhat like an animal because he stands on four legs, but he has a large head, small eyes, and a long flowing beard

He has been considered among the "lesser" demons over the years, and consequently little has been written about Valefor. Yet he was chosen by Solomon from among the thousands, if not millions of demons to be included in the Goetian list of 72 special spirits. Thus he obviously has powers.

One old book said Valefor has been called numerous other names, including Valafar, Valefar, and Malaphar. He is a duke that governs 10 legions of spirits.

Johann Wier, who seemed to view this spirit as an evil trickster, wrote that Valefor comes forth "in the shape of a lion and the head of a (thief), he is verie familiar with them to whom he maketh himself acquainted, till he hath brought them to the gallowes."

Seagrave writes that Valefor "has a sharp, braying voice and an unpleasant manner," and is skilled in theft.

"Valefor will always counsel theft even where it involves stealing from companions and friends. He cannot be broken of that habit, no matter how he is bound. His advice will tend to be persuasive," the Seagrave report states.