Amaymon

Amaymon is often referred to as one of the kings or rulers of spirits, specifically associated with the direction of the East. Last week we covered Oriens who is also considered to be the King of the East, literally because the name translates to “the east”. However, as mentioned previously, different people had different experiences and created different systems. Within the systems that mention these particular spirits we find Amaymon to be present in both. Within the Ars Goetia Amaymon is mentioned several times as being the King of the East, however within the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage he is listed as being a Sub-Prince to Belial, whereas Oriens is a Sub-Prince of Lucifer. If we are to place Lucifer in the Eastern Quarter and take the translation of the name as being the keys, then Oriens in that system is certainly in the East. Amaimon is under the rule of the Prince Belial within this context. The other two Princes are Leviathan (ruling Paymon) and Satan (ruling Egyn/Ariton).

Notes within Abramelin Mathers: ‘Amaimon: Also written frequently “Amaymon”; perhaps from the Greek word Maimon, present participle of Maimao; and A as an enforcing particle; hence Amaimon would mean “terrible violence and vehemence”. This Spirit is also called by the Rabbins MHZAL, Mahazael, perhaps from the root MZ, = to consume, or devour. Amaymon is spoken of in the various mediaeval Magical works as being a very potent Spirit, and the use of a ring, with Magical characters to hold before the mouth while conversing with him, is recommended as a protection against his deadly, fiery, and poisonous breath.

In a footnote of Peterson’s Grimorium Verum, he states: ‘“This ‘Spirit of the East” is not otherwise identified, however GH [Grimoire of Honorius] has Magoa in the east, Egym in the south, Bayemon in the west, and Amaymon in the north. There is considerable variation in identification of the four kings of the cardinal directions. Agrippa, OP2.7 has (E. W, N, S) : “Oriens, Paymon, Egyn, Amaymon”, however in OP3.24 he says, “Urieus, king of the east; Amaymon, king of the south; Paymon, king of the west; Egin, king of the nonh, which the Hebrew Doctors perhaps call more rightly thus, Samuel, Azazel, Azael, Mahazuel,” (See Cichus In Sphaeram Mundi, f. 21 apud quem: Zoroa. Fragm. 0104; cf. Salom. ff. 28v-29r; sed addict. K: Reuchl. Arte 3, sig. 07r) MC has: “Bael, Moymon, Poymon, Egyn” or “Asmodel in the east, Amaymon in the south, Paymon in the west, and Aegym in the north”; “Oriens, Paymon, Egyn, and Amaymon”; or “Amodeo [sic] (king of the east), Paymon (king of the west), Egion (king of the north), and Maimon.”’

In demonological texts, he is considered one of the great kings of Hell and has dominion over various spirits. Apart from what I mentioned previously in regards to Mathers’, his name is also thought to derive from ancient Semitic roots, with some scholars suggesting connections to the word “Amon,” which might be linked to hidden or obscure aspects of divinity. This connection emphasizes Amaymon’s role as a veiled figure, one who guards hidden knowledge and the secrets of the spiritual realms. Others argue that his name may be linked to terms meaning “hidden” or “concealed,” reflecting his nature as a spirit whose true form or power remains mysterious and inaccessible to most.

In the medieval grimoire tradition, Amaymon is often depicted as a powerful, commanding figure who rules over a host of spirits and demons. His authority is particularly emphasized in the Ars Goetia, part of the Lesser Key of Solomon, where he is referred to as a mighty king whose presence requires caution and respect. He is sometimes identified with other figures of authority within the demonic hierarchy, such as Asmoday or Belial, suggesting a fluid and multifaceted nature across different occult systems.

In works like The Sworn Book of Honorius, Amaymon is one of the spirits whose name is invoked in complex conjurations. However, these texts also emphasize the need for protection when dealing with him. According to tradition, if Amaymon appears during the daytime, his presence is said to be more dangerous, and the magician is advised to use a ring on their face to shield themselves from his overpowering influence.

In the Grimoirium Verum, Amaymon is also listed as a king, and his influence extends into practical magick, particularly when working with infernal forces.

While historical grimoires are rich with references to Amaymon, modern occultists have recontextualized his role in a variety of ways. Some view him as a figure of transformation, a gatekeeper to higher levels of spiritual knowledge. His association with the East, intellect, and air make him an ideal spirit to work with for those seeking mastery over esoteric wisdom, mental clarity, and enlightenment.

In Daemonolatry, Amaymon is honoured as a figure of power and wisdom. Practitioners may develop a devotional relationship with him, seeking his guidance in their studies or spiritual development. Rather than fear or control, Daemonolators approach Amaymon with reverence, offering him respect and dedication in exchange for his insight.

Some practitioners incorporate him into their workings as a ruler of spiritual forces related to the East, sometimes viewing him as a counterpart to more traditionally angelic figures who preside over the same cardinal point.

In iconography, Amaymon is sometimes depicted as a regal, commanding figure wearing a crown or adorned in rich robes, signifying his royal status. Other depictions are more abstract, focusing on his ethereal nature as a spirit of the air, with swirling winds or translucent forms surrounding him. In either case, his presence is often felt as a mixture of authority and mystery.

Theodore Rose in his book Lucifer and the Hidden Demons says:
Emerge from a crisis unharmed.
When a crisis is at hand, you may think it will be difficult to find the time to perform magick, but as you become familiar with the demons, you will find that in times of crisis their support brings great warmth and comfort. This power means that no matter how the crisis unfolds, and this may be personal, financial, on any scale, you will emerge from it as a whole and strong person, able to recover and reestablish your life.”