Practical Planetary Magic by David Rankine & Sorita d’Este:
Bartzabel is tall with a dirty face. He has dark skin, or red, with stag horns and claws, and moves swiftly like burning fire. The sign of his arrival is unexpected noise around the circle.

Barzabel, also known as Bartzabel, is the planetary spirit of Mars. His name appears in works such as The Heptameron, the Three Books of Occult Philosophy by Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa, and other Renaissance and medieval grimoires. In these texts, Barzabel is often invoked for purposes that align with the martial qualities of conflict, protection, strength, and courage.

The planet Mars is associated with the god of war, signifying action, desire, and survival. Mars represents the raw, primal force that drives living beings to assert themselves in the world, often through struggle or confrontation. Barzabel, as the embodiment of these qualities, is thus a spirit of great power, one that can be called upon to harness these aggressive and dynamic energies.

He is often depicted or conceptualized as a fierce warrior, a commander of forces, and a protector. The colour red, symbolizing blood, fire, and the life force, is traditionally associated with Barzabel, along with metals like iron, which is linked to Mars and is considered a powerful talismanic material in rituals involving this spirit.

In terms of personality, Barzabel is seen as a spirit of both destruction and creation, embodying the duality of the planet. He can bring about necessary destruction to clear the path for new growth, representing the transformative power of conflict and challenge. However, working with Barzabel requires caution, as his energy can be overwhelming and potentially destructive if not properly understood and directed.

Invoking Barzabel in magickal practice is typically done to gain strength, assertiveness, or to protect oneself in situations of conflict. He is also invoked in workings that require the Mars energy of action and directness, such as overcoming obstacles or pursuing ambitious goals with determination and vigour.

Barzabel is usually invoked during the planetary hour and day of Mars (Tuesday). The practitioner might prepare a space decorated with red candles, iron objects, and symbols associated with Mars, such as the sigil of Mars or the symbol of the ram. The ritual would typically involve chanting the name of Barzabel, perhaps along with an incantation or prayer, to summon his presence and request his assistance.

Some may choose to incorporate Kabbalistic elements, where Mars is associated with Geburah, representing strength and judgment. By invoking Barzabel within this framework, practitioners can channel these energies in a more structured and balanced manner, aligning their intent with the greater cosmic forces represented by Mars. As with any spirit, working with Barzabel requires respect, careful preparation, and a clear understanding of one’s intentions. Mars energy, when improperly channelled, can lead to destructive outcomes, manifesting as uncontrolled anger, violence, or conflict. Therefore, it is crucial that you to approach Barzabel with a clear and focused mind.