From occult.live:
In ancient Hebrew, Saturn is called Shabbathai. Its angel is Cassiel. Its intelligence or beneficial spirit is ‘Agȋȇl (Hebrew: אגיאל, romanized: ʿAgyal), and its darker spirit (demon) is Zȃzȇl (Hebrew: זאזל, romanized: Zazl). Zazel has been described as a great angel, invoked in Solomonic magic, who is “effective in love conjurations”. In Ottoman Turkish, Urdu and Malay, the name of Zazel is ‘Zuhal’, derived from the Arabic language (Arabic: زحل, romanized: Zuhal).
Practical Planetary Magic by David Rankine & Sorita d’Este:
Zazel has a tall, lean and slender body. He has four faces on his head, facing in each direction. He also has a black shining face on each knee. He moves like the wind driven by an earthquake. The sign of his arrival is whiteness around the circle.
Zazel’s origins can be traced back to ancient astrological systems where planets were believed to govern various aspects of human life and the natural world. Saturn, known as the greater malefic in astrology, is traditionally associated with limitations, discipline, time, and karma. The spirit Zazel, ascribed to Saturn, embodies these qualities and serves as a mediator of its energies. The name “Zazel” appears in various grimoires and occult texts, including the “Three Books of Occult Philosophy” by Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa and the “Clavicula Salomonis,” also known as the “Key of Solomon.” These texts provide insights into the invocation and utilization of Zazel’s powers in ritual magic.
Zazel is often depicted as a sombre and stern figure, reflecting the austere and restrictive nature of Saturn. In occult symbolism, Zazel governs over boundaries, both physical and metaphysical, and is considered a guardian of thresholds and liminal spaces. This spirit’s domain includes the passage of time, aging, and the cyclical nature of existence, embodying the principle of entropy and the inevitable decay that comes with time. The attributes of Zazel also include wisdom gained through hardship, the endurance of suffering, and the ultimate liberation that comes from accepting and transcending limitations.
In practical terms, Zazel is invoked in rituals that seek to harness the energies of Saturn for specific purposes. These purposes often involve overcoming obstacles, gaining discipline, and understanding the deeper lessons of life. Practitioners may call upon Zazel for protection, especially in situations where they face significant challenges or adversities. The invocation of Zazel typically involves the use of Saturnian correspondences, such as the colour black, lead as the associated metal, and the use of specific herbs and incenses like myrrh and cypress.
One common ritual involves creating a sigil or seal of Zazel, often derived from the planetary kameas (magical squares) associated with Saturn. The magician meditates on this seal, focusing on their intent and seeking communion with the spirit. Offerings may include black candles, lead tokens, and incense, creating an atmosphere conducive to Saturn’s energies.
While the power of Zazel can be a potent ally, it also comes with significant warnings. The energies of Saturn are not to be taken lightly, as they can bring about harsh lessons and severe consequences if not approached with respect and caution. Let us not forget that Saturn is said to be the planet of death after all. Practitioners are advised to have a clear understanding of their intentions and to be prepared for the rigorous trials that may follow an invocation of Zazel. The ethical use of Zazel’s power involves a sincere commitment to personal growth and responsibility, recognizing that the spirit’s teachings often come through challenging experiences. In contemporary occult practice, Zazel continues to be a relevant figure for those who seek to deepen their understanding of Saturn’s influence. Modern practitioners may integrate psychological and archetypal perspectives, viewing Zazel as a symbol of the inner processes related to shadow work, self-discipline, and the acceptance of mortality. The spirit serves as a guide through the darker aspects of the psyche, helping individuals to confront and integrate their fears, limitations, and past traumas.
