Allocer

What it is

Allocer is a spirit classified as a duke within the hierarchy of demons found in early modern European grimoires. He appears in texts such as the Lesser Key of Solomon and the Pseudomonarchia Daemonum. In these accounts, he is depicted as a soldier with the head of a lion, breathing fire, and riding a horse. His primary role involves instructing humans in astronomy and the liberal sciences. He also grants familiars to those who summon him. The texts claim he commands thirty-six legions of demons under his authority.

Where it comes from

The figure originates from the tradition of Solomonic demonology, which draws on medieval and Renaissance magical practices. Different grimoires offer varying descriptions of Allocer. In the Liber Officiorum Spirituum, he is known as Allogor or Algor. This version describes him as a knight carrying a spear who answers questions and provides strategic advice. Another entry lists him as Algor, ruled by the spirit Orience. This variant adds the power to gain the favor of nobles. These variations suggest the figure evolved through different manuscript traditions rather than a single fixed origin.

How it is done

Summoning Allocer involves invoking his name within the framework of ceremonial magic. Practitioners would recite specific invocations to call upon the spirit. The ritual aims to bind the duke to the magician's will. Once summoned, Allocer is expected to fulfill his duties. These include teaching complex subjects like astronomy and providing familiar spirits. The magician must maintain control over the thirty-six legions he commands during the interaction.

Tools and materials

The imagery associated with Allocer includes a horse, a spear, and fire. These elements symbolize his martial nature and his status as a warrior duke. The lion's head represents strength and authority. The legions of demons serve as an extension of his power. No specific physical tools are required beyond the standard implements of ceremonial magic used to establish the ritual space.

What it is for

Magicians seek Allocer for knowledge and spiritual assistance. The main purpose is to learn astronomy and other liberal sciences. He is also called upon to provide familiars, which are spirits that assist the magician. Some versions of the text suggest he can help gain the favor of powerful nobles. His command over legions makes him a figure of significant authority in the demonic hierarchy.

Who does it

The study of Allocer falls to scholars of demonology and practitioners of ceremonial magic. These individuals analyze grimoires to understand the spirit's attributes and hierarchy. Training involves learning the correct names and seals associated with the duke. Scholars note that Allocer is opposed by the Shemhamphorasch angel Imamiah. This opposition requires careful handling during rituals to avoid conflict.

Peoples and places

The figure is rooted in European esoteric traditions. He appears in Latin and English grimoires compiled during the Renaissance. Modern interest extends to Japan, where he appears in popular culture. In the anime Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun, he is portrayed as a lion-headed boy named Allocer Schneider. This adaptation shows how historical figures are reinterpreted in contemporary media.

What people believe

Grimoires describe Allocer as part of a structured demonic hierarchy. He serves under higher powers and commands lower spirits. The belief system posits that spirits have specific domains and duties. Allocer's domain includes education and military command. The existence of opposing angels like Imamiah reflects a cosmic struggle between divine and demonic forces in this worldview.

When it is done

There are no specific festivals or calendar days tied to Allocer in the historical sources. Summonings were likely conducted based on the magician's needs or astrological timings relevant to astronomy. The lack of fixed dates suggests flexibility in when the spirit could be invoked.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Researchers view Allocer as a product of literary demonology. They analyze how grimoires constructed hierarchies of spirits to mirror earthly feudal systems. The variations in description across texts highlight the fluid nature of these manuscripts. Scholars note the influence of earlier magical traditions on the compilation of works like the Lesser Key of Solomon.

Compare and confuse

Allocer is often confused with other dukes of hell in demonological texts. His lion-headed appearance shares traits with other bestial spirits. The variation in his name and abilities across different grimoires distinguishes him from more consistently described entities. He is distinct from purely malevolent demons as he offers educational services.

Law and persecution

There are no specific legal records regarding the prosecution of Allocer summoners. However, historical witch trials often targeted individuals accused of dealing with demons. The classification of such spirits as demonic placed them outside accepted religious norms, leading to potential persecution in certain periods.

Questions people ask about Allocer

Good reading and sources

• Alloces on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data