Balban Demon

The Balban demon is a lesser-known but intriguing figure in demonological lore, often referenced in grimoire traditions such as The Lesser Key of Solomon and Pseudomonarchia Daemonum. While not as prominent as demons like Asmodeus or Baphomet, Balban holds a distinct place in occult literature and pop culture.

Historical and Occult Origins
In traditional demonology, Balban is depicted as a king-ranked demon who commands multiple legions of spirits. Though references to him are rare and sometimes ambiguous, his presence is most often linked with the Ars Goetia, the first section of The Lesser Key of Solomon, and Johann Weyer’s Pseudomonarchia Daemonum,* a 16th-century catalog of demons.

📜 Key Attribute: Balban is often noted for his power to render people invisible, a magical ability commonly associated with secrecy and manipulation.

Physical Descriptions
Balban's appearance varies widely across sources, which is typical for entities in demonological texts. He has been described in forms that include:

Cat-like or toad-like features

Human-like form with multiple animal heads

A hoarse or echoing voice, often a symbolic marker of his otherworldly nature

These descriptions are often metaphorical, reflecting the demon’s perceived roles or domains rather than literal appearances.

Symbolism and Interpretations
Scholars and occult practitioners interpret Balban as a symbol of hidden influence, deception, or arcane knowledge. His ability to make men invisible metaphorically ties him to cloaked intentions or secretive power structures.

Balban in Popular Culture
In recent years, Balban has been reimagined in media, including a brief but impactful appearance in the 2021 horror film The Exorcism of God. Here, Balban is portrayed as a malevolent force—a creative adaptation with little basis in historical grimoires but consistent with horror genre conventions.

Accuracy Note
It's important to clarify that Balban is not one of the major named demons in most traditional occult systems. His role is often exaggerated or fictionalized in modern interpretations.

Summary
Attribute Description
Rank King among demons
Powers Makes men invisible, commands legions
Forms Cat-like, toad-like, human-animal hybrids
Key Sources The Lesser Key of Solomon, Pseudomonarchia Daemonum
Modern Usage Seen in The Exorcism of God (2021)

Balban remains a mysterious and symbolic figure in demonology—representing hidden power, transformation, and the allure of the unknown.