15d • General discussion
Goetia vs. Infernals — What’s the Difference?
Goetia
Goetia refers to a specific, structured system of spirits found in Lesser Key of Solomon, particularly the Ars Goetia.
Key traits
- Fixed hierarchy of 72 named spirits
- Each spirit has a rank (King, Duke, Marquis, etc.)
- Clear sigils, offices, and powers
- Traditionally worked through ritual structure, circles, conjurations, and authority
- Often focused on practical outcomes: love, influence, knowledge, wealth, secrets, protection
How they’re approached
- Historically through command and constraint
- Modern demonolatry often reframes this as respectful alliance
- Very methodical and ceremonial
Think of Goetia as:
A codified catalog with instructions.
Infernals
“Infernals” is a broader umbrella term, not a single grimoire or system.
Key traits
- Includes underworld, chthonic, hell-associated spirits
- May include demons, spirits of punishment, rulers of realms, primal forces
- Not limited to names, ranks, or sigils
- Often rooted in folklore, ancestral belief, regional traditions, or personal gnosis
How they’re approached
- Relationship-based
- Devotional, initiatory, or spirit-led
- Less about command, more about exchange, pact, or alignment
- Often tied to shadow work, transformation, sovereignty, taboo breaking
Think of Infernals as:
A realm or current rather than a list
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Goetia vs. Infernals — What’s the Difference?
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