Halphas/Malthus

Halphas

Halphas, also known by the variations Malthas, Malthus, and Malphas, is a demon documented within the tradition of Western demonology, specifically appearing as the thirty-eighth entity in the Ars Goetia, a section of the Lesser Key of Solomon. He holds the rank of Earl within the infernal hierarchy.

Role and Attestations

Halphas is primarily recognized for his influence over warfare and the provision of instruments of conflict. Most historical descriptions depict him as a hoarse-voiced stock dove, although some notable variations, such as those found in Johann Weyer's Pseudomonarchia Daemonum and Collin de Plancy's Dictionnaire Infernal, describe him as a stork. His attributed functions include supplying weapons and ammunition, often for fortified positions or towns, and actively inciting men to engage in war. He is said to command a significant contingent of spirits, numbering 26 legions.

Opposition and Context

Within the context of specific demonological traditions, Halphas is noted as being opposed by the Shemhamphorasch angel Haamiah. His presence in various grimoires and demonological texts of the early modern period solidifies his place in the catalog of infernal beings studied and invoked within occult practices of that era.