Mag
Mag is a female demon in Mandaeism, typically mentioned alongside the male demon Hag. Together, they are referred to as the "two manas of darkness" and are encountered by Hibil Ziwa during his descent into the World of Darkness. Their names are believed to be derived from Gog and Magog.
Key Facts
- ›Mag is a female demon in Mandaeism.
- ›She is usually mentioned in conjunction with the male demon Hag.
- ›Hag and Mag are collectively known as the "two manas of darkness."
- ›They are encountered by Hibil Ziwa during his descent into the World of Darkness.
- ›Mag's name is likely derived from Gog and Magog.
World of Darkness
Right Ginza, Book 5, Chapter 1
Hag, Hibil Ziwa
Darkness
Likely Derived From Gog and Magog.
Scorpion
About Mag
Mag in Mandaeism
Mag is a female demon within Mandaeism, a Gnostic religion. She is almost invariably mentioned in tandem with the male demon Hag, and together they are referred to as the "two manas of darkness." This pairing holds significance within Mandaean cosmology and narratives concerning the struggle between light and darkness.
Encounter in the World of Darkness
The primary textual attestation for Mag appears in Chapter 1 of Book 5 of the Right Ginza, a key Mandaean scripture. Here, Mag and Hag are encountered by Hibil Ziwa, a significant figure in Mandaean mythology, during his descent into the World of Darkness. Their designation as "two manas of darkness" highlights their role as malevolent forces or principles within this realm.
Etymology and Associations
Scholars suggest that the names Hag and Mag are etymologically linked to the biblical figures Gog and Magog, indicating a potential influence or parallel drawn from Abrahamic traditions. While Hag is specifically associated with the image of a scorpion on the skandola talisman, Mag shares this context as part of the demonic pair representing the forces of the World of Darkness.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mag in Mandaeism?
Mag is a female demon in Mandaeism, often paired with the male demon Hag. Together, they are referred to as the "two manas of darkness."
What is the significance of Hag and Mag?
Hag and Mag are significant as the "two manas of darkness" encountered by Hibil Ziwa during his journey into the World of Darkness, as described in Mandaean texts.
What is the origin of the names Hag and Mag?
The names Hag and Mag are believed to be derived from the biblical figures Gog and Magog.
Related Demons
Shdum
Shdum is a significant demon within Mandaean cosmology, residing in the World of Darkness. He is identified as the "King of Darkness" and "Grandson of Darkness," playing a role in Hibil Ziwa's descent into the underworld as described in the Right Ginza. His existence highlights the dualistic nature of Mandaean belief, contrasting light and darkness.
Anathan
Anathan is a prominent demon within the Mandaean World of Darkness, described as a "warrior of darkness" and a "warlike giant." He is the husband of the demoness Qin and is encountered by Hibil Ziwa during his descent into the underworld. Anathan, along with Qin, is collectively referred to as the "giants of darkness."
Gaf
Gaf is a male demon in Mandaeism, known as the consort of Ruha, the queen of the World of Darkness. He is also the father of Ur, the king of this underworld realm. Gaf is typically depicted as a giant and is mentioned in the sacred text Ginza Rabba.