18. Bathin (Bathim / Marthim) - Goetia Spirit of Movement, Travel and Astral Pathways
The eighteenth spirit described in the Ars Goetia is Bathin - a Duke associated with movement, travel, and something that goes a bit further than physical reality.
At first glance, his role seems simple.
Travel. Direction. Change of place.
But if you look closer… it’s not just about moving from one point to another.
It’s about opening the path itself.
Who is Bathin?
Bathin is known to appear in more than one form.
The first is intimidating - a strong figure with a serpent’s tail, riding a pale horse. This form tends to appear to those who approach without clear intent.
The second… completely different.
Some describe a refined, almost regal feminine presence, sometimes linked to Nephthys calm, composed, but deeply connected to hidden knowledge.
This duality already says a lot.
Movement - Physical and Beyond
Most texts mention that Bathin helps with travel.
But in practice, it rarely means just literal movement.
His influence is often noticed when:
life feels stuck or repetitive;
there is no clear direction forward;
opportunities seem blocked;
change feels necessary but doesn’t happen;
Then, slowly… things begin to shift.
Not forced.
More like paths start appearing where there were none.
Astral Knowledge and Perception
Bathin is also known for teaching astral projection.
Which, in practical terms, is often interpreted more broadly.
Not necessarily leaving the body… but expanding perception.
Seeing beyond your immediate situation.
Understanding possibilities you didn’t consider before.
And that naturally leads to movement.
The Nature of His Influence
Bathin doesn’t push aggressively.
He creates conditions.
A conversation happens.
An idea appears.
An opportunity shows up - sometimes unexpectedly.
At first, it might not seem connected.
But over time, a direction forms.
When Do People Work With Bathin?
In modern practice, Bathin is often approached when:
life feels stagnant or repetitive;
there is a need for relocation or travel;
direction is unclear;
opportunities are not appearing;
change feels necessary but blocked;
It’s less about forcing change.
More about allowing it to happen.
A Practical Observation
People often expect immediate movement.
A clear sign.
But more often, it begins quietly.
You start thinking differently.
You consider options you ignored before.
Something shifts… and then another thing follows.
And suddenly, you’re no longer in the same place - even if physically nothing changed yet.
Correspondences
Rank: Duke
Direction: North
Element: Earth
Planet: Venus
Metals: Copper, Lead
Plant: Mistletoe
Colors: Green, Purple
Incense: Sandalwood
Zodiac: Virgo
Optimal time: Mid-June / Sep 13–22 (daytime)
If You Are Considering Working With Bathin
If your situation feels stuck, or you sense that you need movement, change, or a new direction - Bathin is often approached for this type of work.
Not to push you forward.
But to make sure there is somewhere to move.
If you want to explore how this is applied in structured ritual work focused on travel, movement, and opening new paths, you can find more details here:
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Previous articles on this topic:
Where Demons Exist: A Multidimensional Model
Heaven and Hell as Parallel Worlds
Demon Summoning: How Does Contact Happen?
Demonology as a Science
Practical Demonology: Safety and Basics