The Element Encyclopedia of Witchcraft: The Complete A-Z for the Entire Magical World - Judika Illes 2005

Azazel
The Horned One and The Devil

Azazel is a desert spirit worshipped by ancient Semites. He rules over a band of goat-spirits, the Se’irim. Azazel is famous for his part in Jewish Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) rituals. As per instructions in Leviticus 16: 21-28, two goats were brought into the Jerusalem Temple. One was sacrificed to the Creator; the other dedicated to Azazel is the original scapegoat. The sins of the people were ritually transferred to this goat, which was then brought to the desert and set free as an offering to Azazel. Although this was a Jewish custom, its roots are believed to be pre-Judaic.

Azazel is also among the rebel angels. He taught the daughters of man the craft of metalworking and the sacred art of cosmetics. In Christian demonology, Azazel is considered a fallen angel and counted among Satan’s host. Perhaps because of his strong associations with goats, his name is also sometimes used as a synonym for Satan.

See The Devil, Se’irim; MAGICAL PROFESSIONS: Metalworkers.