Abezethibou is a demon associated with the Red Sea in the Testament of Solomon. F. C. Conybeare’s English translation spells the name Abezithibod. The spirit’s own speech links him with opposition to Moses and with a pillar later brought before Solomon.
The spirit questioned by Solomon
In Conybeare’s sections 125–127, Solomon questions the spirit who has come up with the pillar. Abezithibod describes himself as descended from an archangel, formerly seated in the first heaven, called Ameleouth, and as having a single wing.
Ameleouth is the name given to the heaven in this speech. The passage does not identify the demon as a former Raphael. Keeping the speaker, his claimed descent and the place he names distinct avoids introducing a different angel into the account.
Egypt, the sea and the pillar
The demon claims to have hardened Pharaoh’s heart and to have supported the opponents of Moses, named Iannes and Iambres in this translation. He describes following the Egyptian pursuit into the Red Sea, remaining there beneath a pillar when the waters returned, and being brought up by Ephippas.
Solomon binds the spirits to keep supporting the pillar. The passage describes a one-winged being but does not explain the wing as a limb broken by the pillar or the returning water. Those added details should not be represented as part of Conybeare’s account.
The Testament of Solomon brings Abezethibou into the Exodus story as a speaker in Solomon’s interrogation. The biblical account of the sea crossing does not name him.
Explore related entries
Read Mastema, Asmodeus, Abaddon, the fallen-angel catalogue, or the guide to source traditions.