How do I properly close a magical circle after evocation?

## Direct Answer Properly closing a magical circle after evocation is a multi-step process designed to formally conclude the ritual, ensure the departure of all invoked entities, purify the working space, and restore the practitioner to an ordinary, balanced state. The sequence generally proceeds as follows: first, the formal "license to depart" is given to the evoked spirit, granting it permission to leave and often providing instructions or blessings for its return. This is followed by a comprehensive banishing ritual, such as the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (LBRP), to clear the ritual space of any residual spiritual energies. Expressions of gratitude are then offered to the divine names and angelic intelligences that were called upon for protection and assistance. The physical parameters of the circle are then ritually or physically dissolved, and finally, the practitioner engages in grounding activities to fully re-integrate into the mundane world. ## Historical & Doctrinal Context The practice of closing a magical circle is deeply rooted in the Western esoteric tradition, reflecting principles of order, discernment, and proper relationship with spiritual intelligences. Ancient sources, such as the *Ghayat al-Hakim* (known in Latin as *Picatrix*), emphasize the importance of distinct phases in magical operations, including precise preparations and conclusions. The concept of formal dismissal is evident in various grimoires, indicating a long-standing understanding that spirits, once called, must be formally released. For instance, the *Lemegeton*, particularly the *Ars Goetia*, provides explicit forms for the "license to depart" after the infernal spirit has complied with the magician's demands or been given an instruction for its departure. The emphasis on banishing rituals, even after the spirit's dismissal, reflects a Neoplatonic influence on ceremonial magic. Philosophers like Porphyry and Iamblichus, in works such as *De Mysteriis*, discussed the nature of divine interaction and the importance of purification and proper alignment with higher rational principles. The later development of traditions, such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, formalized and systematized these practices into accessible rituals like the [Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram](/answers/lesser-banishing-ritual-of-the-pentagram) or the [Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Hexagram](/answers/lesser-banishing-ritual-of-the-hexagram), which serve to purify the elemental and planetary energies of a space. ## How It Works Closing a magical circle works on multiple levels: spiritual, energetic, and psychological. Spiritually, the "license to depart" formally terminates the magical link established during the evocation. This is not merely a polite request but a command, delivered with the authority imbued by the divine names invoked during the consecration of the circle. The spirit is thus given permission to return to its abode or carry out its assigned task. Energetically, banishing rituals serve to dissolve and disperse any lingering magical or spiritual residues that might remain in the ritual space. When a spirit manifests, it often leaves a subtle energetic imprint. Banishing rituals work by invoking divine names and symbols to purify the space, establishing a clear energetic boundary between the mundane and the sacred, and restoring the energetic equilibrium. This process clears the atmosphere, making the space suitable for ordinary use once more. Psychologically, the structured process of closing the circle helps the practitioner transition from the heightened state of consciousness required for ritual work back to a grounded, everyday mindset. The formality of dismissal, banishment, and gratitude provides a clear psychological boundary for the conclusion of the work, preventing the practitioner from carrying over intense ritual energies or altered states into their daily life. Grounding activities further solidify this transition. ## Practical Application ### License to Depart This is the critical first step. Address the evoked entity directly, acknowledging its presence and its service, and formally release it. A common formula from the *Lemegeton* might read: > "O [name of spirit], because thou hast diligently answered my demands, be thou ready to come unto me, whensoever I shall call thee, at any time or hour appointed, by the solemn rites of magic. And I charge thee, that thou depart peacefully, and do no harm to man or beast. Depart, therefore, in the name of the most merciful God, El, and Adonai, and return to thine order, and be ready to appear whensoever I shall call thee." It is crucial to be firm, clear, and unambiguous in this dismissal. If the spirit was bound or instructed, confirm the fulfillment of the conditions or reiterate the instructions for its departure. It is often recommended to accompany this dismissal with a physical gesture, such as a sweep of the hand or a specific sign of departure. ### Banishing Ritual Following the dismissal, perform a banishing ritual to cleanse the area. The [Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram](/compendium/lbrp) is the most widely adopted and effective. It involves: 1. **Qabalistic Cross:** To establish divine presence and balance. 2. **Forming Pentagrams at the Four Quarters:** Banishing earth, air, fire, and water energies and invoking Archangels. 3. **Circumambulating:** Sealing the space energetically. 4. **Repeat Qabalistic Cross:** To conclude with divine alignment. This ritual systematically clears and purifies the space, ensuring that no unwanted energies or influences linger. Other banishing rituals, such as the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Hexagram for planetary energies, may also be employed, depending on the specific nature of the preceding evocation. ### Gratitude and Deconsecration Offer sincere thanks to the divine names, angelic intelligences, and any higher powers invoked for protection and aid during the workin