In the chilling world of horror, few entities are as notorious as the demon Malthus, intricately linked to the infamous Annabelle doll. This blog post delves into the dark history of Malthus, exploring its origins, its sinister influence in the Conjuring Universe, and the terrifying events that have unfolded around it.
Key Takeaways
- Malthus is an Earl of Hell, often associated with manipulation and possession.
- The demon’s lore is rooted in ancient texts, including the Dead Sea Scrolls and The Lesser Key of Solomon.
- Malthus preys on the vulnerable, using deception to achieve its goals.
- The Annabelle doll serves as a vessel for Malthus, amplifying its power and reach.
The Origin Of Malthus
To understand Malthus, we must journey back to ancient texts. The demon is first mentioned in The Devil’s Welcome, a spellbook that outlines the Rite of Evocation. This rite involves summoning evil spirits, and Malthus is one of the most malevolent among them.
The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in 1947, hint at the existence of demons like Malthus, suggesting a long history of malevolence. The scrolls date back to around 20 BCE, making them some of the oldest references to such entities.
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Malthus In The Lesser Key Of Solomon
Malthus is classified as an Earl of Hell in The Lesser Key of Solomon, a 17th-century grimoire detailing various demons. This book serves as a significant source of lore for the Conjuring franchise, listing 72 demons, each with specific roles in the hierarchy of Hell.
Interestingly, Malthus is depicted not as a ram-like creature but as a wicked figure with a hoarse voice. This portrayal contrasts with the cinematic representation, where Malthus is often associated with a cult known as the Disciples of Ram.
The Disciples Of Ram
The Disciples of Ram are a cult that worships Malthus, performing rituals to summon the demon. The evocation page in The Devil’s Welcome states that blood must be shed to summon Malthus, emphasizing the dark nature of these rituals. The cult’s followers embody the uncleanliness required for such a summoning, making them prime targets for Malthus’s manipulation.
Haunting The Mullins Family
Malthus’s early interactions with humanity began with the Mullins Family. After the tragic loss of their daughter, Annabelle, the family became vulnerable to Malthus’s influence. The demon exploited their grief, leading them to believe they could communicate with their deceased daughter through the Annabelle doll.









