Fourth Pentacle of Mars: Victor's Seal

The Fourth Pentacle of Mars is recorded in Book I of the Key of Solomon (Clavicula Salomonis) among the seven Martial pentacles. Its documented purpose is stated with unusual directness: the text describes it as being "of great virtue and power in war," such that one armed with it "shalt be able to resist all thine enemies, and even to overcome them and put them to flight." It is, in effect, the grimoire's own victory talisman — designed to be carried into confrontation rather than used to avoid one.

Modern practitioners rarely march to literal war, but the pentacle's documented function translates cleanly to the confrontations of ordinary life: a contested legal battle, a hostile negotiation, a competitive process where an opposing party is working actively against your interests. Mars governs courage, decisive action, and the will to prevail, and this seal is built to be carried into exactly that kind of contest — not to cause harm, but to steel the practitioner's resolve and tip the balance of resistance in their favor when they are already standing their ground against genuine opposition.

The pentacle is drawn on a Tuesday in the hour of Mars, ideally as the moon waxes toward fullness so its assertive current builds rather than wanes. It is carried on the body — traditionally close to the chest — during the specific confrontation it was made for, and retired once the matter is resolved.