Philemon

Philemon is a benevolent spirit who bestows Personae to people he resides in the realm quotbetween consciousness and unconsciousnessquot. He physically resembles a tall man wearing a white mask. In the waking world his presence is indicated by a golden butterfly. Philemon operates as an ally to the party despite the fact that he can only watch events unfold as a neutral observer. As such he cannot directly interfere with anything that is going on. Philemon is conducting an experiment with his rival Nyarlathotep over humanity039s destiny. Philemon believes they can become enlightened higher beings but Nyarlathotep manipulates events to ensure mankind039s destruction. In Persona 3039s Hermit Social Link as well as references to the Joker Maya and Tatsuya when the protagonist begins the game an automated script named PHIL welcomes him. This is most probably a reference to Philemon.