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Transcr ibed directly from the 1654 translation by Robert Turner, published
along with other collected papers aThs e Fourth Book of Occult Philo. Nosophy
par t of this edition is under copyright.
Acrobat version created by Benjamin Rowe, September 30, 2000.
HENR Y C O RN ELIUS AGR I PPA,
Of O cc u l t P hi l o s o p h y
Or
Of M agical C er e m on i e s :
The Fourth Book In our Books of Occult Philosophy, we have not so compendiously, as copi-
ously, dec lared the principles, grounds, and reasons of Magick it self, and
after what maner the experiments thereof are to be chosen, elected, and com-
pounded, to produce many wonderful effects; but because in those books they
are treated of, rather Theorically, than Practically; and some also are not han-
dled compleatly and fully, and others very figuratively, and as it were Enig-
matically and obscure Riddles, as being those which we have attained unto
with great study, diligence, and very curious searching and exploration, and
are heretofore set for th in a more rude and unfashioned maner. Therefore in
this book, which we have composed and made as it were a Complement and
Key of our other books of Occult Philosophy, and of all Magical Operations,
we will give unto thee the documents of holy and undefiled verity, and Inex-
pugnable and Unresistable Magical Discipline, and most pleasant and delec-
table experiments of the sacred Deities. So that as by the reading of our other
books of Occult Philosophy, thou maist earnestly covet the knowledge of
these things; even so with reading this book, thou shalt truely triumph.
W herefore let silence hide these things within the secret closets of they reli-
gious breast, and conceal them with constant Taciturnity.
This therefore is to be known, That the names of the intelligent presidents
of ever y one of the Planets are constituted after this maner: that is to say, By
collecting together the letters out of the figure of the world, from the rising of
the body of the Planet, according to the succession of the Signes through the
several degrees; and out of the several degrees, from the aspects of the Planet
himself, the calculation being made from the degree of the ascendant. In the
like maner are constituted the names of the Princes of the evil spirits; they are
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taken under all the Planets of the presidents in a retrograde order, the projec-
tion being made contrary to the succession of the Signes, from the beginning
of the seventh House. Now the name of the supreme & highest intelligence,
which many do suppose to be the soul of the world, is collected out of the
four Cardinal points of the figure of the world, after the maner already deliv-
ered: & by the opposite and contrar y way, is known the name of the great
Daemon, or evil spirit, upon the four cadent Angles. In the like maner shalt
thou understand the names of the great presidential spirits ruling in the Air,
from the four Angles of the succedent Houses; so that as to obtain the names
of the good spirits, the calculation is to be made according to the succession
of the signes, beginning from the degree of the ascendant; and to attain to the
names of the evil spirits, by working the contrar y way.
You must also observe, that the names of the evil spirits are extracted,
aswel from the names of the good spirits, as of the evil: so notwithst anding,
that if we enter the table with the name of a good spirit of the second order,
the name of the evil spirit shall be extracted from the order of the Princes and
Governours; but if we enter the table with the name of an evil spir it a Gover-
nour, after what maner soever they are extracted, whether by this table, or
from a celestial figure, the names which to proceed from hence, shall be the
names of evil spirits, the Ministers of the inferiour order.
It is further to be noted, That as often as we enter this table with the good
spir its of the second order, the names extracted are of the second order: and if
under them we extract the name of an evil spirit, he is of the superiour order
of the Governours. The same order is, if we enter with the name of an evil
spir it of the superiour order. If therefore we enter this table with the names of
the sp irits of the third order, or with the names of the ministring sp irits,
aswel of the good spirits, as of the evil, the names extracted shall be the
names of the ministring spirits of the inferiour order.
But many Magicians, men of no small Author ity, will have the tables of
this kinde to be extended with Latine letters: so that by the same tables also,
out of the name of any office or effect, might be found out the name of any
spirit, aswel good as evil, by the same maner which is above delivered, by tak-
ing the name of the office or of the effect, in the columne of letters, in their
own line, under their own star. And of this practice Trismegistus is a great
Author, who delivered this kinde of calculation in Egyptian letters: not
unproperly also may the be referred to other letters of other tongues, for the
reasons assigned to the signes; for truly he only is extant of all men, who have
treated concerning the attaining to the names of spir its.
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Therefore the force, secrecy and power, in what maner the sacred names of
spirits are truly and rightly found out, consisteth in the disposing of the vow-
els, which do make the name of a spirit, and wherewith is constituted the true
name and right word. Now this art is thus perfected and brought to pass:
first, we are to take heed of the placing the vowels of the letters, which are
found by the calculation of the celestial figure, to finde the names of the spir-
its of the second order, Presidents and Governours. And this in the good
spirits, is thus brought to effect, by considering the starts which do constitute
and make the letters, and by placing them according to their order: first, let
the degree of the eleventh House be subtracted from the degree of that star
which is first in order; and that which remaineth thereof, let it be projected
from the degree of the ascendant, and where that number endeth, there is
par t of the vowel of the first letter: begin therefore to calculate the vowels of
these letters, according to their number and order; and the vowel which fall-
eth in the place of the star, which is first in order, the same vowel is attributed
to the first letter. Then afterwards thou shalt finde the part of the second let-
ter, by subtracting the degree of a star which is the second in order from the
first star; and that whic h remaineth, cast from the ascendant. And this is the
par t from which thou shalt begin the calculation of the vowels; and that
vowel which falleth upon the second star, the same is the vowel of the second
letter. And so consequently maist thou search out the vowels of the following
letters alwaies, by substracting the degree of the following star; from the
degree of the star next preceding and going before. And so also all calcula-
tions and numerations in the names of the good spirits, ought to be made
according to the succession of the signes. And in calculating the names of the
evil spirits, where in the names of the good spirits is taken the degree of the
eleventh House, in these ought to be taken the degree of the twelfth House.
And all numerations and calculations may be made with the succession of the
signes, by taking the beginning from the degree of the tenth House.
But in all extractions by tables, the vowels are placed after another maner.
In the first place therefore is taken the certain number of letters making the
name itself, and is thus numbred from the beginning of the columne of the
first letter, or whereupon the name is extracted; and the letter on which this
number falleth, is referred to the first letter of the name, extracted by taking
the distance of the one from the other, according to the order of the Alpha-
bet. But the number of that distance is projected from the beginning of his
columne; and where it endeth, there is part of the first vowel: from thenc e
therefore thou shalt calculate the vowels themselves, in their own number and
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The fourth book
order, in the same columne; and the vowel which shall fall upon the first let-
ter of a name, the same shall be attributed to that name. Now thou shalt finde
the following vowels, by taking the distance from the precedent vowel to the
following: and so consequently according to the succession of the Alphabet.
And the number of that distance is to be numbered from the beginning of his
owne columne; and where he shall cease, there is the part of the vowel sought
after. From thence therefore must you calculate the vowels, as we have above-
said; and those vowels which shall fall upon their own letters, are to be attrib-
uted to them; if therefore any vowel shall happen to fall upon a vowel, the
former must give place to the latter: and this you are to understand only of
the good spirits. In the evil also you may proceed in the same way; except
only, that you make the numberations after a contrar y and bac kward order,
contrar y to the succession of the Alphabet, and contrary to the order of the
columnes (that is to say) in ascending.
The name of good Angels, and of every man, which we have taught how
to finde out, in our third book of Occult P hilosophy, according to that maner,
is of no little Authority, nor of a mean foundation. But now we will give unto
thee some other ways, illustrated with no vain reasons. One whereof is, by
taking in the figure of the nativity, the five places of Hylech: which being
noted, the characters of the letters are projected in their order and number
from the beginning of Aries; and those letters which fall upon t he degrees of
said places, according to their order and dignity disposed and aspected, do
make the name of a n Angel. There is also another way, wherein they do take
Almutel, which is the r uling and governing stars over the aforesaid five
places; and the projection is to be made from the degree of the ascendant;
which is done by gathering together the letters falling upon Almutel: whic h
being p laced i n o rder, a ccording t o t heir d ignity, d o m ake the n ame o f a n
Angel. There is furthermore another way used, and very much had in obser-
vation among the Egyptians, by making their calculation from the degree of
the ascendant, and by gathering together the letters according to the Almutel
of the eleventh House; which House they c all a good Daemon: which being
placed according to their dignities, the names of the Angels are constituted.
Now the names of the evil Angels are known after the like maner, except only
that the projections must be performed contrary to the course and order of
the succession of the signes, so that whereas in seeking the names of good
spirits, we are to calculate from the beginning of Aries; contrariwise, in attain-
ing the names of the evil, we ought to account from the beginninLibrg ofa .
And whereas in the good spirits we number from the degree of the ascendant;
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contrarily, in the evil, we must calculate from the degree of the seventh
House. But according to the Egyptians, the name of an Angel is collected
according to the Almutel of the twelfth House, which they call an evil spirit.
Now all those rites, which are elsewhere already by us delivered in our third
book o f Occult Philosophy, may b e m ade by t he c haracters o f a ny language.
In a ll w hic h ( as w e h ave a bovesaid) t here i s a mystical a nd d ivine n umber,
order and figure; from whence it cometh to pass, that the same sp irit may be
called by divers names. But others are discovered from the name of the spirit
himself, of the good or evil, by tables formed to this purpose.
Now these celestial characters do consist of lines and heads: the heads are
six, according to the six magnitudes of the stars, whereunto the planets also
are reduced. The first magnitude holdeth a Star, with the Sun, or a Cross.
The second with Jupiter in a circular point. The third holdeth with Saturn, a
semicircle, a triangle, either crooked, round, or acute. The fourth with Mars,
a little stroke penetrating the line, either square, straight, or oblique. Th e
fifth with Venus and Mercury, a little stroke or point with a tail, ascending or
descending. The sixth with the Moon, a point made black. All you may see in
the ensuing table. The heads then being posited according to the site of the
Stars in the figure of Heaven, then the lines are to be drawn out, according to
the congruency or agreement of their natures. And this you are to understand
of the fixed Stars. But in the erecting of the Planets, the lines are drawn out,
the heads being posited according to their course and nature amongst them-
selves.
When therefore a character is to be found of any celestial Image ascending
in any degree or face of a signe, which do consist of Stars of the same magni-
tude and nature; then the number of these S tars being posited according to
their place and order, the lines are drawn after the similitude of the Image
signified, as copiously as the same c an be done.
But the Characters which are extracted according to the name of a spirit,
are composed by the table following, by giving to every letter that name
which agreeth unto him, out of the table; which although it may appear easie
to those that apprehend it, yet there is herein no small difficulty; To wit,
when the letter of a name falleth upon the line of letters or figures, that we
may k now which f igure or which letter is to be taken. A nd this may be thus
known: for if a letter falleth upon the line of letters, consider of what number
this letter may be in the order of the name; as the second, or the third; then
how m any letters t hat name containeth; a s five o r seven; a nd m ultiply these
numbers one after another by themselves, and triple the product: then cast
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Stars. Heads. Lines Joyned to the Heads.
the whole (being added together) from the beginning of the letters, according
to the succession of the Alphabet: and the letter upon which that number
shall happen to fall, ought to be placed for the character of that spirit. But if
any letter of a name fall on the line of f igures, it is thus to be wrought. Take
the number how many this letter is in the order of the name, and let it be
multiplied by that number of which this letter is in the order of the Alphabet;
and being added together, divide it by nine, and the remainder she weth the
figure or number to be placed in the character: and this may be put either in a
Geometrical or Arithmetical figure of number; which notwithstanding ought
not to exceed the number of nine, or nine Angles.
But the Characters which are understood by the revelation of Spirits, take
their ver tue from thence; because they are, as it were, cer tain hidden seals,
making the harmony of some divinity : either they are signes of a Covenant
entred into, and of promised and plighted faith, or of obedience. And those
Characters cannot by any other means be searched out.
Moreover, besides these Characters, there are certain familiar Figures or
Images of evil Spirits, under which forms they are wont to appear, and yield
obedience to them that invoke them. All these Characters or Images may be
seen by the table following, according to the course of the letters constituting
the names of Spirits themselves: so that if in any letter there is found more
then the name of one Spir it, his Image holdeth the pre-eminence, the others
imparting their own order; so that they which are the first orders, to them is
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T he C ha r a ct ers of g o od S pir i t s .
A simple point. Round. Starry
Straight standing line Lying. Oblique.
Line Crooked like a bow. Like waves. Toothed
Intersection right. Inherent. Adhering separate.
Oblique intersection simple. Mixt. Manifold.
Perpendicular right dexter. Sinister. Neuter.
A whole figure. Broken. Half.
A letter inhering. Adhering. Separate.
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T he C h a r a ct er s of evi Sl pir i t s .
A right line. Crooked. Reflexed.
A simple figure. Penetrate. Broken.
A right letter. Retrograde. Inversed.
Flame. Winde. Water.
A mass. Rain. Clay
A flying thing. A creeping thing. A serpent.
An eye. A hand. A foot.
A crown. A crest. Horns.
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attributed the head, the upper part of the body, according to their own figure:
those which are lowest, do possess the thighs and feet; so als o the middle let-
ters do attribute like to themselves the middle parts of the body, or give the
par ts that fit. But if there happen any contrar iety, that letter which is the
stronger in the number shall bear rule: and if they are equal, they all impar t
equal things. Furthermore, if any name shall obtain any notable Character or
Instrument out of the Table, he shall likewise have the same character in the
Image.
We may also attain to the knowledge of the dignities of the evil Spirits, by
the same Tables of Charac ters and images: for upon what spirit soever there
falleth any excellent signe or instr ument out of the Table of Characters, he
possesseth that dignity. As if there shall be Crown, it sheweth a Kingly dig-
nity; if a Crest or P lume, a Dukedom; if a Horn, a County; if without these
there be a Scepter, Sword, or forked Instr ument, it sheweth Rule and
Authorit y. Likewise out of the Table of Images you shall finde them which
bear the chief Kingly dignity: from the Crown judge dignity; and from the
Instruments, Rule and Authorit y. Lastly, they which bear an humane shape
and figure, have greater dignity then those which appear under the Forms
and Images of Beasts; they also who ride, do excel them which appear on
foot. And thus according to all their commixtures, you may judge the dignity
and excellency of Spirits, one before another. Moreover, you must under-
stand, that the Spirits of the inferior order, of what dignity soever they be, are
alwaies subject to the Spirits of the superior order: so also, that it is not
incongruent for their Kings and Dukes to be Subject and Minister to the
presidents of the superior order.
The shapes familiar to the Spirits of Saturn.
They appear for the most part with a tall, lea n and slender body, with an
angr y countenance, having four faces; one in the hinder part of the head, one
on the former part of the head, and on each side nosed or beaked: there like-
wise appeareth a face on each knee, of a black shining color: their motion is
the moving of the winde, with a kinde of earthquake: their signe is which
earth, whiter than any Snow.
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The particular forms are,
A King having a beard, riding on a Dragon.
An Old man with a beard.
An Old woman leaning on a staffe.
A Hog.
A Dragon.
An Owl.
A Black Garment.
A Hooke or Sickle.
A Juniper-tree.
The familiar forms to the Spirits of Jupiter.
The Spir its of Jupiter do appear with a bod y sanguine and choler ick, of a
middle stature, with a horrible fear ful motion; but with a milde countenance,
a gentle speech, and of the color of Iron. The motion of them is flashings of
Lightning and Thunder; their signe is, there will appear men about the circle,
who shall seem to be devoured of lions.
Their particular forms are,
A King with a Sword drawn, riding on a Stag.
Honso A Man wearing a Mitre in long rayment.
mitratus. A Maid with a Laurel-Crown adorned with Flowers.
A Bull.
A Stag.
A Peacock.
Azurino An Azure Garment.
vestis. A Sword.
Buxus. A Box-tree.
The familiar forms of the Spirits of Mars.
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They a ppear i n a t all b ody, c holerick, a f ilthy c ountenance, o f c olour
brown, swarthy, or red, having horns like Harts horns, and Griphins claws,
bellowing like wilde Bulls. Their motion is like fire burning; their signe
Thunder and Lightning about the circ le.
Their particular shapes are,
A King armed riding upon a Wolf.
A Man armed.
A Woman holding a buckler on her thigh.
A Hee-goat.
A Horse.
A Stag.
A Red Garment.
Wool.
A Cheeslip.
Multiceps.
Shapes familiar to the Spirits of the Sun
The Spirits of the Sun do for the most part appear in a large, full and great
body sanguine a nd gross, in a g old c olour, with t he t incture of blood. T heir
motion is as the Lightning of Heaven; their signe is to move the person to
sweat that calls them. But their particular forms are,
A King having a Scepter r iding on a Lion.
A King crowned.
A Queen with a Scepter.
A Bird.
A Lion.
A Cock.
A yellow or golden Garment.
A Scepter.
Caudatus.
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Familiar shapes of the Spirits of Venus.
They do appear with a fair body, of middle stature, with an amiable and
pleasant countenance, of colour white or green, the upper part golden. The
motion of them is as it were a most clear Star. For their signe, there will seem
to be maids playing without the Circle, which will provoke and allure him
that calleth them to play. But their particular forms are,
A King with a Scepter riding on a Camel.
A Maid clothed and dressed beautifully.
A Maid naked.
A Shee-goat.
A Camel.
A Dove.
A white or green Garment.
Flowers.
The herb Savine.
The familiar forms of the Spirits of Mercury.
The Spirits of Mercury will appear for the most part in a body of middle
stature, cold, liquid and moist, fair, and with an affable speech; in a humane
shape and form, like unto a Knight armed; of colour clear and bright. The
motion of them is as it were silver-colored clouds. For their signe, they cause
and bring horror and fear into him that calls them. But their particular shapes
are,
A King riding upon a Bear.
A fair Youth.
A Woman holding a distaffe.
A Dog.
A Shee-bear.
A Magpie.
A Garment of sundry changeable colours.
A Rod.
A little Staffe.
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The forms familiar to the Spirits of the Moon.
They will for the most part appear in a great and full body, soft and phleg-
matic, of colour like a black obscure cloud, having a swelling countenance,
with eyes red and full of water, a bald head, and teeth like a wilde boar. Thei r
motion is as it were an exceeding great tempest of the Sea. For their signe,
there will appear an exceeding great rain about the Circ le. And their particu-
lar shapes are,
A King like an Archer riding upon a Doe.
A little Boy.
A Woman-hunter with a bow and arrows.
A Cow.
A little Doe.
A Goose.
A Garment green or sil ver-coloured.
An Arrow.
A Creature having many feet.
But we now come to speak of the holy a nd sacred Pentacles and Sigils.
Now these pentacles, are as it were certain holy signes preserving us from evil
chances and events, and helping and assisting us to binde, exterminate, and
drive away evil spirits, and alluring the good spirits, and reconciling them
unto us. And these pentacles do consist either of Characters of the good spir-
its or the superior order, or of sacred pictures of h oly letters or revelations,
with apt and fit versicles, which are composed either of Geometrical figures
and holy names of God, according to the course and maner of many of them;
or they are compounded of all of them, or ver y many of them mixt. And the
Characters which are useful for us to constitute and make the pentacles, they
are the Characters of the good Spirits, especially and chiefly of the good Spir-
its of the first and second order, and sometimes also of the third order. And
this kinde of Characters are especially to be named holy; and then those
Characters which we have above called holy. What Character soever there-
fore of this kinde is to be instituted, we must draw about him a double circle,
wherein we must write the name of his Angel: and if we will adde some
divine name congruent with his Spirit and Office, it will be of the greater
force and efficacy. And if we will draw about him any angular figure, accord-
ing to the maner of his numbers, that also shall be lawful to be done. But the
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holy pictures which do make the pentacles, are they which everywhere are
delivered unto us in the Prophets and Sacred Writings, as well of the old as of
The the new Testament. Even as the figure of the Ser pent hanging on the cross,
brazen and such-like; wereof very many may be found out of the visions of the
serpent Prophets, as ofEs aias, Daniel, Esdra ans d others, and also out of the revela-
set up in tion of the Apocalyp.se A nd we have s poken o f t hem i n o ur third b ook o f
the wil- Occult Philosophy, where we have made mention of holy things. Therefore
derness. when any picture is posited of any of these holy Images, let the circle be
drawn round about it on each side thereof, wherein let there be written some
divine name, that is apt and conformed to the effect of that figure, or else
there may be written about it some versic le taken out of part of the body of
holy Scripture, which may desire to ascertain or deprecate the desired effect.
As, if a pentacle were to be made to gain victory or revenge against ones ene-
mies, aswel visible as invisible, The figure may be taken out of the second
book of the Macchabees th: at is to say, a hand holding a golden Sword drawn,
about which let there be written about it a versic le there contained; To wit,
Accipe gla- Take thy holy Sword, the gift of God, wherewith thou shalt slay the adversaries of
dium sanc- my people Isr. Oael r also there may be written about it a versic le of the fifth
tum, Psalm: In this is the strength of thy arm: before thy face ther or some is deaeth;-
munus a such like versicle. But if you write any divine name about the figure, then let
Deo, in some name be taken that signifies Fear, a Sword, Wrath, the Revenge of
quo con- God, or some such-like name congruent and agreeing with the effect desired.
cides And if there shall be written any Angular figure, let him be taken according
adversar- to the reason and rule of the numbers, as we have taught in our second book
ios populi of Occult Philosophy, where we have treated of the numbers, and of the like
mei Israel. operations. And of this sort there are two pentacles of sublime vertue and
great power, ver y useful and necessary to be used in the consecration of exper-
iments and S pirits: one whereof is that in the first chapter Apof ocalyp; Tse o
Ego sum pri- wit, a figure of the Majesty of God sitting upon a Throne, having in his
mus & novissi-mouth a two-edged Sword, as there it is written, about which let there be
mus, vivus & written, I am Alpha & Omega, the beginning and the end, which is, and which
sui mortuus; & was, and which is to come, the Almighty. I am the first and the last, who am living,
ecce sum viv- and was dead, and behold I live for ever and ever; and I have the keys of death and
ens in sicula hel.l Then there shall be written about it these three versicles.
siculor um; &
habeo claves Manda Deus virtuti tua, &c.
mortis & Give commandment, O God, to thy strength.
inferni. Confirm, Oh God, thy work in us.
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Let them be as dust be fore the face of the winde. And let the Angel of the Lord
scatter them. Let all their wayes be darkness and uncertain. And let the Angel of the
Lord persecute them.
Moreover, let there be wr itten about it the ten general names, which are,
El, Elohim, Elohe, Zebaoth, Elion, Escerchie, Adonay, Jah, Tetragrammaton,
Saday.
There is another pentac le, the figure whereof is like una Lambto e slain,
having seven eyes, and seven horns, and under his feet a book sealed with seven
seal, as it is sin the5. chap of . the Apoca lyp.se W hereabout let there be written
this versicle:Be hold the Lion hath overcome of the Tribe of Judah, the root of
David. I will open the book, and unloose the seven sea Anls tdh onereofe .other
versicle: I saw Satan like lightning fall down from the heaven. Behold, I have
given you power to tread upon Serpents and Scorpions, and over all the power of
your enemies, and nothing shall be able to h Anurt youd let t. here be also wr itten
about it the ten general names, as aforesaid.
But those Pentacles which are thus made of figures and names, let them
keep this order: for when any figure is posited, conformable to any number, to
produce any cer tain effect or vertue, there must be written thereupon, in all
the se veral Angles, some Divine name, obtaining the force and efficacie of
the thing desired: yet so nevertheless, that the name which is of this sort do
consist of just so many letters, as the Figure may constitute a number; or of so
many letters of a name, as joyned together amongst themselves, may make
the number of a Figure; or by any number which may be divided without any
super fluity or diminution. Now such a name being found, whether it be onely
one name or more, or divers names, it is to be written in all the several Angles
of the Figure: but in the middle of the Figure let the revolution of the name
be whole and totally placed, or at least pr incipally.
Oftentimes also we constitute Pentac les, by making the revolution of some
kinde of name, in a square Table, and by drawing a bout it a single or double
Circle, and by writing therein some holy Versicle competent and befitting
this name, or from which that name is extracted. And this is the way of mak-
ing the Pentacles, according to their several distinct forms and fashions,
which we may as we please either multiply or commix together by course
among themselves, to work the greater efficacie, and extension and enlarge-
ment of force and vertue.
As, if a deprec ation should be made for the overthrow and destruction of
ones enemies, then we are to minde and call to remembrance how God
15
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The fourth book
destroyed the whole face of the earth in the deluge of waters; and the destruc-
tion of Sodom and Gomorrha, by raining down fire and brimstone; likewise,
how God over threw Pharaoh and his host in the Red-Sea: and to call to
minde if any other malediction or curse be found in holy Wr it. And thus in
things of the like sort. So likewise in deprec ating and pra ying against perils
and dangers of waters, we ought to call to remembrance the saving of Noah
in the deluge of waters, the passing of the children of Israel thorow the Red-
Sea; and also we are to minde how Christ walked upon the waters, and saved
the ship in danger to be cast away with the tempest; and how he commanded
the windes and the waves, and they obeyed him; and also, that hePe drteewr
out of the water, being in danger of drowning: and the like. And lastly, with
these we invoke and call upon some certain holy names of God, God; to wit,
such as are significative to accomplish our desire, and accomodated to the
desired effect: as, if it be to overthrow enemies, we are to invoke and call
upon the names of wrath, revenge, fear, justice, and fortitude of God: and if
we would avoid and escape any evil or danger, we then call upon the names of
mercy, defence, salvation, fortitude, goodness, and such-like names of God.
W hen also we pray unto God that he would grant unto us our desires, we are
likewise t o i ntermix therewith the n ame o f s ome g ood s pirit, w hether o ne
onely, or more, whose office it is to execute our desires: and sometimes also
we require some evil spirit to restrain or compel, whose name likewise we
intermingle; and that rightly especially, if it be to execute any evil work; as
revenge, punishment, or destruction.
Furthermore, if there be any Versicle in the Psalms, or in any other part of
holy Scripture, that shall seem congruent and agreeable to our desire, the
same is to be mingled with our prayers. Now after Prayer hath been made
unto God, it is expedient afterwards to make an Oration to that executioner
whom in our precedent prayer unto God we have desired should administer
unto us, whether one or more, or whether he be an Angel, or Star, or Soul, or
any of the noble Angels. But this kinde of Oration ought to be composed
according to the Rules which we have delivered in the second book of Occult
Philosophy, where we have treated of the manner of the composition of
Inchantments.
You may know further, that these kinde of bonds have a threefold differ-
ence: for the first bond is, when we conjure by Natural things: the second is
compounded of Religious mysteries, by Sacraments, Miracles, and things of
this sort: and the third is constituted by Divine names, and holy Sigils. And
by these kinde of bonds, we may binde not onely spirits, but also all other
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of Occult Philosophy
creatures whatsoever; as animals, tempests, bur nings,* floods of waters, an* Incendiad ;
the force and power of Arms. Oftentimes also we use these bonds aforesEnvaidie, and
not onely by Conjuration, but sometimes also using the means of DepreMalicca- e.
tion and Benediction. Moreover, it c onduceth much to this p urpose, to joyn
some sentence of holy Scripture, if any shall be found convenient hereunto:
as, in the Conjuration of Serpents, by commemorating the curse of the Ser-
pent in the earthly Paradise, and the setting up of the Serpent in the wilder-
ness; and further adding that Versic lTe, hou shalt walk upon the Asp and the Super aspi-
Basilisk, &c S. uperstition also is of much prevalency herein, by the translatidem & on
of some Sacramental Rites, to binde that which we intend to hinder ; as, thbase iliscum
Rites of Excommunication, of Sepulchres, Funerals, Bur yings, and the likeamb. ulabis,
&c.
And now we come to treat of the Consecrations which men ought to make
upon all instruments and things necessar y to be used in this Art: and the ver-
tue of this Consecration most chiefly consists in two things; to wit, in the
power of the person consecrating, and by the vertue of the prayer by wh ich
the Consecration is made. For in the person consecrating, there is required
holiness of Life, and power of sanctifying: both which are acquired by Digni-
fication and Initiation. And that the person himself should with a firm and
undoubted faith believe the ver tue, power, and efficacie hereof. And then in
the Prayer it self by which this Consecration is made, there is required the
like holiness; which either solely consisteth in the prayer it self, as, if it be by
divine inspiration ordained to this purpose, such as we have in many places of
the holy Bible; or that is be hereunto instituted through the power of the
Holy Spirit, in the ordination of the Church. Other wise there is in the Prayer
a S anctimony, which is not onely by it self, but by the commemoration of
holy things; as, the commemoration of holy Scriptures, Histories, Works,
Miracles, Effects , Graces, Promises, Sacraments and Sacramental things, and
the like. Which things, by a certain similitude, do seem properly or improp-
erly to appertain to the thing consecrated.
There is used also the invocation of force Divine names, with the consig-
nation of holy Seals, and things of the like sort, which do conduce to sanctifi-
cation and expiation; such as are the Sprinkling with Holy-Water, Unctions
with holy O yl, and odoriferous Suffumigations appertaining to holy Wor-
ship. And therefore in every Consecration there is chiefly used the Benedic-
tion and Consecration of Water, oyl, Fire, and Fumigations, used ever ywhere
with holy Waxlights or Lamps burning: for without Lights no Sacrament is
rightly performed. This therefore is to be known and firmly observed, That if
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The fourth book
any Consecration be to be made of things profane, in which there is any pol-
lution or defilement, then an exorcising and expiation of thos e things ought
to precede the Consecration. W hich things being to made pure are more apt
to receive the influences of the Divine vertues. We are also to obser ve, that in
the end of every Consecration, after that the prayer is rightly performed, the
person consecrating, ought to bless the thing consecrated. by brea thing out
some words, with divine vertue and power of the present Consecration, with
the commemoration of his vertue and authority, that it may be the more
duely performed, and with an earnest and intentive minde. And therefore we
will here lay down some examples hereof, whereby the way to the whole per-
fection hereof may the more easily be made to appear unto you.
So then, in the Consecration of water, we ought to Commemorate how
that God hath placed the firmament in the midst of the waters, and in what
maner that God p laced the f ountain o f waters i n t he e arthly Paradise, f rom
whence sprang four holy rivers, which watered the whole earth. Likewise we
are to call to remembrance in what manner God made the water to be the
instrument of executing his justice in the destruction of the Gyants in the
general deluge over all the earth, and in the overthrow of the host of Pharaoh
in the Red-sea; also, how God led his own people thorow the midst of the
Sea on dry ground, and through the midst of the river of Jordan; and likewise
how mar velously he drew forth water out of the stony rock in the wilderness;
and how a t t he p rayer of S amson, h e caused a f ountain o f r unning water t o
flow out of the cheek-tooth of the jaw-bone of an ass: and likewise, how God
hath made waters the instrument of his mercy, and of salvation, for the expi-
ation of original sin: also, how Christ was baptized in Jordan, and hath
thereby sanctified and cleansed the waters.
Moreover, certain divine names are to be invocated, which are conform-
able hereunto; as, that God is a living fountain, living water, the fountain of
mercy; and names of the like kinde.
And likewise, in the consecration of fire, we are to commemorate how that
God hath created the fire to be an instrument to execute his justice, for pun-
ishment, vengeance, and for the expiation of sins: also, when God shall come
to judge the world, he will command a conflagration of fire to go before him.
And we are to call to remembrance in what manner God appeared to Moses
in the burning bush; and also, how he went before the c hildren of Israel in a
pillar of fire; and that nothing can be duely offered, sacrificed, or sanctified,
without fire; and how that God instituted fire to be kept continually burning
in the Tabernacle of the Covenant; and how miraculously he re-kindled the
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of Occult Philosophy
same, being extinct, and preserved it elsewhere from going out, being hidden
under the waters: and things of this sort. Likewise, the Names of God are to
be called upon which are consonant hereunto; as, it is read in the Law and the
Prophets, that God is a consuming fire: and if there be any of the Divine
names which signifies fire, or such-like names; as, the glory of God, the light
of God, the splendor and br ightness of God.
And likewise in the Consecration of O yl and Perfumes, we are to call to
remembrance such holy things as are per tinent to this purpose, whic h we read
in Exodus of the holy anoynting oyl, and divine names significant hereunto,
such as is the name Christ, which signifies anoynted: and what mysteries
there are hereof; as that in the Revelation, of the two Olive-trees distilling
holy oyl into the lamps that burn before the face of God: and the like.
And the blessing of the lights, wax, and lamps, is taken from the fire, and
the altar which containeth the substance of the flame: and what other such
similitudes as are in mysteries; as that of the seven c andlesticks and lamps
burning before the face of God.
These therefore are the Consecrations which first of all are necessary to be
used in every kinde of devotion, and ought to precede it, and without which
nothing in holy Rites can be, duely performed.
In the next place now we shall shew un to you the Consecration of Places,
instruments and such-like things.
Therefore when you would consecr ate any Place or Circle, you ought to
take the prayer of Solomon used in the dedication of the Temple: and more-
over, you must bless the place with the sprinkling of Holy-water, and with
Fumigations; by commemorating in the benediction holy mysteries; suc h as
these are: The sanctification of the throne of God, of mount Sinai, of the
Tabernac le of the Covenant, of the Holy of holies, of the temple of Jerusa-
lem. Also, the sanctification of mount Golgotha, by the crucifying of ChriSanst; ctum
the sanctification of the Temple of Christ; of mount Tabor, by the transfigusa- nctorum.
ration and ascension of Christ: and the like. And by invoc ating divine names
which are significant hereunto; such as the Place of God, the Throne of God,
the Chayr of God, the Tabernacle of God, the Altar of God, the Habitation
of God and such-like divine names of this sort which are to be written about
the Circle or place to be consecrated.
And in the consecrations of instruments, and of all other things whatso-
ever that are serviceable to this Art, you shall proceed after the same manner,
by sprinkling the same with Holy water, perfuming the same with holy
19
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The fourth book
Fumigations, anoynting it with holy Oyl, sealing it with some holy Sigil, and
blessing it with prayer; and by commemorating holy things out of the sacred
Scriptures, Religion, and Divine names which shall be found agreeable to the
thing that is to be consecrated: as for examples sake, in consecrating a sword,
Qui h abet we are to call to remembrance that in the GospHele, that hath two coats, &c.
duas tun- and that place in the second of the Macchabees, That a sword was divinely
icas, &c. and miraculously sent toJu das Macchabeus. And if there be any thing of the
Accipte like in the Prophets; as that place, Take unto you two-edged swords. , &c
vobis glad- In like maner you shall consecrate experiments and books and whatsoever
ios bis acu- of the like nature, as is contained in writings, pictures, and the like by s prin-
tos. kling, perfuming, anointing, sealing, and blessing with holy commemora-
tions, and calling to remembrance the sanctifications of mysteries; As, the
sanctifying of the Tables of the ten Commandments, which were delivered to
Moses by God in MountSi nai; The sanctification of the Testaments of God,
the Old and New; The sanctification of the Law, and of the Prophets, and
Scriptures, which are promulgated by the holy Ghost.
Moreover, there is to be commemorated such divine names as are fit and
convenient hereunto; as there are: The Testament of God, The book of God,
The book of life, The knowledge of God, The wisdom of God; and the like.
And with such kinde of Rites is the personal Consecration performed.
There is fur thermore, besides these, another Rite of consecration, of won-
derful power, and much efficacy; And this is out of the kindes of supersti-
tions: T hat i s t o s ay, w hen t he R ite of C onsecration o r c ollection o f a ny
Sacrament in the Church is transferred to that thing which we would conse-
crate.
It is to be known also, that Vowes, Oblations, and Sacrifice, have the
power of consecration, aswel real as personal; and they are as it were certain
covenants and conventions between those names with which they are made,
and us who make them, strongly cleaving to our desire and wished effect: As,
when we dedicate, offer, and sacrifice, with certain names or things; as,
Fumigations, Unctions, Rings, Images, L ooking-glasses; and things less
material, as Deities, Sigils, Pentacles, Inchantments, Orations, Pictures, and
Scriptures: of which we have largely spoken in our third book of Occult Phi-
losophy.
There is extant amongst those Magicians (who do most use the ministery
of evil spir its) a certain Rite of invocating spirits by a Book to be consecrated
Liber Spir- before to that purpose, which is properly calleA bd, ook of Spiri wts;hereof we
ituum. now speak a few words. For this book is to be consecrated, a book of evil spir-
20
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of Occult Philosophy
its, ceremoniously to be composed, in their name and order: whereunto they
binde with a certain holy Oath, the ready and present obedience of the spirit
therein written.
Now this book is to be made of most pure and clean paper, that hath never
been used before; which many do cVialrlg in-pape. Andr this book must be
inscribed after this maner: that is to say, Let there be placed on the left side
the image of the spirit, and on the right side his character, with the Oath
above it, containing the name of the spirit, and his dignity and place, with his
office and power. Yet very many do compose this book other wise, omitting
the characters or image: but it is more efficacious not to neglect any thing
which conduceth to it.
Moreover, there is to be obser ved the circumstances of places, times,
hours, according to the Stars which these spirits are under, and are seen to
agree unto, their site, rite, and order being applied.
Which book being so written, and well bound, is to be adorned, gar-
nished, and kept secure, with Registers and Seals, lest is should happen after
the Consecration to open in some place not intented, and indanger the oper-
ator. Fur thermore this book ought to be kept as reverently as may be: for
irreverence of minde causeth is to lose its vertue, with pollution and profana-
tion.
Now this sacred book being thus composed according to the maner already
delivered, we are then to proceed to the Consecration thereof after a twofold
way: one whereof is, That all and singular the spirits who are Written in the
book, be called to the Circle, according to the Rites and Order which we have
before taught; and the book that is to be consecrated, let it be placed without
the Circ le in a triangle. And in the first place, let there be read in the presence
of the spirits all the Oathes which are written in that book; and then the book
to be consecrated being placed without the Circle in a triangle there drawn,
let all the spirits be compelled to impose their hands where their images and
characters are drawn, and to confirm and consecr ate the s ame with a special
and common oath. Whic h being done, let the book be taken and shut, and
preser ved as we have before spoken, and let the spirits be licensed to depart,
according to due rite and order.
There is another maner of consecrating a book of spirits which is more
easie, and of much efficacie to produce ever y effect, except that in opening
this book the spirits d o not always come visible. And this way is thus: Let
there be made a book of spirits as We have before set forth; but in the end
thereof let there be wr itten invocations and Bonds, and strong Conjurations,
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The fourth book
wherewith every spirit may be bound. Then this book must be bound
between two Tables or Lamens, and in the inside thereof let there be drawn
the holy Pentac les of the Divine Majestie, which we have before set forth and
described out of theAp ocalyp: sethen let the first of them be placed in the
beginning of the book, and the second at the end of the same. This book
being perfected after this maner, let it be brought in a clear and fair time, to a
Circle prepared in a cross way, according to the Art which we have before
delivered; and there in the first place the book being opened, let it be conse-
crated to the rites and ways which we have before declared concerning Con-
secration. W hich being done, let all the spirits be called which are written in
the book in their own order and place, by conjuring them thrice by the bonds
described in the book, that they come unto that place within the space of
three days, to assure their obedience, and confirm the same, to the book so to
be consecrated. Then let the book be wrapped up in clean linen, and buried
in the middle of the Circle, and there fast stopped up: and then the Circ le
being destroyed, after the spirits are licensed, depart before the rising of the
sun: and on the third day, about the middle of the night, return, and new
make the Circ le, and with bended knees make prayer and giving thanks unto
God, and let a precious perfume be made, and open the hole, and take out
the book; and so let it be kept, not opening the same.Then you shall license
the spirits in their order, and destroying the Circle, depar t before the sun rise.
And this is the last rite and maner of consecrating profitable to whatsoever
writings and experiments, which do direct to spirits, placing the same
between two holy Lamens or Pentacles, as before is shewn.
But the Operator, when he would work by the book thus consecrated, let
him do is in a fair and c lear season, when the spir its are least troubled; and let
him place himself towards the region of the spirits. Then let him open the
book under a due Register; let him invoke the spirits by their Oath there
described and confirmed, and by the name of their character and image, to
that pur pose which you desire: and, if there be need, conjure them by the
bonds placed in the end of the book. And having attained your desired effect,
then you shall license the spirits to depart.
And now we shall come to speak concerning the invoc ation of spirits, as
well of the good spirits as of the bad.
The good spirits ma y be invocated of us, divers ways and in sundr y man-
ners do offer themselves unto us. For they do openly speak to those that
watch, a nd do o ffer t hemselves to o ur sight, o r d o inform u s i n d reams b y
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of Occult Philosophy
oracle of those things which are desired. W hosoever therefore would call any
good spirit, to speak or appear in sight, is behoveth them especially to observe
two things: one whereof is about the disposition of the invocant; the other
about those things which are outwardly to be adhibited to the invocation, for
the conformity of the spirits to be called. It behoveth therefore that the invo-
cant himself be religiously disposed for many days to such a mystery. In the
first place therefore, he ought to be confessed and contrite, both inwardly and
outwardly, and rightly expiated, by daily washing himself with holy water.
Moreover, the invocant ought to conserve himself all these days, chaste,
abstinent, and to separate himself as much as may be done, from all pertur ba-
tion of minde, and from all maner of forraign and secular business. Also, he
shall observe fastings all these days, as much as shall seem convenient to him
to be done. Also, let him daily between sun-rising and sun-setting, being
clothed with a holy linen garment, seven times call upon God, and make a
deprecation to the Angels to be c alled according to the rule which we have
before taught. Now the number of days of fasting and preparation, is com-
monly the time of a whole Lunation. There is also another number observed
amongst the Caballists, which is fourt y days.
Now concerning those things whic h do apper tain to this Rite of Invoca-
tion, the first is, That a place be chosen; clea n, pure, close, quiet, free from all
maner of noise, and not subject to any strangers sight. This place must first be
exorcised and consecrated: and let there be a table or altar placed therein, cov-
ered with clean white linen, and set towards the east: and on each side
thereof, let there be set two consecrated wax-lights burning, the flame
whereof ought not to go out all these days. In the middle of the altar, let there
be placed Lamens, or the holy paper which we have before described, covered
with pure fine linen; which is not to be opened until the end of these days of
the Consecration. You shall also have in readiness a precious perfume, and
pure anointing oyl; and let them be both kept consecrated.
There must also a Censer be set on the head of the altar, wherein you shall
kindle the holy fire, and make a perfume every day that YOU shall pray. You
shall also have a long garment of white linen, close before and behinde, which
may cover the whole body and the feet, and gir t about you with a girdle. You
shall also have a veil of pure clean linen, and in the fore-part thereof let there
be fixed golden or gilded Lamens, with the inscription of the nTeamtrea -
grammaton; all which things are to be sanctified and consecrated, in order.
But you must not enter into the holy place, unless it be first washed, and
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The fourth book
arayed with a holy garment; and then you shall enter into it with your feet
naked. And when you enter therein, you sha ll sprinkle it with holy water:
then you shall make a perfume upon the altar, and afterwards with bended
knees pray before the altar as we have directed.
But in the end of these days, on the last day, you shall fast more strictly:
and fasting on the day following, at the rising of the sun, you may enter into
the holy place, using the ceremonies before spoken of, first by sprinkling your
self, then with making a perfume, you shall signe your self with hol y oyl in
the forehead, and anoint your eyes; using prayer in all these Consecrations.
Then you shall open the holy Lamen, and pray before the altar upon your
knees, as abovesaid: and then an invoc ation being made to the Angels, they
will appear unto you, which you desire; which you shall entertain with a
benign and chaste communication, and license t hem to depart.
Now the Lamen which is to be used to invoke any good spirit, you shall
make after this maner; either in metal conformable, or in new wax, mixt with
species and colours conformab le: or it may be made in clean paper, with con-
venient colours: and the outward form or figure thereof may be square, circu-
lar, or triangular, or of the like sort, according to the rule of the numbers: in
which there must be wr itten the divine names, as well the general names as
the special. And in the centre of the Lamen, let there be drawn a character of
Hexagonu.s six corners; in the middle whereof, let there be written the name and charac-
ter of the Star, or of the Spirit his governour, to whom the good spirit that is
to be called is subject. And about this character let there be placed so many
Pentagonus. characters of five corners, as the spirits we would call together at once. And if
we shall call onely one spirit, nevertheless there shall be made four Pen-
tagones, wherein the name of the spirit or spirits with their characters, is to
be written. Now this table ought to be composed when the Moon is increas-
ing, on those days and hours which then agree to the Spirit. And if we take a
fortunate star herewith, It will be the better. W hich Table being made in this
manner, it is to be consecrated, according to the rules above delivered.
And this is the way of making the general Table, serving for the invocation
of all good spirits whatsoever. Nevertheless we may make special Tables con-
gruent to every spirit, by the rule which we have above spoken of concerning
holy Pentacles.
And now we will declare unto you another Rite more easie to perform this
thing: that is to say, Let the man that is to receive any Oracle from the good
spirits be chaste, pure, and confess'd. Then a place being prepared pure and
clean, and covered ever ywhere with white linen, on the Lords day in the new
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of Occult Philosophy
of the moon let him enter into that place, clothed with clean white garments;
and let him exorciz e the place, and bless it, and make a Circle therein with a
sanctified cole; and let there be written in the uttermost par t of the Circle the
names of the Angels, and in the inner part thereof let there be written the
might y names of God: and let him place within the Circ le, at the four angles
of the world, the Censers for the perfumes. Then let him enter the place fast-
ing, and washed, and let him begin to pray towards the east this whole Psalm:
Beati immaculati in via, &c. Blessed art the undefiled in the W byay ,p &ercf.um- Psalm 119.
ing; and in the end deprecating the Angels, by the said divine names, that
they will daign to discover and reveal that which he desireth: and that let him
do six days, continuing washed and fasting. And on the seventh day, which is
the Sabbath, let him, being washed and fasting, enter the Circle, and perfume
it, and anoint himself with holy anointing oyl, by anointing his forehead, and
upon both his eyes, and in the palms of his hands, and upon his feet. Then
upon his knees let him say the Psalm aforesaid, with Divine and Angelic al
names. W hich being said, let him arise, and let him begin to walk about in a
circuit within the said Circle from the east to the west, until he is wearied
with a dizziness of his brain: let him fall down in the Circle, and there he may
rest; and forthwith he shall be wrapt up in an ecstasie, and a spirit will appear
unto him, which will inform him of all things. We must observe also, that in
the Circle there ought to be four holy candles burning at the four parts of the
world which ought not to want light for the space of a whole week. And the
maner of fasting must be such, that he abstain from all things having a life of
Sense, and from those things which do proceed from them: and let him onely
drink pure running water: neither let him take any food till the going down of
the sun. And let the perfume and the holy anointing oyl be made, as is set
forth in Exodu as nd t he o ther h oly books o f t he B ible. It i s a lso to b e
obser ved, that always as often as he enters into the Circle, he have upon his
forehead a golden Lamen, upon which there must be written the naTemetra-
grammaton, as we have before spoken.
But natural things, and their commixtures, do als o belong unto us, and are
conducing to receive Oracles from any spirit by a dream: which are either
Perfumes, unctions, and Meats or Drinks: which you may understand in our
first book of Occult Philosophy.
But he that is willing always and readily to receive the Orac les of a Dream,
let him make unto himself a Ring of the Sun or of Saturn for this purpose.
There is also an Image to be made, of excellent efficacie and power to work
25
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The fourth book
this which being put under his head when he goeth to sleep, doth effectually
give true dreams of what things soever the minde hath before determined or
consulted on. The Tables of Numbers do likewise confer to receive an oracle,
being duly formed under their own Constellations. And these things thou
mayst know in the third book of Occult Philosophy.
Holy Tables a nd p apers d o a lso s erve t o t his e ffect, b eing s pecially c om-
posed and consecrated: such as is the AlmadelSo of lomo, n and the Table of
the Revolution of the nameT etragrammaton. And those things which are of
this kinde, and written unto these things, out of divers figures, numbers; holy
pictures, with the inscriptions of the holy names of God and of Angels; the
composition whereof is taken out of divers places of the holy Scriptures,
Psalms, and Versicles, and other certain promises of the divine Revelation
and Prophecies.
To the same effect do conduce holy prayers and imprecations, as well unto
God, as to the holy Angels and Heroes: the imprecations of which prayers are
to be composed as we have before shewn, according to some religious simili-
tude of Miracles, Graces, and the like, making mention of those things which
we intend to do: as, out of the Old Testament, of the dream ofJaco b, Joseph,
Pharaoh, Daniel an, d Nebuchadnezzar: if out of the New Testament, of the
dream of Joseph the husband of the blessed virgMain r y ; of the dream of the
three Wise-men; of John the Evangelist of sleeping upon the brest of our
Lord: and whatsoever of the like kinde can be found in Religion, Miracles,
and Revelations; as, the revelation of the Cross to Helen, the revelations of
Constantine and Charles the Great, the revelations of Bridget, Cyril, Method-
ius, Mechtild, Joachim, Merhir an, d suchlike. According to which, let the dep-
recations be composed, if when he goeth to sleep it be with a firm intention
and the rest well disposing themselves, let them pray devoutly, and without
doubt they will afford a powerful effect.
Now he that knoweth how to compose those things which we have now
spoken of, he shall receive the most true Oracles of dreams. And this he shall
do; observe those things which in the second book of occult Philosophy are
directed concerning this thing. He that is desirous therefore to receive an
Oracle, let him abstain from supper and from drink, and be otherwise well
disposed, his brain being free from turbulent vapours; let him als o have his
bed-chamber fair and clean, exorcised and consecrated if he will; then let him
perfume the same with some convenient fumigation; and let him anoint his
temples with some unguent efficacious hereunto, and put a ring upon his fin-
ger, of the things above spoken of: let him take either some image, or holy
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of Occult Philosophy
tables or holy paper, and place the same under his head: then having made a
devout prayer, let him go unto his bed, and meditating upon that thing which
he desireth to know, let him so sleep; for so shall he receive a most certain and
undoubted orac le by a dream, when the Moon goeth through that signe
which was in the ninth House of his nativit y, and als o when she goeth
through the signe of the ninth House of the Revolution of his nativity; and
when she is in the ninth signe from the signe of perfection. And this is the
way and means whereby we may obtain all Sciences and Arts whatsoever,
suddenly and per fectly, with a true Illumination of our understanding;
although all inferiour familiar Spirits whatsoever do conduce to this effect;
and sometimes also evil Spirits sensibly informing us Intrinsecally or Extrin-
secally.
But if we would call any evil Spirit to the Circle, it first behoveth us to
consider, and to know his nature, to which of the Planets it agreeth, and
what. Offices are distributed to him from that Planet; which being known, let
there be sought out a place fit and proper for his invocation, according to the
nature of the Planet, and the quality of the Offices of the Said Spirit, as near
as the same maybe done: as, if their power be over the Sea, Rivers or F louds,
then let the place be chosen in the Shore; and so of the rest. Then let there be
chosen a convenient time, both for the qualit y of the Air, serene, clear, quiet,
and fitting for the Spirits to assume bodies; as also of the quality and nature
of the Planet and of the Spirit, as to wit, on his day, or the time whereas he
ruleth: he may be fortunate or infortunate, s ometimes of t he day, and some-
times of the night, as the Stars and Spirits do require. These things being
considered, let there be a Circle framed in the place elected, aswel for the
defence of the Invocant, as for the confirmation of the Spirit.
And in the Circle it self t here are to b e written the d ivine general names,
and those things which do yield defence unto us; and with them, those divine
names which do rule this Planet, and the offices of the Spirit himself; there
shall also be written therein, the names of the good Spirits which bear rule,
and are able to binde and constrain that Spirit which we intend to call. And if
we will any more fortifie and strengthen our Circle, we may adde Characters
and Pentacles agreeing to the work; then also if we will, we may either within
or without the Circle, frame an angular figure, with the inscription of such
convenient numbers, as are congruent among themselves to our work; whic h
are also to be known, according to maner of numbers and figures: of which in
the second book of occult Philosophy it is sufficiently spoken. Fur ther, He is
to be provided of lights, perfumes, unguents and medicines, compounded
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The fourth book
according to the nature of the Planet and Spirit; which do par tly agree with
the Spirit, by reason of their natural and coelestial vertue; and partly are
exhibited to the Spirit for religious and superstitious worship. Then he must
be furnished with holy and consecrated things, necessary aswel for the
defence of the Invocant, and his fellows, as also serving for bonds to binde
and constrain the Spirits; such as are either holy Papers, Lamens, Pictures,
Pentacles, Swords, Scepters, Garments of convenient matter and colour, and
things of the like sort. Then when all these things are provided, and the Mas-
ter and his fellows being in the Circle, in the first place let him consecrate the
Circle, and all those things which he useth; which being performed with a
convenient gesture and countenance, let him begin to pray with a loud voice
after this manner. First let him make an oration unto God, and then let him
intreat the good Spirits: and if he wilt read any Prayers, Psalms, or Gospel for
his defence, they ought to take the first place. After these Prayers and Ora-
tions are said, then let him begin to invocate the Spirit which he desireth,
with a gentle and loving Inchantment, to all the coasts of the World, with the
commemoration of his own Author ity and power. And then let him rest a lit-
tle, looking about him; to see if any Spirit do appear; which if he delay, then
let him repeat his invocation, as abovesaid, until he hath done it three times;
and if the Spirit be pertinacious, obstinate, and will not appear, then let him
begin to conjure with divine power; so a lso t hat the conjurations a nd a ll his
commemorations do agree with the Nature and Offices of the Spirit himself,
and reiterate the same three times, from stronger to stronger, using Objurga-
tions, Contumeries, Cursings, & Punishments, and suspension from his
Office and power and the like.
And after all the courses are finished, then cease a little; and if any Spirit
shall appear, let the Invocant turn himself towards the Spirit, and courteously
receive him, and earnestly intrea ting him, let him first require his name, and
if he be c alled b y a ny other name: and then p roceeding f urther, let him ask
him whatsoever he will: and if in any thing the Spirit shall shew himself
obstinate or lying, let him be bound by convenient conjurations: and if you
doubt of any lye, make without the Circle with the consecrated Sword, the
*A character figure of a triangle orPe * ntagon,e and compel the S pirit to enter into it and if
with five thou receivest any promise which thou wouldst have to be confirmed with an
corners. Oath, let him stretch the sword out of the Circle, and swear the Spir it, by
laying his hand upon the Sword. Then having obtained of the Spirit that
which you desire, or are other wise contented, license him to depart with
cour teous words, g iving c ommand unto h im, t hat he do n o h urt: a nd if h e
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of Occult Philosophy
will not depart, compel him by powerful conjurations; and if need require,
expel him by Exorcismes, and by making contrar y fumigations. And when he
is departed, go not out of the Circ le, but make a stay, making prayer, and giv-
ing of thanks unto God and the good Angels, and also praying for your
defence and conser vation: and then all those things being orderly performed,
you may depart.
But if your hope be frustr ated, and no Spirits will appear, yet for this do
not despair ; but leaving the Circ le, return again at other times, doing as
before. And if you shall judge that you have erred in anything, then that you
shall amend by adding or diminishing; for the constanc y of Reiteration doth
often increase your authorit y and power and striketh terror into the Spirits,
and humbleth them to obey.
And therefore some use to make a Gate in the Circle whereby they may go
in and out, which they open and shut as they please, and fortifie it with holy
Names and Pentacles.
This a lso w e a re to t ake n otice of, T hat when no S pirits will a ppear, but
the Master being wearied hath determined to cease and give over; let him nor
therefore depart without licensing the Spirits: for they that do neglect this,
are very greatly in danger, except they are fortified with some sublime
defence.
Often times also the Spirits do come, although they appear not visible, (for
to cause terror to him that calls them) either in the things which he useth or
in the operation it self. But this kinde of licensing is not given simply, but by
a kinde of dispensation with suspension, until in the following terms they
shall render themselves obedient. Also without a Circ le these Spirits may be
called to appear, according to the way which is above delivered about the con-
secration of a book.
But when we do intend to execute any effect by evil Spirits, where an
Apparition is not needful; then that is to be done, by making and forming
that thing which is to be unto us as an instrument, or subject of the experi-
ment i t s elf; - as, w hether i t b e a n i mage, o r a R ing, o r a W riting, o r a ny
Character, Candle, or Sacrifice, or any thing of the like sort: then the name of
the Spirit is to be wr itten therein, with his Character according to the exi-
genc y of the experiment, either by writing is with some blood, or other wise
using a perfume agreeable to the Spirit. Oftentimes also making Prayers and
Orations to God and the good Angels before we invocate the evil Spirit, con-
juring him by the divine power.
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The fourth book
There is another kinde of Spirits, which we have spoken of in our third
book of Occult P hilosophy, not so hurtful, and neerest unto men; so also, that
they are effected with humane passions and do joy in the conversation of
men, and freely do inhabit with them: and others do dwell in the Woods and
Deserts: & others delight in the company of divers domestique Animals and
wilde Beasts; and othersome do inhabit about Fountains and Meadows.
W hosoever therefore would call up these kinde of Spirits, in the place where
they abide, it ought to be done with odoriferous perfumes, and with sweet
sounds and instruments of Musick, specially composed for the business, with
using of Songs, Inchantments and pleasant Verses, with praises and promises.
But those whic h are obstinate to yield to these things, are to be compelled
with Threatenings, Comminations, Cursings, Delusions, Contumelies, and
especially by threatning them to expel them from those places where they are
conversant.
Further, if need be, thou maist betake thee to use Exorcismes; but the
chiefest thing that ought to be observed, is, constancy of minde, and bold-
ness, free, and alienated from fear.
Lastly, when you would invocate these kinde of Spirits, you ought to pre-
pare a Table in the place of invocation, covered with clean linen; whereupon
you shall set new bread, and running water or milk in new earthen vessels,
and new knives. And you shall make a fire, whereupon a perfume shall be
made. But let the Invocant go unto the head of the Table, and round about it
let there be seats plac ed for the Spirits, as you please; and the Spirits being
called, you shall invite them to drink and eat. Bur if perchance you shall fear
any evil Spirit, then draw a Circle about it, and let that part of the Table at
which the Invocant sits, be within the Circ le, and the rest of the Table W ith-
out the Circle.
In our third book of Occult Philosophy, we have taught how and by what
means the Soul is joyned to the Body; and, what hapeneth to the Soul after
death.
Thou maist know further, That those Souls do still love their relinquished
Bodies after death, as it were a certain affinit y allur ing them; such as are the
Souls of noxious men, which have violently relinquished their Bodies, and
Souls wanting a due burial, which do still wander in a liquid and turbulent
Spirit about their dead carkasses; for these Souls by the known means by
which heretofore they were conjoyned to their Bodies, by the like vapors,
liquors, and favours, are easily drawn unto them.
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of Occult Philosophy
From hence it is, that the Souls of the dead are not to be called up without
blood, or by the application of some part of their relict Body.
In the raising up of these shadows, we are to perfume with new Blood,
with the Bones of the dead, and with Flesh, Egges, Milk, Honey and Oile,
and such-like things, whic h do attribute to the Souls a means apt to receive
their Bodies.
It, is also to be understood, That those who are desirous to raise up any
Souls of the dead, they ought to do it in those places, wherein these kinde of
Souls are most known to be conversant, or for some alliance allur ing those
souls into their forsaken Body ; or for some kinde of affection in times past,
impressed in there in their life, drawing the said S oul to certain places,
things, or persons ; or for the forcible nature of some place fitted and prepared
for to purge or punish these S ouls. W hich places for the most p art a re to be
known by the exper ience of visions, might y incursions, and apparitions, and
such-like prodigies seen.
Therefore the places most fitting for these things, are Churchyards. And
better then them, are those places wherein there is the execution of criminal
judgements. And better then these, are those places, in which of late yeers
there have been some publike slaughters of men. Furthermore, that place is
better then there, where some dead carkass, that came by a violent death, is
not yet expiated, nor ritely buried, and was lately buried; for the expiation of
those places, is also a holy Rite duly to be adhibited to the burial of the bod-
ies, and of tentimes prohibiteth the souls to come unto their bodies, and
expelleth them far off unto the places of judgement.
And from hence it is, That the Souls of the dead are not easily to be raised
up, except is be the S ouls of them whom we know to be evil, or to have per-
ished by a violent death, and whose bodies do want a right and due burial.
Now although we have spoken concerning such places of this kinde, is will
not be safe or commodious to go unto them; but it behoveth us to take to
what p lace soever i s t o be c hosen, some p rincipal p art o f t he body t hat i s
relict, and therewith to make a perfume in due maner, and to perform other
competent Rites.
it is also to be known, That becaus e the Souls are certain spiritual lights,
therefore artificial lights, especially if they be framed out of certain competent
things, compounded according to a true rule, with congruent inscriptions of
Names and Seals, do very much avail to the raising up of departed Souls.
Moreover, these things which now are spoken of, are not alwaies sufficient
to raise up Souls, because of an extranatural portion of understanding and
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The fourth book
reason, which is above, and known onely to the Heaven and Destinies, and
their power.
We ought therefore to allure the said Souls, by supernatural and coelestial
powers duely administred, even by those things which do move the very har-
mony of the Soul, aswel imaginative, as rational and intellectual; as are
Voices, Songs, Sound, Inchantments: and Religious things; as Prayers, Con-
jurations, Exorcismes, and other holy Rites, which may very commodiously
be administred hereunto.
The end of the fourth book of Agrippa.
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