PREFACE
Of all sciences, whether true or false, which have at any time engaged
the attention of the world, there is not one of which the real or
assumed principles are less generally known, in the present age, than
those of Astrology. The whole doctrine of this science is commonly
understood to have been completely overturned; and, of late, people
seem to have satisfied themselves with merely knowing the import of its
name. Such contented ignorance, in persons, too, sufficiently informed
in other respects, is the more extraordinary, since Astrology has
sustained a most conspicuous part throughout the history of the world,
even until days comparatively recent. In the East, where it first
arose, at a period of very remote antiquity,[1]
and whence it came to subjugate the intellect of Europe, it still
even now holds sway. In Europe, and in every part of the world where
learning had “impress’d the human soil,” Astrology reigned supreme
until the middle of the 17th century. It entered into the councils of
princes, it guided the policy of nations, and ruled the daily actions
of individuals. All this is attested by the records of every nation
which has a history, and by none more fully than by those of England.
Yet, with these striking facts before their eyes, the present
generation seem never, until now, to have inquired on what basis this
belief of their forefathers was established, nor by what authority the
delusion (if it was one) could have been for so many ages supported.
Among a thousand persons who now treat the mention of Astrology with
supercilious ridicule, there is scarcely one who knows distinctly what
it is he laughs at, or on what plea his ancestors should stand excused
for having, in their day, contemplated with respect the unfortunate
object of modern derision.
The general want of information on these points, and the indifference
with which such want has been hitherto regarded, cannot surely be
attributed solely to the modern disrepute of the science; for mankind
have usually, in every successive age, exercised great industry in
tracing all previous customs, however trifling or obsolete, and in
examining all sorts of creeds, however unimportant or erroneous,
whenever there has appeared any striking connection between
such matters and historical facts; and, since astrology is most
unquestionably blended intimately with history, it therefore becomes
necessary to seek for some further hypothesis, by which this ignorance
and indifference may be accounted for.
Perhaps astrology has been conceived to have borne the same relation
to astronomy as alchymy did to chymistry. If such has been the
notion, it has certainly been adopted in error, for a modern chymist
is still almost an alchymist: it is true that he no longer delays
his work in deference to the planets, nor does he now try to make
gold, nor to distil elixir of earthly immortality; but nevertheless
he still avails himself, to a certain degree, of the same rules and
the same means as those of the old alchymist: he is still intent upon
the subtle processes of Nature, and still imitates her as far as he
can. He reduces the diamond to charcoal by an operation analogous to
that by which the alchymist sought to transmute lead into gold; and
he mainly differs from the alchymist only in having assured himself
that there is a point beyond which Nature forbids facsimiles. Not so
slightly, however, does the astronomer differ from the astrologer, but
toto cœlo: the astrologer considered the heavenly bodies and
their motions merely as the mechanism wherewith he was to weave the
tissue of his predictions; and astronomy is no more an integral part
of astrology, than the loom is of the web which has been woven by it.
To have an idea of what alchymy was, it is sufficient to have an idea
of chymistry; but astronomy, in itself, will never give a notion of
astrology, which requires additional and distinct consideration.
It may be urged, that in the present day a general idea of this bygone
and disused science is quite sufficient for everybody not professedly
antiquarian. Such an assertion would doubtless never be controverted,
provided the proposed general idea might comprehend the truth. But
the present actual general idea of astrology is by no means so
comprehensive; indeed, nothing can well be more inaccurate, or even
more false: it seems to have been adopted not from the elements of the
science itself, but from trite observations made by writers against
the science; and consequently the world now wonders at the lamentable
defect of understanding that could ever have permitted belief in
it—forgetting that astrology has been consigned to neglect, not in
consequence of any primâ facie palpability in its imputed
fallacies, nor indeed of any special skill or acuteness on the part of
its professed adversaries, but rather in consequence of the sudden and
astonishing growth of other undoubted sciences, with which it has been
presumed to be incompatible, and which during the thousands of years
of the reign of astrology were either unborn, or still slumbering in
continued infancy.[2]
The words “professed adversaries,” which have just now been used, are
of course not intended to be applied to those mighty explorers of
Nature’s laws and man’s powers, who, in their lofty career, may have
made an incidental swoop at the pretensions of astrology. Directly
engaged in more exact pursuits, they stopped not to dissect this
their casual prey, which, after having been thus struck by eagles,
was left to regale crows and daws, and these, in their convivial
loquacity, accused their unfortunate victims of crimes incapable of
being committed, and of offences which had never been imagined. Of the
real faults of their victim these garrulous bipeds seem not to have
been aware, or, if aware, they seem to have considered them as not
sufficiently prominent. Nor was this want of candour or information
absolutely confined to the mere vulgar herd of vituperative scribblers,
for even the sparkling essay against astrology, written by Voltaire
(in his irrepressible desire to convince the world that he was au
fait in everything), proves only that the writer, though the most
generally informed man of his time, had mistaken the really assailable
points of the object of his attack.
The author of the present Translation has no intention now of either
advocating or impugning the doctrines of the science of which his
Translation discourses: his purpose is a different one. He has that
sort of respect for “the dead, which are really dead,” which, although
it does not incline him to “praise” them “more than the living,
which are yet alive,” is still sufficient to incite him to endeavour
to avert the imputation of idiot credulity, to which their faith in
astrology seems now to subject them in the general opinion of the
enlightened “living.” And, while he disclaims all idea of presuming to
offer any argument on either side of the question, as to the validity
of the science, he must still, at the same time, confess his admiration
of the ingenuity and contrivance manifest in its construction, and avow
his readiness to believe that all its harmonized complications might
have easily held dominion over some of the strongest minds in that
darker period when it flourished.
In executing here the desire of attempting to vindicate the ancient
credence in astrology, an elaborate disquisition would surely be not
only unnecessary, but misplaced: it seems sufficient to refer the
reader to the work of which the following is a translation, and to
these undisputed facts—that the science was formerly inculcated by
the highest and most erudite authorities of the period—that it was
insisted on by votaries in all parts of the world, attesting and
producing instances of its truth;—and, moreover, that it was so finely
and beautifully put together, as to cause the only deficiency of one
small, though most important, link in its whole chain of argument,
to be undetected by dull minds, and readily supplied by enthusiastic
genius. For centuries after centuries all branches of learning were
either made subservient to astrology, or carried on in close alliance
with it; and many of the illustrious names which it recalls to our
recollection are gratefully reverenced even by modern science. The
genius of Roger Bacon, although he was the first of that school of
natural philosophy which acknowledges none but experimented truths,
was nevertheless bowed to the doctrines of judicial astrology; and his
greater Namesake, who after an interval of several centuries succeeded
to him in giving proper direction to the mental energy, was still an
arguer in favour of celestial influences: it may be, therefore, fairly
inferred, that the subtle spell which had strength to enthrall “stuff”
so “stern,” could have been of no weak or vulgar order, but that it was
sufficiently potent and refined to interest and amuse even the present
age.[3]
In this little volume will be found the whole of the elements of
astrology, and the entire ground-work of those stupendous tomes in
folio and quarto on the same subject, which were produced in myriads
during the 16th and 17th centuries, for the due mystification of the
then world. The present volume is addressed equally to the general
reader, as well as to the votary of pure astrology, if any such there
be; to the one it offers amusement; for the other, it should contain
the most glowing interest. Even to the speculative metaphysician it
will furnish food for contemplation; for, in addition to its peculiar
hypothesis of cause and effect, it develops many of those apparent
incongruities of character so often united in the same individual; and
this development, even although adapted to the doctrine of the stars,
still merits attention; inasmuch as the phenomena of which it treats
(in whatever way they may be produced or regulated) will ever remain in
actual existence.
The only English translation of Ptolemy’s Tetrabiblos, hitherto
published, appears to have been first set forth in 1701, under the name
of “The Quadripartite.” That publication has been long removed from
general sale; and its gross misinterpretation of the author, caused by
the carelessness or ignorance of Whalley and his assistants, by whom
it was produced, has rendered most of its pages unintelligible: its
absence is, therefore, scarcely to be regretted. The second edition
of the same translation, professing to be “revised, corrected, and
improved,” and published by Browne and Sibley, in 1786, was not, in
any one instance, purified from the blunders and obscurities which
disgraced its predecessor: it seems, in fact, less excusable than the
former edition, of which it was merely a reprint, without being at
all corrected, not even in certain typographical errata which
the former printer had been zealous enough to point out in his final
page. Even this second publication, worthless as it intrinsically is, can
rarely now be met with, and, like the former, only at a very heavy price.
The present Translation has been made from Proclus’s Greek Paraphrase
of Ptolemy’s original text; the edition followed is that of the
Elzevirs, dated in 1635.[4]
But, in the course of translation, continual references have been also
had to various editions of the original text, in order to ascertain the
proper acceptation of doubtful passages. The editions thus inspected
were that by Camerarius, printed at Nuremberg in 1535; that by
Melancthon, printed at Basle in 1553; and that by Junctinus, printed,
with his own enormous commentaries, at Lyons, in 1581. Independently of
these references, the present translation has been collated with the
Latin of Leo Allatius, and with two other Latin translations: one
printed at Basle, together with a translation of the Almagest in 1541;
the other by itself at Perugio, in 1646.[5]
The Translator has devoted all this extreme care and attention
to his labours, in the wish to render Ptolemy’s astro-judicial doctrine
into English as purely and perfectly as possible; and, with the same
view, he has likewise added, in an Appendix, certain extracts from
such parts of the Almagest as were found to be referred to in his
present work. Further illustration is also given by notes gathered
from the “Primum Mobile” of Placidus,[6]
and from a variety of other sources whence any elucidation of the
text might be derived. Even Whalley’s “Annotations” (to use his own
grandiloquent designation) have occasionally yielded information, not
altogether unimportant, although generally incomplete.
It seems improper to close this Preface (notwithstanding the bulk it
has already attained), without annexing the following short notice of the
life and works of the great man from whom the Tetrabiblos has emanated.
Claudius Ptolemy was born at Pelusium, in Ægypt, and became an
illustrious disciple of the school of Alexandria, in which city he
flourished during the reign of Adrian and that of Antoninus Pius. The
date of his birth has been commonly assigned to the 70th year of the
Christian æra; but the accuracy of this date seems questionable; for
he has himself noted in one part of his works, that Antoninus reigned
twenty-three years. He must have, therefore, survived that prince; and,
as it is not probable that he continued his scientific labours until
after ninety years of age, which he must have done had he been born
about the year 70, because Antoninus died in the year 161, it seems
that his birth would be more properly ascribed to some later period.
Moreover, it is asserted by the Arabians, that he died in the 78th year
of his age; and a similar statement is also made by Luca Gauricus,
in the dedication of his version of the Almagest[7]
to Dominico Palavicini: Gauricus has, however, placed his death in the year
147, which does not accord with the fact of his having survived Antoninus.
Ptolemy has recorded that he observed, at Alexandria, an eclipse of the
Moon, in the 9th year of Adrian; and that he made many observations
upon the fixed stars in the 2nd year of Antoninus Pius: whence it may
be concluded, that his observations upon the heavens were principally
made during the period from a.d. 125 to a.d. 140,
or thereabouts; and it also follows, of course, that the supposition,
entertained by some authors, of his identity with the Ptolemy who
was always in attendance upon Galba, as his personal astrologer, and
who promised Otho that he should survive Nero and obtain the empire,
is entirely without foundation. To Gauricus’s[8]
version of the Almagest there is also another dedication, addressed to Pope
Sixtus, and composed by George Trapezuntius, describing Ptolemy as “regiâ
stirpe oriundum,” and explaining that he had, “with a truly regal
mind,” applied himself to the sciences, because the ancient sceptre of
the Ptolemies had previously passed into the hands of Cleopatra, and
because the kingdom of Ægypt had been since reduced to the state of a
Roman province. The authentic details of the circumstances of Ptolemy’s
life are, however, extremely few. It is said that he was distinguished
among the Greeks by the epithets “most wise,” and “most divine,”
on account of his great learning; and, according to the Preface to
Whalley’s translation of the Tetrabiblos, the Arabians report that “he
was extremely abstemious, and rode much on horseback”; adding, that
although he was “spruce in apparel,” yet his breath was not remarkable
for an agreeable odour.
The errors of the Ptolemaic theory of the universe have now been long
discarded; but there are many points in which modern sciences, and
modern astronomy in particular, have reaped incalculable benefits from
the labours and researches of its great founder. He has preserved and
transmitted to us the observations and principal discoveries of
remoter periods, and has enriched and augmented them with his own. He
corrected Hipparchus’s catalogue of the fixed stars, and formed tables
for the calculation and regulation of the motions of the Sun, Moon,
and planets. He was, in fact, the first who collected the scattered
and detached observations of Aristotle, Hipparchus, Posidonius, and
others on the economy of the world, and digested them into a system,
which he set forth in his Μεγαλη Σνταξις or Great Construction, divided
into thirteen books, and called, after him, the Ptolemaic System. This
and all his other astronomical works are founded upon the hypothesis,
that the earth is at rest in the centre of the universe, and that the
heavenly bodies, stars, and planets, all move round it in solid orbs,
whose motions are all directed by one primum mobile, or first
mover, of which he discourses at large in the “Great Construction.” In
that work he also treats of the figure and divisions of the earth, of
the right and oblique ascensions of the heavenly bodies, and of the
motions of the Sun, Moon, and planets; and he gives tables for finding
their situations, latitudes, longitudes, and motions: he treats also
of eclipses, and the methods of computing them; and he discourses of
the fixed stars, of which he furnishes a numerous catalogue, with their
magnitudes, latitudes, and longitudes.[9]
It has been truly said, that “Ptolemy’s order, false as it was, enabled
observers to give a plausible account of the motions of the Sun and
Moon, to foretell eclipses, and to improve geography[10];”
or, in other words, that it represented the actual phenomena of the heavens
as they really appear to a spectator on the earth. It is therefore clear
that Ptolemy’s astrology is just as applicable to modern and improved
astronomy as it was to his own.[11]
In the year 827[12]
the “Great Construction” was translated by the Arabians into their own
language, and by them communicated to Europe. It is through them that
it has been usually known by the name of the Almagest. In the 13th
century, the Emperor Frederic II caused it to be translated from the
Arabic into Latin, and Sacrobosco[13]
was consequently enabled to write his famous work upon the sphere. It was
not, however, until about the end of the 15th century that the “Great
Construction” was translated into Latin from the original
text; and this important service was rendered to science by Purbach,
a professor of philosophy at Vienna, who learned the Greek tongue at
the instigation of Cardinal Bessarion. By means of this translation,
the Ephemerides of George Müller, surnamed Regiomontanus, a disciple
of Purbach’s, were first composed. The Greek text of the Almagest, or
Great Construction, was first published at Basle, by Simon Grynæus, in
1538; and it was again printed at the same place in 1551, with certain
other works of Ptolemy.[14]
The rest of Ptolemy’s works connected with astronomy, and now extant,
are the Tetrabiblos, or Four Books of the Influence of the
Stars[15]
(now translated); the Centiloquy, or Fruit of his Four Books, being a
kind of supplement to the former; and the Significations of the Fixed
Stars. The last is merely a daily calendar, showing the risings and
settings of the stars, and the nature of the weather thereby produced.
There are likewise extant his geographical work (which has rendered
important service to modern geographers), and also his celebrated book
on Harmonics, or the Theory of Sound.
Proclus, to whom the world is indebted for the improved text of the
Tetrabiblos,[16]
was born at Constantinople, in the year 410. He studied
at Alexandria and at Athens, and became very eminent among the later
Platonists. He succeeded Syrianus, a celebrated philosopher, in the
rectorship of the Platonic school at Athens, and died there in
485.[17]
He was a most voluminous author, in poetry as well as in prose.
Among his works there are Hymns to the Sun, to Venus, and to the
Muses; Commentaries upon several pieces of Plato, and upon Ptolemy’s
Tetrabiblos[18];
an Epitome or Commendium of all the Astronomical Precepts demonstrated
in the Almagest; and elements of Theology and Natural Philosophy. He
was in dispute with the Christians on the question of the eternity
of the world, which he undertook to prove in eighteen elaborate
arguments. A late writer in a certain periodical work has erroneously
identified him with another Proclus, who was in favour with the Emperor
Anastasius, and who destroyed the ships of Vitalianus, when besieging
Constantinople in 514, by burning them with great brazen mirrors, or
specula.
Signs of the Zodiac.
| ♈ |
Aries |
♎ |
Libra |
| ♉ |
Taurus |
♏ |
Scorpio |
| ♊ |
Gemini |
♐ |
Sagittarius |
| ♋ |
Cancer |
♑ |
Capricorn |
| ♌ |
Leo |
♒ |
Aquarius |
| ♍ |
Virgo |
♓ |
Pisces |
CHAPTER II KNOWLEDGE MAY BE ACQUIRED BY ASTRONOMY TO A CERTAIN EXTENT
That a certain power, derived from the æthereal nature, is diffused
over and pervades the whole atmosphere of the earth, is clearly evident
to all men. Fire and air, the first of the sublunary elements, are
encompassed and altered by the motions of the æther. These elements
in their turn encompass all inferior matter, and vary it as they
themselves are varied; acting on earth and water, on plants and
animals.[20]
The Sun, always acting in connection with the Ambient, contributes to
the regulation of all earthly things: not only by the revolution of the
seasons does he bring to perfection the embryo of animals, the buds of
plants, the spring of waters, and the alteration of bodies, but by his
daily progress also he operates other changes in light, heat, moisture,
dryness and cold; dependent upon his situation with regard to the
zenith.
The Moon, being of all the heavenly bodies the nearest to the Earth,
also dispenses much influence; and things animate and inanimate
sympathize and vary with her. By the changes of her illumination,
rivers swell and are reduced; the tides of the sea are ruled by her
risings and settings; and plants and animals are expanded or collapsed,
if not entirely at least partially, as she waxes or wanes.
The stars likewise (as well the fixed stars as the planets), in
performing their revolutions,[21]
produce many impressions on the Ambient. They cause heats, winds,
and storms, to the influence of which earthly things are conformably
subjected.
And, further, the mutual configurations of all these heavenly bodies,
by commingling the influence with which each is separately invested,
produce a multiplicity of changes. The power of the Sun however
predominates, because it is more generally distributed; the others
either co-operate with his power or diminish its effect: the Moon more
frequently and more plainly performs this at her conjunction, at her
first and last quarter, and at her opposition: the stars act also to a
similar purpose, but at longer intervals and more obscurely than the
Moon; and their operation principally depends upon the mode of their
visibility, their occultation and their declination.
From these premises it follows not only that all bodies, which may
be already compounded, are subjected to the motion of the stars, but
also that the impregnation and growth of the seeds from which all
bodies proceed, are framed and moulded by the quality existing in the
Ambient at the time of such impregnation and growth. And it is upon
this principle that the more observant husbandmen and shepherds are
accustomed, by drawing their inferences from the particular breezes
which may happen at seed-time and at the impregnation of their cattle,
to form predictions as to the quality of the expected produce. In
short, however unlearned in the philosophy of nature, these men can
foretell, solely by their previous observation, all the more general
and usual effects which result from the plainer and more visible
configurations of the Sun, Moon, and stars. It is daily seen that even
most illiterate persons, with no other aid than their own experienced
observation, are capable of predicting events which may be consequent
on the more extended influence of the Sun and the more simple order
of the Ambient, and which may not be open to variation by any
complex configurations of the Moon and stars towards the Sun. There
are, moreover, among the brute creation, animals who evidently form
prognostication, and use this wonderful instinct at the changes of the
several seasons of the year, spring, summer, autumn, and winter; and,
also, at the changes of the wind.
In producing the changes of the seasons, the Sun itself is chiefly the
operating and visible cause. There are, however, other events which,
although they are not indicated in so simple a manner, but dependent on
a slight complication of causes in the Ambient, are also foreknown by
persons who have applied their observation to that end. Of this kind,
are tempests and gales of wind, produced by certain aspects of the
Moon, or the fixed stars, towards the Sun, according to their several
courses, and the approach of which is usually foreseen by mariners. At
the same time, prognostication made by persons of this class must be
frequently fallacious, owing to their deficiency in science and their
consequent inability to give necessary consideration to the time and
place, or to the revolutions of the planets; all which circumstances,
when exactly defined and understood, certainly tend towards accurate
foreknowledge.
When, therefore, a thorough knowledge of the motions of the stars,
and of the Sun and Moon, shall have been acquired, and when the
situation of the place, the time, and all the configurations actually
existing at that place and time, shall also be duly known; and such
knowledge be yet further improved by an acquaintance with the natures
of the heavenly bodies—not of what they are composed, but of the
effective influences they possess; as, for instance, that heat is the
property of the Sun, and moisture of the Moon, and that other peculiar
properties respectively appertain to the rest of them;—when all these
qualifications for prescience may be possessed by any individual,
there seems no obstacle to deprive him of the insight, offered at once
by nature and his own judgment, into the effects arising out of the
quality of all the various influences compounded together. So that
he will thus be competent to predict the peculiar constitution of
the atmosphere in every season, as, for instance, with regard to its
greater heat or moisture, or other similar qualities; all which may be
foreseen by the visible position or configuration of the stars and the
Moon towards the Sun.
Since it is thus clearly practicable, by an accurate knowledge of the
points above enumerated, to make predictions concerning the proper
quality of the seasons, there also seems no impediment to the formation
of similar prognostication concerning the destiny and disposition of
every human being. For by the constitution of the Ambient, even at the
time of any individual’s primary conformation, the general quality
of that individual’s temperament may be perceived; and the corporeal
shape and mental capacity with which the person will be endowed at
birth may be pronounced; as well as the favourable and unfavourable
events indicated by the state of the Ambient, and liable to attend the
individual at certain future periods; since, for instance, an event
dependent on one disposition of the Ambient will be advantageous to a
particular temperament, and that resulting from another unfavourable
and injurious. From these circumstances, and others of similar import,
the possibility of prescience is certainly evident.
There are, however, some plausible assailants of this doctrine, whose
attacks although greatly misapplied seem yet worthy of the following
observations.
In the first place, the science demands the greatest study and a
constant attention to a multitude of different points; and as all
persons who are but imperfectly practised in it must necessarily
commit frequent mistakes, it has been supposed that even such events
as have been truly predicted have taken place by chance only, and not
from any operative cause in nature. But it should be remembered that
these mistakes arise, not from any deficiency or want of power in the
science itself, but from the incompetency of unqualified persons who
pretend to exercise it. And, besides this, the majority of the persons
who set themselves up as professors of this science, avail themselves
of its name and credit for the sake of passing off some other mode
of divination; by that means defrauding the ignorant, and pretending
to foretell many things which from their nature cannot possibly be
foreknown; and consequently affording opportunities to more intelligent
people to impugn the value even of such predictions as can rationally
be made. The reproach, however, thus brought upon the science is
wholly unmerited; for it would be equally just to condemn all other
branches of philosophy, because each numbers among its professors some
mischievous pretenders.
Secondly, it is not attempted to be denied that any individual,
although he may have attained to the greatest possible accuracy in the
science, must still be liable to frequent error, arising out of the
very nature of his undertaking, and from the weakness of his limited
capacity in comparison with the magnitude of his object. For the whole
theory of the quality of matter is supported by inference rather than
by positive and scientific proof; and this is caused principally by
the concretion of its temperament out of a multitude of dissimilar
ingredients. And, although the former configurations of the planets
have been observed to produce certain consequences (which have been
adapted to configurations now taking place), and are, after long
periods, and in a greater or less degree, resembled by subsequent
configurations, yet these subsequent configurations never become
exactly similar to those which have preceded them. For an entire return
of all the heavenly bodies to the exact situation in which they have
once stood with regard to the earth will never take place, or at
least not in any period determinable by human calculation, whatever
vain attempts may be made to acquire such unattainable
knowledge.[22]
The examples referred to for guidance being therefore not exactly
similar to the existing cases to which they are now applied, it must
naturally follow that predictions are sometimes not borne out by the
events. Hence arises the sole difficulty in the consideration of
events produced by the Ambient. For no other concurrent cause has been
hitherto combined with the motion of the heavenly bodies; although
the doctrine of nativities, particularly that part of it relating to
peculiar individual temperament, demands also the consideration of
other concomitant causes, which are neither trifling nor unimportant,
but essentially potent in affecting the individual properties of the
creatures born. Thus the variety in seed has the chief influence in
supplying the peculiar quality of each species; for, under the same
disposition of the Ambient and of the horizon, each various kind of
seed prevails in determining the distinct formation of its own proper
species; thus man is born, or the horse is foaled; and by the same law
are brought forth all the other various creatures and productions of
the earth. It is also to be remembered, that considerable variations
are caused in all creatures by the respective places where they may be
brought forth: for although, under the same disposition of the Ambient,
the germs of the future creatures may be of one species, whether human
or of the horse, the difference in situation, of the places in which
they are generated, produces a dissimilarity in the body and spirit of
one from the body and spirit of another: and in addition to this it
must be considered that different modes of nurture, and the variety of
ranks, manners, and customs, contribute to render the course of life of
one individual greatly different from that of another[23];
consequently, unless every one of these varieties be duly blended
with the causes arising in the Ambient, the prejudgment of any
event will doubtless be very incomplete. For, although the greatest
multiplicity of power exists in the Ambient, and although all other
things act as concurrent causes in unison with it, and can never claim
it as a concurrent cause in subservience to them, there will still,
nevertheless, be a great deficiency in predictions attempted to be made
by means of the heavenly motions alone, without regard to the other
concurrent causes just now adverted to.
Under these circumstances, it would seem judicious neither to deny
altogether the practicability of prescience, because prognostications
thus imperfectly derived are sometimes liable to be fallacious; nor,
on the other hand, to admit that all events, whatever, are open to
previous inquiry; as if such inquiry could in all cases be securely
conducted without having recourse to mere inference, and as if it
were not limited by the narrow extent of mere human abilities. The
art of navigation, for instance, is not rejected, although it is in
many points incomplete; therefore the bare fact that predictions are
frequently imperfect cannot authorise the rejection of the art of
prescience: the magnitude of its scope, and the faint resemblance
that it bears to a divine attribute, should rather demand grateful
commendations, and receive the utmost regard and attention. And,
since no weakness is imputed to a physician, because he inquires
into the individual habit of his patient, as well as into the nature
of the disease, no imputation can justly attach to the professor of
prognostication, because he combines the consideration of species,
nurture, education and country, with that of the motion of the heavens:
for as the physician acts but reasonably, in thus considering the
proper constitution of the sick person as well as his disease; so,
in forming predictions, it must surely be justifiably allowable to
comprehend in that consideration every other thing connected with the
subject in addition to the motion of the heavens, and to collect and
compare with that motion all other co-operating circumstances arising
elsewhere.
CHAPTER III THAT PRESCIENCE IS USEFUL
It appears, then, that prescience by astronomy is possible under
certain adaptation; and that alone it will afford premonition, as far
as symptoms in the Ambient enable it to do so, of all such events
as happen to men by the influence of the Ambient. These events are,
from their commencement, always in conformity with the spiritual and
corporeal faculties, and their occasional affections; as well as with
the shorter or longer duration of those affections. They are also
conformable with other things which, although not actually in man’s
immediate person, are still absolutely and naturally connected with
him: in connection with his body they are applicable to his estate, and
his conjugal cohabitations; in connection with his spirit, they relate
to his offspring[24]
and his rank; and they are also connected with all fortuitous
circumstances which may occasionally befall him.
That the foreknowledge of these can be attained has already been
demonstrated; and it remains to speak of the utility of the attainment.
First, however, let it be said in what respect and with what view it
is proposed to draw advantage from this science; if it be considered
in its tendency to promote the good of the mind, no object more
advantageous can surely be wanting to induce the world to rejoice and
delight in it, since it offers an acquaintance with things divine and
human: if it be considered in respect to the benefits it is capable
of conferring on the body, its utility in this view also, will be
found on comparison to excel that of all other arts conducive to the
comforts of life, for it is of more general application and service
than all the others together. And, although it may be objected to the
art of prescience, that it does not co-operate towards the acquirement
of riches or glory, let it also be remembered that the same objection
attaches to every other art and science; since there is not one which
can of itself produce either riches or glory, not yet is there one
which is on that plea deemed useless: it seems, therefore, that the
science of prognostication, with its high qualifications and its
aptitude to the most important objects, does not, in any greater
degree, deserve to be condemned.
In general, however, the persons who attack and reprobate it as being
useless, do not pay due regard to the manner in which it becomes
necessary; but deny its utility on the specious argument that it is
superfluous and puerile to attempt to foreknow things which must
inevitably come to pass: thus considering it in a mode at once
abstracted, unlearned, and unfair. For, in the first place, this fact
ought to be kept in view, that events which necessarily and fully
happen, whether exciting fear or creating joy, if arriving unforeseen,
will either overwhelm the mind with terror or destroy its composure by
sudden delight; if, however, such events should have been foreknown,
the mind will have been previously prepared for their reception,
and will preserve an equable calmness, by having been accustomed to
contemplate the approaching event as though it were present, so that,
on its actual arrival, it will be sustained with tranquillity and
constancy.
In the next place, it must not be imagined that all things happen to
mankind, as though every individual circumstance were ordained by
divine decree and some indissoluble supernal cause; nor is it to be
thought that all events are shown to proceed from one single inevitable
fate, without being influenced by the interposition of any other
agency. Such an opinion is entirely inadmissable; for it is on the
contrary most essential to observe, not only the heavenly motion which,
perfect in its divine institution and order, is eternally regular and
undeviating; but also the variety which exists in earthly things,
subjected to and diversified by the institutions and courses of nature,
and in connection with which the superior cause operates in respect to
the accidents produced.
It is further to be remarked that man is subject, not only to events
applicable to his own private and individual nature, but also to others
arising from general causes. He suffers, for instance, by pestilences,
inundations, or conflagrations, produced by certain extensive changes
in the Ambient, and destroying multitudes at once; since a greater and
more powerful agency must of course always absorb and overcome one
that is more minute and weaker. In great changes, therefore, where
a stronger cause predominates, more general affections, like those
just mentioned, are put in operation, but affections which attach to
one individual solely are excited when his own natural constitution
peculiar to himself may be overcome by some opposing impulse of the
Ambient, however small or faint. And in this point of view it is
manifest that all events whatsoever, whether general or particular, of
which the primary cause is strong and irresistible, and against which
no other contrary agency has sufficient power to interpose, must of
necessity be wholly fulfilled; and that events indicated by a minor
cause must of course be prevented and annihilated, when some other
agency may be found contending for an opposite effect; if, however, no
such opposing agency can be found, they also must be fulfilled, in due
succession to the primary cause. Nevertheless, the fulfilment of events
thus indicated must not be ascribed solely to the vigour of the cause
producing them, nor to any inevitable fate, but rather to the absence
of any opposing influence capable of prevention. And thus, with all
things whatsoeverwhich trace their causes and origin to nature, the
case is exactly similar; for stones,[25]
plants, animals, wounds, passions, and diseases, all will of necessity
operate on man to a certain degree; and they fail to do so, if
antidotes be found and applied against their influence.
In exercising prognostication, therefore, strict care must be taken
to foretell future events by that natural process only which is
admitted in the doctrine here delivered; and, setting aside all vain
and unfounded opinions, to predict that, when the existing agency is
manifold and great, and of a power impossible to be resisted, the
corresponding event which it indicates shall absolutely take place;
and also, in other cases, that another event shall not happen when
its exciting causes are counteracted by some interposing influence.
It is in this manner that experienced physicians, accustomed to the
observation of diseases, foresee that some will be inevitably mortal,
and that others are susceptible of cure.
Thus, when any opinion is given by the astrologer with respect to
the various accidents liable to happen, it should be understood that
he advances nothing more than this proposition; viz. that, by the
property inherent in the Ambient, any conformation of it, suitable
to a particular temperament, being varied more or less, will produce
in that temperament some particular affection. And it is also to be
understood that he ventures this opinion with the same degree of
confidence, as that with which a physician may declare that a certain
wound will increase or grow putrid; or a man acquainted with metals
say that the magnet[26]
will attract iron. But neither the increase nor putrefaction of
the wound nor the magnet’s attraction of iron, is ordained by any
inevitable law, although these consequences must necessarily follow, in
due obedience to the first principles of the existing order of nature,
when no means of prevention can be found and applied. But, however,
neither of these consequences will take place, when such antidotes
shall be presented as will naturally prevent them—and a similar
consideration should be given to the predictions of the
astrologer—because, if garlick be rubbed on the magnet, iron will
experience no attraction;[27]
and if proper medicines be applied to the wound, it will cease to
increase or to putrefy. And therefore all events which happen to
mankind take place also in the regular course of nature, when no
impediments thereto are found or known: but again, on the other hand,
if any impediments or obstructions be found in the way of events which
may be predicted by the regular course of nature to happen, such events
will either not take place at all, or, if they should take place, will
be much diminished in their force and extent.
The same order and consequence exist in all cases, whether the events
have a general or only a particular operation; and it may therefore
well be demanded, why prescience is believed to be possible as far as
it regards general events, and why it is allowed to be serviceable in
preparing for their approach; while in particular instances its power
and use are altogether denied. That the weather and the seasons, and
the indications of the fixed stars, as well as the configurations
of the Moon, afford means of prognostication, many persons admit;
and they exercise this foreknowledge for their own preservation and
comfort, adapting their constitutions to the expected temperature, by
cooling and refreshing things for the summer, and by warm things for
the winter. They also watch the significations of the fixed stars, to
avoid dangerous weather, in making voyages by sea; and they notice the
aspects of the Moon, when at the full, in order to direct the
copulation of their herds and flocks, and the setting of plants or
sewing of seeds: and there is not an individual who considers these
general precautions as impossible or unprofitable. Still, however,
these same persons withhold their assent to the possibility of applying
prescience to particular cases; such, for instance, as any particular
excess or diminution of cold or heat, whether arising out of the
peculiar temperament producing the original cold or heat, or from the
combination of other properties; nor do they admit that there are any
means of guarding against many of these particular circumstances.
And yet, if it be clear that persons, who prepare themselves by
cooling things, are less affected by any general heat of the weather,
there seems no reason for supposing that a similar preparation
would not be equally effectual against any particular conjuncture
oppressed by immoderate heat. It appears, however, that this idea,
of the impracticability of attaining foreknowledge of particular
circumstances, must originate solely in the mere difficulty of the
acquirement; which difficulty is certainly rendered peculiarly arduous
by the necessity of conducting the enquiry with the greatest accuracy
and precision: and to this it must be added, that, as there is rarely
found a person capable of arranging the whole subject so perfectly
that no part of the opposing influence can escape his attention, it
frequently happens that predictions are not properly regulated by
due consideration of that opposing influence, and that the effects
are at once considered fully liable to be brought to pass, agreeably
to the primary agency and without any intervention. This defect, of
not sufficiently considering the opposing influence, has naturally
induced an opinion that all future events are entirely unalterable and
inevitable. But, since the foreknowledge of particular circumstances,
although it may not wholly claim infallibility, seems yet so far
practicable as to merit consideration, so the precaution it affords, in
particular circumstances, deserves in like manner to be attended to;
and, if it be not of universal advantage, but useful in few instances
only, it is still most worthy of estimation, and to be considered
of no moderate value. Of this, the Ægyptians seem to have been well
aware; their discoveries of the great faculties of this science have
exceeded those of other nations, and they have in all cases combined
the medical art with astronomical prognostication. And, had they been
of opinion that all expected events are unalterable and not to be
averted, they never would have instituted any propitiations, remedies,
and preservatives against the influence of the Ambient, whether present
or approaching, general or particular. But, by means of the science
called by them Medical Mathematics, they combined with the power of
prognostication the concurrent secondary influence arising out of the
institutions and courses of nature, as well as the contrary influence
which might be procured out of nature’s variety; and by means of these
they rendered the indicated agency useful and advantageous: since their
astronomy pointed out to them the kind of temperament liable to be
acted upon, as well as the events about to proceed from the Ambient,
and the peculiar influence of those events, while their medical skill
made them acquainted with everything suitable or unsuitable to each of
the effects to be procured. And it is by this process that remedies for
present and preservatives against future disorders are to be acquired:
for, without astronomical knowledge, medical aid would be most
frequently unavailing; since the same identical remedies are not better
calculated for all persons whatsoever, than they are for all diseases
whatsoever.[28]
The practicability and utility of prescience having been thus far
briefly explained, the ensuing discourse must be proceeded with. It
commences, introductorily, with an account of the efficient properties
of each of the heavenly bodies, taken from the rules of the ancients,
whose observations were founded in nature. And, first, of the
influences of the planets and of the Sun and Moon.
CHAPTER IX THE INFLUENCE OF THE FIXED STARS
Next in succession, it is necessary to detail the natures and
properties of the fixed stars; all of which have their respective
influences, analogous to the influences of the planets: and those
stars which form the constellations of the zodiac require to be first
described.
Aries. The stars in the head of Aries possess an influence
similar in its effects to that of Mars and Saturn: those in the mouth
act similarly to Mercury, and in some degree to Saturn; those in the
hinder foot, to Mars; those in the tail, to Venus.
Taurus. Those stars in Taurus, which are in the abscission of
the sign, resemble in their temperament the influence of Venus, and in
some degree that of Saturn: those in the Pleiades are like the Moon and
Mars. Of the stars in the head, that one of the Hyades which is bright
and ruddy, and called Facula,[33]
has the same temperament as Mars: the others resemble Saturn, and,
partly, Mercury; and those at the top of the horns are like Mars.
Gemini. The stars in the feet of Gemini have an influence
similar to that of Mercury, and moderately to that of Venus.
The bright stars in the thighs are like Saturn: of the two bright stars
on the heads, the one, which precedes and is called Apollo,[34]
is like Mercury; the other which follows, called Hercules,[35]
is like Mars.
Cancer. The two stars in the eyes of Cancer are of the same
influence as Mercury, and are also moderately like Mars. Those in the
claws are like Saturn and Mercury. The nebulous mass in the breast,
called the Præsepe, has the same efficacy as Mars and the Moon. The two
placed on either side of the nebulous mass, and called the Asini, have
an influence similar to that of Mars and the Sun.
Leo. Of the stars in Leo, two in the head are like Saturn and
partly like Mars. The three in the neck are like Saturn, and in some
degree like Mercury. The bright one in the heart, called Regulus,[36]
agrees with Mars and Jupiter. Those in the loins, and the bright one
in the tail, are like Saturn and Venus: those in the thighs resemble
Venus, and, in some degree, Mercury.
Virgo. The stars in the head of Virgo, and that at the top
of the southern wing, operate like Mercury and somewhat like Mars:
the other bright stars in the same wing, and those about the girdle,
resemble Mercury in their influence, and also Venus moderately. The
bright one in the northern wing, called Vindemiator, is of the same
influence as Saturn and Mercury: that called Spica Virginis is like
Venus and partly Mars: those at the points of the feet and at the
bottom of the garments are like Mercury, and also Mars, moderately.
Libra.[37]
Those stars at the points of the claws of Scorpio operate like Jupiter
and Mercury: those in the middle of the claws, like Saturn, and in some
degree like Mars.
Scorpio. The bright stars in the front of the body of Scorpio
have an effect similar to that produced by the influence of Mars, and
partly to that produced by Saturn: the three in the body itself, the
middle one of which, called Antares,[38]
is ruddy and more luminous, are similar to Mars and moderately to
Jupiter: those in the joints of the tail are like Saturn and partly
like Venus: those in the sting, like Mercury and Mars. The nebula is
like Mars and the Moon.
Sagittarius. The stars at the point of the arrow in Sagittarius
have influence similar to that of Mars and the Moon: those on the bow,
and at the grasp of the hand, act like Jupiter and Mars: the nebula
in the face is like the Sun and Mars: those in the waist and in the
back resemble Jupiter, and also Mercury moderately: those in the feet,
Jupiter and Saturn: the four-sided figure in the tail is similar to
Venus, and in some degree to Saturn.
Capricorn. The stars in the horns of Capricorn have efficacy
similar to that of Venus, and partly to that of Mars. The stars in the
mouth are like Saturn, and partly like Venus: those in the feet and in
the belly act in the same manner as Mars and Mercury: those in the tail
are like Saturn and Jupiter.
Aquarius. The stars in the shoulders of Aquarius operate like
Saturn and Mercury; those in the left hand and in the face do the same:
those in the thighs have an influence more consonant with that of
Mercury, and in a less degree with that of Saturn: those in the stream
of water have power similar to that of Saturn, and, moderately, to that
of Jupiter.
Pisces. Those stars in Pisces, which are in the head of the
southern fish, have the same influence as Mercury, and, in some degree,
as Saturn: those in the body are like Jupiter and Mercury: those in the
tail and in the southern line are like Saturn, and, moderately, like
Mercury. In the northern fish, those on its body and back-bone resemble
Jupiter, and also Venus in some degree: those in the northern line are
like Saturn and Jupiter; and the bright star in the knot acts like
Mars, and moderately like Mercury.[39]
CHAPTER XIV TROPICAL, EQUINOCTIAL, FIXED, AND BICORPOREAL SIGNS
Among the twelve signs, some are termed tropical, others equinoctial,
others fixed, and others bicorporeal.
The tropical signs are two: viz. the first thirty degrees after the
summer solstice, which compose the sign of Cancer; and the first thirty
degrees after the winter solstice, composing the sign of Capricorn.
These are called tropical, because the Sun, after he has arrived
at their first points, seems to turn, and to change his course
towards a contrary latitude;[43]
causing summer by the turn he makes in Cancer, and winter by
that which he makes in Capricorn.
There are also two equinoctial signs: Aries, the first after the vernal
equinox; and Libra, the first after the autumnal equinox: they are so
called, because the Sun, when in the first point of either, makes the
day and night equal.
Of the remaining eight signs, four are fixed, and four bicorporeal.
Those signs, which severally follow immediately after the two tropical
and the two equinoctial signs, are termed fixed, because, during the
Sun’s presence in them, the cold, heat, moisture or dryness, of the
season, which commenced on his arrival in the preceding tropical or
equinoctial sign, is then more firmly established: not, however,
that the temperament of the season has in itself actually increased
in vigour, but, having continued for some time in operation, it then
renders all things more strongly affected by its influence.
The bicorporeal signs severally follow the fixed signs; and, being thus
intermediately placed between the fixed and the tropical signs, they
participate in the constitutional properties of both, from their first
to their last degrees.
CHAPTER XX HOUSES OF THE PLANETS
Those stars which are denominated planetary orbs have particular
familiarity with certain places in the zodiac, by means of parts
designated as their houses, and also by their triplicities,
exaltations, terms, and so forth.
The nature of their familiarity by houses is as follows:
Cancer and Leo are the most northerly of all the twelve signs; they
approach nearer than the other signs to the zenith of this part of
the earth, and thereby cause warmth and heat: they are consequently
appropriated as houses for the two principal and greater luminaries;
Leo for the Sun, as being masculine; and Cancer for the Moon, as being
feminine. It has hence resulted, that the semicircle from Leo to
Capricorn has been ordained solar, and the semicircle from Aquarius
to Cancer, lunar; in order that each planet might occupy one sign in
each semicircle, and thus have one of its houses configurated with the
Sun and the other with the Moon, conformably to the motions of its own
sphere, and the peculiar properties of its nature.
Saturn, therefore, since he is cold and inimical to heat, moving also
in a superior orbit most remote from the luminaries, occupies the signs
opposite to Cancer and Leo: these are Aquarius and Capricorn; and they
are assigned to him in consideration of their cold and wintry nature;
and because the configuration by opposition does not co-operate towards
the production of good.[48]
Jupiter has a favourable temperament, and is situated beneath the
sphere of Saturn; he therefore occupies the next two signs, Sagittarius
and Pisces. These signs are airy and fruitful, in consequence of their
trinal distance from the houses of the luminaries, which distance
harmonises with the operation of good.
Mars is dry in nature, and beneath the sphere of Jupiter: he takes
the next two signs, of a nature similar to his own, viz. Aries and
Scorpio, whose relative distances from the houses of the luminaries are
injurious and discordant.
Venus, possessing a favourable temperament, and placed beneath the
sphere of Mars, takes the next two signs, Taurus and Libra. These are
of a fruitful nature, and preserve harmony by the sextile distance; and
this planet is never more than two signs distant from the Sun.
Mercury never has greater distance from the Sun than the space of one
sign, and is beneath all the other planets: hence he is placed nearest
to both luminaries, and the remaining two signs, Gemini and Virgo, are
allotted to him.[49]
CHAPTER XXI THE TRIPLICITIES
The familiarity existing by triplicity arises in the following mode:
The triplicity preserves accordance with an equilateral triangle, and
the whole zodiacal orbit is defined by three circles, viz. that of the
equinox, and those of the two tropics; the twelve signs are, therefore,
distributed among four equilateral triangles.
The first triangle, or triplicity, is formed by three masculine signs,
Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, having the Sun, Jupiter, and Mars as lords
by house. Mars, however, being contrary in condition to the solar
influence, this triplicity receives, as its lords, only Jupiter and
the Sun. By day, therefore, the Sun claims the principal co-regency of
it, and Jupiter by night. Aries is on the equinoctial circle, Leo on
the summer, and Sagittarius on the winter circle. This triplicity is
principally northern, owing to the concurrent dominion of Jupiter, who
is fruitful and airy, and expressly connected with winds proceeding
from the north; it is, however, also north-west, in consequence of
being, in some degree, combined with the west by means of the house of
Mars, who introduces western breezes and the feminine qualities of that
quarter, in consequence of his lunar condition.[50]
The second triplicity, formed by Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, is
allotted to the dominion of the Moon and Venus, since it consists of
feminine signs. The Moon rules it by night, and Venus by day. Taurus
is on the summer circle, Virgo on the equinoctial, and Capricorn
on the winter. This triplicity is southern, in consequence of the
dominion of Venus, whose warm and moist influence produces south
winds: it, however, additionally receives a mixture of the east, by
means of Saturn; for, as Capricorn is the house of that planet, and
an eastern sign, Saturn becomes effective of winds from that quarter,
and furnishes this triplicity with a mixture of the east, with which
quarter he is further connected by means of his solar condition.[51]
The third triplicity is composed of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius,
masculine signs. It holds connection with Saturn and Mercury by
containing their houses, and is therefore attributed to them, and not
to Mars, to which planet it bears no relation. Saturn rules it by day,
owing to his condition,[52]
and Mercury by night. Gemini is on the summer circle, Libra on the
equinoctial, and Aquarius on the winter. This triplicity is principally
eastern, by the influence of Saturn; but it becomes north-east by
receiving also a mixture of the north from the condition of Jupiter,
with which planet Saturn has, in this respect, a diurnal
familiarity.[53]
The fourth triplicity, formed by Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, is left
to the remaining planet, Mars, who has right in it by means of his
house, Scorpio. But, as the signs which compose this triplicity are
feminine, the Moon by night and Venus by day, through their feminine
condition, govern it, together with Mars. Cancer is on the summer
circle, Scorpio on the winter, and Pisces on the equinoctial. This
triplicity is western, in consequence of the government of the Moon and
Mars; but it is also blended with the south by the joint dominion of
Venus, and therefore becomes south-west.
CHAPTER XXII EXALTATIONS
That which is termed the exaltation of the planets is considered by the
following rules:
The Sun on his entrance into Aries is then passing into the higher and
more northern semicircle; but, on his entrance into Libra, into the
more southern and lower one: his exaltation, therefore, is determined
to be in Aries, as, when present in that sign, he begins to lengthen
the days, and the influence of his heating nature increases at the same
time. His fall is placed in Libra, for the converse reasons.
Saturn on the contrary, in order to preserve his station opposite to
the Sun, in this respect, as well as in regard to their respective
houses, obtains his exaltation in Libra, and his fall in Aries: since,
in all cases, the increase of heat must be attended by a diminution of
cold, and the increase of cold by a diminution of heat.
The Moon, again, after conjunction with the Sun in Aries, the seat
of his exaltation, makes her first appearance, and begins to augment
her light in Taurus, the first sign of her own triplicity, which is
consequently ascribed to be her exaltation; while Scorpio, the opposite
sign, is her fall.
Jupiter, since he is efficacious in exciting fruitful breezes from the
north, and since he becomes most northerly, and augments his peculiar
influence when in Cancer, accordingly obtains his exaltation in that
sign, and his fall in Capricorn.
Mars possesses a fiery nature, which receives its greatest intensity
in Capricorn, in which sign this planet becomes most southerly; his
exaltation is therefore placed in Capricorn, in opposition to that of
Jupiter, and his fall in Cancer.
Venus is of a moist nature, and becomes chiefly moist when in Pisces.
Under that sign a dampness begins to be perceptible in the atmosphere,
and Venus, from being in that sign, derives an augmentation of her own
proper influence: her exaltation is consequently placed therein, and
her fall in Virgo.
Mercury is of a nature opposite to that of Venus, and is more dry: in
opposition to her, therefore, he takes his exaltation in Virgo, in
which sign the autumnal dryness makes its first appearance; and he
receives his fall in Pisces.
CHAPTER XXIII THE DISPOSITION OF THE TERMS [54]
There are two methods of disposing the terms of the planets, in
reference to the dominion of the triplicities; one is Ægyptian, the
other Chaldaic.
But the Ægyptian method preserves no regular distribution, neither in
point of successive order nor in point of quantity.
In point of order it is defective, since it, in some instances, allots
the first degrees of a sign to the lord of the house, in others to
the lord of the triplicity, and in others again to the lord of the
exaltation. By selecting examples this failure in order will easily be
seen; for instance, if the order were regulated by the government of
houses, for what reason should Saturn take the first degrees in Libra,
since that sign is the house of Venus? or why should Jupiter take them
in Aries, which is the house of Mars? If the government of triplicities
were followed, for what reason should Mercury take the first degrees in
Capricorn, which is in the triplicity ruled by Venus? If the government
by exaltations, why should Mars take the first degrees in Cancer? that
sign being the exaltation of Jupiter. And if the order were regulated
even by considering the planet which possesses most of these dignities
in the sign, for what reason should Mercury take the first degrees
in Aquarius, in which sign he rules only by triplicity, and why not
Saturn, who has government in it by house, as well as by triplicity? or
why in short should Mercury, who does not possess any kind of dominion
in Capricorn, receive the first degrees in that sign also? The same
want of order is abundantly evident in the rest of the distribution.
An equal irregularity exists in the respective quantities of degrees
allotted by the Ægyptians to the several terms of the planets. For it
is by no means a proper nor sufficient demonstration of accuracy that
the aggregate sum of all the numbers of every single planet amounts to
the precise total requiring to be divided into portions of time;[55]
since, even if it be admitted that this total, collected from every
single star, is correctly asserted by the Ægyptians, it may still be
objected that the same total, so collected by them, may be found in
many other ways by interchanging the numbers in a sign. There are
persons also who contend that in every latitude the same space of time
is occupied in ascension by every star; this, however, is manifestly
wrong: for, in the first place, these persons are guided by the vulgar
opinion of the plane heights of ascension, which is totally foreign
to truth, and according to which, in the parallel of Lower Ægypt, the
signs of Virgo and Libra would ascend each in thirty-eight degrees and
a third,[56]
and Leo and Scorpio each in thirty-five degrees; when it is, on the
contrary, shown by the Tables,[57]
that the latter two signs occupy in their several ascensions more than
thirty-five degrees each, but Virgo and Libra less. It should further
be observed, that those who support this opinion seem (by so doing) not
only to dispute the quantity of the terms most generally received, but
to be driven also to the necessity of falsifying many points; since (as
it is indispensable to keep to the same total amount of all the terms
together) they make use of parts of degrees; but even that contrivance
does not enable them to reach the true point.
The old terms, admitted by many persons on the authority of former
tradition, are as follows:
THE TERMS ACCORDING TO THE ÆGYPTIANS
| Aries |
Taurus |
Gemini |
Cancer |
Leo |
Virgo |
| Jupiter | 6 | 6 |
Ven. | 8 | 8 |
Mer. | 6 | 6 |
Mars | 7 | 7 |
Jup. | 6 | 6 |
Mer. | 7 | 7 |
| Venus | 6 | 12 |
Mer. | 6 | 14 |
Jup. | 6 | 12 |
Ven. | 6 | 13 |
Ven. | 5 | 11 |
Ven. | 10 | 17 |
| Mercury | 8 | 20 |
Jup. | 8 | 22 |
Ven. | 5 | 17 |
Mer. | 6 | 19 |
Sat. | 7 | 18 |
Jup. | 4 | 21 |
| Mars | 5 | 25 |
Sat. | 5 | 27 |
Mars | 7 | 24 |
Jup. | 7 | 26 |
Mer. | 6 | 24 |
Mars | 7 | 28 |
| Saturn | 5 | 30 |
Mars | 3 | 30 |
Sat. | 6 | 30 |
Sat. | 4 | 30 |
Mars | 6 | 30 |
Sat. | 2 | 30 |
| Libra |
Scorpio |
Sagittarius |
Capricorn |
Aquarius |
Pisces |
| Saturn | 6 | 6 |
Mars | 7 | 7 |
Jup. | 12 | 12 |
Mer. | 7 | 7 |
Mer. | 7 | 7 |
Ven. | 12 | 12 |
| Mercury | 8 | 14 |
Ven. | 4 | 11 |
Ven. | 5 | 17 |
Jup. | 7 | 14 |
Ven. | 6 | 13 |
Jup. | 4 | 16 |
| Jupiter | 7 | 21 |
Mer. | 8 | 19 |
Mer. | 4 | 21 |
Ven. | 8 | 22 |
Jup. | 7 | 20 |
Mer. | 3 | 19 |
| Venus | 7 | 28 |
Jup. | 5 | 24 |
Sat. | 5 | 26 |
Sat. | 4 | 26 |
Mars | 5 | 25 |
Mars | 9 | 28 |
| Mars | 2 | 30 |
Sat. | 6 | 30 |
Mars | 4 | 30 |
Mars | 4 | 30 |
Sat. | 5 | 30 |
Sat. | 2 | 30 |
Thus, by the Ægyptian distribution, it appears that the total numbers
of the degrees for each planet, added together, make 360:—viz. for
Saturn 57, Jupiter 79, Mars 66, Venus 82, and Mercury 76.
The method of the Chaldæans contains a certain simplicity of
arrangement as to quantity, and preserves an order of succession
rather more comformable to the dominion of the triplicities. It is,
nevertheless, highly imperfect, as may be easily discovered even
without being pointed out: for in the first triplicity (which the
Chaldæans also attribute to the same signs; viz. Aries, Leo, and
Sagittarius), Jupiter, the lord of the triplicity, takes the first
degrees; Venus, who rules the next triplicity, follows him; after her,
in succession, are Saturn and Mercury, the lords of the triplicity
of Gemini; and lastly Mars, lord of the remaining triplicity. In the
second triplicity (also allotted to the same signs, viz. Taurus, Virgo,
and Capricorn), Venus stands first; next to her, Saturn and Mercury;
after them Mars, and Jupiter last. In the other two triplicities a
similar order of succession is closely followed; and with respect to
the third triplicity, which is ascribed to two lords, viz. to Saturn
and Mercury, Saturn is placed first in order by day and Mercury by night.
The quantity of degrees allotted to each planet is also simply
regulated in the Chaldaic method; it diminishes in graduation from the
quantity given to the planet first in order, so that each successive
planet takes one degree less than that which preceded it. Thus the
first planet takes eight degrees, the second seven, the third six, the
fourth five, and the fifth four. By this arrangement the degrees of
Saturn amount by day to 78, and by night to 66; the degrees of Jupiter
to 72, of Mars to 69, of Venus to 75, and of Mercury by day to 66, and
by night to 78—the whole amounting to 360.
Of these two distributions of the terms, that of the Ægyptians seems
more to be relied on than the other; since it has been handed down and
recommended in the writings of the Ægyptian authors, and also because
the degrees of the terms, in nativities rectified by them as examples,
are universally in accordance with this distribution; while, on the
other hand, neither the order nor the number of the Chaldaic method has
ever been recorded or explained by any writer—not even by the writers
of that very nation: the accuracy of that method is consequently
doubtful, and its irregularity as to the order of placing the planets
is widely open to censure.
There is, however, an ancient writing which has fallen into the
author’s possession, and which gives a rational and consistent account
of the nature of the terms; of the order in which they are to be
taken, and of the quantity belonging to each. It will be found in the
subsequent chapter.
CHAPTER XXIV THE TERMS ACCORDING TO PTOLEMY
In arranging the order in which the planets take their terms in each
sign, their exaltations, triplicities, and houses, are taken into
consideration; and whatever planet, whether benefic or malefic, may
possess two rights of dominion in one and the same sign, such planet
is universally placed first in order in that sign. In other cases,
however, where it does not happen that a malefic possesses two rights
of dominion in the sign, it is always placed last.
The lord of the exaltation is placed first; then the lord of the
triplicity; and then the lord of the house; in regular succession,
according to the series of the signs; but it must again be remembered
that any planet, having two rights of dominion in the same sign, takes
precedence, as before mentioned, of those having only one. In Cancer
and Leo, however, the malefics occupy the first degrees; as those signs
are the houses of the Moon and the Sun, which take no terms; and the
malefics being found to have greater potency in those signs therefore
take precedence in them. Mars, consequently, receives the first degrees
in Cancer, and Saturn in Leo, by which arrangement a proper order is
preserved.[58]
The respective quantities of degrees for the several terms is thus
determined: viz. when there is no planet found to be lord by two
rights in the same sign, or in the two signs next following, each of
the benefics, Jupiter and Venus, takes seven degrees; the malefics,
Saturn and Mars, take five degrees each; and Mercury, being of common
influence, takes six degrees; thus completing the whole thirty. Since,
however, there are some cases in which a planet has always a double
right—(for Venus obtains the sole government of Taurus and Pisces, as
the Moon does not share in the terms)—it is to be observed that when
such double right (whether it exist in the same sign or in the signs
next following as far as may complete a quadrant) may be possessed by
any planet, that planet receives in addition one degree. The planets
thus entitled were distinguished by points in the ancient writing above
mentioned. And the degree, added to the quantity of the planet which
exercises a double right, is subtracted from those of single right; most
generally from Saturn and Jupiter, in consequence of their slower motion.
These terms are detailed in the following table:—
| Aries |
Taurus |
Gemini |
Cancer |
Leo |
Virgo |
| Jupiter | 6 | 6 |
Ven. | 8 | 8 |
Mer. | 7 | 7 |
Mars | 6 | 6 |
Jup.
Sat. | 6 | 6 |
Mer. | 7 | 7 |
| Venus | 8 | 14 |
Mer. | 7 | 15 |
Jup. | 6 | 13 |
Mer.
Jup. | 7 | 13 |
Mer. | 7 | 13 |
Ven. | 6 | 13 |
| Mercury | 7 | 21 |
Jup. | 7 | 22 |
Ven. | 7 | 20 |
Jup.
Mer. | 7 | 20 |
Sat.
Ven. | 6 | 19 |
Jup. | 5 | 18 |
| Mars | 5 | 26 |
Sat. | 2
4 | 4
26 |
Mars | 6 | 26 |
Ven. | 7 | 27 |
Jup. | 6 | 25 |
Sat. | 6 | 24 |
| Saturn | 4 | 30 |
Mars | 6
4 | 30 |
Sat. | 4 | 30 |
Sat. | 3 | 30 |
Mars | 5 | 30 |
Mars | 6 | 30 |
| Libra |
Scorpio |
Sagittarius |
Capricorn |
Aquarius |
Pisces |
| Saturn | 6 | 6 |
Mars | 6 | 6 |
Jup. | 8 | 8 |
Ven. | 6 | 6 |
Sat. | 6 | 6 |
Ven. | 8 | 8 |
| Venus | 5 | 11 |
Ven.
Jup. | 8
7 | 14
13 |
Ven. | 6 | 14 |
Mer. | 6 | 12 |
Mer. | 6 | 12 |
Jup. | 6 | 14 |
Mercury
Jupiter |
8
5 | 19
16 |
Jup.
Ven. |
7
8 | 21 |
Mer. | 5 | 19 |
Jup. | 7 | 19 |
Ven. | 8 | 20 |
Mer. | 6 | 20 |
Jupiter
Mercury |
5
8 | 24 |
Mer. | 6 | 27 |
Sat. | 6 | 25 |
Sat.
Mars |
6
5 | 25
25 |
Jup. | 5 | 25 |
Mars | 6 | 26 |
| Mars | 6 | 30 |
Sat. | 3 | 30 |
Mars | 5 | 30 |
Mars
Sat. | 5 | 30 |
Mars | 5 | 30 |
Sat. | 4
3 | 30 |
CHAPTER III THE FAMILIARITY OF THE REGIONS OF THE EARTH WITH THE TRIPLICITIES AND THE PLANETS
It has been already stated that there are four triplicities
distinguishable in the zodiac. The first, composed of Aries, Leo,
and Sagittarius, is the north-west triplicity; and Jupiter has chief
dominion over it on behalf of its northern proportion; but Mars also
rules with him in reference to the west. The second, consisting of
Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, is the south-east; and in this triplicity
Venus bears chief rule, in consequence of the southern proportion; but
Saturn also governs with her in consideration of the east. The third,
composed of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, is north-east; and Saturn is
here the principal lord, in consequence of the eastern proportion;
Jupiter, however, governs with him in reference to the north. The
fourth triplicity is constituted of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, and
is south-west; it owns Mars as its principal ruler, in consideration
of its western proportion; and, on behalf of the south, it is also
governed by Venus.
The four triplicities being thus established, the whole inhabited
earth is accordingly divided into four parts, agreeing with the number
of the triplicities. It is divided latitudinally by the line of the
Mediterranean Sea, from the Straits of Hercules to the Issican Gulf,
continued onwards through the mountainous ridge extending towards the
east; and by this latitudinal division its southern and northern parts
are defined. Its longitudinal division is made by the line of the
Arabian Gulf, the Ægean Sea, Pontus, and the lake Mæotis; and by this
line are separated its eastern and western parts.
Of the four quadrants of the earth, thus agreeing in number with the
four triplicities, one is situated in the north-west of the entire
earth, and contains Celto-galatia; or, as it is commonly called,
Europe. Opposed to this quadrant lies that of the south-east, towards
Eastern Æthiopia; it is called the southern part of Asia Magna. Another
quadrant of the entire earth is in the north-east, about Scythia, and
is called the northern part of Asia Magna. To this is opposed the
quadrant of the south-west, which lies about Western Æthiopia, and is
known by the general name of Libya.
Each of these quadrants contains certain parts, which, in comparison
with its other parts, lie more contiguous to the middle of the earth;
and these parts, in respect of the quadrant to which they belong, have
a situation opposite to the rest of that quadrant, in the same manner
as that quadrant itself is situated in regard to the rest of the earth.
For instance, in the quadrant of Europe, which is situated on the
north-west of the whole earth, those parts of it which lie towards the
middle of the earth, and near the angles of the other quadrants, are
manifestly situated in the south-east of that quadrant. The like rule
obtains in regard to the other quadrants. And hence it is evident
that each quadrant is in familiarity with two oppositely-placed
triplicities, its whole extent being adapted to the one triplicity
which governs it as an entire quadrant; but its particular parts,
situated about the middle of the earth, and lying, as regards the rest
of the quadrant, in a direction contrary to that assigned to the whole
quadrant altogether, being adapted to the other triplicity which rules
the particular quadrant lying opposite to it. The planets exercising
dominion in both these triplicities also hold familiarity with these
particular parts; but, with the other more remote parts of any
quadrant, only those planets hold familiarity which rule in the single
triplicity to which the whole quadrant is allotted. With the said
particular parts about the middle of the earth, Mercury also, as well
as the other planets in dominion, bears familiarity, in consideration
of his meditative condition and common nature.
Under this arrangement, it follows that the north-western parts of
the first quadrant, or that of Europe, are in familiarity with the
north-west triplicity, composed of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius;
and they are accordingly governed by the lords of that triplicity,
Jupiter and Mars, vespertine. These parts, as distinguished by their
appropriation to entire nations, are Britain, Galatia, Germany,
Barsania,[69]
Italy, Apulia, Sicily, Gaul, Tuscany, Celtica, and Spain.
And, since the triplicity itself and the planets connected with it
in dominion are adapted to command, the natives of these countries
are consequently impatient of restraint, lovers of freedom, warlike,
industrious, imperious, cleanly, and high-minded. But, owing to the
vespertine configuration of Jupiter and Mars, as well as the masculine
condition of the anterior parts of the triplicity, and the feminine
condition of its latter parts,[70]
the said nations regard women with scorn and indifference.[71]
They are, however, still careful of the community, brave and faithful,
affectionate in their families, and perform good and kind actions.
Among the countries before named, Britain, Galatia, Germany, and
Barsania have a greater share of familiarity with Aries and Mars; and
their inhabitants are accordingly wilder, bolder, and more ferocious.
Italy, Apulia, Sicily, and Gaul are in familiarity with Leo and the Sun;
and the natives of these countries are more imperious, yet kind
and benevolent, and careful of the commonwealth. Tuscany, Celtica,
and Spain, are connected with Sagittarius and Jupiter; and their
inhabitants are lovers of freedom, simplicity, and elegance.
The south-eastern parts of this quadrant, which are situated towards
the middle of the earth, viz. Thrace, Macedonia, Illyria, Hellas,
Achaia, and Crete, as well as the Cyclad Isles and the shores of
Asia Minor and of Cyprus, assume, in addition, a connection with
the south-east triplicity, which is composed of Taurus, Virgo, and
Capricorn, and ruled by Venus and Saturn; and, in consequence of the
vicinity of these regions to the middle of the earth, Mercury likewise
has a proportionate dominion over them. Hence their inhabitants, being
subjected to the rulers of both triplicities, enjoy a favourable
temperament of mind and of body. From Mars they imbibe their fitness
for command, their courage, and impatience of restraint; from Jupiter
their love of freedom, their self-rule, their skill in guiding public
affairs, and in legislation: through the influence of Venus they are
also lovers of the arts and sciences, as well as of music and poetry,
of public shows, and all the refinements of life; and from Mercury they
deduce their hospitality, their fondness for society and communion,
their love of equity and of literature, and their power of eloquence.
They are also in the highest degree conversant with sacred mysteries,
owing to the vespertine figuration of Venus.
It is further to be observed of these last-named countries, that the
inhabitants of the Cyclad Isles, and of the shores of Asia Minor and of
Cyprus, are more particularly under the influence of Taurus and Venus,
and are therefore voluptuous, fond of elegance, and over-studious in
their attention to the body. The people of Hellas, Achaia, and Crete,
have a stronger familiarity with Virgo and Mercury, and are therefore
learned and scientific, preferring the cultivation of the mind to the
care of the body. The people of Macedonia, Thrace, and Illyria, are
chiefly influenced by Capricorn and Saturn; whence they are greedy of
wealth, inferior in civilization, and have no ordinances of civil polity.
The second quadrant consists of the southern division of Asia Magna.
Such of its parts as are contained in India, Arriana, Gedrosia,
Parthia, Media, Persia, Babylonia, Mesopotamia, and Assyria, are
situated in the south-east of the whole earth, and have due familiarity
with the south-east triplicity (composed of Taurus, Virgo, and
Capricorn), and consequently with Venus, Mercury, and Saturn, in
matutine figuration. The nature of the inhabitants of these countries
is obedient to the dominion of these ruling influences; they worship
Venus under the name of Isis; and they also pay devotion to Saturn,
invoking him by the name of Mithranhelios. Many of them likewise
foretell future events; and they consecrate to the gods some of their
bodily members, to which superstition they are induced by the nature of
the figuration of the planets before mentioned.[72]
They are, moreover, hot in constitution, amorous and lustful, fond of
acting, singing, and dancing, gaudy in their dresses and ornaments;
owing to the influence of Venus. Saturn, however, inclines them to
simplicity of conduct; and, in consequence of the matutine figuration,
they address their women publicly.[73]
There are also many among them who beget children by their
own mothers.[74]
The matutine figurations also influence their mode of worship, which
is performed by prostration of the breast; because the heart is the
nobler part of the body, and, in its vivifying faculties, acts like the
Sun. And, although the influence of Venus makes the people, generally
speaking, finical and effeminate in their personal adornment and
apparel, yet the connection which Saturn holds with them, by means
of the east, still renders them great in mind, eminent in council,
courageous and warlike.
It is to be remarked, that Parthia, Media, and Persia, have a more
particular familiarity with Taurus and Venus; whence it follows that
the dwellers in those countries wear splendid garments, and clothe
the whole person entirely, except the breast; they are also fond of
elegance and refinement. The countries about Babylon, Mesopotamia, and
Assyria, are connected with Virgo and Mercury; their inhabitants are
consequently studious of the sciences, and, among other attainments,
excel in making observations on the five planets. India, Arriana, and
Gedrosia, are connected with Capricorn and Saturn; the natives of these
regions are, therefore, ill-formed in person, of dirty habits, and
barbarous manners.
The remaining parts of this second quadrant, viz. Idumæa, Cœlesyria,
Judæa, Phœnicia, Chaldæa, Orchynia, and Arabia Felix, occupy a
situation in the vicinity of the middle of the earth, and in the
north-west of the quadrant to which they actually belong: hence they
are in familiarity with the north-west triplicity (which consists of
Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius), and they have for their rulers, Jupiter
and Mars, together with Mercury. By means of the figuration of these
planets, the natives of the said countries are skilful in trade and all
mercantile affairs, heedless of danger, yet treacherous, servile, and
thoroughly fickle.
The inhabitants of Cœlesyria, Idumæa, and Judæa, are principally
influenced by Aries and Mars, and are generally audacious,
atheistical,[75]
and treacherous. The Phœnicians, Chaldæans, and Orchynians, have
familiarity with Leo and the Sun, and are therefore more simple and
humane in disposition; they are also studious of astrology, and pay
greater reverence than all other nations to the Sun. The people of
Arabia Felix are connected with Sagittarius and Jupiter: the country
is fertile, and abundantly productive of spices, and its inhabitants
are well-proportioned in person, free in all their habits of life, and
liberal in all their contracts and dealings.
The third quadrant occupies the northern division of Asia Magna.
Those several parts of it which lie to the north-east of the whole
earth, and comprise Hyrcania, Armenia, Mantiana, Bactriana, Casperia,
Serica, Sauromatica, Oxiana, and Sogdiana, are in familiarity with the
north-east triplicity, composed of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, and
have for their rulers Saturn and Jupiter, in matutine positions; hence
the inhabitants worship Jupiter and the Sun.[76]
They are abundantly rich in all things: they possess much gold, and are
dainty and luxurious in their diet. They are also learned in theology,
skilled in magic, just in all their dealings, free and noble-minded,
holding dishonesty and wickedness in abhorrence, strongly imbued with
the softer affections of nature; and, in a worthy cause, they will even
readily embrace death to preserve their friends. They are, furthermore,
chaste in marriage, elegant and splendid in their dress, charitable
and beneficent, and of enlightened intellect. All these qualities are
principally produced by the matutine positions of Saturn and Jupiter,
who influence the region.
Among these nations, however, Hyrcania, Armenia, and Mantiana, have
a greater familiarity with Gemini and Mercury; and the inhabitants
are consequently more acute in apprehension, but less tenacious of
their probity. The countries about Bactriana, Casperia, and Serica,
are connected with Libra and Venus; and the natives are endowed with
much wealth and many luxuries, and take delight in poetry and songs.
The nations about Sauromatica, Oxiana and Sogdiana, are influenced by
Aquarius and Saturn; and are therefore less polished in manners, and
more austere and uncouth.
The other parts of this quadrant, lying near the middle of the entire
earth, consist of Bithynia, Phrygia, Colchis, Laxica, Syria, Commagene,
Cappadocia, Lydia, Lycia, Cilicia, and Pamphylia. These, being situated
in the south-west of their quadrant, have familiarity accordingly with
the south-west triplicity, composed of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, and
are ruled by Mars and Venus, together with Mercury. In these countries
Venus is principally worshipped; she is invoked as the Mother of the
Gods, and by various local and indigenous appellations; Mars likewise
receives adoration here, under the name of Adonis, as well as by
other titles;[77]
and some of the religious services to these deities are performed by
loud lamentations. The people are servile in mind, diligent in labour,
yet fraudulent, knavish, and thievish; they enter into foreign armies
for the sake of hire, and make prisoners and slaves of their own
countrymen: besides which, they are continually subject to intestine
broils. These traits arise from the matutine figurations of Mars and
Venus. It is further to be observed, that, from the circumstance of
Mars receiving his exaltation in Capricorn (one of the signs of the
triplicity ruled by Venus), and Venus hers in Pisces (a sign belonging
to the triplicity of Mars), it thence follows that the women have
strong attachments and kindly affections to their husbands, are
vigilant and careful in domestic affairs, and highly industrious: they
also act as servants, and labour for the men, with all due obedience,
in every thing.
Bithynia, Phrygia, and Colchis, must however be excepted from sharing
in this general propriety of the female character; for, as these
nations are chiefly connected with Cancer and the Moon, their male
population is, generally speaking, slavish in its habits, timid and
superstitious, while the greater part of the women, owing to the
matutine and masculine position of the Moon, are of masculine manners,
ambitious of command, and warlike. These females, like the Amazons,
shun the addresses of men, and delight in the use of arms, and in
manly occupations: they also amputate the right breasts of their
female children for the sake of adapting them to military service, and
in order that, when in combat and exposing that part of their body,
they may appear to be of the male sex. Again, Syria, Commagene, and
Cappadocia, are principally influenced by Scorpio and Mars; and their
inhabitants are accordingly bold, wicked, treacherous, and laborious.
Lydia, Cilicia, and Pamphylia, have a greater familiarity with Pisces
and Jupiter; when their inhabitants are wealthy, of mercantile habits,
living in freedom and in community, faithful to their engagements, and
honest in their dealings.
The remaining quadrant is the vast tract known by the general name of
Libya. Its several parts, distinguished by the particular names of
Numidia, Carthage, Africa,[78]
Phazania, Nasamonitis, Garamantica,
Mauritania, Getulia, and Metagonitis, are situated in the south-west
of the entire earth, and have due familiarity with the south-west
triplicity, composed of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces; their rulers
therefore are Mars and Venus, in vespertine position. From this
figuration of the planets it results that the dwellers in these regions
are doubly governed by a man and a woman, who are both children of
the same mother; the man rules the males, and the woman the females.
They are extremely hot in constitution, and desirous of women; their
marriages are usually made by violence, and in many districts the local
princes first enjoy the brides of their subjects: in some places,
however, the women are common to all. The influence of Venus causes the
whole people to delight in personal ornaments, and in being arrayed
in female attire: nevertheless, that of Mars renders them courageous,
crafty, addicted to magic, and fearless of dangers.
Again, however, of the above-named countries, Numidia, Carthage, and
Africa, are more particularly in familiarity with Cancer and the
Moon: their inhabitants, consequently, live in community, attend to
mercantile pursuits, and enjoy abundantly all the blessings of nature.
The natives of Metagonitis, Mauritania, and Getulia, are influenced by
Scorpio and Mars, and are consequently ferocious and pugnacious in the
highest degree; eaters of human flesh, utterly indifferent to danger,
and so regardless and prodigal of blood, as to slay each other without
hesitation on the slightest cause. The people in Phazania, Nasamonitis,
and Garamantica, are connected with Pisces and Jupiter, and are
accordingly frank and simple in manners, fond of employment, well
disposed, fond of the decencies of life, and, for the most part, free
and unrestrained in their actions: they worship Jupiter by the name of
Ammon.
The other parts of this quadrant, which lies near the middle of
the entire earth, are Cyrenaica, Marmarica, Ægypt, Thebais, Oasis,
Troglodytica, Arabia, Azania, and Middle Æthiopia. These countries,
being situated in the north-east of their quadrant, have due
familiarity with the north-east triplicity (consisting of Gemini,
Libra, and Aquarius), and are governed by Saturn and Jupiter, and also
by Mercury. Their inhabitants, therefore, participate in the influence
of all the five planets in vespertine figuration, and consequently
cherish due love and reverence for the gods, and dedicate themselves to
their service. They are addicted to sepulchral ceremonies; and, owing
to the said vespertine position, they bury their dead in the
earth,[79]
and remove them from the public eye. They use various laws and
customs, and worship divers gods. In a state of subjection, they are
submissive, cowardly, abject, and most patient; but when they command,
they are brave, generous, and high-minded. Polygamy is frequent among
them, and practised by the women as well as the men: they are most
licentious in sexual intercourse, and allow incestuous commerce between
brothers and sisters. Both men and women are extraordinarily prolific,
and correspond in this respect with the fecundity of their soil. Many
of the men are, however, effeminate and debased in mind; in consequence
of the figuration of the malefics, together with the vespertine
position of Venus; and some of them mutilate their persons.[80]
Among these last-named countries, Cyrenaica, Marmarica, and
particularly Lower Ægypt, are chiefly influenced by Gemini and Mercury:
the natives are therefore highly intellectual and sensible, and gifted
with capacity for every undertaking; above all, for the attainment
of wisdom, and an insight into divine mysteries. They are also
magicians, performing secret rites and ceremonies, and are in every
respect calculated for the prosecution of all scientific
inquiry.[81]
The inhabitants of Thebais, Oasis, and Troglodytica, are connected
with Libra and Venus; they are of warmer constitution, and more hasty
disposition, and enjoy life in all its plentitude and abundance. The
natives of Arabia, Azania, and Middle Æthiopia, have familiarity
with Aquarius and Saturn; they consequently feed on flesh and fish
indiscriminately, and live in a state of dispersion like wild beasts;
they never unite in society, but lead a wandering and savage life.
Table Showing all the Countries
Belonging to Each Sign Respectively
| Signs. |
Aries. |
Taurus. |
Gemini. |
Cancer. |
Leo |
Virgo |
| Triplicity. |
North West. |
South East. |
North East. |
South West. |
North West. |
South East. |
| Quadrant of the Countries. |
North West. |
South East. |
North East. |
South West. |
North West. |
South East. |
Countries remote from the
middle of the earth. |
Britain
Galatia
Germany
Barsania |
Parthia
Media
Persia |
Hyrcania
Armenia
Mantiana |
Numidia
Carthage
Africa |
Italy
Apulia
Sicily
Gaul |
Mesopotamia
Babylonia
Assyria |
| Quadrant of the Countries. |
South East. |
North West. |
South West. |
North East. |
South East. |
North West. |
Countries near the middle
of the earth. |
Cælesyria
Idumæa
Judæa |
Cyclades
Cyprus
Asia Minor |
Cyrenaica
Marmarica
Lower Ægypt |
Bithynia
Phrygia
Colchis |
Phœnicia
Chaldæa
Orychnia |
Hellas
Achaia
Crete |
| Signs. |
Libra. |
Scorpio. |
Sagittarius. |
Capricorn. |
Aquarius. |
Pisces. |
| Triplicity. |
North East. |
South West. |
North West. |
South East. |
North East. |
South West. |
| Quadrant of the Countries. |
North East. |
South West. |
North West. |
South East. |
North East. |
South West. |
Countries remote from the
middle of the earth. |
Bactriana
Casperia
Serica |
Metagonitis
Mauritania
Getulia |
Tuscany
Celtica
Spain |
India
Arriana
Gedrosia |
Sauromatica
Oxiana
Sogdiana |
Phazania
Nasamonitis
Garamantica |
| Quadrant of the Countries |
South West. |
North East. |
South East. |
North West. |
South West. |
North East. |
Countries near the middle
of the earth. |
Thebais
Oasis
Troglodytica |
Syria
Commagene
Cappadocia |
Arabia Felix |
Thrace
Macedonia
Illyria |
Arabia
Azania
Middle |
Lydia
Cilicia
Pamphylia |
| |
|
|
|
|
Æthiopia |
|
The familiarities exercised by the Planets, and by the Signs of the
Zodiac, together with the manners, customs, and qualities, particular
as well as general, which they produce, have now been concisely
described; but in order to facilitate the knowledge and use of them,
the subjoined table is inserted, to show, at one view, what countries
are in connection with each sign, respectively, according to the mode
above detailed.
CHAPTER VII THE TIME AND PERIOD OF THE EVENT
The second point requiring attention relates to time, and indicates
the date when the event will take place, and the period during which
its effect will continue: these are to be ascertained in the following
manner.
It must however be premised, that as an eclipse, occurring at any
particular season, cannot happen in all climates at the same temporal
or solar hour,[85]
so neither will the magnitude of the obscuration, nor
the time of its continuance, be equal in all parts of the world. First,
therefore (as is done in a nativity), the angles are to be arranged,
in every country connected with the eclipse, according to the hour at
which the eclipse takes place and the elevation of the pole in that
country. The time, during which the obscuration of the eclipse may
continue in each country, is then to be noted in equatorial
hours.[86]
And, after these particulars have been carefully observed, it is to be
understood that the effect will endure as many years as the obscuration
lasted hours, provided the eclipse was solar; but if lunar, a like
number of months is to be reckoned instead of years.
The commencement of the effect, and the period of its general
intensity, or strength, are to be inferred from the situation of
the place of the eclipse with respect to the angles. For, if the
ecliptical place be near the eastern horizon, the effect will begin to
be manifested in the course of the first four months after the date of
the eclipse; and its general height, or intensity, will take place in,
or about, the first third part of the whole extent of its duration.
If the ecliptical place happen to be in or near the mid-heaven, the
effect will begin to appear in the second four months, and its general
intensity will occur about the second third part; and, if the place
should fall near the western horizon, the effect will begin in the
third four months, and take its general intensity in the last third
part of its whole duration.[87]
Partial intensities, or relaxations of the effect, are, however, to be
inferred from any combinations which may happen during the intermediate
period,[88]
either in the actual places where the primary cause was presented, or
in other places configurated therewith. They are also to be conjectured
by the various courses, or transits, of such planets as co-operate in
producing the effect, by being configurated with the sign in which
the primary cause was situated; and, with this view, the matutine,
vespertine, or stationary position, or midnight culmination of those
planets must be observed; for the effect will be strengthened and
augmented by their matutine or stationary position; but weakened and
diminished by their being vespertine, or situated under the sunbeams,
or by their midnight culmination.
CHAPTER VIII THE GENUS, CLASS, OR KIND, LIABLE TO BE AFFECTED
The third division of these observations relates to the mode of
distinguishing the genus, or species, of animals or things about to
sustain the expected effect. This distinction is made by means of the
conformation and peculiar properties of those signs in which the place
of the eclipse, and the places of such fixed stars and planets, as are
in dominion according to the actual sign of the eclipse, and that of
the angle before it, may be found. And a planet, or fixed star, is to
be considered as holding dominion when circumstanced as follows.
If there be found one planet having more numerous claims than any other
to the place of the eclipse, as well as to that of the angle, being
also in the immediate vicinity of those places, and visibly applying
to, or receding from them, and having likewise more rights over other
places connected with them by configuration; the said planet being, at
the same time, lord by house, triplicity, exaltation, and terms; in
such a case, only that single planet is entitled to dominion. But, if
the lord of the eclipse and the lord of the angle be not identical,
then those two planets which have most connections with each place
are to be noted; and, of these two, the lord of the eclipse is to
be preferred to the chief dominion, “although the other is to be
considered as bearing rule conjointly.”[89]
And if more than two should be found, having equal preensions to each
place, that particular one among them which may be nearest to an angle,
or most concerned with the places in question, by the nature of its
condition, is to be selected for dominion.[90]
But, among the fixed stars, the chief bright one (which, during the
time of the eclipse, may hold connection, in any of the nine modes
of apparent configuration detailed in the First Syntaxis[91]
with the angles then actually in passage), is to be admitted to dominion;
as also that one which, at the ecliptical hour, may be in an eminent
situation, either having risen, or having culminated with the angle
following the place of the eclipse.[92]
Having considered, according to the foregoing rules, what stars
co-operate in regulating the coming event, the conformation and figure
of the signs, in which the eclipse takes place and the said ruling
stars may be posited, are also to be observed; and, from the properties
and characteristics of those signs, the genus or species, to be
comprehended in the event, is chiefly to be inferred.
For instance, should the zodiacal constellations, and those of the
ruling fixed stars out of the zodiac, be of human shape, the effect
will fall upon the human race. If the signs be not of human shape, but
yet terrestrial, or quadrupedal, the event would be indicated to happen
to animals of similar form: the signs shaped like reptiles signify that
serpents and creatures of that description will be affected; those
bearing the figure of ferocious beasts denote that the event will
affect savage and destructive animals; and those figured like tame
beasts show that it will operate on animals serviceable to mankind,
and of domestic character; as intimated by the shape and figure of the
signs, whether resembling horses, oxen, sheep, or any other useful
animals. In addition to this, the terrestrial signs situated in the
north, about the Arctic circle, indicate sudden earthquakes; and those
in the south, sudden deluges of rain. And, should the ruling places be
situated in signs shaped like winged animals, as in that of Aquila, or
in others of similar form, the event will take effect on birds; and
will chiefly attach to those which afford food to man. If the said
places should be in signs formed like creatures which swim, and in
marine signs, such as Delphinus, the effect will be felt by marine
animals, and in the navigation of fleets; if in river signs, such as
Aquarius and Pisces, it will attach to animals living in rivers and in
fresh waters: and, if in Argo, both sea and fresh-water animals will be
affected by it.[93]
Again, should the ruling places be situated in tropical or in
equinoctial signs, in either case alike they presignify changes in the
state of the atmosphere, at the respective season to which each sign
is appropriated. For example, with regard to the season of spring and
the productions of the earth, if the said places should be in the sign
of the vernal equinox, they will produce an effect on the buds of the
vine and fig, and of such other trees as sprout forth at that season.
Should they be in the sign of the summer tropic, the event will affect
the gathering and depositing of fruits; and, with respect to Ægypt in
particular, it will impede the rising of the Nile. If they should be in
the sign of the autumnal equinox, they foreshow that it will operate
on grain and on various sorts of herbs; if in the sign of the winter
tropic, on potherbs, esculent vegetables, and such birds and fishes as
arrive in that season.
The equinoctial signs further indicate the circumstances liable to
happen in ecclesiastical concerns, and in religious matters: the
tropical signs give warning of changes in the atmosphere and in
political affairs; the fixed signs, of changes in institutions and in
buildings; and the bicorporeal signs show that the future event will
fall alike on princes and their subjects.
Again, the ruling places situated in the east, during the time of
the eclipse, signify that fruits and seeds, incipient institutions,
and the age of youth, will be affected; those, which may be in the
mid-heaven above the earth announce that the coming event will relate
to ecclesiastical affairs, to kings and princes, and to the middle
age; those in the west, that it will influence the laws, old age, and
persons about to die.
The proportion liable to be affected, of that genus or kind on which
the event will fall, is to be ascertained by the magnitude of the
obscuration caused by the eclipse, and by the positions held by the
operative stars in regard to the ecliptical place; as, in vespertine
position to a solar eclipse, or in matutine position to a lunar
eclipse, the said stars will most usually much diminish the effect; in
opposition they render it moderate; but in matutine position to a solar
eclipse, or in vespertine to a lunar, they greatly augment and extend
it.[94]
CHAPTER IX THE QUALITY AND NATURE OF THE EFFECT
The discrimination of the peculiar properties and character of the
effect about to be produced, and of its good or evil nature, occupies
the fourth and last division of this part of the subject.
These properties must be gathered from the power of the stars which
control the ruling places, and from the contemperament created by their
relative admixture with each other and with the places which they
control. For, although the Sun and Moon are the acknowledged sources
of all the efficacy and dominion of the stars, and of their strength
or weakness, and in a certain manner regulate and command them, still,
it is by the theory of the contemperament, produced by the stars in
dominion, that the effect is indicated.
In order to understand the indications thus made, it is necessary to
begin by attending to the following detail of the effective property of
each planet—previously observing, however, that, when any circumstance
is said, for the sake of brevity, to come to pass by the general
influence of the five planets, their temperament, and the power and
assistance they may derive from natures similar to their own, the
actual continuance of their own proper constitution, or the casual
combination of any analogous influence, arising from fixed stars or
places in the zodiac, are all, at the same time, to be kept in view.
Consequently, whenever any general remark is herein made relative
to the five planets, it will likewise be necessary to bear in mind
both their temperament and quality; as fully, indeed, as if the stars
themselves had not been named, but only their effective quality and
nature. And, it is further to be remembered, that, in every case of
compound temperament, not only the combination of the planets with each
other requires to be considered, but also that of such fixed stars
and zodiacal places as share in the natures of the planets, by being
respectively connected with them according to the familiarities already
described.
Hence, when Saturn may be sole governor, he will produce disasters
concomitant with cold. And, in as far as the event may apply to the
human race in particular, it will induce among men lingering diseases,
consumptions, declines, rheumatisms, disorders from watery humours, and
attacks of the quartan ague; as well as exile, poverty, and a general
mass of evils, griefs, and alarms: deaths also will be frequent, but
chiefly among persons advanced in age. That part of the brute creation
which is most serviceable to man will likewise suffer, and be destroyed
by disease; and men who make use of the animals thus diseased will
be infected by them, and perish with them. The atmosphere will
become dreadfully chilly and frosty, unwholesome, turbid and gloomy,
presenting only clouds and pestilence. Copious and destructive storms
of snow and hail will descend, generating and fostering insects and
reptiles noxious to mankind. In rivers, and at sea, tempests will be
frequent and general, causing disastrous voyages and many shipwrecks;
and even fish will be destroyed. The waters of the sea will retire for
a time, and again return and produce inundations; rivers will overflow
their banks, and cause stagnant pools; and the fruits of the earth,
especially such as are necessary to sustain life, will be lost and cut
off by blight, locusts, floods, rains, hail, or some similar agency;
and the loss will be so extensive as to threaten even famine.
Jupiter, if he should be lord alone, will thoroughly improve and
benefit all things. Among mankind, in particular, this planet
promotes honour, happiness, content, and peace, by augmenting all the
necessaries and comforts of life, and all mental and bodily advantages.
It induces also favours, benefits, and gifts emanating from royalty,
and adds greater lustre to kings themselves, increasing their dignity
and magnanimity: all men, in short, will share in the prosperity
created by its influence. With regard to the operation of the event on
brutes, those which are domestic and adapted to man’s service will be
multiplied and will thrive; while others, which are useless and hostile
to man, will be destroyed. The constitution of the atmosphere will be
healthy and temperate, filled with gentle breezes and moisture, and
favourable to fruits. Navigation will be safe and successful; rivers
will rise to their just proportion; fruit and grain, and all other
productions of the earth conducive to the welfare and happiness of
mankind, will be presented in abundance.
Mars, when governing alone, generally causes such mischief and
destruction as are concomitant with dryness. And, among mankind,
foreign wars will be excited, accompanied with intestine divisions,
captivity, slaughter, insurrections of the people, and wrath of
princes against their subjects; together with sudden and untimely
death, the consequence of these disturbances. Feverish disorders,
tertian agues, and hæmorrhages will take place, and will be rapidly
followed by painful death, carrying off chiefly youthful persons: and
conflagration, murder, impiety, every infraction of the law, adultery,
rape, robbery, and all kinds of violence will be practised. The
atmosphere will be parched by hot, pestilential, and blasting winds,
accompanied by drought, lightnings, and fires emitted from the sky. At
sea, ships will be suddenly wrecked by the turbulence of the wind and
strokes of lightning. Rivers will fail, springs will be dried up, and
there will be a scarcity of water proper for food and sustenance. All
the creatures and productions of the earth adapted to the use of man,
whether beasts, grain, or fruits, will be damaged or destroyed by
excessive heat, by storms of thunder and lightning, or by violent
winds; and whatever has been deposited in store will be destroyed or
injured by fire, or by heat.
Venus, alone in domination, generally produces the same effects as
Jupiter, yet with greater suavity and more agreeably. Glory, honour,
and joy will attend mankind; happy marriages will be contracted,
and the fortunate pairs will be blest with numerous children. Every
undertaking will proceed prosperously, wealth will increase, and the
conduct of human life will be altogether pure, simple and pious; due
reverence being paid to all holy and sacred institutions, and harmony
subsisting between princes and their subjects. The weather also will
be of a favourable temperature, cooled by moistening breezes; the air
altogether pure and salubrious, frequently refreshed by fertilising
showers. Voyages will be performed in safety, and be attended by
success and profit. Rivers will be improved, and receive their adequate
supply of waters; and all things valuable and useful to mankind,
whether animal or vegetable, will abundantly thrive and multiply.
Mercury, if possessing dominion, is usually conjoined with one or other
of the planets before-mentioned, and is conformed and assimilated to
their natures; yet as, in itself, it presents a certain addition to
their power, this planet increases the respective impulses of them
all. And, in regard to the operation of the event on mankind, it will
promote industry and skill in business; but, at the same time, thievish
propensities, robberies, and plots of treachery: if configurated with
the malefics, it will produce calamities in navigation, and will also
cause dry and parching diseases, quotidian fever, cough, consumption,
and hæmorrhage. All parts of the ceremonies and services of religion,
the affairs of the executive government, as well as manners, customs,
and laws, are disposed and regulated by this planet, conformably to its
admixture and familiarity with each of the others. And in consequence
of the dryness of its nature, arising from its proximity to the Sun,
and the rapidity of its motion, it will generate in the atmosphere
turbulent, sharp and varied winds, together with thunders, meteors, and
lightnings, accompanied by sudden chasms in the earth, and earthquakes:
by these means it not unfrequently occasions the destruction of animals
and plants assigned to the service of mankind. Besides the foregoing
effects, it produces, when in vespertine position, a diminution of
waters, and, when matutine, an augmentation.
Each of the planets, when fully exercising its own separate and
distinct influence, will properly produce the peculiar effects above
ascribed to it; but should it be combined with others, whether by
configuration, by familiarity arising from the sign in which it may be
posited,[95]
or by its position towards the Sun, the coming event will then happen
agreeably to the admixture and compound temperament which arise from
the whole communion actually subsisting among the influencing powers.
It would, however, be a business of infinite labour and innumerable
combinations, quite beyond the limits of this treatise, to set forth
fully every contemperament and all configurations, in every mode in
which they can possibly exist; and the knowledge of them must therefore
be acquired by particular discrimination in every instance, under the
guidance of the precepts of science. Yet the following additional
remark must not be here omitted.
The nature of the familiarities, subsisting between the stars, lords
of the coming event, and the countries or cities over which the
event will extend, requires to be observed; for, should the stars be
benefic, and their familiarity with the countries liable to sustain
the effect be unimpeded by any opposing influence, they will then
exercise the favourable energies of their own nature in a greater
degree. And, on the other hand, when any obstacle may intervene to
obstruct their familiarity, or when they themselves may be overpowered
by some opposing influence, the advantages of their operation will be
diminished. Again, should the stars, lords of the coming event, not be
benefic, but injurious, their effect will be less severe, provided they
may either have familiarity with the countries on which the event will
fall, or be restrained by some opposing influence. If, however, they
should have no such familiarity, and not be subjected to restraint by
any others, endowed with a nature contrary to their own and possessing
a familiarity with the countries in question, the evils which they
produce will then be more violent and intense. And all these general
affections, of whatever kind, whether good or evil, will be principally
felt by those persons in whose individual nativities there may be found
the same disposition of the luminaries (which are the most essential
significators), or the same angles, as those existing during the
eclipse which operates the general affection. The same remark equally
applies to other persons, in whose nativities the disposition of the
luminaries and of the angles may be in opposition to that existing
during the eclipse. With respect to these coincidences, the partile
agreement, or opposition, of the ecliptical place of the luminaries to
the place of either luminary in a nativity, produces an effect at least
capable of being guarded against.[96]
CHAPTER X COLOURS IN ECLIPSES; COMETS, AND SIMILAR PHENOMENA
In investigating general events, it is necessary further to observe the
colours or hues displayed during an eclipse, either in the luminaries,
or around them; in the shape of rods or rays, or in other similar
forms. For, if these colours or hues should be black, or greenish, they
portend effects similar to those produced by Saturn’s nature; if white,
to those operated by Jupiter; if reddish, to those by Mars; if yellow,
to those by Venus; and if of various colours, to those by Mercury.
And, if the entire bodies of the luminaries be thus coloured, or should
the hues extend over all the parts immediately circumjacent to the
luminaries, it is an indication that the effects will attach to most
parts of the region, or countries, with which the eclipse and its
ruling places may be in familiarity. If, however, the colouring should
not spread over the whole surface of the luminaries, nor over all the
parts around them, but be limited to some particular quarter, then
only such a portion of the said countries, as may be indicated by the
situation of the visible hues, will be comprehended in the event.
It is also requisite to notice, with respect to general events, the
risings or first appearances of those celestial phenomena called
comets, whether presenting themselves at ecliptical times or at any
other periods. They are displayed in the shape of beams, trumpets,
pipes, and in other similar figures, and operate effects like those of
Mars and Mercury; exciting wars, heated and turbulent dispositions in
the atmosphere, and in the constitutions of men, with all their evil
consequences. The parts of the zodiac[97]
in which they may be posited when they first appear, and the direction
and inclination of their trains, point out the regions or places liable
to be affected by the events which they threaten; and the form of the
signs indicates the quality and nature of those events, as well as the
genus, class, or kind, on which the effect will fall. The time of their
continuance shows the duration of their effect; and their position,
with regard to the Sun, the period when it will commence; as, if they
first appear matutine, they denote an early commencement; but, if
vespertine, that it will be late and tardy.
The general and more comprehensive parts of the consideration
regarding regions, countries, and cities, having now been explained,
it becomes necessary to discuss certain particular points of the same
consideration; that is to say, the annual occurrences which take place
at certain fixed seasons, and the chief of which is that called the New
Moon of the Year.
CHAPTER XIV THE SIGNIFICATION OF METEORS
In order to facilitate prognostication in minor and more limited
instances, it is important to make further observation of all
remarkable appearances occasionally visible around or near the Sun,
Moon, and stars. And, for the diurnal state of the atmosphere, the
Sun’s rising should be remarked; for the nocturnal state, his setting;
but the probable duration of any such state must be considered by
reference to the Sun’s configuration with the Moon; for, in most cases,
each aspect, made between them, indicates the continuance of a certain
state until another aspect shall take place.
Hence, the Sun, when rising or setting, if he shine clear and open, free
from mists, gloom, and clouds, promises serene weather. But, if
he have a wavering or fiery orb, or seem to emit or attract red rays,
or if he be accompanied in any one part by the clouds called parhelia,
or by other reddish clouds of extended figure, in the form of long
rays, he then portends violent winds, chiefly liable to arise from
those parts in which the said phenomena may have shown themselves. If
he should be pale or lurid, and rise or set encumbered with clouds,
or surrounded by halos, he indicates storms and winds coming from the
quarter of his apparent situation: and, if he be also accompanied by
parhelia, or by lurid or dark rays, similar effects are also threatened
from the parts where those appearances may be situated.[105]
The Moon’s course is to be carefully observed, at the third day
before or after her conjunction with the Sun, her opposition, and her
intermediate quarters; for, if she then shine thin and clear, with no
other phenomena about her, she indicates serenity; but, if she appear
thin and red, and have her whole unilluminated part visible, and in a
state of vibration, she portends winds from the quarter of her latitude
and declination[106]:
and if she appear dark, or pale and thick, she threatens storms and
showers. All halos formed around the Moon should also be observed; for,
if there appear one only, bright and clear, and decaying by degrees,
it promises serene weather; but, if two or three appear, tempests
are indicated: and, if they seem reddish and broken, they threaten
tempests, with violent and boisterous winds; if dark and thick, they
foreshow storms and snow; if black and broken, tempests with both winds
and snow; and, whenever a greater number may appear, storms of greater
fury are portended.
The planets, also, and the brighter fixed stars, occasionally have
halos, which indicate certain effects appropriate to their tinctures,
and to the nature of the stars around which they may be situated.
The apparent magnitudes of the fixed stars, and the colours of the
luminous masses among them, are likewise to be remarked: for, when
the stars appear brighter and larger than usual, they indicate an
excitation of the wind from that quarter in which they may be situated.
The nebulous mass of the Præsepe in Cancer, and others similar to it,
also require observation; as, if in fine weather they appear gloomy and
indistinct, or thick, they thereby threaten a fall of rain; but, if
clear and in continual vibration, they announce rough gales of wind.[107]
Appearances occasionally visible in the sky, resembling the trains of
comets,[108]
usually indicate wind and drought; in a degree proportionate
to their multitude and continuance.
Appearances, resembling shooting or falling stars, when presented in
one part only, threaten a movement of wind from that part;[109]
when in various and opposite parts, they portend the approach of all kinds
of tempestuous weather, together with thunder and lightning. Clouds
resembling fleeces of wool will also sometimes presage tempests; and
the occasional appearance of the rainbow denotes, in stormy weather,
the approach of serenity; in fine weather, storms. And, in a word, all
remarkable phenomena, visible in the sky, universally portend that
certain appropriate events will be produced, each harmonising with its
proper cause, in the manner herein described.
After the forgoing brief investigation of the more limited as well as
more extensive significations, regarding general events, it becomes
proper to proceed to the doctrine of genethliacal prognostication, or
judgments of individual nativities.
End of Book II
CHAPTER II THE CONCEPTION AND THE PARTURITION, OR BIRTH; BY WHICH LATTER EVENT THE ANIMAL QUITS THE WOMB, AND ASSUMES ANOTHER STATE OF EXISTENCE
The actual moment, in which human generation commences, is, in fact,
by nature, the moment of the conception itself; but, in efficacy with
regard to subsequent events, it is the parturition or birth.
In every case, however, where the actual time of conception may be
ascertained, either casually or by observation, it is useful to remark
the effective influence of the configuration of the stars as it existed
at that time; and, from that influence, to infer the future personal
peculiarities of mind and body. For the seed will, at the very first,
and at once, receive its due quality, as then dispensed by the Ambient;
and, although in subsequent periods its substance is varied by growth
and conformation, it will still, by the laws of nature, congregate,
during its growth, only such matter as may be proper to itself, and
will become more and more imbued with the peculiar property of the
first quality impressed on it at the time of conception. These precepts
must always be attended to, when that time can be ascertained.
But, if the time of conception cannot be precisely made out, that of
the birth must be received at the original date of generation; for
it is virtually the most important, and is in no respect deficient,
on comparison with the primary origin by conception, except in one
view only; viz. that the origin by conception affords the inference
of occurrences which take effect previously to the birth, whereas the
origin by birth can, of course, be available only for such as arise
subsequently. And, although the birth should in strictness be called
the secondary beginning, while the conception might be insisted on as
the primary beginning, it is still found to be equal to the conception
in its efficacy, and much more complete, although later in time. For
the conception may, in fact, be said to be the generation of mere human
seed, but the birth that of man himself; since the infant at its birth
acquires numerous qualities which it would not possess while in the
womb, and which are proper to human nature alone; “such, for instance,
as the particular action of the senses and the movement of the body
and limbs.”[111]
Besides, even if the position of the Ambient, actually existing at
the birth, cannot be considered to assist in forming and engendering
the particular shape and qualities of the infant, it is nevertheless
still auxiliary to the infant’s entrance into the world: because
nature, after completing the formation in the womb, always effects
the birth in immediate obedience to some certain position of the
Ambient, corresponding and sympathising with the primary position
which operated the incipient formation. It is therefore perfectly
admissible, and consistent with reason, that the configuration of the
stars, as it exists at the time of birth, although it cannot be said
to possess any share of the creative cause, should still be considered
to act in signification, as fully as the configuration at the time of
conception; because it has, of necessity, a power corresponding to that
configuration which actually possessed the creative cause.
In speaking of the practicability of prognostication, in the
commencement of this treatise, the intention of setting forth this part
of the subject, now under consideration, in a scientific manner, has
been already notified. The ancient mode of prediction, founded on the
commixture of all the stars, and abounding in infinite complication and
diversity, will therefore be passed over; and, in fact, any attempt to
detail it, however accurately and minutely made, in conformity to the
several precepts given in the traditions relating to it, would prove
unserviceable and unintelligible: it is therefore entirely abandoned.
And the doctrine, now presented, comprehending every species of event
liable to happen, and explaining all the effective influences generally
exercised by the stars, in their separate qualities, over every species
of event, shall be delivered succinctly, and in agreement with the
theory of nature.
With this view, certain places in the Ambient, regulating the formation
of all inferences of the events liable to affect mankind, are appointed
as a kind of mark to which the whole theory of those inferences is
applied, and to which the operative powers of the stars, when holding
familiarity with the said places, are in a general manner directed: in
the same way as, in archery, the arrow is directed to the target. And
any event, which depends on the compound temperament of many various
natures and influences together, must be left to the discretion of the
artist, who, like the skilful archer, must himself judge of the best
mode of hitting the mark.
To proceed methodically and in due order, it is proper to commence by
investigating such general events as are open to consideration, and
liable to have happened, or to happen, at the actual origin by birth;
since, from that origin, all things necessary to be investigated may
be gathered; as before stated. Yet, if a previous inquiry, by means
of the primary origin by conception, should nevertheless be desired
and undertaken, such an inquiry may still in some degree assist
prognostication; although only in regard to properties and qualities
dispensed and imbibed at the time of conception.
CHAPTER IV DISTRIBUTION OF THE DOCTRINE OF NATIVITIES
After due attention to the preceding instructions, the doctrine of
genethliacal prognostication should be separately and distinctly
considered, for the sake of order and perspicuity, in its first, second
and successive divisions or heads of inquiry. It will thus be found to
present a mode of investigation, at once practicable, competent and
agreeable to nature.
One division is applicable only to certain circumstances established
previously to the birth; as, for instance, to those which concern the
parents; another to circumstances, which may be established both before
and after the birth; as those respecting brothers and sisters; another
to circumstances actually occurring at the very time of birth, and
immediately consequent thereupon: and this head of inquiry embraces
various points, and is by no means simple: and the last division
relates to events liable to take place after the birth, at various
periods, earlier or later; and it involves a still more diversified
theory.
Thus, the questions to be solved, in regard to the actual circumstances
of the birth itself, are, whether the production will be male or
female; twins, or even more; whether it will be monstrous; and whether
it will be reared.
The questions of the periods subsequent to the birth relate first to
the duration of life (which is distinct from the question of rearing),
then to the shape and figure of the body, to the bodily affections, and
to injuries or defects in the members. After these, further inquiry is
instituted as to the quality of the mind, and the mental affections;
then, as to fortune, in regard to rank and honours as well as wealth.
In succession to these, the character of the employment or profession
is sought out; then, the questions relative to marriage and offspring,
and to consentaneous friendship, are to be considered; then, that
concerning travel; and, lastly, that concerning the kind of death which
awaits the native. The question of death, although depending, in fact,
upon the same influence as the question of the duration of life, seems
yet to find its proper situation in being placed last in the series.
On each of the foregoing points of inquiry, the doctrine and precepts
to be followed shall be thoroughly and succinctly detailed; but all
idle conceits, promulgated by many persons without any foundation
capable of sustaining the test of reason, shall be utterly avoided,
in deference to the only true agency, which is derived from primal
Nature herself. It is only upon clearly effective influences that
this treatise is established: and all matters, which are open to an
authorized mode of inquiry by means of the theory of the stars, and
their positions and aspects with regard to appropriate places, shall
be fully discussed here; but the divination by lots and numbers,
unregulated by any systematic causation, must remain unnoticed.
The brief remarks, immediately following, are applicable to all cases,
generally, and are now at once stated, to avoid the repetition of them
under each particular division or head of inquiry.
Firstly, notice must be taken of that place in the zodiac which
corresponds, according to the scheme of the nativity with the
particular division of inquiry; for example, the place of the
mid-heaven is adapted to questions comprised under the head of
employment or profession; and the Sun’s place to those relative to the
concerns of the father.
Secondly, after the proper place has thus been duly ascertained,
the planets holding right of dominion there, by any of the five
prerogatives hereinbefore mentioned, are to be observed; and, if any
one planet be found to be lord by all these prerogatives, that planet
must be admitted as the ruler of the event liable to happen under that
particular head of inquiry. If, however, two or three planets hold
dominion, that one among them, which may have most claims to the place
in question, must be selected as the ruler.
Thirdly, the natures of the ruling planet and of the signs, in which
itself and the place which it thus controls may severally be situated,
are to be considered as indicating the quality of the event.
Fourthly, the proportionate vigour and strength, or weakness, with
which the dominion is exercised, as exhibited either by the actual
cosmical position of the ruling planet, or by its position in the
scheme of the nativity, will point out to what extent and with what
force the event will operate. And a planet is found to be cosmically
powerful when in one of its own places,[118]
or when oriental, or swift in course; and it is strong in the scheme of
the nativity, when transiting an angle or succedent house; especially
those of the ascendant, or of the mid-heaven. But it is cosmically
weaker, when not in one of its own places; or when occidental, or
retarded in its course; and in respect to the scheme of the nativity,
it is weak when cadent from the angles.
Lastly; the general time, about which the event will take place, is to
be inferred from the ruling planet’s matutine or vespertine position,
in regard to the Sun and the ascendant, and from the circumstance of
its being situated in an angle, or a succedent house. As, if it be
matutine, or in an angle, its influence operates earlier and more
promptly; but, if vespertine or in a succedent house, later and more
tardily. And, in reference to this point, the quadrant which precedes
the Sun, and that which precedes the ascendant, together with the
quadrants opposite to these, are oriental and matutine; and the other
quadrants, following the former, are occidental and vespertine.
CHAPTER V THE PARENTS
Under each head of inquiry, the proposed investigation must be entered
upon in the manner mentioned in the preceding chapter: and, to proceed
in due order, the circumstances relating to the parents require to be
first disposed of.
In conformity with nature, the Sun and Saturn are allotted to the
person of the father; and the Moon and Venus to that of the mother: and
the mode in which these luminaries and planets may be found posited,
with reference to each other, as well as to other planets and stars,
will intimate the situation of affairs affecting the parents.
Thus, for example, the degree of their fortune and wealth will be
indicated by the doryphory,[119]
or attendants of the luminaries. If the luminaries be accompanied
(either in the same signs in which themselves are placed, or in the
signs next following), by the benefics, and by such stars or planets
as are of the same tendency as themselves, a conspicuous and brilliant
fortune is presaged: especially, should the Sun be attended by matutine
stars, and the Moon by vespertine,[120]
and these stars be also well established in the prerogatives before
mentioned. Likewise, if Saturn or Venus be matutine, and in proper
face,[121]
or in an angle, it foreshows the prosperity of either parent
respectively, according to the scheme.[122]
If, however, the luminaries hold no connection with the planets, and be
unattended by any doryphory, the adverse fortunes of the parents, their
humble state and obscurity, and then denoted; especially, if Saturn and
Venus may not be favourably constituted. The parents are also subjected
to a state of vicissitude, never rising above mediocrity, when the
luminaries may have a doryphory of a condition or tendency foreign to
their own: as, for instance, when Mars may ascend near in succession to
the Sun, or Saturn to the Moon; or if the benefics be found constituted
unfavourably, and not in conformity with their own natural condition
and tendency. But should the part of fortune, as shown by the scheme of
the nativity, be found in a favourable position, and in consonance with
the doryphory of the Sun and Moon, the estate of the parents will then
remain steady and secure. If, however, the position be discordant and
adverse, or if the malefics compose the doryphory, the parents’ estate
will be unproductive and even burthensome.
The probable duration of the lives of the parents is to be inferred
by means of other configurations. And, in the case of the father, a
long life is presaged, if Jupiter, or Venus, be in any mode whatever
configurated with either the Sun, or Saturn; or, also, if Saturn
himself make an harmonious configuration with the Sun; (that is to say,
either by the conjunction, the sextile, or the trine); provided such
configuration be fully and strongly established and confirmed:[123]
and, when not so established and confirmed, although it does not actually
denote a short life, yet it will not then equally presage a long life.
If however the planets be not posited in the manner just described;
and if Mars be elevated above,[124]
or ascend in succession to the Sun, or to Saturn; or, even, should
Saturn himself not be in consonance with the Sun, but configurated with
it by the quartile or opposition, and if, when thus circumstanced,
both he and the Sun should be posited in cadent houses, it is then
indicated that the father is liable to infirmities; but, if in angles
or succedent houses, the father will live only a short life, and suffer
from various bodily injuries and diseases. The shortness of his life
is particularly intimated by the position of the Sun and Saturn in the
first two angles, viz. the ascendant and the mid-heaven, or in their
succedent houses; and his affliction by diseases and injuries, when
they may be posited in the two other angles, the western and the lower
heaven, or in the houses succedent thereto. And, if Mars be aspected to
the Sun in the way before-mentioned, the father will die suddenly, or
receive injury in his face or eyes; but, should Mars be so aspected to
Saturn, he will be afflicted with contractions of the muscles or limbs,
and with fevers and disorders proceeding from inflammation and wounds;
or even death may be the consequence. And even Saturn himself, if badly
configurated with the Sun, will also inflict disease and death on the
father, by inducing such particular disorders as are incidental from
watery humour.
The foregoing observations are applicable to the father, and those
which follow must be attended to in the case of the mother.
Should the Sun be configurated, in any mode whatever, with the Moon or
Venus, or, should Venus herself be harmoniously configurated with the
Moon, either by the sextile, the trine, or the conjunction, the mother
will live long.
If, however, Mars be succedent to the Moon and Venus, or in quartile
or opposition to them, or, if Saturn be similarly aspected to the Moon
only, and both of them be void of course or retrograde, or cadent,
adverse accidents and disease will attend the mother; should they, on
the other hand, be swift in motion and placed in angles, they portend
that her life will be short, or grievously afflicted. Their position
in the oriental angles, or succedent houses, particularly denotes
the shortness of her life; and, in those which are occidental, her
affliction. In the same manner, should Mars be thus aspected to the
Moon (and should that luminary at the same time be oriental), the
mother’s sudden death, or some injury in her face or eyes, will be
produced: and, if the Moon be then occidental, death will be occasioned
by miscarriage in parturition, by inflammation, or by wounds. Such are
the effects which ensue from these aspects made by Mars to the Moon;
but, should he make them to Venus, death will then take place from
fever, some latent disease, or sudden sickness. Saturn’s aspect[125]
to the Moon, when she is oriental, inflicts on the mother disease
and death from extreme colds, or fevers; but, should the Moon be
occidental, the danger arises from affections of the womb, or from
consumption.
In the investigation of all these circumstances, it is highly essential
that the properties of the signs, in which are situated the stars
actuating the influence, should be also taken into consideration; and
that, by day, the Sun and Venus should be principally observed; and by
night, Saturn and the Moon.
If, however, after due attention has been paid to the foregoing
points, a more specific inquiry still be demanded, it will then become
necessary to assume the place allotted to the naternal or maternal
condition, as the case may be, for an horoscope or ascendant, in order
to pursue the investigation.[126]
And by this means, which in this respect will answer the purpose of a
nativity, all other particulars concerning the parents may be viewed
succinctly; according to the general forms hereinafter given, as
adapted for practice and applicable to all events.
In these and in all other cases, the mode, in which the influences
are commixed, must be carefully kept in view; and it must be observed
whether any particular stars possess, in themselves alone, the
operative cause, or whether others share dominion with them; and it is
then to be seen which among them all are more powerful, and which of
them take the lead in establishing the event: so that due inference may
be drawn agreeably to their several natures. And should the several
stars, which may happen to be combined in dominion, be also equal in
power, the diversity of their several natures, and the admixture of
qualities thence arising, must then be taken into consideration; and,
by fairly weighing this various admixture, the nature and quality of
the future event may be apprehended.
Stars, posited separately or at a distance from each other, distribute,
at their appropriate times and periods, the events operated by each:
thus the earlier events are brought about by stars which are more
oriental than others, and the latter events by those which are more
occidental. For it is indispensably requisite that the star, under
the influence of which some particular event is expected to happen,
should be originally[127]
connected with the place to which the inquiry, concerning that event,
is allotted; and, if such connection should not have existed, no effect
of any importance can possibly be produced; because a star does not
exercise a vigorous influence, unless it was fully in communication
at the beginning. But, however, the time, at which the effect will
take place, is further regulated by the relative distance of the star,
governing the effect, from the Sun and the angles of the world, as well
as by its primary position of dominion.
CHAPTER IX MONSTROUS OR DEFECTIVE BIRTHS
The same places, as those pointed out in the two chapters last
preceding, are again to be considered, in inquiring into the
probability of a monstrous or defective birth. For it will be found
that, at a birth of this description, the luminaries are either cadent
from the ascendant, or else not in any manner configurated with it;
while, at the same time, the angles[136]
are occupied by the malefics.
It therefore becomes necessary, when such a position of the heavens
may occur at the time of birth, to observe forthwith the preceding new
or full Moon[137]
and its ruler; as well as the rulers of the luminaries at the said
time of birth. For, if all the places, in which the rulers of the
luminaries, and in which the Moon herself and Mercury may be situated,
at the birth, or, if most of those places should be totally inconjunct
and unconnected with the places of the said preceding new or full Moon
and its ruler, the birth will then be monstrous. And if it should be
further found, in addition to this absence of connection, that the
luminaries may be also posited in quadrupedal or bestial signs, and the
two malefics in angles, the birth will in that case not be human. And
should the luminaries, when so circumstanced, be not at all supported
by any benefic planet, but only by malefics, the creature born will be
wholly indocile, wild, and of evil nature: if, however, they should
receive support from Jupiter or Venus, the offspring will then be like
that of dogs or cats, or other creatures held in religious veneration
and used in worship[138]:
but, if Mercury support the luminaries, it will resemble that of fowls,
oxen, or swine, or, of other animals adapted to the service of mankind.
When the luminaries may be in signs of human shape, while other
circumstances in the scheme of the nativity may exist as before
described, the creature born will then be human, or will partake of
human nature, although it will still be defective in some peculiar
quality. And, in order to ascertain the nature of that defect, the
shape and form of the signs found on the angles occupied by the
malefics, as well as of those wherein the luminaries are situated,
must be taken into consideration: and, if in this instance also, no
benefic planet should lend support to any one of the prescribed places,
the offspring produced will be utterly void of reason, and indeed
indefinable.[139]
If, however, it should happen, that Jupiter or Venus
give support, the defect will be veiled by a specious outward
appearance, similar to that of hermaphrodites, and of those persons
called Harpocratiaci,[140]
or others of like imperfections. And should
Mercury also give support, in addition to that of Jupiter or Venus, the
offspring will then become an interpreter of oracles and divinations;
but, if Mercury support alone, it will be deaf and dumb,[141]
although clever and ingenious in its intellect.
CHAPTER X CHILDREN NOT REARED
The question which now remains to be considered, in order to complete
the investigation of circumstances taking place simultaneously with the
nativity, or immediately consequent thereon, is, whether the child,
then born, will or will not be reared.
This inquiry is to be handled distinctly from that regarding the
duration of life, although there is an apparent connection between
them. The questions themselves are, indeed, similar; for it is much
the same thing to inquire whether the child will be nurtured, or
how long it will live; and the only distinction, between these two
questions, arises from the different modes in which they are treated.
For instance, the inquiry into the duration of life is to be pursued
only in cases wherein there is allotted to the native some space of
time, not less in duration than a solar period; that is to say, a year.
Therefore, since time is also measured by smaller portions, such as
months, days, and hours, and since the question, whether the native
will or will not be reared, belongs to cases wherein some exuberance
of evil influence threatens speedy destruction, and where life is not
likely to endure throughout a whole year, the inquiry into the duration
of life must consequently involve a more multifarious consideration,
than that which relates to rearing; which may be at once disposed of,
in a more general and summary manner.
Thus, if either of the two luminaries be in an angle, and one of the
malefics be either in conjunction with that luminary, or else distant
in longitude from each luminary, in an exactly equal space; so as to
form the point of junction of two equal sides of a triangle, of which
sides the two luminaries form the extremities, while, at the same time,
no benefic star may partake in the configuration, and while the rulers
of the luminaries may be also posited in places belonging to, or
controlled by, the malefics; the child, then born, will not be
susceptible of nurture, but will immediately perish.
Should the configuration, made between the malefic planet and the
luminaries, not exist precisely in the mode just mentioned; that
is to say, should the said planet not be equally distant from both
luminaries, so as to form the point of junction of two equal sides of a
triangle; yet should it then happen that the rays of two malefics may
nearly approach the places of the two luminaries, casting an injurious
influence either on both, or only one of them, and if both the said
malefics be together succedent, or in opposition, to the luminaries,
or if one of them be succedent, and the other in opposition, or even
if only one may particularly afflict one of the luminaries, then, in
any such case, no duration of life will be allotted to the child: for
the supremacy of the power of the malefics extinguishes the influence
favourable to human nature, and tending to prolong existence.
Mars is exceedingly pernicious when succedent to the Sun, and Saturn
when succedent to the Moon. But a converse effect takes place when
either of these planets may be in opposition to the Sun or Moon, or in
elevation above them; for the Sun will then be afflicted by Saturn, and
the Moon by Mars; and especially so, provided the said planets should
have local prerogatives in the signs containing the luminaries, or
in the sign on the ascendant. And, should a double opposition exist,
by the circumstance of the luminaries being placed in two opposite
angles, and by the two malefics being each so posited as to be equally
distant from each luminary, the child will be born almost, if not
quite, dead. Nevertheless, if the luminaries should be separating from,
or be otherwise configurated with benefic planets, whose rays may be
projected to parts preceding the said luminaries, the child will then
live as many days, or hours, as there are degrees, numbered between the
prorogator[142]
and the nearest malefic.
If malefics should cast their rays to parts preceding the luminaries,
and benefics to parts following them, the child will be abandoned at
its birth; but will afterwards meet with adoption, and will live. Yet,
if the malefics should be in elevation above those benefics which
are thus configurated, the child, so adopted, will lead a life of
misery and servitude: if, on the contrary, the benefics should be in
elevation, then whoever may adopt the deserted child will supply the
place of its parents. And, provided a benefic planet should either
ascend with, or near in succession to the Moon, or be applying to her,
and one of the malefics be occidental, the child’s own parents will, in
that case, take it again under their protection.
Rules similar to the foregoing are to be observed, when more than
one child is born; for, if any one of those planets, which may be
configurated towards the production of two, or even more children,
should be under the west, the children will be born half dead, or
deformed, and imperfect in body. And, if the planet so situated should
also be beneath the malefics, the children will not be susceptible of
nurture, or their life will be of the shortest span.
CHAPTER XIV NUMBER OF THE MODES OF PROROGATION
When the prorogator has been determined as above directed, it is also
necessary to take into consideration the two modes of prorogation; one
into succeeding signs, under the projection of rays, as it is called;
and, when the prorogator may be in an oriental place, that is to say,
in any place between the mid-heaven and the ascendant, this mode
only is to be used. The other mode extends into signs preceding the
prorogator, according to what is called horary proportion[147];
and, in cases when the prorogator may be situated in any place receding
from the mid-heaven, or, in other words, between the mid-heaven and the
angle of the west, both modes of prorogation are to be adopted.
It is next to be observed, that certain degrees are anæretic; though,
in the prorogation made into signs preceding, the only degree which is
strictly anæretic is that of the western horizon; and it becomes so
because it obscures the lord of life; while other degrees, of stars
meeting with or testifying to the prorogator, both take away from and
add to the aggregate amount of the prorogation, which would otherwise
continue until the descension or setting of the prorogator. Of these
last-mentioned degrees, however, there are none properly anæretic;
since they are not borne to the prorogatory place, but, on the
contrary, that place is carried to their positions.[148]
In this manner the benefics increase the prorogation, but the malefics diminish
it; and Mercury assists the influence of either party with which he may be
configurated. The amount of the increase or diminution is indicated
by the degree, in which each star, so operating, is exactly situated;
for the number of years will depend upon, and correspond with, the
horary times[149]
proper to each degree; and if the birth be by day, care must be taken
to calculate the diurnal horary times; if by night, the nocturnal.
These directions are to be understood as applicable to instances
wherein the degrees in question may be in the ascendant; if farther
advanced, a deduction proportionate to the distance is to be made,
unless they should be on the occidental horizon, in which case there
can be no remainder.
But, in the prorogation made into succeeding signs, the places of the
malefics, Saturn and Mars, are anæretic, whether meeting the prorogator
bodily, or by emission of rays in quartile, from either side, or in
opposition: they are also sometimes anæretic, by a sextile ray, if in a
sign of equal power, obeying or beholding the sign of the prorogator.
And even the mere degree, in signs following, in quartile with the
prorogatory place, as also the degree in sextile, if badly afflicted,
which is sometimes the case in signs of long ascension, and, still
further, the degree in trine, if in signs of short ascension, are all
anæretic: so also is the Sun’s place, should the Moon be prorogatory.
But, although the meetings, which occur in the course of prorogation
thus made, have, respectively, some of them an anæretic, and other a
preservative, power, in consequence of their occurring by means of an
actual transmission to the prorogatory place[150];
yet their anæretic tendency is not always effectual, but only in cases
where the places, so brought to the prorogatory place, may be badly
afflicted. For should those places be situated within the terms of a
benefic, the operation of their anæretic degree becomes impeded; and it
will likewise be impeded, if either of the benefics should cast a ray
in quartile, trine, or opposition,[151]
to the said anæretic degree itself, or to some other degree near in
succession, and not farther distant from it than twelve degrees, if the
benefic be Jupiter; nor than eight, if Venus: the like impediment will
also subsist, if both the prorogator and itsopponent[152]
should be bodies,[153]
and not have the same latitude.
Therefore, whenever there may be found two or more conflicting
configurations, auxiliary on the one hand, and hostile on the other, due
observation must be made to ascertain which party surpasses the other,
in power as well as in number. The pre-eminence in number will be, of
course, obvious, from the greater number[154]
on one side than on the other; but, for pre-eminence in power, it must
be seen whether the stars, auxiliary or hostile as the case may be,
are, on the one side, in places appropriate to themselves, while they
are not so on the other; and especially whether those on the one side
may be oriental, and those on the other occidental. It is also to be
observed, in all cases, that not any one of such stars, whether hostile
or auxiliary, is to be left out of the present calculation, on account
of its casual position under the sunbeams.[155]
This rule must be particularly attended to, because, even though the
Moon be not prorogatory, the solar place itself becomes anæretic, if
shackled by the simultaneous presence of a malefic, and not restored to
freedom of operation by any benefic.
The number of years, depending on the distances between the prorogatory
and anæretic places, cannot be always gathered simply and at once
from the ascensional times[156]
of each respective degree; but only in cases when the ascendant itself,
or some other specific degree or body, actually ascending in the
oriental horizon, may possess the prorogation. For, if it be desired to
calculate agreeably to nature, every process of calculation that can be
adopted must be directed to the attainment of one object; that is to
say, to ascertain after how many equatorial times[157]
the place of the succeeding body, or degree, will arrive at the
position preoccupied at the birth by the preceding body, or degree:
and, as equatorial time transits equally both the horizon and the
meridian, the places in question[158]
must be considered, in respect of their proportionate distances from
both these; each equatorial degree[159]
being taken to signify one solar year.
In conformity with the foregoing remarks, when it may happen that
the prorogatory and preceding place may be actually on the oriental
horizon, it will be proper to reckon, at once, the ascensional times
which may intervene until the meeting of the degrees; because, after
the same number of equatorial times, the anæreta will arrive at the
prorogatory place; that is to say, at the oriental horizon. Should the
prorogatory place be found on the meridian, the whole number of degrees
by right ascension, in which the whole intercepted arc will transit the
meridian, must then be taken. And if the prorogatory place be on the
occidental horizon, the number of descensions, in which every degree of
the distance will be carried down (or, in other words, the number of
ascensions, in which their opposite degrees will ascend), is in that
case to be reckoned.[160]
When, however, a prorogatory and preceding place may not be situated
on any one of the three aforesaid points, but in some intermediate
station, it must be observed that other times[161]
will then bring the succeeding place to the preceding one; and
not the times of ascension or descension, or transit of the
mid-heaven, as above spoken of. For any places whatever, which have
one particular position, on the same degree, in regard to the horizon
and meridian, are alike and identical. This is the case, for instance,
with all places lying on any one of those semicircles which are drawn
through the arcs of the meridian and horizon; and each of these
semicircles (all of which have position at the same equal distance from
each other) marks one temporal hour[162];
and, as the time occupied in proceeding through the places[163]
above described, and arriving at the same position of the horizon
and meridian, is rendered unequal to and different from the time of
transits in the zodiac; so, also, the transits of other spaces are
made, agreeably to their position, in time again distinct from this.
There is, however, a method by which the proportion of time, occupied
in the progress of a succeeding place to a prorogatory and preceding
place, in whatever position, whether oriental, meridianal, or
occidental, or any other, may be easily calculated. It is as follows:—
When it has been ascertained what degree of the zodiac is on the
mid-heaven, as also which are the preceding and succeeding degrees,
the period of whose meeting is to be calculated, the position of the
preceding degree, and its distance in temporal hours from the meridian,
are next to be noted; because any part of the zodiac, on becoming
distant from the meridian in the same temporal hours, must fall on the
same individual semicircle.[164]
For ascertaining this distance, the number of ascensions, in a right
sphere, found in the intermediate space between the said preceding
degree and the mid-heaven, either above or under the earth, is to be
divided by the number of the diurnal or nocturnal horary times of the
said preceding degree: for instance, if that degree be above the earth,
by its diurnal horary times; and, by its nocturnal, if it be under the
earth. It is then to be discovered in what number of equatorial times
the succeeding degree will be distant from the same meridian, by as
many similar temporal hours as those by which the preceding degree is
distant from it. And, to effect this, the hours in question must be
noted, and it must first be observed, by the right ascensions again,
how many equatorial times the succeeding degree, at its original
position, is distant from the degree on the mid-heaven; and then it
must be seen how many equatorial times it will be distant, on coming
to the preceding degree’s distance in temporal hours from the said
mid-heaven: this will be found, by multiplying those hours by the
succeeding degree’s horary times; diurnal, if the future position be
above the earth, and nocturnal if under; and the difference in amount,
of these two distances, in equatorial times, will present the number of
years inquired for.
CHAPTER XV EXEMPLIFICATION
In order to exemplify the foregoing instructions, let the first point
of Aries be supposed as the preceding place, and the first point in
Gemini the succeeding; and let the latitude of the country, to which
the operation relates, be such as will cause the longest day to consist
of fourteen hours[165];
and where the horary magnitude of the beginning of Gemini will be about
seventeen equatorial times.[166]
Let the first point of Aries be first placed on the ascendant, so that
the beginning of Capricorn may be on the mid-heaven above the earth, and
the first point of Gemini be distant from the said mid-heaven 140
equatorial times.[167]
Now, since the first point of Aries is distant six temporal hours from
the mid-heaven above the earth, the times of that distance will be
found, by multiplying the said six hours by the seventeen equatorial
times of the horary magnitude of the first point of Gemini, to be
102.[168]
The whole sum of the distance to the mid-heaven above the earth, is 148
times; and as 148 times exceed 102 by 46, the succeeding place will
consequently devolve into the preceding place after 46 times (being the
amount of the times of ascension of Aries and Taurus[169]);
since, in this instance, the prorogatory place is established in the
ascendant.
In like manner, let the first point of Aries be next placed on the
mid-heaven, culminating; so that the first point of Gemini, in its
first position, may be distant from the said mid-heaven 58 equatorial
times.[170]
Now, as it is required to bring the first point of Gemini, in its
second position, to the mid-heaven, the whole distance is to be
reckoned, viz. 58 times, in which Aries and Taurus pass the mid-heaven;
because, again, the prorogatory place was culminating.[171]
In the same way, let the first point of Aries be descending[172];
so that the beginning of Cancer may occupy the mid-heaven, and the first
point of Gemini precede the mid-heaven at the distance of 32 equatorial
times.[173]
Therefore, as the first point of Aries is on the west, and again
distant six temporal hours from the meridian, let these six hours be
multiplied by the seventeen times; which will produce 102, making the
sum of the distance[174]
of the first point of Gemini, at its future descension, from the
meridian.[175]
But, as the first point of Gemini, at its first position, was already
distant from the meridian 32 times; which number 102 exceed by 70; it
will consequently arrive at its descension after 70 times, the amount
of the excess; in which space Aries and Taurus will have descended, and
their opposite signs Libra and Scorpio arisen.[176]
Again, let the first point of Aries have another position, not in
any angle,[177]
but, for instance, at the distance of three temporal hours past the
meridian; so that the 18th degree of Taurus may be on the mid-heaven,
and the first point of Gemini be approaching the mid-heaven, at the
distance of thirteen equatorial times. The seventeen times must,
therefore, be again multiplied by the three hours, and the first
point of Gemini, at its second position, will be found to be past the
meridian, at the distance of 51 times.[178]
The distance of 13 times of the first position and 51 times of the
second position are then both to be taken; and they will produce 64
times. In the former instances the prorogatory place performed in the
same succession; viz. occupying 46 times in coming to the ascendant, 58
in coming to the mid-heaven, and 70 in coming to the west; so that the
present number of times, depending on the intermediate position between
the mid-heaven and the west, and being 64, also differs from each of
the other numbers, in proportion to the three hours’ difference of
position. For, in the other cases which proceeded by quadrants,[179]
according to the angles, the times progressively differed by twelve,
but, in the present case of a minor distance of three hours, they
differ by six.[180]
There is, however, another method which may be used, and which is
still more simple; for instance, should the preceding degree be on the
ascendant, the following intermediate times of ascension,[181]
between it and the succeeding degree, may be reckoned; should it be on the
mid-heaven, the times of ascension must be reckoned on a right sphere;
and, if it be on the west, descending, the intermediate times of
descension[182]
are to be reckoned. But, should the preceding degree be
between any two of these angles, as, for instance, at the distance of
Aries, just spoken of, the proper times for each angle must first be
considered. And, since the first point of Aries was assigned a position
between the two angles of the mid-heaven and the west, the proper times
of the distances from these angles to the first point of Gemini[183]
would be found to be 58 from the mid-heaven, and 70 from the west.
The distances, in temporal hours, of the preceding degree from each
of these angles, are then to be ascertained; and whatever proportion
these same temporal hours, contained in such distances between the said
preceding degree and each angle, may bear to the temporal hours of the
whole quadrant, the same proportion, out of the excess of the times of
distance of one angle over those of the other, is either to be added
to, or deducted from, the actual number of times of the respective
angles. For instance, in the example before set forth, 70 times exceed
58 times by 12; and the preceding place was distant from the angles
three equal temporal hours, which are the half of six, the number
belonging to the whole quadrant. Now, three being the half of six, and
12 being the amount of the excess, the half of 12 is therefore to be
taken, giving 6 to be either added to the 58 times, or subtracted from
the 70: thus, in either way, producing 64, the required number of times.
If, however, the preceding place should be distant from either angle
two temporal hours, which are the third part of 6, then, in that case,
the third part of 12, the amount of the excess, must be taken, viz.
4: and, if the said two hours be the distance, as calculated from the
mid-heaven, the said 4 times are to be added to the 58 times; but, if
it be the distance from the occidental angle, the 4 times are to be
subtracted from the 70.
In conformity with these rules now laid down, the amount of the times
must necessarily be obtained.[184]
The anæretic and critical influences of all meetings or descensions
of prorogators[185]
remain to be determined; beginning, in due order, with such as are
accomplished in the shortest time. And whatever else may happen, by
means of any affliction or assistance offered (in the manner heretofore
prescribed) during the actual transit of the meeting, is also to be
decided on, as well as whatever may occur through other circumstances,
arising out of the ingresses taking place at the time: because, should
the places of both the significators be afflicted, and should the
transit of the stars, at the then existing ingress, operate injuriously
on the chief ruling places, it is then altogether probable that death
will ensue;[186]
and, even though one of the places[187]
may be disposed favourably to human nature, the crisis will still
be important and perilous; but, if both the places be so disposed
favourably, some debility only, or transient malady, or hurt, will then
happen. It is, however, necessary in these cases, to consider also what
familiarity, or analogy, the peculiar properties of the places, thus
meeting, may bear to the circumstances of the nativity.
In order to obviate the doubts which frequently arise, as to the
particular star or place to which the anæretic dominion ought to be
assigned, all the meetings should be duly contemplated and considered,
each by each; and thus, after considering those chiefly corresponding
with the events already past, and with the future events about to
follow, or with the whole altogether, it will be practicable to found
an observation on the equality or inequality of their influence.
CHAPTER XVI THE FORM AND TEMPERAMENT OF THE BODY
The matters affecting and regulating the duration of life have now been
disposed of; and it becomes proper to enter into further particulars,
commencing, in due order, with the figure and conformation of the body;
because Nature forms and moulds the body before she inspires it with a
soul. In fact, the body, in its materiality, is endowed with suitable
constitutional properties begotten with it, and almost apparent from
its very birth; but the soul afterwards, and by degrees, develops the
appropriate qualities which it derives from the primary cause, and
which become known much later than external attributes, and in process
of time only.
In regard to the body, therefore, it is in all cases requisite to
observe the oriental horizon, and to ascertain what planets may preside
or have dominion over it, and also to pay particular attention to
the Moon. For, from both these places,[188]
and from their rulers, as well as from the natural formation and
contemperament appertaining to every species of the human race, and
also from the figure ascribed to those fixed stars which may be
co-ascending, the conformation of the body is to be inferred. The
planets possessing dominion have the chief influence, and the proper
qualities of their places co-operate with them. And, in order to
simplify these instructions, and as the planets are first to be treated
of, each planet is individually to be considered as follows, viz.:
Saturn, when oriental, acts on the personal figure by producing a
yellowish complexion and a good constitution; with black and curled
hair, a broad and stout chest, eyes of ordinary quality, and a
proportionate size of body, the temperament of which is compounded
principally of moisture and cold. Should he be occidental, he makes the
personal figure black or dark, thin and small, with scanty hair on the
head; the body without hair, but well shaped; the eyes black or dark;
and the bodily temperament consisting chiefly of dryness and cold.
Jupiter ruling, when oriental, makes the person white or fair, with
a clear complexion, moderate growth of hair, and large eyes, and of
good and dignified stature; the temperament being chiefly of heat and
moisture. When occidental, he still causes a fair complexion, but not
of equal clearness; and he produces long straight hair, with baldness
on the forehead or on the crown of the head; and he then also gives a
middle stature to the body, with a temperament of more moisture.
Mars, ascending, gives a fair ruddiness to the person, with large
size, a healthy constitution, blue or grey eyes, a sturdy figure, and
a moderate growth of hair, with a temperament principally of heat and
dryness. When occidental, he makes the complexion simply ruddy, and the
personal figure of moderate stature, with small eyes; the body without
hair, and the hair of the head light or red, and straight; the bodily
temperament being chiefly dry.
Venus operates in a manner similar to that of Jupiter, but, at the same
time, more becomingly and more gracefully; producing qualities of a
nature more applicable to women and female beauty, such as softness,
juiciness, and greater delicacy. She also peculiarly makes the eyes
beautiful, and renders them of an azure tint.
Mercury, when oriental, makes the personal figure of a yellowish
complexion, and of stature proportionate and well shaped, with small
eyes and a moderate growth of hair; and the bodily temperament is
chiefly hot. If occidental, he gives a complexion white or fair, but
not altogether clear; straight, dark hair, a thin and slight figure,
some squint or defect in the eyes, and a long visage[189]
faintly red; the temperament being chiefly dry.
The Sun and Moon, when configurated with any one of the planets,
also co-operate: the Sun adds a greater nobleness to the figure, and
increases the healthiness of the constitution; and the Moon, especially
when holding or delaying her separation,[190]
generally contributes better proportion and greater delicacy of figure,
and greater moisture of temperament; but, at the same time, her
influence in this latter particular is adapted to the proper ratio of
her illumination; as referred to in the modes of temperament mentioned
in the beginning of this treatise.[191]
Again, should the planets be matutine, and fully conspicuous,[192]
they will cause the body to be large; if in their first station, they
will make it strong and vigorous; if they should precede or be in
advance, it will be disproportionate; if in their second station, it
will be weaker, and, if vespertine, altogether mean and subservient
to evil treatment and oppression. At the same time, the places of
the planets,[193]
as has been already said, co-operate especially in producing the shape
of the personal figure, and contribute also towards the temperament.
And further, it is the general tendency of the quadrant comprised
between the vernal equinox and the summer tropic to produce good
complexions, advantageous stature, fine constitutions, and fine eyes;
with a temperament abounding in heat and moisture. The quadrant from
the summer tropic to the autumnal equinox tends to produce an ordinary
complexion, proportionate stature, a healthy constitution, large eyes,
a stout person, with curled hair, and a temperament abounding in heat
and dryness. The quadrant from the autumnal equinox to the winter
tropic causes yellowish complexions, slender, thin, and sickly persons,
with a moderate growth of hair, fine eyes, and a temperament abundantly
dry and cold. The other quadrant, from the winter tropic to the vernal
equinox, gives a dark complexion, proper stature, straight hair on the
head and none on the body, a goodly figure, and a temperament abounding
in cold and moisture.
To speak, however, more particularly, all constellations of human
form, both those within and those without the zodiac, act in favour of
giving a handsome shape to the body, and due proportion to the figure;
while those not of human form vary its due proportions, and incline it
towards their own shape; assimilating it, in some measure, to their
own peculiarities, either by enlarging or diminishing its size, by
giving it additional strength or weakness, or by otherwise improving
or disfiguring it. Thus, for example, Leo, Virgo, and Sagittarius
enlarge the person; and Pisces, Cancer, and Capricorn tend to make it
diminutive; and thus, again, the upper and anterior parts of Aries,
Taurus, and Leo increase its strength and their lower and posterior
parts render it weaker: while, on the other hand, Sagittarius, Scorpio,
and Gemini act conversely; for their anterior parts produce greater
debility, and their posterior parts greater vigour. In like manner,
Virgo, Libra, and Sagittarius contribute to render the person handsome
and well-proportioned; and Scorpio, Pisces, and Taurus incline it to be
misshapen and disfigured.
The other constellations[194]
also operate on similar principles; and all these influences it is
necessary to bear in mind, in order that the peculiar properties,
observed in their joint temperament, may be so compounded as to
authorize an inference therefrom, concerning the form and temperament
of the body.
CHAPTER XVII THE HURTS, INJURIES, AND DISEASES OF THE BODY
Next in succession to the foregoing chapter, the circumstances relating
to bodily hurts, injuries, and diseases, claim to be discussed; and
they require to be considered in the following mode.
For the investigation of these circumstances, the two angles on the
horizon, both the ascendant and the western, must in all cases be
remarked; but more especially the western angle and its preceding
house,[195]
which is inconjunct with the ascendant. After these angles
have been noted, it must be observed in what manner the malefic planets
may be configurated with them: for, if both the malefics, or even
if one of them, should be stationed bodily on any of the successive
degrees composing the said angles, or be configurated with such degrees
in quartile or in opposition, some bodily disorders or injuries will
attach to the native or person then born: and this will especially
happen if, also, both the luminaries, either together or in opposition,
or even if one of them, should be angularly posited in the manner
described. Because, in such a case, not only a malefic which may have
ascended in succession to the luminaries, but also any one which
may have pre-ascended, if placed in an angle, has power to inflict
certain diseases and injuries, such as may be indicated by the places
of the horizon and of the signs, as well as by the natures of the
planets themselves; whether malefics, or others evilly afflicted and
configurated with them.
Such parts of the signs, as contain the afflicted part of the horizon,
will show in what part of the body the misfortune will exist, whether
it be a hurt, or disease, or both: and the natures of the planets, in
operating the misfortune, also regulate its particular form or species.
For, among the chief parts of the human body, Saturn rules the right
ear, the spleen, the bladder, the phlegm, and the bones; Jupiter
governs the hand, the lungs, the arteries, and the seed; Mars, the left
ear, the kidneys, the veins, and the privities; the Sun rules the eyes,
the brain, the heart, the sinews or nerves, and all the right side;
Venus, the nostrils, the liver, and the flesh; Mercury, the speech, the
understanding, the bile, the tongue, and the fundament; and the Moon
governs the palate, the throat, the stomach, the belly, the womb, and
all the left parts.
It generally happens that some casual hurt, or injurious affection of
the body, is the utmost that takes effect when the malefics may be
oriental, and that considerable diseases occur only when the malefics
may be occidental. And a hurt is distinct from a disease, inasmuch as
the pain, which it induces at the time, is not afterwards continued;
while a disease is, on the other hand, imposed on the sufferer either
constantly or at repeated intervals. These remarks are applicable to
all cases; but, in order to inquire particularly into the nature of
the hurt or disease, a further attention must be paid to the figures,
or schemes, with which the effects, about to be produced, will for the
most part correspond in character.
For instance, blindness of one eye will ensue, when the Moon may be
in the before-mentioned angles, either operating her conjunction, or
being at the full: it will also happen should she be configurated with
the Sun in any other proportional aspect, and be at the same time
connected with any one of the nebulous collections in the zodiac; such
as the cloudy spot of Cancer, the Pleiades of Taurus, the arrow-head
of Sagittarius, the sting of Scorpio, the parts about the mane of Leo,
or the urn of Aquarius. Moreover, both eyes will be injured should
the Moon be in an angle, and in her decrease, and Mars or Saturn,
being matutine, ascend in succession to her; or, again, if the Sun
be in an angle, and these planets pre-ascend before him, and be
configurated with both luminaries, whether the luminaries be in one
and the same sign, or in opposition; provided also the said planets,
although oriental of the Sun, be occidental of the Moon. Under these
circumstances, therefore, Mars will cause blindness by a stroke or
blow, or by the sword or by burning; and, if he be configurated with
Mercury, it will be effected either in a place of exercise or sport,
or by the assault of robbers. Saturn, however, under the same
circumstances, produces blindness by cataract, or cold, by a white
film, or by other similar disorders.
Venus, if in one of the angles before-mentioned, and especially
if she be in that of the west, and Saturn be in conjunction or in
configuration with her, or be changing place with her,[196]
while Mars, at the same time, is in elevation above her, or in opposition
to her, will produce impotence in the native, if a male; and, if a
female, will render her liable to abortion, or to produce children
stillborn, or not capable of being extracted except in mangled parts.
Such misfortunes especially happen under Cancer, Virgo, and Capricorn;
even though the Moon may be in the ascendant, in conjunction with
Mars. And if, under the same circumstances, Venus be also configurated
with Mercury, as well as Saturn, Mars again being in elevation above
her, or in opposition to her, the native will be either an eunuch
or hermaphrodite, or devoid of the natural channels and vents.
And, when these positions occur, should the Sun also partake in
the configuration, the luminaries and Venus being all masculinely
constituted, the Moon in her decrease, and the malefics brought up in
the degrees next successively ascending, the males will be born maimed
or crippled, or injured in their private members (particularly under
Aries, Leo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Aquarius); and the females will
remain childless and unprolific. And it also occasionally happens that
the natives, under such a configuration, are likewise injured in the
face or eyes.
If Saturn and Mercury, in conjunction with the Sun, be in the
before-mentioned angles, the native will have some defect in the
tongue, and stammer or speak with difficulty: especially if Mercury be
occidental, and both he and Saturn configurated with the Moon. Should
Mars, however, be found together with them, he will for the most part
remove the defect in the tongue, after the Moon shall have completed
her approach to him.
Further, should the malefics be in angles, and the luminaries, either
together or in opposition, be brought up to them; or, if the malefics
be brought up to the luminaries, especially when the Moon may be in her
nodes, or in her bend,[197]
or in obnoxious signs, such as Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio,
and Capricorn, the body will then be afflicted with excrescences,
distortions, lameness or paralysis.
If the malefics be in conjunction with the luminaries, the calamity
will take effect from the very moment of birth: but should they be in
the mid-heaven, in elevation above the luminaries, or in opposition to
each other, it will then arise out of some great and dangerous accident;
such as a fall from some height or precipice, an attack of robbers,
or of quadrupeds. And thus, if Mars hold dominion, he will produce
the misfortune by means of fire or wounds, through quarrels, or by
robbers; and if Saturn, it will be caused by a fall, by shipwreck, or
by convulsive fits or spasms.
The minor bodily disorders mostly occur on the Moon’s being posited
in a tropical or equinoctial sign; and, if in that of the vernal
equinox, these disorders usually arise from the white leprosy; in that
of the summer tropic, from tetters; in that of the autumnal equinox,
from leprosy; and in that of the winter tropic, from the eruption of
pimples, and similar inconveniences.
Considerable diseases, however, take effect when the malefics may be
configurated in the same situations as those before prescribed, yet
differing in one respect; that is to say, being occidental of the
Sun and oriental of the Moon. In such cases, Saturn will generally
produce cold in the bowels, excessive phlegm, rheumatism, emaciation,
sickliness, jaundice, dysentery, cough, obstruction, colic, or scurvy;
and, in women, besides these diseases, he produces complaints of the
womb. Mars will cause expectoration of blood, atrabilarious attacks,
pulmonary complaints, sores, and diseases in the private parts (which
will be rendered still more painful by surgical burning or incision),
such as fistula, hæmorrhoids, or knots in the fundament, and also
inflamed and putrifying ulcers. In women, to these calamities, he adds
abortion, excision of the fœtus or its mortification.
And, even though these planets should not be properly configurated
towards the particular parts of the body, their qualities will still
operate. Mercury also will act with them, and contribute to the
increase of the evil: thus, if he be in familiarity with Saturn,
he will much augment the coldness, and promote the continuance of
rheumatism, and the disturbance of the fluids; especially in the
chest, throat, and stomach. If in familiarity with Mars, he will tend
to produce greater dryness, and will increase ulcers, abscesses, loss
of hair, scarified sores, erysipelas, tetters, blackness of bile,
insanity, epilepsy,[198]
and similar disorders.
Some of the properties, peculiar to disease, arise out of the
various character of the signs which may contain the above mentioned
configurations in the two angles. Thus Cancer, Capricorn, and Pisces,
and, in short, all signs ascribed to terrestrial animals and fishes,
appropriately cause diseases of putridity, tetters, excoriation,
scrofula, fistula, leprosy, and the like; while Sagittarius and Gemini
produce disease by falling fits and epilepsy. And if the planets happen
to be posited in the latter degrees of the signs containing them, the
extremities of the body will then be chiefly affected by the disease or
hurt; which will arise from humours or accidents, producing leprosy,
gout, or other infirmities, in the hands and feet.
Under the circumstances above detailed, the disease or hurt will
be incurable, provided there shall be not one of the benefics in
configuration with the malefics which effect the evil, nor with the
luminaries posited in angles; and even though the benefics may be so
configurated, the misfortune will still be incapable of remedy, if the
malefics be well fortified, and in elevation above them.
Should the benefics, however, hold principal situations, and be in
elevation above the obnoxious malefics, the disease or hurt will then
be moderate, and have neither deformity nor disgrace attached to it;
and it will sometimes be altogether prevented and set aside, if the
benefics be oriental. Jupiter, for instance, by means of human aid,
such as wealth or rank can command, will conceal and soothe hurts
and diseases; and, if Mercury be joined with him, the assistance
will be further improved by the addition of skilful physicians and
good medicine. Venus, likewise, through the mediation of deities and
oracles, will cause hurts to appear in a manner neither ungraceful nor
unbecoming, and will ameliorate diseases by medicines granted by the gods.
Lastly, should Saturn be present in the configuration, the afflicted
persons will move abroad to show their maladies, and to complain; and
if Mercury also be present, they will do so for the sake of deriving
support and profit from the exhibition.
CHAPTER XVIII THE QUALITY OF THE MIND
The consideration of circumstances applicable to the body is practised
under the foregoing rules.
Of the spiritual qualities, however, all those which are national and
intellectual are contemplated by the situation of Mercury; while all
others, which regard the mere sensitive faculties, and are independent
of reason, are considered rather by other luminaries of a less subtle
constitution and more ponderous body; for instance, by the Moon and
such stars as she may be configurated with, as well by separation,[199]
as by application.
Now the mind is liable to impulse in a multiplicity of directions, and
the investigation of them cannot be summarily nor hastily performed,
but must be conducted by means of many various observations: for the
different qualities of the signs, containing Mercury and the Moon, or
such stars as hold any influence over those two, are well competent
to contribute towards the properties of the mind; so likewise are the
configurations made with the Sun and the angles, by stars bearing any
relation to the point in question; besides, also, the peculiar nature
exercised by each star in operating upon the mental movements.
Thus, the tropical signs generally dispose the mind to enter much into
political matters, rendering it eager to engage in public and turbulent
affairs, fond of distinction, and busy in theology; at the same time,
ingenious, acute, inquisitive, inventive, speculative, and studious of
astronomy and divination.
Bicorporeal signs render the mind variable, versatile, not easy to be
understood, volatile, and unsteady; inclined to duplicity, amorous,
wily, fond of music, careless, full of expedients, and regretful.[200]
Fixed signs make the mind just, uncompromising, constant, firm of
purpose, prudent, patient, industrious, strict, chaste, mindful of
injuries, steady in pursuing its object, contentious, desirous of
honour, seditious, avaricious, and pertinacious.
Oriental positions, and those in the ascendant, especially if made
by planets in their proper faces,[201]
make men liberal, frank, self-confident, brave, ingenious, unreserved,
yet acute. Oriental stations, and positions on the mid-heaven, or
culminations, make men reflective, constant, of good memory, firm,
prudent, magnanimous, successful in pursuing their desires, inflexible,
powerful in intellect, strict, not easily imposed upon, judicious,
active, hostile to crime, and skilful in science.
Precedent and occidental positions make men unsteady, irreverent,
imbecile, impatient of labour, easily impressed, humble, doubting,
wavering, boastful, and cowardly, slothful, lazy, and hard to rouse.
Occidental stations, and positions on the lower heaven (as well as
Mercury and Venus, when making vespertine descension by day, and rising
in the night), will render the mind ingenious and sagacious, but not
capable of great recollection, nor very industrious; yet inquisitive
in occult matters, such as magic and sacred mysteries; also studious
of mechanics, and mechanical instruments: addicted to the observation
of meteors, to philosophy, to augury by means of birds, and to the
judgment of dreams.
Further, should the planets having dominion be in places of their
own, and in conditions suitable to their own qualities, the mental
properties will be rendered exquisite, unimpeded, and successful: and
especially if these planets rule at the same time over both places; that
is to say, be by some mode configurated with Mercury, and holds
separation from, or application to the Moon. Should the said planets,
however, not be thus constituted, but be posited in places not
particularly appropriate to themselves, they will yet, even then,
infuse into the composition of the mental energy the properties of
their own nature; but obscurely and imperfectly, and not with such
force and strong evidence as in the other case.
The peculiar qualities of planets in dominion, or in elevation, are
powerfully impressed upon the mental energy: for instance, persons,
who, in consequence of the familiarity of the malefics, become
wicked and dishonest, have their impulse to commit evil, free and
unrestrained, when the said familiarity is not governed by any contrary
influence. But, should a contrary condition impede and govern that
familiarity, the impulse will be frustrated, and the culprits will
be easily overtaken, and undergo punishment. In like manner, persons
endowed with goodness and virtue, by the familiarity between the
benefics and the before-mentioned places,[202]
and when no contrary influence in elevation may interpose, will
exert themselves with cheerfulness and alacrity in performing good
actions, will be subject to no injustice, but enjoy the advantages
of their honesty and virtue. If, however, this familiarity should be
superseded by some contrary condition, the very mildness and humanity
of these persons will operate to their disadvantage, exposing them to
contempt and accusation, and rendering them liable to be wronged by the
multitude.
The foregoing observations, relative to the moral habit, apply
generally; and the particular properties, created in the mental
energies by the actual nature of the planets, according to the
respective dominion of each, remain to be treated of.
The planet Saturn, therefore, when alone possessing dominion of the
mind, and governing Mercury and the Moon, and if posited in glory, both
cosmically and with respect to the angles,[203]
will make men careful of their bodies,[204]
strong and profound in opinion, austere, singular in their modes
of thinking, laborious, imperious, hostile to crime, avaricious,
parsimonious, accumulators of wealth, violent, and envious: but, if
he be not in glory, cosmically, and as regards the angles, he will
debase the mind, making it penurious, pusillanimous, ill-disposed,
indiscriminating, malignant, timorous, slanderous, fond of solitude,
repining, incapable of shame, bigoted, fond of labour, void of natural
affection, treacherous in friendship and in family connections,
incapable of enjoyment, and regardless of the body.[205]
Connected with Jupiter in the mode before-mentioned, being also situated
in glory, Saturn will render the mind virtuous, respectful, well-intentioned,
ready to assist, judicious, frugal, magnanimous, obliging, solicitous
of good, affectionate in all domestic ties, mild, prudent, patient,
and philosophical: but, if thus connected and posited ingloriously,
he makes men outrageous, incapable of learning, timorous, highly
superstitious, yet regardless of religion, suspicious, averse to
children, incapable of friendship, cunning, misjudging, faithless,
foolishly wicked, irascible, hypocritical, idle and useless, without
ambition, yet regretful, morose, highly reserved, over-cautious, and
dull. Conciliated with Mars, and posited in glory, Saturn renders men
reckless, over-diligent, free in speech, turbulent, boastful, austere
in their dealings, pitiless, contemptuous, fierce, warlike, bold,
fond of tumults, insidious, deceitful, and implacable; promoters of
faction, tyrannical, rapacious, hostile to the commonwealth, delighting
in strife, vindictive, profound in guilt, strenuous, impatient,
insolent, mischievous, overbearing, evil, unjust, obstinate, inhuman,
inflexible, immutable in opinion, busy, able in office, active,
submitting to no opposition, and on the whole successful in their
undertakings; but, if thus connected, and not placed in glory, he
will make men plunderers, robbers, adulterers, submissive to evil,
seeking gain by their turpitude, infidels in religion, void of the
common affections, mischievous, treacherous, thievish, perjurers, and
sanguinary; eaters of unlawful food, familiar with guilt, assassins,
sorcerers, sacrilegious, impious, violators of the tomb, and, in short,
thoroughly depraved. Conciliated with Venus, and being again in glory,
Saturn makes men averse to women, and renders them fond of governing,
prone to solitude, highly reserved, regardless of rank, indifferent to
beauty, envious, austere, unsociable, singular in opinion, addicted
to divination and to religious services and mysteries; solicitous
of the priesthood, fanatical, and subservient to religion; solemn,
reverential, sedate, studious of wisdom, faithful in friendship,
continent, reflective, circumspect, and scrupulous in regard to female
virtue: but, if he be thus conciliated, and not posited in glory, he
makes men licentious and libidinous, practisers of lewdness, careless,
and impure in sexual intercourse; obscene, treacherous to women,
especially to those of their own families; wanton, quarrelsome, sordid,
hating elegance; slanderous, drunken, superstitious, adulterous,
and impious; blasphemers of the gods, and scoffers at holy rites;
calumniators, sorcerers, hesitating at nothing. If conciliated with
Mercury, and if in a glorious position, Saturn makes men inquisitive,
loquacious, studious of law and of medicine, mystical, confederate in
secrecy, fabricators of miracles, impostors, improvident, cunning,
familiar with business, quick in perception, petulant, accurate,
vigilant, meditative, fond of employment, and tractable: but, if
connected with Mercury, and not posited gloriously, he causes men to
be frivolous, vindictive, laborious, alienated from their families,
fond of tormenting, and void of enjoyment; night-wanderers, insidious,
treacherous, pitiless, and thievish; magicians, sorcerers, forgers
of writings, cheats, unsuccessful in their undertakings, and quickly
reduced to adversity. Such are the effects of Saturn.
When Jupiter alone has dominion of the mind, and is gloriously
situated, he renders it generous, gracious, pious, reverent, joyous,
courteous, lofty, liberal, just, magnanimous, noble, self-acting,
compassionate, fond of learning, beneficent, benevolent, and calculated
for government: and, if posited ingloriously, he will endow the mind
with qualities apparently similar to these, but not of such virtue
and lustre: as, instead, of generosity, he will then cause profusion;
instead of piety, bigotry; for modesty, timidity; for nobleness,
arrogance; for courteousness, folly; for elegance, voluptuousness;
for magnanimity, carelessness; and for liberality, indifference.
Conciliated with Mars, and being in glory, Jupiter will make men
rough, warlike, skilful in military affairs, dictatorial, refractory,
impetuous, daring, free in speech, able in action, fond of disputation,
contentious, imperious, generous, ambitious, irascible, judicious, and
fortunate: but, if thus connected, and not placed in glory, he makes
men mischievous, reckless, cruel, pitiless, seditious, quarrelsome,
perverse, calumnious, arrogant, avaricious, rapacious, inconstant,
vain and empty, unsteady, precipitate, faithless, injudicious,
inconsiderate, senseless, and officious; inculpators, prodigals,
triflers, altogether without conduct, and giving way to every impulse.
When conciliated with Venus, and in a glorious position, Jupiter
will render the mind pure, joyous, delighting in elegance, in the
arts and sciences, and in poetry and music; valuable in friendship,
sincere, beneficent, compassionate, inoffensive, religious, fond of
sports and exercises, prudent, amiable, and affectionate, gracious,
noble, brilliant, candid, liberal, discreet, temperate, modest, pious,
just, fond of glory, and in all respects honourable and worthy; but,
if posited ingloriously, when so connected, he makes men luxurious,
soft, effeminate, fond of dancing, indulgent in expenses, incapable
of managing women, yet amorous and lascivious; mean, slanderous,
adulterous, fond of dress, dissolute, dull, wasteful, without energy,
enervated, fond of personal adornment, womanish in mind, yet observant
of holy rites and ceremonies, faithful, harmless, pleasant, affable,
cheerful, and liberal to misfortune. If connected with Mercury, and
posited in glory, Jupiter will render men fit for much business, fond
of learning, and of geometry and the mathematics; poetical, public
orators, acute, temperate, well-disposed, skilful in counsel, politic,
beneficent, able in government, pious, religious, valuable in all
useful professions, benevolent, affectionate in their families, ready
in acquiring knowledge, philosophical, and dignified: but when so
connected, and placed ingloriously, he will produce contrary effects,
rendering men frivolous, empty, contemptible, credulous of falsehood,
senseless, fanatical, trifling, petulant, affectors of wisdom, stupid,
arrogant, pretenders in art, magicians, and vacillating: Yet he will
also produce men skilled in various learning, and of strong memory,
capable of imparting instruction, and pure in their enjoyments.
Mars alone having dominion of the mind, and placed with glory, makes
men noble, imperious, irascible, warlike, versatile, powerful in
intellect, daring, bold, refractory, careless, obstinate, acute,
self-confident, contemptuous, tyrannical, strenuous, stern and able in
government: but, posited ingloriously, he makes men cruel, mischievous,
sanguinary, tumultuous, extravagant in expense, boisterous,
ruffian-like, precipitate, drunken, rapacious, pitiless, familiar with
crime, restless, outrageous, hostile to their families, and infidels in
religion. Should he be conciliated with Venus, and posited in glory,
he renders the mind cheerful, docile, friendly, complacent, joyous,
playful, frank, delighting in songs and dancing, amorous, fond of
the arts, and of dramatic personation, voluptuous, brave, libidinous
in desire, sensible, cautious, and discreet; disposed to free sexual
intercourse,[206]
quick in anger, extravagant in expense, and jealous: but, if he have an
inglorious position when thus conciliated, he makes men overbearing,
lascivious, sordid, opprobrious, adulterous, mischievous, liars,
fabricators of deceit, cheats of their own families as well as others,
eager in desire, and at the same time soon satiated, debauchers of
wives and virgins, daring, impetuous, ungovernable, treacherous,
faithless, dangerous, fickle and weak in mind; and occasionally also
wasteful, fond of dress, audacious, and shameless. Connected with
Mercury, and placed in glory, Mars renders men skilful in command,
cautious, strenuous, active, obstinate, yet versatile, inventive,
sophistical, laborious, busy in all things, eloquent, imposing,
deceitful, inconstant, overknowing, maliciously artful, quick witted,
seductive, hypocritical, treacherous, habituated to evil, inquisitive,
fond of strife, and successful; fair dealers with persons of habits
similar to their own, and, in short, altogether mischievous to
their enemies, though beneficial to their friends: but, if Mars be
posited ingloriously, and thus connected, he makes men prodigal, yet
avaricious, cruel, daring, bold, regretful and vacillating; liars,
thieves, infidels in religion, perjurers, and impostors; seditious,
incendiaries, frequenters of theatres, covered with infamy, robbers,
housebreakers, sanguinary, forgers of writings, familiar with crime,
jugglers, magicians, sorcerers, and assassins.
When Venus rules alone in a position of glory, she renders the mind
benignant, good, voluptuous, copious in wit, pure, gay, fond of
dancing, jealous, abhorring wickedness, delighting in the arts, pious,
modest, well-disposed, happy in dreams, affectionate, beneficent,
compassionate, refined in taste, easily reconciled, tractable, and
entirely amiable: but, if contrarily posited, she renders the mind
dull, amorous, effeminate, timorous, indiscriminating, sordid, faulty,
obscure, and ignominious. Conciliated with Mercury, and posited with
glory, Venus makes men lovers of the arts, philosophical, of scientific
mind and good genius, poetical, delighting in learning and elegance,
polite, voluptuous, luxurious in their habits of life, joyous,
friendly, pious, prudent, fitted for various arts, intelligent,
not misled by error, quick in learning, self-teaching, emulous of
worth, followers of virtue, copious and agreeable in speech, serene
and sincere in manner, delighting in exercise, honest, judicious,
high-minded, and continent in desire as regards women[207];
but, when so conciliated and posited adversely, she will make men oppressive,
fit for various arts, evil-tongued, unsteady, malevolent, fraudulent,
turbulent, liars, calumniators, faithless, crafty, insidious, practised
in evil, uncourteous, debauchers of women, corrupters of youth,[208]
fond of personal adornment, dissolute, infamous, notoriously offensive and
publicly complained of, yet striving after all things.
Mercury, alone, having dominion of the mind, and being in a glorious
position, renders it prudent, clever, sensible, capable of great
learning, inventive, expert, logical, studious of nature, speculative,
of good genius, emulous, benevolent, skilful in argument, accurate in
conjecture, adapted to sciences and mysteries, and tractable: but,
when placed contrarily, he makes men busy in all things, precipitate,
forgetful, impetuous, frivolous, variable, regretful, foolish,
inconsiderate, void of truth, careless, inconstant, insatiable,
avaricious, unjust; and altogether of slippery intellect, and
predisposed to error.
To these influences and their effects, as above detailed, the Moon
also contributes: for, should she be in the bends of her southern or
northern boundary,[209]
she will render the properties of the mind more various, more versatile
in art, and more susceptible of change: if she be in her nodes, she
will make them more acute, more practical, and more active. Also, when
in the ascendant, and during the increase of her illumination, she
augments their ingenuity, perspicuity, firmness and expansion; but,
when found in her decrease, or in occultation, she renders them more
heavy, more obtuse, more variable of purpose, more timid, and more obscure.
The Sun likewise co-operates, when conciliated with the lord of the
mental temperament; contributing, if he be in a glorious position, to
increase probity, industry, honour, and all laudable qualities; but,
if adversely situated, he increases debasement, depravity, obscurity,
cruelty, obstinacy, moroseness, and all other evil qualities.
CHAPTER XIX THE DISEASES OF THE MIND
In connection with the foregoing discussion on the properties of the
mind, the circumstances relating to eminent mental disorders, such as
madness, epilepsy,[210]
and others of the like formidable nature, duly claim attention.
Now, with reference to these, it is always essential to consider the
planet Mercury and the Moon, and to observe in what mode they may
be disposed towards each other, and towards the angles, and also
towards the malefics: for, if the Moon and Mercury be unconnected
with each other, or with the oriental horizon, and provided such
planets as may be adversely and noxiously configurated should be in
elevation above them, or overrule them, or be in opposition to them,
the mental properties will then consequently become impregnated with
various disorders: the characters of which may be clearly known by the
qualities of the stars thus controlling the places.[211]
It is true that there are many disorders of a moderate nature, capable
of being distinguished by what has been already stated, in the
preceding chapter, regarding the mental qualities: for it is by the
increase and growth of certain of those qualities, that an injurious
excess is produced; and every irregularity of the moral habit, whether
by deficiency or superabundance, may be fitly termed a moral disorder,
But, at the same time, there are other disorders of so vast and
manifold a disproportion, that they quite, as it were, overpower the
natural course of the intellect and passions of the mind. And of these
greater disorders it is now proposed to treat.
For example, epilepsy generally attaches to all persons born when
Mercury and the Moon may be unconnected either with each other, or
with the oriental horizon, while Saturn and Mars may be in angles and
superintend the scheme; that is to say, provided Saturn be so posited
by day, and Mars by night: otherwise, when the converse may happen in
these schemes, viz. when Saturn may have dominion by night, but Mars
by day (especially if in Cancer, Virgo or Pisces), the persons born
will become insane. And they will become demoniac, and afflicted with
moisture of the brain, if the Moon, being in face to the Sun, should
be governed by Saturn when operating her conjunction, but by Mars
when effecting her opposition; and particularly when it may happen in
Sagittarius and in Pisces.
If the malefics, only, should have ruled the scheme, in the manner
described, the said disorders of the mind will become irremediable,
although at the same time not eminent, but doubtful, and not openly
displayed; but, should the benefics, Jupiter and Venus, be conciliated,
and be posited in eastern parts and in angles, while the malefics may
be in western parts, the disorders, although highly conspicuous, will
then be susceptible to cure. For instance, under Jupiter’s influence,
they will be healed by means of medical or surgical aid, and by diet
and medicine; under Venus, by the guidance of oracles and by divine
interposition.
Should the benefics, however, be occidental, and the malefics be found
in eastern parts and in angles, the disorders will then become not
only incurable, but most conspicuous: the epileptic persons will then
be subjected to constant fits, and to danger of death; the insane will
become outrageous and unmanageable, breaking away from their families,
raving and wandering in nakedness: the demoniacs and those afflicted
with moisture of the brain will become furious, uttering mysterious
sayings, and wounding themselves.
The several places of position in the scheme also afford co-operation:
for instance, those of the Sun and Mars contribute to insanity; those
of Jupiter and Mercury, to epilepsy; those of Venus, to the fury of
enthusiasm; and those of Saturn and the Moon, to demoniac affections
and moisture of the brain.
It is by such configurations, as those just described, that any morbid
deviation, occurring in the active or reasoning faculties of the mind,
is produced; but a deviation of the passive, or merely sensitive
faculties, is discernible chiefly in the excess and deficiency (as the
case may be) of the masculine and feminine genders; that is to say,
in the superabundance, or deficiency, of the power of either gender,
to produce a conformation agreeable to its own proper nature: and a
knowledge of this latter deviation is to be acquired by means of the
following rules.
When the Sun, instead of Mercury, may be with the Moon, and if Mars,
together with Venus, be then in familiarity with them, in that case,
provided the luminaries only be found in masculine signs, men will
excel in their nature, or, in other words, will possess in full
plenitude the properties becoming their sex; while the properties of
women, who are thus constituted more masculinely and more actively,
will deviate from the usual limits of nature. But, if both Mars and
Venus, or if only one of them, be likewise masculinely situated,
men will be freely and promptly inclined to natural intercourse
and connexion; and women will be, in like manner, licentious and
intemperate in intercourse beyond nature. Their desires will be
practised in privacy, and not openly, should only Venus be situated
masculinely; but shamelessly and publicly, if Mars also masculinely
placed, together with Venus.
But, if the luminaries only be in feminine signs, women will then
possess their natural functions in greater plenitude, and men will
deviate from the limits of nature towards effeminacy and wantonness.
And, if Venus be femininely posited, women will be lustful and
licentious, and men wanton and soft; seeking connexion contrary
to nature; yet in privacy and not openly: but, if Mars be posited
femininely, they will then put their desires in practice shamelessly
and publicly.
The oriental and diurnal positions of Mars and Venus also contribute to
more masculine and more reputable qualities; and their occidental and
vespertine[212]
positions to qualities more feminine, and more sordid.
Lastly, if Saturn be in familiarity with them, he will likewise
co-operate, by tending to produce greater impurity and obscenity, and
greater evil altogether; but Jupiter, if in familiarity, tends to
greater decency and modesty, and altogether to better conduct; and Mercury
to greater mobility, diversity, activity, and notoriety of the passions.
End of the Third Book
CHAPTER IV THE QUALITY OF EMPLOYMENT
The dominion of the employment, or profession, is claimed in two
quarters; viz. by the Sun, and by the sign on the mid-heaven.
It is, therefore, necessary to observe whether any planet may be
making its oriental appearance nearest to the Sun,[221]
and whether any be posited in the mid-heaven; especially, when also
receiving the application of the Moon. And if one and the same planet
possess both these qualifications, that is to say, make its nearest
appearance to the Sun, and be also in the mid-heaven, that one alone
must be elected to determine the present inquiry: and, likewise, though
the planet should not be thus doubly qualified, but only singly, in
whichever respect, even then that planet alone must still be elected
provided itself alone should possess such single qualification. If,
however, there should be one planet presenting its nearest appearance,
and another in the mid-heaven conciliating the Moon, both must then
be noticed; and whichever of two may have greater sway, and possess
greater rights of dominion, that one must be preferred. But where not
any planet may be found so situated, neither making its appearance as
above described, nor being in the mid-heaven, then that one, possessing
the dominion of the mid-heaven,[222]
is to be considered as lord of the employment: it is, however, only some
occasional occupation which can be thus denoted; because persons,
born under such a configuration, most commonly remain at leisure and
unemployed.
What has now been said, relates to the election of the lord of the
employment or profession; but the species of the employment will be
distinguished by means of the respective properties of the three
planets, Mars, Venus, and Mercury, and of the signs in which they may
be posited.
Mercury, for instance, produces writers, superintendents of business,
accountants, teachers in the sciences, merchants and bankers: also,
soothsayers, astrologers, and attendants on sacrifices, and, in
short, all who live by the exercise of literature, and by furnishing
explanation or interpretation; as well as by stipend and salary, or
allowance. If Saturn bear testimony jointly with Mercury, persons then
born will become managers of the affairs of others, or interpreters of
dreams, or will be engaged in temples for the purpose of divination,
and for the sake of their fanaticism. But, if Jupiter join testimony,
they will be painters, orators, or pleaders in argument, and occupied
with eminent personages.
Should Venus have dominion of the employment, she will cause persons to
be engaged in the various perfumes of flowers, in unguents and wines,
and also in colours, dyes, and in spices: thus she will produce vendors
of unguents, garland-makers,[223]
wine-merchants, dealers in medical drugs, weavers, dealers in spices,
painters, dyers, and vendors of apparel. If Saturn add his testimony
to hers, he will cause persons to be employed in matters belonging to
amusement and decoration; and will also produce jugglers, sorcerers and
charlatans, and all such as practise similarly. But, if Jupiter join
testimony with Venus, persons will become prize-wrestlers, and
garland-wearers,[224]
and will be advanced in honour through female interest.
Mars, ruling the employment, and being configurated with the Sun, will
produce persons who operate by means of fire; for instance, cooks, as
well as those who work in copper, brass, and other metals, by melting,
burning, and casting: if Mars be separated from the Sun, he will
make shipwrights, smiths, agriculturists, stonemasons, carpenters,
and subordinate labourers. If Saturn bear testimony, in addition
to Mars, persons will become mariners, workers in wells, vaults or
mines, painters, keepers of beasts or cattle, cooks or butchers,
and attendants on baths or on exhibitions. And, if Jupiter join
testimony, they will be soldiers, or mechanics, collectors of revenue,
inn-keepers, toll-gatherers, or attendants on sacrifices.
Further, should it happen that two arbiters of employment may be
found together, and provided they should be Mercury and Venus, they
will then produce musicians, melodists, and persons engaged in music,
poetry, and songs: they will also produce (especially if changed in
their places)[225],
mimics, actors, dealers in slaves, makers of musical instruments,
choristers and musical performers, dancers, weavers, modellers in wax,
and painters. And if Saturn join testimony with Mercury and Venus, the
preparation and sale of female ornaments will be added to the aforesaid
occupations. But, if Jupiter give testimony, the persons will become
administrators of justice, guardians of public affairs, instructors of
youth, and magistrates of the people.
Should Mercury and Mars together be lords of the employment, persons
will become statuaries, armour-makers, sculptors,[226]
modellers of animals, wrestlers, surgeons, spies or informers,
adulterers, busy in crime, and forgers. And, if Saturn also bear
testimony in addition to Mercury and Mars, he will produce assassins,
highwaymen, thieves, robbers lurking in ambush, marauders on cattle,
and swindlers. But, if Jupiter afford testimony, he will engage persons
in honourable warfare, and in industry; making them cautious and
diligent in business, curious in foreign matters, and deriving profit
from their pursuits.
When Venus and Mars exercise the dominion together, persons will become
dyers, dealers in unguents and perfumes, workers in tin, lead, gold,
and silver, mock combatants or dancers in armour, dealers in medical
drugs, agriculturists, and physicians, healing by means of medicine.
And if Saturn add testimony to Venus and Mars, he will produce persons
attendant on animals consecrated to religion; also grave-diggers and
undertakers, mourners and musicians at funerals, and fanatics occupied
in religious ceremonies, lamentations, and blood. But, if Jupiter
add testimony, the persons will become regulators of sacrifices,
augurs, holders of sacred offices, governors placed over women, and
interpreters; and they will derive support from such occupations.
The properties of the signs, in which the lords of the employment may
be posited, are also influential in varying the employment. For example,
the signs of human shape promote all scientific pursuits, and such as
are of utility to mankind; the quadrupedal signs contribute to produce
employment among metals, in business and trade, in house-building, and
in the work of smiths and mechanics: the tropical and equinoctial signs
tend to give employment in translation or interpretation, in matters
of exchange, in mensuration and agriculture, and in religious duties:
the terrestrial and watery signs tend to employment in water, and in
connection with water, as well in regard to the nurture of plants, as
to ship-building; they likewise contribute to employment in funerals,
in embalming and preserving, and also in salt.
Moreover, should the Moon herself actually occupy the place regulating
the employment,[227]
and, after her conjunction, continue in course with Mercury, being at
the same time in Taurus, Capricorn, or Cancer, she will then produce
soothsayers, attendants on sacrifices, and diviners by the basin.[228]
If she be in Sagittarius or Pisces, she will make necromancers, and
evokers of dæmons: if in Virgo or Scorpio, magicians, astrologers, and
oracular persons, possessing prescience: and, if in Libra, Aries, or
Leo, she will produce fanatics, interpreters of dreams, and makers of
false vows and adjurations.
From the foregoing rules, the various forms of employment are to
be inferred; and its magnitude or importance will be manifested by
the existing power of the ruling planets. For instance, if the said
planets be oriental, or in angles, they will give the person eminence
and authority in his employment; but, if occidental or cadent, they
will render him subordinate. And should the benefics be in elevation,
the employment will be important, lucrative, secure, honourable, and
agreeable; but, on the other hand, if the malefics be in elevation
above the lords of the employment, it will then be mean, disreputable,
unprofitable, and insecure: thus, Saturn brings an adverse influence in
coldness or tardiness, and in the composition or mixture of colours[229];
and Mars produces opposition by audacity and publicity in enterprise:
and both planets are alike hostile to proficiency and prosperity.
The general period, at which any increase or diminution of the
employment may take place, must, again in this case also, be determined
by the disposition of the stars, which operate the effect towards the
oriental and occidental angles.
CHAPTER V MARRIAGE
The consideration of circumstances relating to marriage, or the
cohabitation of husband and wife, as sanctioned by law, succeeds to the
foregoing details, and must be pursued in the following method.
With regard to men, it is to be observed in what manner the Moon may
be disposed; for, in the first place, if she be found in the oriental
quadrants, she will cause men either to marry early in life, or, after
having over-passed their prime, to marry young women; “but, should
she be situated in either of the occidental quadrants, men will then
marry either late in life, or to women advanced in age[230]”:
and if she be found under the Sun’s beams, and configurated with Saturn,
she then entirely denies marriage. Secondly, should she be in a sign
of single form, and in application to only one of the planets, she
will cause men to marry only once; but, if she be in a bicorporeal
or multiform sign, or in application to several planets, she will
cause them to be married several times; and, provided also that the
planets, which thus, either by adjacency or by testimony,[231]
receive her application, be benefic, men will then obtain good wives; but
if, on the contrary, the said planets be malefic, bad. For example, if
Saturn receive the Moon’s application, the wives whom he will provide
will be troublesome and morose; but, if Jupiter receive it, they will
be decorous and economical; if Mars, bold and refractory; if Venus,
cheerful, handsome, and agreeable; and, if Mercury, sensible, prudent,
and clever. Moreover, should Venus be found connected with Jupiter,
Saturn,[232]
or Mercury, she will render wives provident, and attached to their
husbands and children; but, if she be found connected with Mars, they
will be irascible, unsteady, and indiscreet. Thus far in reference to
the marriage of men.
But, in the case of women, the Sun must be observed, instead of the
Moon: and, should he be posited in the oriental quadrants, women will
be married either in their own youth, or to men younger than
themselves; but, if he be in the occidental quadrants, they will either
be married late in life, or to men who have passed their prime, and are
advanced in years. And should the Sun be in a sign of single form, or
configurated with only one oriental planet, he will cause them to enter
into matrimony only once; but, if in a bicorporeal or multiform sign,
or configurated with several oriental planets, he will then cause them
to be often married. And Saturn, being configurated with the Sun, will
provide husbands steadfast, advantageous, and industrious; Jupiter,
such as are honourable and noble-minded; Mars, severe husbands void of
affection and intractable; Venus, amiable and handsome husbands; and
Mercury, such as are provident and expert in business. But, if Venus be
found connected with Saturn, she will indicate dull and timid husbands;
“if with Jupiter, the husbands will be good, just, and modest[233];”
if with Mars, hasty, lustful, and adulterous; and if with Mercury, they
will be extravagantly desirous of young persons.[234]
In regard to the Sun, those quadrants which precede the ascending and
descending points of the zodiac, and, in respect of the Moon, those
which are measured from her conjunction and opposition[235]
to her intermediate quarters, are called oriental quadrants: the occidental
quadrants are, of course, those lying opposite to the oriental.
Whenever both nativities, viz. that of the husband and that of the
wife, may exhibit the luminaries configurated together in concord,
that is to say, either in trine or in sextile to each other, the
cohabitation will most usually be lasting; especially if the said
concord exist by means of interchange[236];
but its duration will be also much more securely established, provided
the Moon in the husband’s nativity should correspond or agree with the
Sun in the wife’s nativity.[237]
If, however, the relative positions of the luminaries be in signs
inconjunct, or in opposition, or in quartile, the cohabitation will be
speedily dissolved upon slight causes, and the total separation of the
parties will ensue.
And should the configuration of the luminaries, when made in concord,
be aspected by the benefics, the cohabitation will continue in
respectability, comfort, and advantage; but, on the other hand, it will
abound in strife, contention, and misfortune, if the malefics be in
aspect to the said configuration.
In like manner, even though the luminaries may not be favourably
configurated in concord, should the benefics still offer testimony
to them, the cohabitation will then not be entirely broken off,
nor totally destroyed for ever, but will be again renewed, and
re-established as before. But if, on the contrary, the malefics
bear testimony to such discordant disposition of the luminaries, a
dissolution of the cohabitation will take place, accompanied by scorn
and injury. Should Mercury alone be conjoined with the malefics, it
will be effected by means of some public inculpation; and if Venus also
be found with them, it will be on the ground of adultery, or sorcery,
or some similar offence.
There are, however, other varieties in the married state, which are to
be contemplated by means of Venus, Mars, and Saturn. And should these
planets act in familiarity with the luminaries, the cohabitation will
be appropriate and domestic, and authorised by law; because Venus holds
a certain affinity both to Mars and Saturn: her affinity to Mars, for
instance, consists in each having exaltation in a sign belonging to
the other’s triplicity,[238]
and it operates in the cases of youthful and vigorous persons: while
her affinity to Saturn arises from their respective houses being in the
signs, again also, belonging to each other’s triplicity,[239]
and relates to persons of more advanced age.
Hence, if Venus be in concurrence with Mars, she will produce entire
love and affection in the cohabiting parties; and if Mercury also
coincide with the said planets, such affection will become publicly
notorious. Should Venus be found in a sign mutually common and
familiar, such as Capricorn, or Pisces,[240]
she will effect marriages between brothers and sisters and kindred by
blood: and, provided she be also in the presence of the Moon, when the
native may be male, she will cause him to connect himself with two
sisters, or other near relatives; but, if the native be a female, a
similar contract on her part, with two brothers or near relatives, will
be indicated, when Venus may be also with Jupiter.[241]
Again, if Venus be with Saturn, the cohabitation will be established
entirely in happiness and constancy; and if Mercury be present with
them, it will be profitable; but, should Mars be present, it will
be unsettled, calamitous, and afflicted by jealousy. And if Mars be
configurated on equal terms with Venus, Saturn, and Mercury, he will
effect marriage between persons of equal age; but, on the other hand,
should he be more oriental, marriage will take place with a younger man
or woman; and, if more occidental, with an older person. Should Venus
and Saturn be found in signs common to each other, that is to say,
in Capricorn and Libra,[242]
marriage will be contracted between persons kindred by blood: and,
when the said position may happen in the ascendant, or in the
mid-heaven, provided the Moon also should present herself there, men
will become connected with their mothers, or maternal aunts, or with
their mothers-in-law; and women with their own sons, or the sons of
their brothers, or with their daughters’ husbands. But if, instead of
the Moon, the Sun should be in concurrence with the said position,
and especially should it happen that the planets in question may be
occidental, men will then connect themselves with their daughters, or
the wives of their sons; and women with their fathers, or paternal
uncles, or the husbands of their daughters.
When the aforesaid configurations,[243]
although not existing in signs of affinity to each other,[244]
should be found in feminine places, they will render the parties
obscene, lustful and shameless; for instance, when found in the
anterior and hinder parts of Aries, and near the Hyades of Taurus,
about the urn of Aquarius, in the hinder parts of Leo, and in the face
of Capricorn. And should the last-named planets, Venus and Saturn, be
posited in angles, they will then, if posited in the first two angles,
the eastern and southern, produce a total exposure of the passions,
and cause them to be publicly canvassed; but, if in the last two
angles, the western and northern, they will produce eunuchs, or persons
unprolific, and not possessing the proper channels of nature.
The passions, liable to operate in males, are to be considered by
observation of Mars: for should he be separated from Venus and Saturn,
but yet, at the same time, be supported by the testimony of Jupiter,
he will make men pure and decorous in sexual intercourse, and incline
them to natural usages only: and, if he attach himself to Saturn only,
he will render them cold in blood and dull in appetite; if, however,
when Saturn and Mars may be thus connected together, Venus and
Jupiter should also be configurated with them, men will then become
easily excited and eager in desire, although they will still be continent,
and restrain themselves in order to avoid reproach. But should Saturn
be absent, and Mars be with Venus alone, or even although Jupiter
also be with her, men will become highly licentious, and attempt to
gratify their desires in every mode.[245]
And further, if Venus be found more occidental, men will connect
themselves with low women, female servants, and aliens or vagabonds;
but, should Mars be found occidental, with women of rank, and
gentlewomen; or with women living with their husbands, or under the
protection of men. Thus far with regard to males.
In the case of females, Venus requires attention: for, if she be
configurated with Jupiter, or with Mercury, she will cause women to be
temperate and pure in sexual intercourse; still, however, when she may
be thus connected with Mercury, if Saturn be not present also, she will
cause them to be easily excited to desire; although they will control
their desires, and avoid reproach. But, should Venus be conjoined
or configurated with Mars alone, she will render women licentious
and lustful; and if, to both these planets, when thus conjoined or
configurated, Jupiter also present himself, Mars being at the same
time under the rays of the Sun, women will then mingle in intercourse
with servants, and persons meaner than themselves, or with aliens,
or vagabonds: but, should it happen that Venus may be under the rays
of the Sun, they will then connect themselves with their superiors
or masters. And, further, should the planets be in feminine places,
or configurated femininely, they will be content with their passive
faculties only.[246]
Saturn, in being conciliated with such positions as those now
described, tends to produce greater obscenity; Jupiter, greater
decency; and Mercury, greater publicity, and greater fickleness, or
instability.
CHAPTER VI CHILDREN
The next point to be investigated is that concerning children: and,
to accomplish this, observation must be made of the planets posited
in, or configurated with the place on the zenith,[247]
or its succedent house, which latter is called the place of the good
dæmon. And should it happen that not any planets may be present in the
said places, nor configurated with them, it will then be necessary to
take into consideration such as may be in opposition thereto.
Now the Moon, Jupiter, and Venus are esteemed as givers of offspring;
but the Sun, Mars, and Saturn are considered as denying children
altogether, or as allowing but few: while Mercury, being in quality
common to both parties, lends co-operation to that with which he may be
configurated, and gives offspring, when oriental, but withholds, when occidental.
To speak briefly, if the planets, which grant progeny, be so posited
as described,[248]
and placed singly, the gift of progeny will be single only[249];
but should they be in bicorporeal or in feminine signs, they will grant
double offsprings[250]:
so likewise if they should be in prolific or seminal signs, such as
Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio, they will grant twins, or even more.
And provided they should also be masculinely constituted, as well
by configuration with the Sun, as by being in masculine signs, they
will grant male children; but otherwise, if femininely constituted, female.
But, although the said planets, even if beneath the malefics in
elevation, or, even if found in barren places, or in signs such as
those of Leo and Virgo, will still grant children; yet such children,
thus indicated, will neither be healthy, nor continue in life. Should
it happen, however, that the Sun and the malefics may be in entire
possession of the places above mentioned, viz. that on the zenith,
or the succedent house allotted to the good dæmon; and provided they
be, at the same time, in masculine or barren signs, and the benefics
be not in elevation above them, a total privation of offspring is
thereby indicated; but, should they be in feminine or prolific signs,
or supported by the testimony of the benefics, children will then be
granted; yet they will be liable to disease, and short-lived.
If, however, planets of each condition should be configurated with,
and have prerogative in prolific signs, there will then ensue a loss of
either all the children, or only few, or else the major part of them;
in the same proportion as that in which the planets, bearing testimony
to either condition, may preponderate on one side rather than the
other; by excelling in number, or in influence, in consequence of being
posited more orientally, more genuinely in angles, higher in elevation,
or successively ascending.
When the lords of the aforesaid signs[251]
may be such as are givers of offspring, and be either oriental, or in
places proper to themselves, the children thus granted will become
eminent and illustrious: but, if occidental, or in places not proper to
themselves, the children will then become undistinguished and abject.
Should the said lords also be in concord with the part of fortune, and
with the ascendant, they will render the children amiable, and cause
them to be beloved by their parents, and to inherit their parents’
substance: but, if found inconjunct, and not in concord with the said
parts, the children will then become odious and mischievous to their
parents, and will forfeit the inheritance of their substance.
Further, should the planets which grant progeny be appropriately
configurated with each other, they will promote brotherly love, and
mutual regard and affection among the children; but, if inconjunct,
or in opposition, they will excite in them mutual hatred, deceit, and
treachery.
The general investigation regarding children is to be conducted
in the foregoing method: but, in order to enquire into particular
circumstances consequent on the above, it will be necessary to assume,
as an ascendant, the position of each planet which gives offspring, and
to observe the separate schemes; drawing inferences therefrom as in the
case of a nativity.
CHAPTER VII FRIENDS AND ENEMIES
With respect to friendship and enmity, it may be observed that great
and lasting familiarities, or disagreements, are respectively called
sympathies and enmities; while the smaller, such as arise occasionally,
and subsist for a short time only, are denominated casual intimacies
and strifes: the whole are to be contemplated according to the
following rules.
Indications of great and lasting friendships, or enmities, may be
perceived by observation of the ruling places, exhibited in the
respective nativities of both the persons, between whom the friendship
or enmity may subsist. It is consequently essential to observe the
places of the Sun, the Moon, the ascendant, and the part of fortune;
for, should all these in both nativities be in the same signs, or
should either all or most of them be counterchanged in position in
each nativity, and especially should the two ascendants be within the
distance of seventeen degrees from each other,[252]
they will create fixed and indissoluble friendship. On the other hand,
should they be in signs inconjunct, or in opposition, they will produce
great and lasting enmity. If, however, they be not constituted in
either of the modes above mentioned, but merely configurated in
signs,[253]
they will then produce minor friendship; provided such configuration exist
by trine or sextile; but, if by quartile, they will excite minor
enmity, so as to take effect at certain particular times, in which
the friendship remains, as it were, inactive and subdued, while the
malefics transit the configuration: and, in a similar manner, enmity
also will be softened and abated, when the benefics may enter upon the
configuration.[254]
The friendship and enmity, which men bear towards each other, may be
classed under three general heads. One kind is suggested by spontaneous
wilfulness; another, by the idea of profit; and another, by pain and
pleasure mutually excited.
And, therefore, should either all or most of the aforesaid places
be in familiarity with each other, friendship of all the three
kinds will be established: so, also, should the places be entirely
without familiarity, similar enmity will be established. If, however,
familiarity, or absence of familiarity (as the case may be), exist
only as regards the places of the luminaries, friendship or enmity
will then be established by spontaneous will; and friendship thus
produced is the best and most secure; while, on the other hand, enmity
so arising is, in like manner, the worst and most dangerous. The
friendship, or enmity, consequent on the familiarity or non-familiarity
of the respective parts of Fortune, will be established on the idea of
profit; and that, consequent on a similar disposition of the respective
ascendants, will arise from pain or pleasure mutually excited between
the parties.
It will, however, be necessary to pay still further attention to the
places in question, in order to observe whether any and what planets
may be in elevation above them, or in aspect to them; because, among
all the said places, that particular one, to which any planet in
elevation, or in succession, may be adjacent, whether in the same
sign, or in the next, will possess the more powerful influence over
friendship or enmity: and whichever place may have its aspecting
planets more powerfully benefic, will operate in a greater degree[255]
to advantage in friendship, and to the relaxation of enmity. The foregoing
instructions are applicable to such friendships or enmities as are
great and lasting.
But, in the case of others, which subsist only occasionally, and which
have been defined as casual intimacies and strifes, it is essential
to make observation of the motions of the planets, as exhibited by
each nativity; that is to say, the times are to be calculated, on the
completion of which the motions of the planets of one nativity will
cause them to enter on certain places of the other nativity; for it is
at such periods that certain particular friendships and enmities occur,
continuing for a short time, until the said ingress of the planets
shall have passed over.
For instance, Saturn and Jupiter, when making ingress upon each other’s
places, produce friendship by certain agreements, or engagements,
relating either to agriculture or to inheritance: Saturn and Mars
create contention and treachery spontaneously entertained: Saturn and
Venus, friendship between kindred; liable, however, soon to grow cool:
Saturn and Mercury, friendship on account of business, or profit, or
some secret art or mystery.
Jupiter and Mars create friendship in the direction of affairs, and by
means of dignities; Jupiter and Venus also create friendship by means of
female persons, or attendants on religion, or on oracles: Jupiter
and Mercury, friendship by means of eloquence and science, and
philosophical inclinations.
Mars and Venus cause friendship in the course of amours, adultery, and
fornication: Mars and Mercury excite hatred and strife by offences
committed in business and trade, or by sorcery.
And Venus and Mercury produce communion by means of the arts and
sciences, by a mutual interest in literature, or by female persons.
It is in this manner that the planets operate in producing friendship
or enmity. And their comparative intensity or relaxation of vigour is
to be distinguished by the situation of the places, which they occupy,
with regard to the four principal and ruling places[256]:
for, should they be posited in angles, at the places of the respective
parts of Fortune, or at those of the luminaries, they will render the
casual intimacies or strifes more eminent and remarkable; but, if
they be remote from these places, their effects will not be highly
conspicuous. The comparative degree of injury or advantage, liable to
be received, is to be discerned by means of the good or evil properties
of such planets as may be thus in aspect to the aforesaid places.
With respect to servants,[257]
the sign of the evil dæmon[258]
is considered as the place to which the disposition ruling over them must
be referred; and it is to be observed what planets are in aspect to
that place, both at the actual time of nativity, and at that of any
ingresses made upon it, or oppositions to it; and also, especially,
whether the lords of the said sign may be configurated in familiarity
with the ruling places of the nativity, or not in familiarity.
CHAPTER VIII TRAVELLING
The circumstances indicative of travel are to be considered by means
of the situation held by both the luminaries, in respect to the angles,
and especially, by means of that held by the Moon. For, should she be
descending, or cadent from the angles, she will cause journeys and
changes of residence: Mars, also, if descending, or cadent from the
zenith, will sometimes do the same, provided he may occupy a situation
in quartile, or in opposition to the luminaries. And, if the part
of Fortune, also, should happen to be placed in signs which produce
travelling, the course and practice of the whole life will be engaged
in foreign lands. And further, provided the benefics superintend the
aforesaid places, or ascend in succession to them, the engagements
abroad will be honourable and lucrative, and the return home speedy
and unobstructed: but if, on the contrary, the malefics superintend or
ascend in succession to those places, the journey outward will then
lead to peril and misfortune, and the return will be replete with
difficulty. But it is, at the same time, necessary in all cases to
consider the contemperament also, and to observe such of the existing
configurations as are more predominant.
It most usually happens, that, if the luminaries be posited in the
cadent houses of the oriental quadrants, the travel will take place in
the eastern or southern quarters of the world; and that, if placed in
western situations, or in an occidental quadrant, travel will be then
prosecuted in the northern or western parts. And, should the signs,
which operate travel, be themselves single in form, or should the
planets, having dominion of them, be singly posited, the journeys will
then take place after long intervals, and occasionally only: but, if
the said signs be bicorporeal, or double in form or figure, travel will
be constantly repeated and continued.
Thus, when Jupiter and Venus may be in dominion over the luminaries,
and over the places producing travel, they will render the journeys
agreeable, as well as free from danger: for the traveller will be
joyfully forwarded on his way by the magistrates of the country, and
by the concurrent assistance of friendly persons; the state of the
atmosphere will also be favourable, and he will meet with abundance of
accommodation. And, provided Mercury also be present with the planets
above specified, utility, profit, presents and honours will likewise be
derived from the journey.
Saturn and Mars, if controlling the luminaries, and, especially, if
placed distant from each other,[259]
will produce great dangers, and at the same time render the journey
fruitless and unavailing. Should they be in watery signs, the dangers
will arise by shipwreck, or among deserts and wilderness[260];
if in fixed signs, by precipices, and adverse blasts of wind; in
tropical and equinoctial signs, by want of food and other necessaries,
and by some unwholesome state of the atmosphere; in signs of human
form, by robbery, treachery, and various depredations; and, if in
terrestrial signs, by the attack of wild beasts, or from earthquakes.
And, should Mercury also lend concurrence, the traveller will incur
further danger from accusations made against him, as well as from
reptiles and venomous stings or bites.
The question, whether the events will be advantageous or injurious in
quality, must, however, be further considered by observation (made in
the forms already detailed), of the peculiar properties of the places,
in which the lords of employment, of wealth, of the body, or of rank,
may be posited. And the periods, at which travelling will take place,
are to be considered by the occasional ingress of the five planets.[261]
CHAPTER IX THE KIND OF DEATH
It now remains to treat of the kind and species of death. It is,
however, first to be determined, by the rules already delivered
regarding the duration of life,[262]
whether death will ensue from an oriental or occidental position of
the predominating influence. And, if death ensue from some oriental
position, or meeting of rays, the place of such meeting must be
observed, and by means of that place the kind of death is to be
distinguished; if from the descension, or setting, of the significator,
or prorogator, the place of descension[263]
must be considered: because death is to be expected conformable in
character to the influences, whatever they may be, which preside over
the said places; or, if not any influences should directly preside, it
will then be conformable to the influences, of whatever kind, which
may be brought first in succession to the places in question: the
configuration of the stars, the property of the aforesaid anæretic
places, and the nature of the signs and of the terms,[264]
are, also, all of them co-operative.
Thus, for example, if the dominion of death be vested in Saturn, he
will produce death by means of lingering diseases; cough, rheumatism,
flux, ague, disorder of the spleen, dropsy, colic, and complaints in
the womb; and, in short, by all such diseases as proceed from the
superabundance of cold.
Jupiter effects death by quinsey, inflammation of the lungs, apoplexy,
spasm, pains in the head, morbid performance of the heart, and by all
diseases arising from the superabundance of air, and from immoderate
and impure respiration.
Mars causes death by constant fevers, semitertians, sudden and
spontaneous wounds, diseases of the kidneys, expectoration of blood,
and hæmorrhages of various kinds; by miscarriage, or abortion, and by
childbirth, by erysipelas, and, in short, by such diseases as proceed
from abundant and immediate heat.
Venus produces death by disorders of the stomach, and of the liver, by
scurvy and dysentry: also by consumption or wasting away,[265]
and by fistula and poison, and by all diseases incident on the superabundance
or poverty of moisture, and its corruption.
Lastly, Mercury causes death to proceed from fury, madness, melancholy,
epilepsy, falling fits, coughs, and obstructions, and by such diseases
as arise from superabundant or disproportionate dryness.
When the lords of death may fully possess their own peculiar and
natural properties, and when neither of the malefics may be in
elevation above them, death will ensue in the modes above detailed,
and in the ordinary course of nature. But a violent and remarkable
death will occur when both the malefics, either in conjunction, or in
quartile or opposition to each other, may be lords of the anæretic
places; or if both, or only one of the two, should attack either both
the luminaries, or even only the Sun or the Moon. In such a case, the
evil character of the death will proceed from the concurrence of the
malefic influence, and its magnitude or remarkable nature from the
additional testimony of the luminaries: its quality, also, will be
known by means of the rest of the planets and stars in configuration,
and by the signs which contain the malefic influence.[266]
Hence, if it happen that Saturn be in fixed signs, and in quartile
or opposition to the Sun, and contrary in condition, he will produce
death by suffocation, occasioned either by multitudes of people, or
by hanging or strangulation: so, likewise, should he be occidental,
and the Moon be succedent to him, he will operate the same effects. If
he be posited in places or signs of bestial form, the native will be
destroyed by wild beasts: and, if Jupiter also offer testimony, being
at the same time badly afflicted, the death will then occur in public,
and by day; for example, by being exposed to combats with wild beasts.
If Saturn be posited in opposition to either of the luminaries in the
ascendant,[267]
he will cause death in prison: if he be configurated with Mercury, and
especially if near the constellation of the Serpent in the sphere,
and in terrestrial signs of the zodiac, he will produce death by
venomous wounds or bites, and by reptiles and wild beasts. And, should
Venus also attach herself to Saturn and Mercury thus combined, death
will then ensue by poison or female treachery. If Saturn be in Virgo
or Pisces, or watery signs, and configurated with the Moon, he will
operate death by means of water, by drowning and suffocation; and, if
found near Argo, by shipwreck. Should he be in tropical or quadrupedal
signs, and the Sun be either in conjunction with him, or in opposition;
or if, instead of the Sun, Mars should so present himself, death will
be caused by the fall of houses or buildings; and, if posited in the
mid-heaven, death will happen by falls from heights or precipices.
These are the various effects of Saturn, when configurated as described.
Mars, if in signs of human form, and posited in quartile or in
opposition to the Sun or Moon, and contrary in condition, will operate
death by slaughter, either in civil or foreign war, or by suicide:
if Venus add her testimony, death will be inflicted by women, or by
assassins in the employment of women: and, should Mercury also be
configurated with them, death will happen from robbers, thieves, or
highwaymen. If Mars be in mutilated or imperfect signs, or near the
Gorgon[268]
of Perseus, he will produce death by decapitation, or by mutilation of
limb. If found in Scorpio or Taurus, he will cause death by surgical
amputation, burning or searing, or also by spasms or convulsions.
Should he be found in the mid-heaven, either above or below the earth,
death will be inflicted by crucifixion or impalement, and especially
if he be in the vicinity of Cepheus or Andromeda. If descending, or in
opposition to the ascendant,[269]
he will produce death by fire: and, if in quadrupedal signs, by falls
and fractures. Should Jupiter, however, bear testimony to Mars, and be
at the same time afflicted, death will ensue from the wrath of princes
and kings, and from judicial condemnation.
If it happen that the malefics be in concurrence with each other in
the first instance, and afterwards in mutual opposition, in any of
the aforesaid situations, the evil character of the death will be yet
further augmented; but its species or quality, and its dominion, will
depend upon that one which may be in occupation of the anæretic place.
And, if both the malefics claim prerogative in the anæretic places, the
bodies of persons who thus die will be cast abroad without interment,
and will be devoured by beasts and birds: these circumstances will
especially ensue, when the malefics may be found in signs similar in
form to beasts and birds; and provided not any one of the benefics
should offer testimony to the place below the earth,[270]
nor to the anæretic places.
Lastly, death will occur in foreign lands, when it may happen that
the planets controlling the anæretic places may be posited in cadent
houses; especially if the Moon be present in the said places also, or
if she be found in quartile or in opposition.[271]
CHAPTER X THE PERIODICAL DIVISIONS OF TIME
In addition to the foregoing brief observations, applicable to the
various forms of death, further attention is demanded with respect to
the division of time, which requires to be contemplated in its natural
order and succession.
Now as, in all genethlialogical cases, a certain common and general
arrangement, affecting the region or country and the race or
generation, is pre-supposed to be in operation, to which arrangement
particular inferences, relating to the form of the body, the properties
of the mind, and national habits and variations, must each be
subservient; and as, in these respects, certain causes more general and
predominating are pre-supposed in existence before particular causes,
due care must consequently be taken, in order to make an inference
consistent with the course of nature, to observe always the original
and predominating cause, and never to lose sight of it; lest some
similarity in nativities (if any such should exist) might induce an
assertion when the original predominating cause proceeding from the
region itself has been overlooked, that the native of Æthiopia will
be born of white complexion, and with long and straight hair; or, on
the other hand, that the native of Germany or of Gaul will be black in
complexion, and have curled hair; or, that the said nations are
polished in manners, and cultivate learning, but that the people of
Greece are barbarous and illiterate: and so, in short, of any other
countries; without duly considering the national differences and
variations in their several courses of life. So also, with regard
to the division of time, it is in the same manner essential to
consider the different qualities of the several ages of life, and to
pre-determine the appropriate fitness of every age to such events as
may be expected: in order to avoid the gross error which might arise
from a merely vague consideration of the subject, by attributing
to infancy some deed or circumstance of too complete a nature and
belonging rather to manhood, or by ascribing to extreme old age the
procreation of children, or some other action belonging to youth; and
to adapt, on the contrary, to each separate age such circumstances as seem,
by due observation of the periods, to be suitable and appropriate thereto.
The mode of consideration[272]
applicable to human nature is universally one and the same; and it is
analogous to the arrangement of the seven planetary orbs.[273]
It, therefore, duly commences with the first age of human life, and the
first sphere next above the earth, that of the Moon; and it terminates
with the final age of man, and the last of the planetary spheres,
which is that of Saturn; and, in fact, it accordingly happens that the
appropriate qualities of each sphere take effect in a corresponding
age of life, each age being subjected to one particular sphere. These
observations are necessary, because the general divisions of time
must be considered by means of the spheres, as a primary arrangement;
although minor distinctions are to be made by means of the existing
peculiarities found in nativities.
Hence, the first age of infancy, which endures for four years, agreeing
in number with the quadrennial period of the Moon, is consequently
adapted to her; being in its nature moist and incompact, presenting
rapidity of growth, being nourished by moist things, and possessing
a highly variable habit. Its mental incompleteness is likewise in
accordance with its familiar relation to the Moon, and her operative
influence.
The age after this continues for ten years, and accommodates itself to
the second sphere, that of Mercury. In this period, the intellectual
and reasoning faculties of the mind begin to take their character,
imbibing the seeds of learning, and developing, as it were, the
elements and germs of the genius and abilities, and their peculiar
quality. The mind is also roused to discipline and instruction, and to
its first exercises.
Venus corresponds with the next and third age, which lasts throughout
the following eight years, the number of her own period: from her, the
movement of the seminal vessels originates, as well as an unrestrained
impetuosity and precipitancy in amours.
The fourth and adult age next succeeds, and is subject to the fourth
sphere, that of the Sun: it endures for nineteen years, according to
the Sun’s number. Authority of action now commences in the mind, the
career of life is entered upon, distinction and glory are desired, and
puerile irregularities are relinquished for more orderly conduct, and
the pursuit of honour.
Mars, next after the Sun, claims the fifth age, that of manhood,
agreeing in duration with his own period, viz. fifteen years. He
induces greater austerity of life, together with vexation, care, and
trouble.
Jupiter occupies the sixth sphere, and influences the maturer age,
during the twelve years corresponding to his own period. He operates
the relinquishment of labour, of hazardous employment and tumult, and
produces greater gravity, foresight, prudence, and sagacity, favouring
the claim to honour, respect, and privilege.
Saturn, moving in the last sphere, regulates the final old age, as
agreeing with its chilliness. He obstructs the mental movements,
the appetites and enjoyments; rendering them imbecile and dull, in
conformity with the dullness of his own motion.
The common properties attributable to the various times of life are
subject, in a general manner, to this previous adaptation; but there
are particular periods, arising from the respective peculiarities of
nativities, which also require determination, and must be ascertained
from the ruling prorogations; that is to say, from the whole of them,
and not from any single one only, as in the case of the duration
of life. For example, prorogation made from the ascendant is to be
applied to events affecting the body, and to travelling, or change of
residence; that from the part of Fortune, to incidents affecting the
substance or wealth; that from the Moon, to actions of the mind, and
to communion[274]
and cohabitation; that from the Sun, to dignities and glory; and that
from the mid-heaven, to other particular circumstances of life, such
as employment, friendship, and the possession of children. So that
thus, at one and the same time any single planet, whether benefic or
malefic, will not possess the sole dominion; for many conflicting
events frequently occur at the same period, and a person may, at one
and the same time, lose a kinsman, yet inherit his substance; or be
at once ill in health, yet prosperous and advantageously established
in regard to fortune; or be struggling with adversity and in want,
yet, notwithstanding, be also a father and beget children; or he may
experience other similar contrarieties: because individuals are subject
to occurrences which may affect either the body, the mind, the rank,
or the condition of wealth, and which are not altogether fortunate or
unfortunate at the same period. Something of the kind will, however,
frequently happen in cases of perfect good fortune or distress, when
meetings of all the benefics or malefics may concur in all or most of
the prorogations. Still such cases are but rare, because human nature
in general is not subjected to the extremity either of good or evil,
but rather to their moderate alteration and counter-change.
The prorogatory places must, therefore, be separately distinguished in
the mode before pointed out; and the planets meeting the prorogations
must again be all taken into consideration: not only those which may be
anæretic (as in the case of the duration of life), nor those only which
may be configurated bodily,[275]
or in opposition or quartile, but also those in trine or sextile. And,
first, the times in each prorogation will be governed by the planet
occupying or configurated with the actual prorogatory degree itself:
if, however, there be found no planet thus constituted, the nearest
preceding planet will govern the times until another, which may be
in aspect to the degree following in the order of the signs, shall
take them; and this one, again, will do the same until the next in
succession shall take them.[276]
The like rule obtains with respect to any other planets received into
dominion, and with respect to those in occupation of the terms.
Further, in prorogations of the ascendant, the degrees of distances
will be equal in number to the ascensional times of the particular
latitude; but, in prorogation, from the mid-heaven, to the times of
culmination; and, in other prorogations, they will be in proportion to
the ascensions, or descensions, or culminations, and will depend on
their proximity to the angles; as has been already said in treating of
the duration of life.[277]
The arbiters of general times are to be determined by the foregoing
method; but arbiters of annual periods as follows: viz. after
the number of years which have elapsed since the birth has been
ascertained, the amount is to be projected from each place of
prorogation, in the succession of the signs, at the rate of one sign
for a year,[278]
and the lord
of the last sign[279]
is to be assumed as arbiter. And, with regard to periods reckoned by
months, the same rule is to be observed: for in this case also, the
number of the month, as counted from the month of the nativity, is to
be projected from such places as possess the dominion of the year, in
the proportion of twenty-eight days per sign. So, likewise, in the case
of periods reckoned by days, the number of the day, counted from the
day of birth, must be projected from the monthly places of dominion,
allowing for each sign two days and a third.[280]
It is, however, necessary to notice the ingresses made on places
allotted to different periods; for they take effect in no small degree
on the events of the period. Thus, the ingresses made by Saturn, on
places of general periods, require special observation; those made by
Jupiter, on places of annual periods; those made by the Sun, Mars,
Venus, and Mercury, on monthly places; and the Moon’s transit over
daily places. It must also be remembered, that arbiters of general
periods are chiefly paramount over the events; and that, to their
influence, the arbiters of particular periods (each of whom acting by
its own proper nature) present either co-operation or obstruction; and
that the ingresses also operate on events, by increasing or diminishing
their force and extent.[281]
The general characteristic property, and the duration of the period,
will be indicated by the place of prorogation, as also by the lord of
the general times, and by the planet in possession of the terms; by
means of the familiarity subsisting, from the actual birth, between
each planet, and the places of which they may have respectively
and originally taken dominion. The arbiters of time will also give
indication whether the event will be good or evil, by means of their
own naturally benefic or malefic property and temperament, and by
their original familiarity or variance with the place of which they
have become lords. But the period, at which the event will become more
strongly evident, is shown by the relative positions of the annual and
monthly signs towards the places wherein the causes exist, and also by
the ingresses of the planets.[282]
The mode in which the Sun and Moon may be disposed, in reference to
the signs relating to annual and monthly periods, is also indicative.
For example, should they, from the date of the nativity, be posited in
concord with the operative places, and keep a position of concord at
the ingresses, they will produce good; but, if adversely posited, evil.
And also, if they be not in concord with the said places, and provided
they be contrary in condition, and in opposition or in quartile, to
the transits, they will cause evil: should they, however, not be
in quartile, nor in opposition, but otherwise configurated, their
influence then will not be equally malefic.
Should it happen that the same planets may be lords of the times,[283]
as well as of the ingresses, the effect will be extreme and unalloyed, if
of a favourable nature; and more particularly unmitigated, if evil. And
should the said planets be not only lords of the times, but likewise
hold dominion from the date of the nativity, and provided also that all
the prorogations, or most of them, should tend to, or depend on, one
and the same place, or, should the prorogations not be so constituted,
yet notwithstanding, if the meetings occurring at the periods be found
to be either all, or most of them, benefic or malefic, they will wholly
produce, in all respects, good or evil fortune, respectively.
It is in this method, which preserves a natural order and succession,
that times and seasons require to be contemplated.
And now, in adverting to the scope allotted to this work in its
commencement, all further adaptation of the forms of events liable to
take effect at particular times will here be relinquished; because the
operative influences which the stars exercise in all events, whether
general or particular, may be arranged in proper order, if care be
taken that the causes set forth by the Rules of Science, and the causes
arising from any existing commixture, be duly combined and blended
together.
THE END
APPENDIX — NO. I ALMAGEST; BOOK VIII, CHAP. IV — NO. II ALMAGEST; BOOK II. EXTRACT FROM CHAP. IX — NO. III THE CENTILOQUY, OR HUNDRED APHORISMS OF CLAUDIUS PTOLEMY [294] ; OTHERWISE CALLED, THE FRUIT OF HIS FOUR BOOKS — NO. IV THE ZODIACAL PLANISPHERE
The various constellations of the fixed stars having now been duly
described, their aspects remain to be investigated.
Independently of the steadfast and immutable aspects which the said
stars preserve among themselves, either rectilinearly, or triangularly,
or by other similar forms,[284]
they have also certain aspects considered as referring exclusively
to the planets and the Sun and Moon, or parts of the zodiac; certain
others to the earth only; and others, again, to the earth, the planets
and the Sun and Moon, or parts of the zodiac, combined.
With regard to the planets only, and parts of the zodiac, aspects are
properly considered as made to them by the fixed stars, when the said
planets and fixed stars may be posited on one and the same of those
circles which are drawn through the poles of the zodiac; or, also, if
they be posited on different circles, provided a trinal or sextile
distance between them may be preserved; that is to say, a distance
equal to a right angle and a third part more, or a distance equal to
two-thirds of a right angle; and provided, also, that the fixed stars
be on such parts of the circle as are liable to be transited by any one
of the planets. These parts are situated within the latitude of the
zodiac, which circumscribes the planetary motions. And as far as the
five planets are concerned, the aspects of the fixed stars depend upon
the visible mutual conjunctions, or configurations, made in the forms
above prescribed; but, with respect to the Sun and Moon, they depend
on occultations, conjunctions, and succedent risings of the stars.
Occultation is when a star becomes invisible by being carried under
the rays of the luminary; conjunction, when it is placed under the
luminary’s centre; and succedent rising, when it begins to reappear on
issuing out beyond the rays.
In regard to the earth only, the aspects of the fixed stars are four in
number, and are known by the common term of angles: to speak, however,
more particularly, they are the oriental horizon, the meridian or
mid-heaven above the earth, the occidental horizon, and the meridian
or mid-heaven below the earth. And in that part of the earth where the
equator is in the zenith, the whole of the fixed stars are found to rise
and set, and to be above as well as below the earth, once in each
revolution; because the situation of the poles of the equator, being in
this manner on the plane of the horizon, thereby prevents the constant
visibility or invisibility of any one of the parallel circles. But
in other parts of the earth, where the pole of the equator is in the
zenith, the fixed stars can never set nor rise; because the equator
itself is then on the plane of the horizon, and circumscribes the two
hemispheres (which it thus creates, one above and the other below the
earth) in such a manner, that in one revolution every star must twice
transit the meridian, some of them above, others below the earth. In
other declinations, however, between these extreme positions of the
equator, as just mentioned, there are certain of the circles always
visible, and others never visible; consequently, the stars intercepted
between the first of such circles and the poles can neither rise not
set, but must, in the course of one revolution, twice transit the
meridian; above the earth, if the said stars be on a circle always
visible; but below the earth, if on a circle never visible. The other
stars, however, situated on the greater parallels, both rise and
set, and are found in each revolution once on the meridian above the
earth, and once on that below the earth. In all these cases, the time
occupied in proceeding round from any angle to the same again, must
be everywhere equal in its duration, for it is marked by one sensible
revolution; and the time occupied in passing from either meridianal
angle to the angle diametrically opposite, is also everywhere equal;
because it is marked by the half of one revolution. So, also, the
passage from either horizontal angle to its opposite angle is again
effected in the same equal portion of time, wherever the equator may
be in the zenith, for it is then likewise marked by the half of an
entire revolution; because on such a position of the equator, all the
parallels are then divided, as well by the horizon as by the meridian,
into two equal parts. But in all other declinations, the time of
passage of a semicircle above the earth is not equal to that of its
passage below the earth, except only in the case of the equinoctial
circle itself, which, in an oblique sphere, is the only one divided
by the horizon into two equal parts, all others (its parallels) being
bisected into dissimilar and unequal arcs. It follows, accordingly,
that the time contained in the space between rising or setting, and
either meridian, must be equal to the time between the same
meridian and rising and setting; because the meridian divides equally
such portions of the parallels as are above or under the earth. But
in proceeding in an oblique sphere, from rising or setting to
either meridian, the time occupied must be unequal; and in a
right sphere, equal, because the entire portions above the earth are,
in a right sphere only, equal to those below the earth; whence,
for instance, in a right sphere, whatever stars may be together on the
meridian must also all rise and set together, until their progress
becomes perceptible by the poles of the zodiac; while, on the other
hand, in an oblique sphere, whatever stars may be together on the
meridian can neither all rise together nor set together; for the
more southern stars must always rise later than those which are more
northern, and set earlier.[285]
The aspects made by the fixed stars, in regard to the planets or parts
of the zodiac, and the earth combined, are considered, in a general
manner, by the rising, or meridianal position, or setting of the same
fixed stars in conjunction with any planet or part of the zodiac; but
their aspects are properly distinguishable, by means of the Sun, in the
nine following modes:—
1. The first is called matutine subsolar, when the star is found
together with the Sun in the oriental horizon. Of this aspect, one
species is called the oriental, invisible, and succedent rising; when
the star, at the commencement of its occultation, rises immediately
after the Sun: another is called the precise oriental co-rising; when
the star is found in partile conjunction with the Sun in the oriental
horizon: another is the oriental, precedent, and visible rising; when
the star, beginning to appear, rises before the Sun.
2. The second aspect is termed matutine location in the mid-heaven;
when the star is found on the meridian, either above or below the
earth, while the Sun is on the oriental horizon. And of this aspect,
one species is called a succedent and oriental location in the
mid-heaven, invisible; when, immediately after the Sun’s rising, the
star shall be found on the meridian: another is the precise oriental
location in the mid-heaven; when, exactly as the Sun rises, the star
is at the same time on the meridian; another is the oriental precedent
location in the mid-heaven; when the star first shall come to the
meridian above the earth, and the Sun may then immediately rise.
3. The third, called matutine setting, is when the Sun may be actually
in the oriental horizon, but the star in the occidental. One of the
forms of this aspect is called the oriental, succedent setting,
invisible; when the star sets immediately after the Sun’s rising:
another is the precise oriental co-setting, when the star sets at the
moment of the Sun’s rising: another is the oriental, precedent, and
visible setting, when the Sun does not rise until immediately after the
setting of the star.
4. The fourth aspect is named meridianal subsolar, and takes place
when the Sun is actually on the meridian, but the star on the oriental
horizon. Of this, one is diurnal and invisible; when the star rises
while the Sun is posited on the meridian above the earth: another is
nocturnal and visible; when the star rises while the Sun is placed on
the meridian below the earth.
5. The fifth is called meridianal location in the mid-heaven; when the
Sun, as well as the star, may be at the same time on the meridian. Of
this aspect, two sorts are diurnal and invisible; when the star is on
the meridian above the earth, together with the Sun, or on that below
the earth, diametrically opposite to the Sun. Two also are nocturnal,
and of these, one is invisible; when the star is on the meridian under
the earth, together with the Sun: the other, however, is visible; when
the star is on the meridian above the earth, diametrically opposite to
the Sun.
6. The sixth is meridianal setting; when the star is found on the
occidental horizon, while the Sun is on the meridian. Of this, one
species is diurnal and invisible; when the star sets while the Sun is
above the earth on the meridian: the other is nocturnal and visible;
when the star sets while the Sun is on the meridian below the earth.
7. The seventh aspect is called vespertine subsolar; when the star
is found on the oriental horizon, while the Sun is posited on the
occidental horizon. One form of this aspect is the vespertine succedent
rising, visible; when the star rises immediately after sunset: another
is the precise vespertine co-rising; when the star rises and the Sun
sets at one and the same time: another is the precedent, vespertine
rising, invisible; when the star rises immediately before the Sun sets.
8. The eighth is named vespertine location in the mid-heaven; when
the star is on the meridian, either above or below the earth, while
the Sun is placed on the occidental horizon. Of this aspect, one kind
is called a visible vespertine location in the mid-heaven; when the
star is found there immediately after sunset: another is the precise
vespertine location in the mid-heaven; when the star is found there
at the moment of sunset; another is the vespertine precedent location
in the mid-heaven, invisible; when the star arrives there immediately
before sunset.
9. The ninth aspect is called vespertine setting; when the star,
together with the Sun, is on the occidental horizon. One form of this
aspect is the vespertine, succedent and visible setting; when the star,
at the commencement of its occultation, sets immediately after the Sun:
another is the precise vespertine setting; when the star sets at the
same moment with the Sun: another is the precedent, invisible setting;
when the star, before it emerges from its occultation, sets before the Sun.
Of Circumstances regulated by Ascensions
In any climate whatever, the magnitude of a given day or night is to be
computed by the number of ascensional times proper to that particular
climate. For example, the magnitude of the day will be ascertained by
numbering the times between the Sun’s zodiacal degree and the degree
diametrically opposite, in the succession of the signs; and that of the
night, by numbering the times, from the degree diametrically opposite
to the Sun, onwards, in the order of the signs, to be the degree
actually occupied by the Sun: because, by dividing the respective
amounts of these times so obtained, by fifteen, the number of
equatorial hours belonging to each space will be exhibited; and if the
division be made by twelve, instead of fifteen, the result will show
the numbers of degrees equivalent to one temporal hour of either of the
said spaces respectively.[286]
The magnitude of any temporal hour may be, however, more easily found
by referring to the annexed Table of Ascensions, and taking
the difference between the respective aggregate numbers, inserted therein
under the heads of the equinoctial parallel or right sphere, and of
any particular climate for which the magnitude of the temporal hour is
required; and, if the said hour be a diurnal hour, the aggregate times
as stated against the zodiacal degree occupied by the Sun; but, if
nocturnal, those stated against the degree diametrically opposite, are
to be compared; and the sixth part of the difference between them is to
be added, if the said degree be in the northern signs, to the fifteen
times of an equatorial hour; but subtracted therefrom, if in the
southern signs. The amount thus obtained will be the required number of
degrees of the temporal hour in question.[287]
And if it be required to reduce the temporal hours of any given day
or night, in a certain climate, into equatorial hours, they must be
multiplied by their proper horary times, whether diurnal or nocturnal,
as the case may be; the product is then to be divided by fifteen, and
the quotient will necessarily be the number of equatorial hours in the
climate in question, on the given day or night.[288]
On the other hand, equatorial hours are also to be reduced into
temporal hours by being multiplied by fifteen, the product of which is
to be divided by the horary times proper to the given day or night in
the said climate.
The degree ascending in the ecliptic, at any given temporal hour, may
also be ascertained by multiplying the number of temporal hours since
sunrise, if the given hour be diurnal, but if nocturnal, since sunset,
by their proper horary times; and the product is to be added, in the
succession of the signs, to the aggregate number (as shown by the
ascensions proper to the climate) of the Sun’s degree, if the given
hour be diurnal, but, if nocturnal, to that of the degree diametrically
opposite, and that particular degree of the ecliptic which shall
correspond with the total number thus found in the ascensions of the
climate will be the degree then ascending.[289]
But, in order to ascertain the degree on the meridian above the earth,
the number of temporal hours since the preceding noon are also to be
multiplied by their proper horary times, and the product is to be added
to the aggregate number of the Sun’s right ascension; and that degree
of the ecliptic, with which the total number as found in the aggregate
times of right ascension shall correspond, will then be on the
meridian.[290]
The degree on the oriental horizon will, however, also show what
degrees occupy the meridian; for, by subtracting 90 times (the amount
of the quadrant) from the aggregate number ascribed to the said
ascending degree in the Table proper to the climate, the number so
reduced will be found, in the aggregate times of the Table of Right
Ascension, to correspond with the degree on the meridian. And again, on
the other hand, by adding 90 to the aggregate times ascribed by right
of ascension to the degree on the meridian above the earth, the degree
ascending may be obtained, for it will be that degree which corresponds
to that total number, as stated in the Table proper to the climate.[291]
The Sun always preserves an equal distance in equatorial hours from all
parts of the same meridian; but his distance in equatorial hours from
different meridians varies according to the degrees of distance between
meridian and meridian.
The foregoing extracts have been made to show the entire agreement
between the astronomy of the Tetrabiblos and that of the Almagest. The
Tables herein given from the latter work are, of course, now, in some
degree, superseded by others of modern calculation, infinitely more complete.
Table of Latitudes,
as Shown by the
Duration of the Longest Day
[From the Almagest.]
| LONGEST DAY. |
LATITUDE. |
| H. |
M. |
D. |
M. |
| 12 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
| 12 |
15 |
4 |
15 |
| 12 |
30 |
8 |
25 |
| 12 |
45 |
12 |
30 |
| 13 |
0 |
16 |
27 |
| 13 |
15 |
20 |
14 |
| 13 |
30 |
23 |
51 |
| 13 |
45 |
27 |
40 |
| 14 |
0 |
[292]30 |
22 |
| 14 |
15 |
33 |
18 |
| 14 |
30 |
36 |
0 |
| 14 |
45 |
38 |
35 |
| 15 |
0 |
40 |
56 |
| 15 |
15 |
43 |
5 |
| 15 |
30 |
45 |
1 |
| 15 |
45 |
46 |
51 |
| 16 |
0 |
48 |
32 |
| 16 |
15 |
50 |
15 |
| 16 |
30 |
[293]51 |
35 |
| 16 |
45 |
52 |
50 |
| 17 |
0 |
54 |
1 |
| 17 |
15 |
55 |
0 |
| 17 |
30 |
56 |
0 |
| 17 |
45 |
57 |
0 |
| 18 |
0 |
58 |
0 |
| 18 |
30 |
59 |
30 |
| 19 |
0 |
61 |
0 |
| 19 |
30 |
62 |
0 |
| 20 |
0 |
63 |
0 |
| 21 |
0 |
64 |
30 |
| 22 |
0 |
65 |
30 |
| 23 |
0 |
66 |
0 |
| 24 |
0 |
66 |
10 |
Extract from the Table of Ascension
(Contained
in the Almagest),
Calculated for every Tenth Degree
of the Zodiac.
| SIGNS |
Tenth
Degree |
In a Right
Sphere under
the Equator,
Diurnal Arc
12 Hours. |
3rd Climate,
thro’ Lower
Ægypt,
Lat. 30° 22′ N.
Diurnal Arc
14 Hours. |
8th Climate
thro’ Southern
Britain,
Lat. 51° 30′ N.
Diurnal Arc
16 Hs. 20 Mts. |
Times
of
Ascen. |
Aggregate
Times. |
Times
of
Ascen. |
Aggregate
Times. |
Times
of
Ascen. |
Aggregate
Times. |
| |
|
D. |
M. |
D. |
M. |
D. |
M. |
| Aries |
10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
6.48 |
6.48 |
4.05 |
4.05 |
| 20 |
9.15 |
18.25 |
6.55 |
13.43 |
4.12 |
8.17 |
| 30 |
9.25 |
27.50 |
7.10 |
20.53 |
4.31 |
12.48 |
| Taurus |
10 |
9.40 |
37.30 |
7.33 |
28.26 |
4.56 |
17.44 |
| 20 |
9.58 |
47.28 |
8.02 |
36.28 |
5.34 |
23.18 |
| 30 |
10.16 |
57.44 |
8.37 |
45.05 |
6.25 |
29.43 |
| Gemini |
10 |
10.34 |
68.18 |
9.17 |
54.22 |
7.29 |
37.12 |
| 20 |
10.47 |
79.05 |
10.00 |
64.22 |
8.49 |
46.01 |
| 30 |
10.55 |
90.00 |
10.38 |
75.00 |
10.14 |
56.15 |
| Cancer |
10 |
10.55 |
100.55 |
11.12 |
86.12 |
11.36 |
67.51 |
| 20 |
10.47 |
111.42 |
11.34 |
97.46 |
12.45 |
80.36 |
| 30 |
10.34 |
122.16 |
11.51 |
109.37 |
13.39 |
94.15 |
| Leo |
10 |
10.16 |
132.32 |
11.55 |
121.32 |
14.07 |
108.22 |
| 20 |
9.58 |
142.30 |
11.54 |
133.26 |
14.22 |
122.44 |
| 30 |
9.40 |
152.10 |
11.47 |
145.13 |
14.24 |
137.08 |
| Virgo |
10 |
9.25 |
161.35 |
11.40 |
156.53 |
14.19 |
151.27 |
| 20 |
9.15 |
170.50 |
11.35 |
168.28 |
14.16 |
165.45 |
| 30 |
9.10 |
180.00 |
11.32 |
180.00 |
14.15 |
180.00 |
| Libra |
10 |
9.10 |
189.10 |
11.32 |
191.32 |
14.15 |
194.15 |
| 20 |
9.15 |
198.25 |
11.35 |
203.07 |
14.18 |
208.33 |
| 30 |
9.25 |
207.50 |
11.40 |
214.47 |
14.19 |
222.52 |
| Scorpio |
10 |
9.40 |
217.30 |
11.47 |
226.34 |
14.24 |
237.16 |
| 20 |
9.58 |
227.28 |
11.54 |
238.28 |
14.22 |
251.38 |
| 30 |
10.16 |
237.44 |
11.55 |
250.23 |
14.07 |
265.45 |
| Sagittarius |
10 |
10.34 |
248.18 |
11.51 |
262.14 |
13.39 |
279.24 |
| 20 |
10.47 |
269.05 |
11.34 |
273.48 |
12.45 |
292.09 |
| 30 |
10.55 |
270.00 |
11.12 |
285.00 |
11.36 |
303.45 |
| Capricornus |
10 |
10.55 |
280.55 |
10.38 |
295.38 |
10.14 |
313.59 |
| 20 |
10.47 |
291.42 |
10.00 |
305.38 |
8.49 |
322.48 |
| 30 |
10.34 |
302.16 |
9.17 |
314.55 |
7.29 |
330.17 |
| Aquarius |
10 |
10.16 |
312.32 |
8.37 |
323.32 |
6.25 |
336.42 |
| 20 |
9.58 |
322.30 |
8.02 |
331.34 |
5.34 |
342.16 |
| 30 |
9.40 |
332.10 |
7.33 |
339.07 |
4.56 |
347.12 |
| Pisces |
10 |
9.25 |
341.35 |
7.10 |
346.17 |
4.31 |
351.43 |
| 20 |
9.15 |
350.50 |
6.55 |
353.12 |
4.12 |
355.55 |
| 30 |
9.10 |
360.00 |
6.48 |
360.00 |
4.05 |
360.00 |
I. Judgment must be regulated by thyself, as well
as by the science; for it is not possible that particular forms of
events should be declared by any person, however scientific; since the
understanding conceives only a certain general idea of some sensible
event, and not its particular form. It is, therefore, necessary for him
who practices herein to adopt inference. They only who are inspired by
the deity can predict particulars.
II. When an enquirer shall make mature search
into an expected event, there will be found no material difference
between the event itself and his idea of it.
III. Whosoever may be adapted to any particular
event or pursuit, will assuredly have the star indicative thereof very
potent in his nativity.
IV. A mind apt in knowledge will discover truth
more readily than one practised in the highest branches of science.
V. A skilful person, acquainted with the nature
of the stars, is enabled to avert many of their effects, and to prepare
himself for those effects before they arrive.
VI. It is advantageous to make choice of days
and hours at a time well constituted by the nativity. Should the time
be adverse, the choice will in no respect avail, however favourable an
issue it may chance to promise.
VII. The mingled influences of the stars can be
understood by no one who has not previously acquired knowledge of the
combinations and varieties existing in nature.
VIII. A sagacious mind improves the operation of
the heavens, as a skilful farmer, by cultivation, improves nature.
IX. In their generation and corruption forms are
influenced by the celestial forms, of which the framers of talismans
consequently avail themselves, by observing the ingresses of the stars
thereupon.
X. In the election of days and hours, make use
of the malefics, to the same moderate extent as the skilful physician
would use poisons in order to perform cures.
XI. A day and hour are not to be elected until
the quality of the object proposed shall be known.
XII. Love and hatred prohibit the true
accomplishment of judgments; and, inasmuch as they lessen the most
important, so likewise they magnify the most trivial things.
XIII. In every indication made by the
constitution of the heavens, secondary stars, whether auxiliary or
injurious thereto, are also to be used.
XIV. The astrologer will be entangled in a
labyrinth of error, when the seventh house and its lord shall be
afflicted.
XV. Signs cadent from the ascendant of any
kingdom are the ascendants of that kingdom’s enemies. But the angles
and succedent houses are the ascendants of its friends. It is the same
in all doctrines and institutions.
XVI. When the benefics may be controlled in the
eighth house, they bring mischief by means of good men: if, on the
other hand, they be well affected, they will prevent mischief.
XVII. Give no judgment as to the future life of
an aged person, until the number of years he may live shall have been
reckoned.
XVIII. If, while a benefic may ascend, both the
luminaries should be in the same minute[295],
the native will be equally and highly prosperous in all things which
can befall him. So, likewise, if the luminaries be mutually opposed by
the east and west. But the contrary effect will be produced, should a
malefic be on the ascendant.
XIX. The efficacy of purgation is impeded by the
Moon’s conjunction with Jupiter.
XX. Pierce not with iron that part of the body
which may be governed by the sign actually occupied by the Moon.
XXI. When the Moon may be in Scorpio or Pisces,
purgation may be advantageously used, provided the lord of the
ascendant be coupled with some star posited below the earth. If he be
coupled with a star placed above the earth, the potion swallowed will
be vomited up.
XXII. Neither put on nor lay aside any garment
for the first time, when the Moon may be located in Leo. And it will be
still worse to do so, should she be badly affected.
XXIII. Aspects between the Moon and stars give
the native much activity; and, if the stars be in power, they indicate
an efficient, but if weak an inert, excitation to action.
XXIV. An eclipse of the luminaries, if in the
angles of the nativity, or of an annual revolution, is noxious; and the
effects take place according to the space between the ascendant and the
place of eclipse. And as, in a solar eclipse, a year is reckoned for
an hour, so likewise, in a lunar eclipse, a month is reckoned for an
hour.
XXV. The progression of a significator, posited
in the mid-heaven, is to be made by right ascension; of another
posited in the ascendant, by the oblique ascension of the particular
latitude.
XXVI. There is obvious concealment in the case,
if the star significative of any particular affair be in conjunction
with the Sun, either under the earth or in a place foreign to its own
nature. On the other hand, there is manifestation, should the star be
raised to elevation out of its depression, and be located in its own
place.
XXVII. Venus gives pleasure to the native in that
part of the body which may be ruled by the sign she occupies. It is the
same with other stars.
XXVIII. When the Moon may not hold a familiarity
with two planets, as is desirable, care should be taken to connect her,
if possible, with some fixed star combining their qualities.
XXIX. The fixed stars grant extremely good
fortune, unconnected with the understanding; but it is most commonly
marked by calamities, unless the planets also agree in the felicity.
XXX. Observe the creation of the first king of
any dynasty; for if the ascendant at that creation should agree with
the ascendant of the nativity of the king’s son, he will succeed his
father.
XXXI. When the star ruling over any kingdom shall
enter into a climacterical place, either the king, or some one of the
chief men of his kingdom, will die.
XXXII. Concord between two persons is produced by
an harmonious figuration of the stars, indicative of the matter whereby
good will is constituted, in the nativity of either person.
XXXIII. Love and hatred are discernible, as well
from the concord and discord of the luminaries, as from the ascendants
of both nativities: but obeying signs increase good will.
XXXIV. If the lord of the place of the new Moon
be in an angle, he is indicative of the events liable to happen in that
month.
XXXV. When the Sun arrives at the place of any
star, he excites the influence of that star in the atmosphere.
XXXVI. In the foundation of cities, consider the
fixed stars which may seem to contribute thereto; but in the erection
of houses, observe the planets. The kings of every city which has Mars
in culmination will most commonly perish by the sword.
XXXVII. If Virgo or Pisces be on the ascendant,
the native will create his own dignity; but if Aries or Libra is on
the ascendant, he will cause his own death. The other signs are to be
contemplated in the same way.
XXXVIII. Mercury, if established in either house
of Saturn, and in power, gives the native a speculative and inquisitive
intellect: if in a house of Mars, and especially if in Aries, he gives
eloquence.
XXXIX. Affliction of the eleventh house, in the
creation of a king, indicates damage in his household and his treasury:
affliction of the second house denotes the detriment of his subject’s
wealth.
XL. When the ascendant is oppressed by the
malefics, the native will delight in sordid things, and approve
ill-favoured odours.
XLI. Beware the affliction of the eighth house
and its lord, at a time of departure; and that of the second house and
its lord, at a time of return.
XLII. Should a disease begin when the Moon may
be in a sign occupied at the birth by some malefic, or in quartile or
opposition to any such sign, such disease will be most severe; and if
the malefic also behold the said sign, it will be dangerous. On the
other hand, there will be no danger if the Moon be in a place held at
the time of birth by some benefic.
XLIII. The malefic figures of a nation are
strengthened by adverse figurations of existing times.
XLIV. It is an evil case if the ascendant of a
sick person resist the figuration of his own nativity; and if the time
should not bring up any benefic.
XLV. If the ascendant, or principal
significators, be not in human signs, the native himself will be also
estranged from human nature.
XLVI. In nativities much happiness is conferred
by the fixed stars; and also by the angles of the new Moon, and by the
place of a kingdom’s Part of Fortune, should the ascendant be found in
any of them.
XLVII. If a malefic in one nativity fall on the
place of a benefic in another nativity, he who has the benefic will
suffer damage from him who has the malefic.
XLVIII. If the mid-heaven of a prince be the
ascendant of his subject, or if their respective significators be
configurated in a benevolent form, they will continue long inseparable.
It will be the same, also, should the sixth house of a subject or
servant be the ascendant of his prince or master.
XLIX. If the ascendant of a servant be the
mid-heaven in his master’s nativity, the master will place so much
confidence in that servant as to be ruled by him.
L. Overlook none of the hundred and nineteen
conjunctions; for on them depends the knowledge of worldly operations,
whether of generation or of corruption.
LI. Make the sign occupied by the Moon at the
time of birth the sign ascending at the conception; and consider that
in which she may be posited at the conception, or the opposite one, as
the sign ascending at the birth.
LII. Men of tall stature have their lords of
nativity in elevation, and their ascendants in the beginnings of signs;
but the lords of men of short stature will be found in declination.[296]
It must also be seen whether the signs be right or oblique.
LIII. The lords of nativity of slight or thin
men have no latitude, but those of stout or fat men have; and, if the
latitude be south, the native will be active; if north, inactive.
LIV. In the construction of a building, the
principal rulers, if coupled with a star below the earth, will impede
the erection.
LV. Mars’ evil influence over ships is diminished
if he be neither in the mid-heaven nor in the eleventh house; but if
in either of those places, he renders the ship liable to be captured
by pirates. And if the ascendant be afflicted by any fixed star of the
nature of Mars, the ship will be burned.
LVI. While the Moon is in her first quarter,
withdrawing from her conjunction with the Sun, the bodily humours
expand until her second quarter: in her other quarters they
decrease.
LVII. If, during a sickness, the seventh house
and its lord be afflicted, change the physician.
LVIII. Observe the place of an aspect, and its
distance from the ascendant of the year; for the event will happen when
the profection may arrive thither.
LIX. Before pronouncing that an absent person
shall die, observe whether he may not become intoxicated; before
declaring that he shall receive a wound, see whether he may not be let
blood; and before saying that he shall find treasure, examine whether
he may not receive his own deposit; for the figures of all these things
may be similar.
LX. In cases of sickness, observe the critical
days, and the Moon’s progress in the angles of a figure of sixteen
sides. If those angles be well affected, it is favourable for the
invalid; if they be afflicted, unfavourable.
LXI. The Moon is significative of bodily matters,
which, in respect of motion, resemble her.
LXII. By marking exactly the beginning of a
conjunction,[297]
judgment may be made of the variation of the weather in the ensuing month.
It will depend upon the lord of the angle of every figure, for he controls
the nature of the atmosphere; assuming also at these times the quality
of the existing weather.
LXIII. In the conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter,
pronounce according to the nature of that one which may be higher in
elevation. Follow the same rule with other stars.
LXIV. After ascertaining the lord of the inquiry,
see what power he may have in the annual revolution, or in the
ascendant of the new Moon; and pronounce accordingly.
LXV. In the least conjunction, the difference of
the mean conjunction, and in the mean conjunction the difference of the
greatest conjunction.[298]
LXVI. Consider no profection by itself alone,
but make reference also to the qualifications and impediments of the
stars.
LXVII. Years are diminished by the imbecility of
the receiver.
LXVIII. A malefic, when matutine, signifies an
accident; when vespertine, a disease.
LXIX. The native’s sight will be impaired if the
Moon be opposed to the Sun, and joined with nebulous stars; and if the
Moon be in the western angle, and both the malefic stars in the eastern
angle, the Sun being in an angle also, the native will become blind.
LXX. Insanity is produced if the Moon have no
connection with Mercury; and, if neither of them be connected with the
ascendant, Saturn being in occupation of the angle by night, but Mars
by day, especially if in Cancer, Virgo, or Pisces, a dæmoniac affection
will be produced.
LXXI. If both luminaries may be in masculine
signs, in the nativities of males, their actions will be consonant with
nature; but if so placed in the nativities of females, they increase
their action. And Mars and Venus, if matutine, incline to the masculine
gender; if vespertine, to the feminine.
LXXII. Matters of education are to be considered
by the ascending lords of triplicity; matters of life, by the lords of
the conditionary luminary’s triplicity.
LXXIII. If the Sun be found with the Gorgon’s head (Caput
Medusæ), and not aspected by any benefic star, and if there be no
benefic present in the eighth house, and the lord of the conditionary
luminary be opposed to Mars, or in quartile to him, the native will
be beheaded. If the luminary culminate, his body will be maimed or
mangled; and if the aspect in quartile be from Gemini or Pisces, his
hands and feet will be amputated.
LXXIV. Mars, if ascending, uniformly gives a scar in the face.
LXXV. If the Sun be in conjunction with the lord of the ascendant, in
Leo, and Mars has no prerogative in the ascendant, and if there be no
benefic in the eighth house, the native will be burned.
LXXVI. If Saturn hold the mid-heaven, and the conditionary luminary
be opposed to him, the native will perish in the ruins of buildings,
provided the sign on the lower heaven be an earthly sign; if it be a
watery sign, he will be drowned or suffocated by water: if a human
sign, he will be strangled by men, or will perish by the halter or the
scourge. Should there, however, be a benefic in the eighth house, he
will not suffer death, although he will be brought near it.
LXXVII. Profection of the ascendant is to be made for matters affecting
the body; of the Part of Fortune, for extrinsic circumstances; of the
Moon, for the connection between the body and the spirit; and of the
mid-heaven, for the employment or profession.
LXXVIII. A star often dispenses influence in
a place in which it has no prerogative, thus bringing unexpected
advantage to the native.
LXXIX. Whoever has Mars in the eleventh house,
does not govern his master.
LXXX. If Venus be in conjunction with Saturn,
and have any lord of house in the seventh house, the native will be of
spurious origin.
LXXXI. Times are reckoned in seven ways; viz. by
the space between two significators; by the space between their mutual
aspects; by the approach of one to the other; by the space between
either of them and the place appropriated to the proposed event; by the
descension of a star, with its addition or diminution; by the changing
of a significator; and by the approach of a planet to its place.
LXXXII. When a figure may be equipoised, observe
the horoscope (or figure) at the new or full moon, and, if that also be
equipoised, be not hasty in giving judgment.
LXXXIII. The time of obtaining a grant indicates
the affection between the applicant and his prince; but the seat[299]
shows the nature of the office;—
LXXXIV. And if Mars be lord of the ascendant at
the time of entering on possession, and posited in the second house, or
coupled with the lord of the second, he brings much mischief.
LXXXV. Should the lord of the ascendant be
configurated with the lord of the second house, the prince will
spontaneously create many charges.
LXXXVI. The Sun is the source of the vital power;
the Moon, of the natural power.
LXXXVII. Monthly revolutions are made in
twenty-eight days, two hours and about eighteen minutes. Judgment is
also made by some persons by means of the Sun’s progress; that is to
say, by his partial equations to that degree and minute which he might
hold at the beginning.
LXXXVIII. In making profection of the part of
Fortune for a whole annual revolution, a space equal to that between
the Sun and Moon is to be reckoned from the ascendant.
LXXXIX. Consider the grandfather’s affairs from
the seventh house and the uncle’s from the sixth.
XC. Should the significator be in aspect to the
ascendant, the hidden event or object will correspond in its nature
with the ascendant; but if the ascendant be not so aspected, the
nature of the event will accord with that of the place in which the
significator is posited. The lord of the hour shows its colour; the
place of the Moon its time; and, if above the earth, it will be a novel
thing; if below, old. The part of Fortune indicates its quantity,
whether long or short. The lords of the terms, and of the lower heaven
and mid-heaven, and of the Moon, shows its substance or value.
XCI. Should the ruler of a sick person be
combust, it is an evil portent; and especially if the part of Fortune
be afflicted.
XCII. Saturn, if oriental, is not so highly
noxious to a sick person; nor Mars, if occidental.
XCIII. Judgment is not to be drawn from any
figure until the next conjunction shall have been considered: for
principles are varied by every conjunction; and therefore, to avoid
error, both the last and the next should be combined.
XCIV. The place of the more potent significator
indicates the thoughts of the inquirer.
XCV. The stars rising with the tenth house prove
how far the native may be fitted to the occupation which he follows.
XCVI. In an eclipse, such significations as are
made nearest the angles, show the events decreed. The nature of the
stars in accordance with the eclipse, plants as well as fixed stars,
and also the appearances co-ascending, are likewise to be considered,
and judgment is to be given accordingly.
XCVII. The event inquired about will be speedily
accomplished, should the lord of the new or full Moon be in an
angle.
XCVIII. Shooting stars, and meteors like flowing
hair, bear a secondary part in judgments.
XCIX. Shooting stars denote the dryness of the
air; and, if they are projected to one part only, they indicate wind
therefrom: if to various parts, they indicate diminution of waters, a
turbulent atmosphere, and incursions of armies.
C. If comets, whose distance is eleven signs
behind the Sun, appear in angles, the king of some kingdom, or one of
the princes or chief men of a kingdom, will die. If in a succedent
house, the affairs of the kingdom’s treasury will prosper, but the
governor or ruler will be changed. If in a cadent house, there will be
diseases and sudden deaths. And if comets be in motion from the west
towards the east, a foreign foe will invade the country: if not in
motion, the foe will be provincial, or domestic.
End of the Centiloquy
The Reader is desired to refer to the Plate at end of book containing
diagrams of the Zodiacal Planisphere, which has been spoken of in the
Note in p. 99.
Fig. 1 is the Planisphere adjusted for the northern latitude
of 30° 22′ (where the longest day consists of fourteen equatorial hours),
agreeably to the “Exemplification” given by Ptolemy in Chapter XV,
Book 3. It represents that portion of the celestial sphere which is
contained between the tropics: the central horizontal line is the
equator; the curved line extending longitudinally from east to west
is the ecliptic; the central perpendicular line is the meridian, or
cusp of the 10th house; the other short lines, cutting the equator
transversely, are the cusps of the other houses; that of the 1st house
being the eastern horizon; that of the 7th, the western horizon.
Hence, the distance from the 1st house to the meridian, or from the
meridian to the 7th house, shows the semi-diurnal arc of any parallel
of declination in the ecliptic; and the distance of the 7th house to
the 4th, or from the 4th to the 1st, shows the semi-nocturnal arc. The
distance from the cusp of one house to that of the next, taken on the
same parallel, is also equal to two temporal hours; thus, for instance,
in the latitude above quoted, the semi-diurnal arc of 0° ♊ is 6 h. 50
m., or 102° 39′ of the equator; consequently the diurnal temporal hour
is equal to one equatorial hour and eight minutes, or to 17° 6′ of the
equator.
In his first example, Ptolemy directs 0° ♉ to be placed on the
ascendant, so that the beginning of ♑ may be on the mid-heaven; 0° ♊
must, therefore, fall on the point A, distant from the mid-heaven 147°
44′ of the equator, as measured by the line AB; because every point in
the sphere always preserves one and the same parallel with the equator;
and 0° ♊, in passing to the mid-heaven, must proceed along the line
AB. In the present case, however, it is required to know how long 0° ♊
will be in coming to the ascendant, the given position of 0° ♉. Now 0°
♊ will be on the ascendant when it arrives at the point G; therefore
the distance from A to C is the amount of the prorogation between 0° ♉
(when posited on the ascendant) and 0° ♊, and it is equal to 45° 5′ of
the equator. In the second example, 0° ♉ is placed on the mid-heaven,
which position must be at D, so that 0° ♊ must necessarily be at E;
and the distance from E to B, equal to 57° 44′ of the equator, is the
prorogation between 0° ♉ and 0° ♊, when 0⁴ ♉ is on the mid-heaven. In
the third example, 0° ♉ is supposed to be on the 7th house, descending,
at F, so that ♓ is on the mid-heaven, and 0° ♊ at the point G, in
advance of the mid-heaven 32° 16′ of the equator, as shown by the
distance BG. Now it is required to bring 0° ♊ to the 7th house (the
place of 0° ♉), and it will be there on arriving at H, distant from
B 102° 39′ of the equator; but as 0° ♊ is already at G, the distance
from G to H, equal to 70° 23′ of the equator, is the amount of the
prorogation between 0° ♉ and 0° ♊, when 0° ♉ is on the 7th house.
The fourth example places 0° ♉ at I, three temporal hours past the
meridian; 0° ♊ therefore falls on the point K, at the distance of 13
equatorial degrees before the meridian or mid-heaven, and will be three
temporal hours past the meridian (the position of 0° ♉) on arriving
at L, distant 51 equatorial degrees from the mid-heaven: the whole
distance from K (the first position of 0° ♊) to L, its second position,
equal to 64 degrees of the equator, is therefore the prorogation
between 0° ♉ and 0° ♊, when 0° ♉ is past the meridian at the distance
of three temporal hours. Ptolemy has also instanced two other positions
for 0° ♉; viz. at two temporal hours past the meridian, and at two
temporal hours before the occidental angle; or, in other words, on the
cusp of the 9th house, and on that of the 8th. Now, if 0° ♉ be on the
cusp of the 9th house, it must be at M, and 0° ♊ will be at N, distant
62 equatorial degrees from Q, which is also on the cusp of the 9th. If
0° ♉ be on the cusp of the 8th, it must be at O, and 0° ♊ will be at
P, distant 66 equatorial degrees from R, which is also on the cusp of
the 8th: these two several numbers of degrees will be the respective
prorogations between 0° ♉ and 0° ♊, when 0° ♉ is placed on the 9th and
8th houses.
Ptolemy’s “Exemplification” has been followed thus minutely in order to
show how perfectly Mr. Ranger’s invention is adapted to assist (if not
to supersede) arithmetical calculation; for, after the Planisphere has
once been accurately laid down, a line drawn parallel to the equator,
from the significator to the promittor, or to the promittor’s pole of
position, and measured by degrees of the equator, will accomplish the
whole operation of ascertaining the amount of prorogation.
Fig. 2 is the Equator extended, in plano, on a
scale proportionate to the planispheres in Figs. 1 and 3: it is divided into
360 degrees, and into equal time, as measured by the 24 hours of the
earth’s daily rotation on its axis, and by smaller portions of four
minutes each, corresponding with degrees of the equator.
Fig. 3 is the Planisphere set for the latitude of Southern
Britain, 51° 30′ N., where the longest day is 16 h. 30 m., the semi-diurnal arc
of 0° ♊ being consequently 7 h. 52 m., or 118° of the equator, and its
diurnal temporal hour equal to one hour and nearly nineteen minutes of
equatorial time, or to 19° 40′ of the equator. In applying Ptolemy’s
examples, given in Chapter XV, Book 3, to this latitude, it will follow
that, when 0° ♉ may be on the ascendant, 0° ♊ will be at A, and will
subsequently arrive at the ascendant at C, after the passage of 29°
43′ of the equator. When 0° ♉ may be on the mid-heaven at D, 0° ♊ will
be at E, and will arrive at B, on the mid-heaven, after the passage
of 57° 44′ of the equator, as in Fig. 1. When 0° ♉ may be on
the 7th house, at F, 0° ♊ will be at G, and will come to the 7th house, at H,
after the passage of 85° 45′ of the equator. If 0° ♉ be three temporal
hours past the meridian, at I, 0° ♊ would be at K, again 13 equatorial
degrees before the meridian, as in Fig. 1, and will be three
temporal hours past the meridian, a position similar to that assumed for 0° ♉,
on arriving at L, distant from the mid-heaven 59 equatorial degrees;
thus making the whole distance, from K to L, 17 equatorial degrees. If
0° ♉ be on the 9th house, at M, 0° ♊ will be at N, distant from Q (also
on the 9th house) about 67 equatorial degrees. If 0° ♉ be on the 8th
house, at O, 0° ♊ will be at P, distant from R (also on the 8th house)
about 76 equatorial degrees.
By taking the trouble to calculate the distances between the several
positions given by Ptolemy, the Reader may satisfy himself of the
sufficiency of this Planisphere for the purpose for which it was first
projected; viz. for the more expeditious measurement of the arcs of
direction. The Tables of Ascensions, extracted
from the Almagest, in p. 152, will show that the arcs, as measured in
Figs. 1 and 2 of the plate,
exactly tally with the amounts of distance obtained by calculating
arithmetically, according to the respective latitudes, as quoted in the
Tables.
The slight view which has been here given of the Zodiacal Planisphere
invented by Mr. Ranger, must not be considered as pretending to offer a
complete idea of its powers: they are so manifold and various, that
another volume would be required to detail them fully; and it has now
been used only in order to give a better illustration of Ptolemy’s
examples of the spaces of prorogation than mere words can do. To
persons conversant with the mathematical part of astronomy, the
facility with which a complete representation of zodiacal latitude,
declination, the poles of position, crepusculine circles, and other
phenomena, may be made by this Planisphere, will be sufficiently
obvious from the accompanying Figures.
Finis
