|
Back
Anima Astrologiae
Or
A GUIDE for ASTROLOGERS
By
William Lilly, Student in Astrology
1676
TO THE INGENIOUS LOVERS OF ART
We have formerly some thoughts of
revising our Introduction to Astrology, now out of print, and to have enriched it from another
edition with the choicest aphorisms, both from the writings of the ancients and our own many years’ experience, but the laboriousness
of that work, considering our age and many infirmities of body, with the
discouragements we have already me with from some ungrateful persons,
caused us to lay aside (at least for the present) those intentions.
Yet that we might not be wholly
wanting to promote anything that might tend to the advancement of Art
and gratification of its painful students, and knowing how necessary the
ensuing Considerations of Guido Bonatus and Aphorisms adjoined, are to
be known and regarded, which many of our ingenious countrymen could not
do, for they have hitherto remained in the Latin tongue with the rest of
the works of these authors in large volumes, difficult to be got at and
too chargeable for man to buy, we therefore recommend them to a friend
to be translated by themselves, which he has judiciously performed in
plain significant language, so that we judge the work may deserve the
title Anima Astrologiae
which we have given it, comprehending the marrow and substance of
Astrology, and much excellent matter necessary to be observed by all
honest students that practice Art to discover truth and not to vapour
with.
We doubt not but the legitimate Sons
and well-wishers of Urania will find considerable advantages from hence,
directing them to a certainty in giving judgments upon all occasions, and they will for this
publication have cause to thank their old friend.
William Lilly
Walton-upon-Thames, 2 August,
1675.
PROEM
Amongst those things that appertain
to giving judgment in questions of Astrology, there are six to be
considered: - 1st -Nations, and their particular kinds. 2nd Families,
and the constitutions and ordinations of Families and Houses. 3rd -
Rich and potent persons,
Dispositions and affairs. 4th
- Regard is to be had to the
Individuals of human kind. 5th Elections or times proper for the beginning of any Work or
Enterprise. 6th -Questions as well universal as particular, pertinent
and fit to be demanded.
But first of all there are some
things necessary to be premised: As the fit manner of propounding a
question, and divers other points to be observed in diving judgment. Of
which sort of considerations we shall reckon up no fewer than One
Hundred Forty and Six, which though ‘tis impossible they should happen
or be so observed altogether; yet they all deserve to be known, and
without them an Astrologer shall never be able to give true and perfect
judgement. But before we treat distinctly of them it will be convenient
to say a little of the right
way or manner how a question should be proposed; for to judge of things
to come is no easy task, nor
indeed can it always be exactly performed; but we may come near the
truth, and differ from it only
in some small time or circumstances; which difficulty should not at all
discourage us from studying and endeavouring to obtain as great a knowledge therein,
as Human minds are capable of;
for since inferiors are governed by superiors (as all agree), and that
the nature and disposition of such superiors may be known by their
motions, which arc now exactly found out by the learned in Astronomy; we
may thence undoubtedly arrive at an ability of judging of things to
come: That is declare what will happen by or from such their motions,
and by consequence foretell future accidents; for this art has its
peculiar rules and Aphorisms and its end in judgement, which takes off
their objection who say that Astrology is nothing worth; for it would not be an Art, unless it had its proper precepts; but that it is an
Art, we have sufficiently
proved elsewhere, and the same is generally acknowledged; and its end is
to give judgements as
aforesaid, which are accidents imprinted on inferiors by the motions of
the superior bodies and their qualities and effects in or upon the same.
Thou art here presented with two
choice pieces of Art in our mother tongue; the first, the Considerations
of Guido Bonatus, a person no less happy in the practice than skillful
in the theory of Astrology of
which I will here give thee one instance as it is recorded by that
eminent Historian Fulgusos,
That Guido Earl of Mount-Serrant being besieged in that city, our Author
Bonatus sent him word, that if such a day and hour he would make a sally
on the enemies’ camp, he should give them an absolute defeat, and force
them to raise their siege and quit the place, but should himself receive
a dangerous (but not mortal) wound in the thigh. The Earl providing
himself of all things necessary in case of a wound, and according to the
prediction, though vastly inferior in numbers, obtained a most signal
and entire victory, but following the pursuit was wounded in the place
foretold, of which in short time he recovered.
The second, consists of the choicest
Aphorisms of Cardanus, a man famous to the learned world, and of whom the judicious and
severe Scalier (though an adversary) in the preface to the book he wrote
against him, gives a most respective and applauding character. These
Aphorisms (by which is meant
short comprehensive and approved rules of Art) were in the original
delivered promiscuously, but I for better method have taken the pains here
to marshal them under their distinct and proper titles, and that I might
not unnecessarily charge the reader, have omitted such as seemed trivial or
superfluous; this much I thought fit to premise, and have only more to add, that by reason of my
absence some faults have escaped the press, besides those which myself may
be chargeable with in the translation; the Reader will show his judgment
in distinguishing, and his good
nature in pardoning them.
Henry Coley April 29, 1675
The 1st, is to
observe what it is that moves a person to propose or ask a question of
an Astrologer; where we must
take notice of three motions: the First, of the mind, when a man is stirred up in his thoughts and
bath an intent to enquire; a Second, of the superiour and celestial
bodies; so that they at that time imprint on the thing enquired after,
what shall become of it; the
Third, of the free will which disposes him to the very act of enquiring;
for although the mind be moved to enquire, ‘tis not enough unless the
superiour bodies sympathize therewith; nor is such motion of the stars
enough, unless by the election of his will the person does actually
enquire.
|
|
The 2nd consideration is (what
we hinted at before) the method or manner everyone ought to observe that
enquires of an Astrologer; which is, that when he intends to take an
artist’s judgment of things
past, present, or to come, he should, first, with a devout spirit, pray
unto the Lord, from whom proceeds the success of every lawful enterprise, that
he would grant him the knowledge of those things of the truth of which he
would be resolved; and then let him apply himself to the astrologer with a
serious intent of being satisfied in some certain and particular doubt,
and this not on trifling occasions, or light sudden emotions, much less on
matters base or unlawful, as many ignorant people used to do; but in
matters of honest importance, and such as have possessed and disturbed his
mind for the space of a day and
night or longer; unless in sudden accidents which admit not of delay1.
|
|
The 3rd, is to consider how many
ways Planets operate upon Inferious Bodies according to the divers
Qualities of their motions: there being Sixteen different ways of such
their operations and effects in
all things that are either wholly or in part perfected or destroyed.
|
|
The 4th , is to consider
particularly these several Sixteen ways, and what are the assisting causes
that help forward things to perfection, and what there are that destroy
things after they are perfected. Now of these the first
(1) is
Profection, or an advance of or in, things, which the philosophers call ‘Alchecohol.’
(2) Detriment, which they call ‘Aliber.’ (3) Conjunction or Reversion,
which they call ‘Alitifall.’ (4) Separation, which they call ‘Alnichirat.’
(5) Translation of light, which they call ‘Annecad.’ (6) Collection, which
they call ‘Algemei.’ (7) Probition, which they call ‘Almana.’ (8)
Reception, called ‘Alcobol.’ (9) Being void of course, called ‘Gastalcobal.’
(10). Permission, called ‘Galealocir.’ (11). The restoring or giving of
virtue or disposition, called ‘Alteat.’ (12). The withdrawing of virtue,
called Dalpha Alchoa.’ (13). The withdrawer or driver away of disposition,
called ‘Daffaredbit.’ (14). Fortitude, ‘Alcoevah.’ (15). Debility, ‘Adirof.’
(16) is the state of the Moon called ‘Gnaymel,’ or the Moon illaffected;
which the ancients generally hold to be of ill signification.
1
NOTE BY LILLY.”Those
that take this sober course, shall find the truth in what they enquire
after; but whosoever do otherwise, deceive both themselves and the artist;
for a foolish Querent may cause a wise Respondent to err, which brings a
scandal upon Art amongst inconsiderable people, whereas the Astrologer is
not blameable, but the ignorant silly Querent.”
|
The 5th, is
to consider, how many ways the Moon comes to be so ill-affected, which
are generally reckoned to be Ten, but in my opinion Seven more may be
added, whereby hindrances and damage happen in all Questions,
Nativities, Elections, and actions whatsoever; the First is, where the
Moon is combust, that is to say under the Sun’s Beams, which is counted from 15 degrees of
the body of the Sun as she applies to him to 12 degrees distance from him as she is
separating from him; and the impediment is greater when she is going to the Sun than when she is
going from him; because as she goes off, when she is got five degrees distant, she is said to be escaped, though not wholly freed.
As when a fever hath left a man, he is said to be recovered, although he
be weak and faint, because he is secure now that he shall obtain his
health again. The 2nd is when she is in the degrees of her descensions, that is in the 3rd
degree of the Scorpio, or in any part of Scorpio or Capricorn or injoined with any planet that is
in her or its own descensions, as if she be joined with the Sun, who is in Scorpio or Capricorn or in any part of Scorpio or
Capricorn or injoined with any planet that is in her or its own
descensions, as if she be joined with the Sun, who is in Scorpio or
Capricorn or in his proper descension, viz., in Aquary or Libra, viz.,
in its 19th degree or in any part of Libra; or should be joined with the
Mars, and he be in Libra or Taurus, or in the 28th degree, or in any
part of Cancer; and so with any other Planet or Planets respectively. The 3rd is when
she is posited in any of the combust degrees, of which the worst are: those 12 degrees which are before the degree which is
directly opposite to the
degree in which the Sun is, wherever she shall happen to be, The 4th is
when she is in conjunction, opposition, or square to either of the
Infortunes, Saturn or Mars, without a perfect reception; for with one it
hinders but little, but in all other places ‘tis a grand impediment,
both in the said aspect and also in corporal conjunction save only where
the Infortune shall have two of his smaller dignities, as with Saturn in
the 4 last degrees of Aries or Gemini, in each of which he has a Term
and a Triplicity; or with Mars in the last 10 degrees of Pisces, where he has a
Face and a Triplicity; and so in any other sign or place. The 5th is when she is with the Dragon’s Head or with the Dragon’s Tail,
that is, within twelve
degrees of either of them, because that is the place where she is
eclipsed. The 6th is when she
is in Gemini, which is the twelfth from her own House. The 7th is when
she is in the end of the Signs, which are all Terms of the Infortunes, except the
last 6 degrees of Leo, which
belong to Jupiter; but in the first eight she is weakened because they
are in the Terms of Saturn. If
it be objected by the same reason she must be impedited likewise in the
first 6 degrees of Cancer, since they are terms of Mars, I answer no,
because Cancer is her own
House and greatest Fortitude. The 8th is when she is in the 6th, 8th 9th
or 12th Houses (not in reception with the Ascendant), or joined to any Planet that is in any
of them or posited in the Third House, because it is cadent from angles;
yet because the same is said to be her joy (or that she delights therein), she
is not afflicted there so much as in other Cadent Houses. The 9th is
when she is between the degree of Libra and the 5” degree of Scorpio,
which 30 degrees are called
Combust Way. The 10th when she is voyd of course, that is, not joined to any planet by body or aspect,
or in that condition when they call her Feral or Desart, that is, in a place where she has not any dignity. The 11th when she is slow of
course, because then she may
be compared to a Planet Retrograde. The 12th when she is in want of
light, so that no part or very
little of her is seen, which happens about the end of the lunar month.
The 13th when she is besieged by the two Infortunes impediting her. The
14th if she be in Azimene degrees. The 15th if in Pitted degrees. The
16th if in Smoky Degrees. The 17th and last is when she is posited in
those degrees which are called Dark. To know and distinguish all which you have
Tables commonly in most Books of Astrologie.
|
|
The 6th Consideration, Is to
regard another manner whereby planets are dibilitated or weakened and afflicted, not much
different from the former, which comes to pass Ten ways. The 1st when a planet is Cadent from
Angles or from the Ascendent, so that he does not behold the same. The 2nd
when the Planet is Retrograde. The 3rd if they be combust, that is, within
15 degrees before or after the Sun; the lower Planets are more
debilitated, being behind the Sun, and the less before him, when they are
direct; but when retrograde the
contrary. 4th When any of them is in Opposition, Corporal Conjunction, or
Square of either or both the
Infortunes without Reception. 5th when any of them are besieged by the Infortunes, so as to separate
from one and be joined to another, without perfect reception of House, Exaltation, or two of the
smaller Dignities, which are Term, Triplicity and Face. when a Planet is joined to another in
his Declension or Fall, that is, in Opposition to its own House or Exaltation. 7th when it is
joined to a Planet Cadent from the Ascendent, or separates from a Planet
that did deceive him, and is joined to another that doth not. 8th when a Planet is Peregrine, that is, in a place where he bath not any
Dignity: or being one of the
Superiours is followed by the Sun, or being of the Inferiours when it
follows the Sun. 9th when a Planet is with the Head or Tail of the Dragon,
without Latitude. 10th when a planet weakens itself, that it, when it is
in the seventh house from its own, Freal, or not in Reception. These are
the Impediments of the Planets, that cause Hindrances, delays, and
mischiefs in Nativities, Questions, Elections, etc.: all which thou
oughtest to be well acquainted with. There are some more that seem
necessary to be known, but to avoid tediousness and confusion I shall at
present omit them.
|
The 7th Consideration, is to
beware of those cases wherein the Astrologer is subject to err and mistake; of which the learned
have named four: 1st When the Querent is so silly that he knows not how to ask, nor what he
would have. 2nd When the time for which the figure is erected is mistaken. 3rd When the
Artist knows not whether the Sun be gone off the line of the Mid-Heaven, or still upon it: or
be behind or before it. 4th When the Fortunes and Infortunes shall be of
equal strength; at which time thou therefore oughtest not to receive any question. But, in my
opinion, there mat well be added yet three ways more, wherein the Astrologer will subject to err: When the Querent comes only to try him,
or put a trick upon him, as many do, saying, ‘Let us go to such an
Astrologer, and ask him such a thing, and see if he can tell us the
truth or not.’ Just as the Jews propounded questions to our Lord Jesus
Christ, not so much to be resolved, as to tempt and ensnare Him. 2nd
Wherein the Artist will be liable to err, is when the Querent does not
ask out of a serious or settled intention, as some do when they meet an
Astrologer by chance or go to him on other business: on a sudden they
think of something, and so ask, as it were by-the-bye; wherein ‘tis a
thousand to one but mistakes happen. But thou mayest be ready to say,
‘How shall I know whether the
Querent come out of a solid intention, or only to try me?’ To which I answer, that it seems a very
abstruse and difficult point, perfectly to find out; but this I have
often experienced and found
true, viz., I observed the hour of the Question, and if the Ascendant
then happened very near the end of one sign and beginning of another, so
that it seemed as between
both; I said they did not ask seriously, or that they came to try me;
and I have had many that have
there upon confessed what I said to be true, and began to think that
I knew more than before they believed. For in such cases I used to say,
‘Pray, friend, do not trouble
me unless you ask seriously, for I suspect that you would put a trick
upon me, by not proposing this Question as you ought: however, if you
will give me trouble for your pleasure, be pleased to give me likewise
satisfaction for my pains’; and immediately, if there were and deceit
intended, away they went. Another, viz., a way whereby an Astrologer may err, is when the Lord
of the Ascendent and the Lord of the Hour are not the same, nor of the same Triplicity, or
be not of the same complexion with the Ascendant; for then the Question
is not Radical, as I have frequently found by experience. And this I
have recited, that thou may’st know for what persons thou shouldst
undertake to give judgment;
for as one says, “The issue of the thing is according to the solicitude
of the Querent, and as he
comes in necessity, as sad, thoughtful, and hoping, that thou art able
and knowest how to satisfy him the truth of the matter; and in such cases thou may’st
securely venture upon the question.”
|
|
The
8th Consideration is, to mind how many of the aforesaid manners or
points necessary to be used and heeded in giving Judgments thou hast to consider; and they
are Thirty, that is to say,
sixteen impediments of the Moon, ten of the other Planets; as hath been
said, and besides all those the Planets’ several joys, which are four. Of
which the 1st is the House which each Planet does delight in, as Mercury
in the Ascendant, the Moon in the Third, Venus in the fifth, Mars in the
sixth, the Sun in the ninth, Jupiter in the eleventh, Saturn in the
Twelfth. The 2nd is, when a Planet is in a sign he delights in, as Saturn
in Aquarius, Jupiter in Sagittary, Mars in Scorpio, Sol in Leo, Venus in
Taurus, Mercury in Virgo, and the Moon in Cancer. The 3rd is when Diurnal
Planets, as Saturn, Jupiter, So!, and Mercury, are in Diurnal Houses in
the East and Oriental of the Sun near the Horoscope; and the Nocturnal Planets, as Mars, Venus,
Luna and Mercury, are in Nocturnal Houses in the West and Occidental of the Sun; especially
near the cusp of the seventh. The fourth is when the three Superiors, Saturn, Jupiter or Mars, are in Masculine Quarters;
which are counted from the cusp
of the Tenth House to the cusp of the Ascendant, and from the cusp of the
fourth house to the cusp of the seventh house; and when the Feminines,
viz., Venus or the Moon are in
Feminine Quarters, which are from the cusp of the Ascendant to the cusp of
the fourth house and from the cusp of the seventh to the cusp of the
tenth. As for Mercury, he delights when with Masculine Planets in
Masculine Quarters, but with Feminine Planets in Feminine.
|
The 9th
Consideration is to take notice of the several ways, as well secret as
manifest, good and evil, whereby things are helped or hindered to be done or not done,
and of these there are one and twenty in number. 1st a most strong
secret helper. 2nd A very strong secret Helper. 3rd A strong secret helper.
4th A weak secret Helper. 5th A weak secret Helper. 6th A most weak secret Helper. 7th A most
strong manifest Helper. 8th A very strong manifest helper. 9th
A strong manifest Helper.10th A weak manifest Helper. A weaker
manifest Helper. 12th A most
weak manifest Helper. 13th A most strong secret Hinderer.
14th
A very strong secret Hinderer.
1 5th A strong secret Hinderer. 16th A weak secret Hinderer. 17th A weaker secret Hinderer. 18th A
most weak secret Hinderer. 19th A most strong manifest Hinderer. 20th A
very strong manifest Hinderer; and 21st A strong manifest Hinderer. All
which we shall treat particularly, the same being a secret of secrets.
In the judicial part of Astrology which the ancients did not regard, nor
have said anything plainly of it that I find, save only that ‘Haly’
seems to have touched a little upon it in his Exposition of the 23rd of
Ptolemy’s Centiloquium; nor do I believe they omitted those things out
of ignorance, but rather through disuse or fear of being too tedious, or
burdening the minds of their Readers or Auditors; For they were wont to
judge, according as they found the Planets disposed in Houses and Signs,
their Fortitudes and Debilities, together with the Part of Fortune, and
some few other things. But thou oughtest to consider in thy judgments,
not only what they did, but also all other circumstances that thou
canst; for when thou dost erect a figure, thou should’st first fine the
Significator of the thing enquired after, or to be undertaken, and see if any of the fixed stars of
his own Nature being either of his Houses, or in his Exaltation, or in
conjunction with him to a minute; for then such star shall so far help
the significator, that the thing shall be accomplished and effected,
even beyond the Querent’s hopes, and this is a most strong secret Helper: For the Querent may well wonder how it comes
to pass. Now, if the same star should be in the same degree with the
Significator from one minute to 15’ before him or 5’ behind him, it will
still help him, but not so much: and this we call a very strong secret Helper; but if it be
with him in the same degree, but above 16 minutes distance and within 50’, it will somewhat help, yet this less; and this we call in
the Positive degree only a strong secret Helper. If it be in the same
degree with the Significator, in a place where he has two of his smaller
Dignities, in the very same minute, or within 16 minutes, it will help him yet less, and then
‘tis a weak secret Helper; from 16’ to 50’ still less, and then ‘tis a weaker secret Helper; but if
it be with the Significator in a place where he has no dignities at all it will still help, but as it were insensibly; and this
we call a most weak secret
helper. The like we may say on the contrary of those things that
prejudice, frustrate, and hinder business: For if a Planet which is
Significator of anything, being in a place where he has not any Dignities, shall be
joined with one of the Fixed Stars of a contrary nature, it will weaken him and not suffer the thing
to come to pass; although otherwise by the Figure it seemed never so
probable; so that, for want of heeding this, the Artist often gets
discredit, and raises a scandal on the Art itself amongst the ignorant:
and this is a most strong secret Hinderer; whereas if the same Star
be remote above 16 minutes from the Significator, it will weaken him, but not altogether so
much; whence it may be called only a very strong secret Hinderer. And so
downwards through all degrees in the same manner as we said of the
Helpers or Assistant causes respectively.
Of the several twenty-one Modes
aforesaid, which are most strong Helpers, &c. and which strongest obstructs.
The several Modes before mentioned are thus to be known and
distinguished: A most strong manifest Helper or Adjuvant cause, is when
the Planet which is Significator of a thing, is in his own House; in an Angle on the very
minute of the cusp, direct, swift of course, in reception, and free from all affliction and impediment; which most seldom happens.
A very strong manifest Helper,
is when the Significator is in his House or Exaltation in an Angle
within a degree or two of the Cusp, free from impediment, and in
Reception, which very seldom happens.
A strong manifest Helper, is when the Significator is in an Angle in his
House or Exaltation, within 3
degrees before the Cusp, or 5 degrees after it.
A weak manifest
Helper, is where a Planet is in two of his lesser Dignities in an Angle
within 5 degrees before or 15 degrees after
it; or is in his House, or Exaltation, in a succedent House free from affliction.
A weaker open Helper, is when the Significator is in his own House or
Exaltation, or two of his lesser Dignities, but in a cadent House of the
Figure, yet beholding the Ascendant. A most weak open Helper is when the Significator is in some of his greater Dignities,
or two of his lesser, not
beholding the Ascendant; or in one of his lesser Dignities; only
beholding the same, or joined to a Planet that beholds the same, and has
some Dignities therein. A most strong open Hinderer is when the
Significator is in a place where he hath no Dignity, no delight, is not received; besieged by
the Two Infortunes, Cadent from an Angle, and from the Ascendant: and so
much the worse if joined with any of the Fixed Stars, of a mischievous
nature, &c.
There may be other
both adjuvant and obstructing causes, besides what we have mentioned,
both open and secret: proceeding from the conjunctions of Planets and
their Aspects, too tedious here to discourse of. Nor shall I here
enlarge on all those before mentioned, but most assure thee that this ninth
consideration, carefully observed, will be of great use in raising
a true and wary judgment;
especially if thou hast always a diligent eye to the Moon; for she of
all the Planets has the greatest similitude and correspondence with
inferior things, both in general and particular: as well the species of
the kinds as the individuals of the species; with winds; to pass by her daily effects which she causes in all things here, and
frequent revolutions about the Elements and Elementary Bodies by
reason of the nearness of her Orb to the Earth, and smaller circle than any other Planet; so that
she seems a Mediatrix between Superiour and Inferious Bodies.
And as we see that
in the New Moon she appears small and thin, and little, but afterwards
her light gradually increases, till all that part of her body towards us
becomes replenished with lustre: and then again it decays by insensible
degrees till she totally disappears: just so do all bodies both of things Rational,
Irrational, and Vegetative: as men grow until they are completed to
their determinate stature, and then droop and decline continually till
their life is ended; and so of
all other things.
Hence tis necessary to make the Moon
concerned in the Signification of every Question, Nativity, Enterprise and
Business, and her good condition to show the good issue of the thing: and
so on the contrary. For her Virtue and Power is such and so great, that if
the Lord of the Ascendant or other Significator of a business be so weak
and afflicted that he cannot bring it about and complete it as he ought:
if she be but strong it shall, notwithstanding, be accomplished. For she
is the School-mistress of all things; the Bringer-down of all the Planet’s
influences, and a kind of an ‘internuncio’ between them, carrying their
virtues from one to the other, by receiving the disposition of one planet
and bearing it to another. And some have thought that she does this at all
times, of which opinion was that Tyrant Cylinus de Romano, viz., That when
she separates from one Planet, she takes the virtue and carries it to
another, committing the same to the first that she can meet with. And some
have imagined that “Zael” said the same; but his meaning was not
absolutely so; for lie believed that the Moon did bear what was committed
to her; but if it were not so given or committed to her she could not
carry anything to any; to which I assent: for when the Moon is joined to
any planet that receives her, then that planet commits its disposition to
her, who carries it with her and bestows it on that planet whom she first
meets with any of her dignities, and not to another: according to that
Aphorism, ---“A Planet gives
nothing in a place, where he has promised nothing.”
|
|
The 10th Consideration, Is
warily to observe what Fixed Stars may either help or hinder the matter in question; for they have
oftentimes great power, and lead the Astrologer sometimes into error; and let the Artist be sure
to consider the places of the Fixed Stars, as they are in the present age
carefully reduced.
|
|
The 11th Consideration, Is to
take notice of the Malevolent Planets, and what they signify; for Saturn
and Mars are naturally bad, Saturn for excess of cold, and Mars for excess
of heat; not that either of them
is really hot or cold, but virtually so; and these are their effects.
And so they signifie evil and
damage and hindrance, unless they receive the Significator or the Moon by
House, Exaltation, or two of their smaller dignities; or shall themselves
be Significators; for then they will bridle their malice, and not weaken
or hinder him whom they receive, with what aspect soever they behold him;
but if they do not receive, their malice is increased; and so much the
more if they be in opposition or Square; for in Sextile or Trine the
mischief is less. Yet ‘Zael’ seems to say that Infortunes lay aside or
restrain their malice, where they are in Trine or Sextile; but his meaning was
only that they were not then so violent, and intended not that their
malice was wholly abated.
|
|
The 12th Consideration, Is to
behold the Fortunes, and see what they signify; for Jupiter and Venus are Fortunes by Nature, and being
temperate, are said to be without any malice, because they do hurt to
none, unless now and then by accident; which is beside their intention and
profitably, and always endeavour to help both their own and others,
whether they receive them or not; but so much the better if they receive
them; and their Trine or Sextile is better and more advantageous than
their Square, and their square than their Oppositions.
|
The 13th Consideration, is to
regard the Sun and his Significators, for he is also called a fortune,
and so, whatever aspect he shall be beheld by, unless it be Opposition;
but by Conjunction he becomes
an Infortune, because he then renders every star that is so in Conjunction with him, combust and
unfortunate; unless the same shall be in the heart of the Sun, and there
every star is fortified.
|
|
The l4th Consideration, is to
mind Mercury and the Moon, and what Planets they are joined with; because they will have the
signification with those with whom they are so joined; being of a
convertible nature.
|
|
The 15th Consideration, is to
regard the several ways in general whereby Planets make impressions on
these inferior things, which are two, one good and the other bad; for the
Fortunes have power of imprinting good naturally, and the Infortunes as
naturally slower down ill impressions; whence thou mayest, wherever thou
seest the Fortunes, hope for good; and when thou beholdest the Malevolents,
fear mischief, unless the same be restrained as aforesaid.
|
|
The 16th Consideration is to
take notice whether the Planet is Significator of anything, be afflicted by either of the Malevolents;
which is when one of them cast his rays upon the rays of such Significators, according to
the quality of their Orbs; and Whilst he so continues with his rays or light under those of the Malevolent, such Significator is
said to be impedited, hindered or afflicted, till the Malevolent have
passed him; and ‘Zael’ says, “After the ill Planet has passed the Planet
he did afflict, one whole degree, the Planet shall be said to be freed of him.” But rather I think that
after the Malevolent is passed him one minute, he may be said to be free
and excepted for afterwards he can only frighten him. True it is he raises
a greater fear when he is passed
him only one minute, than when he is gone by a whole degree; but yet even
then it is such a kind of fear as is not altogether without some
glimmering of hope. As thus, One intending to go into a Battle, inquires whether he
shall return from thence safe and sound or not? And the Ascendant is
Gemini 13 degrees, and Mercury in the 7th degree and 54 min. of Aquary, in
the 9th joined with Saturn, who is likewise in 7 degrees 53 minutes of
Aquary, so that Mercury is now separated from Saturn, who was Lord of the
House of Death, one minute; whence it appears that he should have died in
that engagement by reason of the Conjunction, and was in peril of death
and a kind of desperate fear
that he should be slain by his enemies and shall be pursued by them so
that he shall be pursued by them so that he shall seem not able to escape,
and they shall often lay hands
on him, but at last he shall get away from them and make his escape; even
beyond his own hopes; and all
because Mercury is separated from Saturn; and ‘Zael” saith, “That if a
Malevolent planet that would hinder any business be cadent from the
Ascendant so that he cannot behold it, he cannot really hinder the
matters; but only puts the persons concerned into terrors and frights
about it.”
|
The 17th Consideration, is to view whether the Planet that is
Significator, be safe and
prosperous, that is free from any affliction from the Infortunes; and
one of the Fortunes casts his
beams or light on the beams of such Significator; for then shall that
Planet be said to be safe and guarded till the Fortune is passed
by the space of one minute, and signifies the perfection of the thing. But after he has passed him one minute, it will not be
perfected or accomplished; for it only raises hopes; as (we said) the
malevolent in the like case could do nothing, but create fear. Yet is
such a hope as the Querent will believe and fancy himself as it were
certain; yet not without something of doubt; as for example, A Question
is proposed of some weighty and difficult business, whether it will
be done and brought to pass or not? And 17 degrees of Scorpio Ascends, and Mars is 12
degrees 13 minutes of Taurus, and Venus in 12 degrees and 14 minutes of Capricorn, so that Venus is joined to Mars by a Trine,
and receives him in her House,
who likewise receives her in his Exaltation; so that the Querent thinks,
and all others concerned
verily believe, that it would be accomplished by that aspect of perfect
friendship; in which flattering hopes they continue till Venus hath
passed the Aspect of Mars one
whole degree; but at last the business comes to just nothing at all,
because Venus was past Mars one minute at the time of the question proposed. Yet may a
thing possibly in such a case
be brought to pass, but not without extraordinary labour and trouble.
And here likewise ‘Zael’
affirms, “That if the Fortune be cadent from the Ascendant, so that it
cannot behold the same, it only flatters with splendid hopes, but never
completes the business.”
|
|
The 18th Consideration, Is to
take notice when a planet is in the Angles of the Infortunes, for unless these receive him there, he
shall be said to be in an ill condition, and in straits and troubles; as a man on whom some have
made an assault; who has many to combat with and none to assist and take his part; or like one that strives against the
stream, or falls into a deep pool, and knows not how to swim; and yet by
trusting out his hands and feet, may obtain the bank and escape; though
this seldom happens. Now a planet is said to be in the Angles of a
Malevolent, when the Malevolent or Infortune, viz., Saturn or Mars, is in
one sign, and the other Planet in the fourth, seventh or tenth from him:
as if Mars be in Aries, and Mercury in Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn, he is
said to be in his Angles: understand the like of their Corporal
Conjunction. But if there be Reception, he does not afflict; for reception abates all malice, as we
have said elsewhere.
|
|
The 19th Consideration is, To
behold the Moon if she be ‘void of course,’ for then it signifies an
impediment to the thing in question, it will not come to a good end, nor
be accomplished; but the Querent
shall be forced to desist with shame and loss.
|
|
The 20th Consideration is, To
observe whether the Moon or Significator be joined to any of the Planets, for thence you must
derive your judgment of what is like to happen in business. Take notice therefore whether the
planet to which the Moon or Significator joins, receives them; for then
there will be good laudable end; and the matter will be accomplished with
success, if the receiver be a Fortune. But if there be no reception, yet
if the Moon or Significator shall give virtue to that planet, the thing
will still come to pass. But if it be an Infortune, though they do not
give him virtue, yet without a reception it will not do; but with a
reception, if he be not afflicted, it signifies a good end of the matter,
though not without much labour and tediousness.
|
|
The 21st Consideration is, To
see from what planet the Moon separates: for that signifies what is past
of the business: as from a Fortune the good, for an Infortune the ill that
hath been.
|
|
The 22nd Consideration is, To
note which if the planets the Moon is now joined to, for that signifies what is now present; and from
thence we must judge of the present state of the matter.
|
|
The 23rd Consideration is, To
behold to whom the Moon is now joining [or by applying aspect], so as her
conjunction is not yet completed: for that signifies what is to come:
wherefore if thou wouldst judge of a thing, which as yet is not, but ‘tis
hoped will hereafter be brought to pass, ‘tis necessary then thou shouldst
see to whom the Moon will next join; and according to her signification
judge whether good or evil.
|
The 24th Consideration
is, To note whether the planet who is significator, be in his
Declension, for then it causes a hindrance to everything thereby
signified, and trouble and grief about it; and if the Question be about a prison wherein the Querent
fears he shall be put, it
signifies he shall be cast into the same together with disgrace and
prejudice; and if the Question
concerns one already in prison, it signifies confinement and more
affliction than he believes.
|
|
The 25th Consideration is,
Whether the Planet that is Significator be Retrograde, or Stationary to
Retrogradation: for then it signifies mischief and damage, discord,
contradiction, and going backward with damage; yet being stationary, is
not so bad, as being Retrograde. For the last notes the mischief to be, as
it were, present and in being. But being Stationary notes that ‘tis past
and over.
|
|
The 26th Consideration is,
Whether the Significator be in his Second Station, that is towards
Direction; for that signifies also hinderance and evil, which already hath
been and is past; yet some say that this Second Station is as good as
direction: but this is only a way of speaking, as when one hath been sick
and begins to grow well, we say he is recovered and sound, which is not simply true, but somewhere near it; for as the
First Station is not so bad as
Retrogradation, so the Second Station is not so good as direction.
|
|
The 27th Consideration is,
Whether the Infortunes are the Significators of anything; for if they
signify ill, the evil will be much augmented, and if good it will be much
diminished, abated, imperfect, and with difficulty; so that the party will
scarce think his business done, unless by chance they be in a very good condition and excellently
disposed.
|
|
The 28th Consideration is Whether the Significator be slow of
Course, for then it delays the
effect; and if it be in the beginning of anything, retards it, so that it
will be scarce ever be finished: besides, things proceed slowly, where
Significators are pointed in Sagittary,
Capricorn, Aquary or Pisces: or who are the Lords of them, whether they be
slow of Course;
in Aries or Scorpio they are not quite so dilatory. In Leo they hasten
business; more in
Taurus or Libra; but most of all in Gemini or Virgo.
|
|
The 29th Consideration is,
Whether the Moon be joined to any planet by body or aspect exactly to a
minute; for that signifies the present state of things; and from that
minute observe what planet she joins next, for he shall be Significator of
all that shall happen of that thing; as the planet she was last before
with, was of what has already passed as aforesaid.
|
|
The 30th Consideration is, To
observe when a planet that is Significator, or the Moon, shall have past the 29th degree of the Sign
wherein it is, and touches the 30th , and especially if it have passed one
minute of that degree; for then it shall have no strength in that Sign,
but in the next; so that if in
the first it signified any evil, it shall hurt the person or thing
threatened no more than the fall
of a house shall one that is just got out of it; or being with one foot
upon the threashold, has one behind him that throws him out; and then the
building falls. And if it signifies any good, it shall profit no more than
he that hath spread a nest for birds, and just touches the feathers of
their tails, but never catches their bodies; and therefore ‘Zael’ says,
“If a planet or the Moon be in the 29th degree of any Sign, its virtue is
yet in that Sign wherein he is; because he has not yet wholly past the
30th degree.” &c.
|
The 31st Consideration is, To
look when one planet applies to the Conjunction of another, if he be near the end of the same Sign wherein he is himself, or that other
to whom he applies; so that he
will pass out of that Sign before the Conjunction is perfected; and to
see if he be joined with him in the following Sign to which he is
changed, because then the cause is perfected; if that planet confers
anything on him in that Sign wherein he is so joined to him; that is, if any Reception happen,
unless the said planet, or he to whom he applies, be first joined to
another; for then the business comes to nothing, and will not be
perfected, though he be joined again to the other interposed before the
first conjunction is accomplished. Nor must it be forgotten that a
Corporal Conjunction forbids an Aspect and cuts it off, but an Aspect
cannot do so by a Conjunction.
|
|
The 32nd Consideration is, If an
Infortune be the Significator, what his condition is; for if it be good, there will good come of
the thing; if bad, rather evil; as ‘Sarviator’ says in “PENTADERA,” “An
ill-planet strong in his own Home or Exaltation, Not joined with any other
Infortune to impede or weaken him, is better than a Fortune Retrograde
afflicted.”
|
|
The 33rd Consideration is, To
see whether either of the Infortunes be the Significator of anything, and be joined to another
Infortune impeding him, or has joined to him the Lord of the Ascendant or the Moon, by a square
or Opposition; for then this Infortune will perfect the business, but the
business will not be good, or rather it will be destroyed after it seems
perfected. But if the Infortune that Impedes be the lighter of the two, so
that he apply to a Conjunction, with the Significator, it will hinder less
than if the Significator apply to the other.
|
|
The 34th Consideration is, To
mind in Questions or Nativities, whether the Significator of the business
be an Infortune and Lord of the Ascendant, and in the Ascendant; direct,
not vitiated, and in good condition; for then he would both affect the
same and bring it to a good conclusion; nay, although he be not
Significator nor Lord of the Ascendant, but only be in the Ascendant, and that the same be his Exaltation; he lays aside
all his malice, and is
restrained from mischief; but if he be weak and afflicted, his malice and
contrariety is increased so as to destroy the business wholly.
|
|
The 35th Consideration is, To
look whether an Infortune be in Signs like him, or of his own nature, for that abates his ill
effects; like a cross fellow when he is pleased and has what he will, as Saturn in Capricorn, Aquary,
or Libra, or in a cold Sign, especially if he have any dignities there: and so Mars in Aries, Scorpio, Capricorn, or a hot
Sign, &c. But if Saturn be in a
hot Sign, or Mars in a cold Sign, out of their dignities, it will be bad,
and the business be no more completed, than oil will mix with water; but
if strong and well disposed, they will mix in good, like water and wine,
or milk with honey.
|
|
The 36th Consideration is, To
observe when the Infortunes are the obstructors of a business, whether the Fortunes behold them with a
Trine or Sextile Aspect; for then their ill-nature will be allayed and mitigated; but much
more if these receive them.
|
|
The 37th Consideration is, To
look is the Fortunes are the Significators? Whether the Infortunes behold
them with Oppositions or Squares; for that will much lessen their kind effects, and diminish the good
they otherwise promised.
|
|
The 38th Consideration is, To
consider if the Fortunes are Significators, whether they are Cadent from
Angles, or from the Ascendant, so as not to behold the same, and be
Retrograde; for under these Impediments they will be almost as bad as the
Infortunes themselves, unless they be in reception.
|
|
The 39th is, To consider if the
Significator be in Reception; for id it be a Fortune, its signification
will thereby be much bettered, and its impediment and mischief much
lessened if it be an Infortune
. |
The 40th is, To
consider if an Infortune, whether he be Significator or not, be
Peregrine; that is, not in
any of his Dignities, for then his malice is increases; but when in his
Dignity it somewhat abates it;
that is in his House, Exaltation, or Terms; but in his Triplicity or
Face very Little, and in Hayz least of all.
|
|
The 41st is, If an Infortune,
being Significator, be in his own House or Exaltation, or in his own Terms
or Triplicity, or in Angles or Succedent Houses; for by all these means he
is fortified, and shall be
counted strong as a Fortune.
|
|
The 42nd is, If a Fortune be
Significator, or give virtue or assistance to any of the Planets, and be
in a house where he has none of the Lordly Dignities, then his good
signification will be lessened
and abated; and so on the contrary.
|
|
The 43rd is, If the Fortunes and
Infortunes be together il-posited, that is, in some of the said Impediments, as Houses where they have no Dignities, Combust or the
like; then whatever they signify ‘tis but weakly; according to that
Aphorism of the Philosopher, “A Planet Retrograde and Combust, has no
strength in Signification. The Fortunes when Combust and under the Sun ‘s
beams, signify none or very little good; and the Infortunes in like case
have little or no virtue to signify ill.” [An unfortunate should be
regarded as having very evil signification under the circumstances.]
|
|
The 44th is, To consider if the
Significators, Fortune or Infortune, be in his own House, Exaltation, Triplicity, Terms or Face
(but the latter being not of that virtue with the rest, ‘tis necessary it should be assisted
with another Dignity, which is Hayz or Light); for in such case the Infortune loses his sting; and being rein’d in like a wild horse
from doing mischief, his malice is converted into good, and though this
seems strange, yet the ancients affirm and I myself have often found it true by experience.
|
|
The 45th is, To consider if the
Infortunes are in angles of the Ascendant, that is, in such signs as are in Square or Opposition to
the Ascendant, when they afflict any Planet by Square or Opposition; for
then they assist so much the worse, and do more mischief, especially if
they be in a stronger place than such afflicted Planet; but if they cast
only a Trine or a Sextile, it
is lessened and the Impediment mitigated. 46. The 46th is, to see whether the
Significator be a Fortune or Infortune, the first naturally signifies good
and prosperity, the last naturally evil by its malignity; therefore
consider the Planets’ places from the Ascendant where they are; for if a
Planet be in his Light, or his Hayz in any of his Dignities, or in a good place from the Ascendant, it
signifies good, and if it be a
good planet the better.
|
|
The 46th is, to see whether the
Significator be a Fortune or Infortune, the first naturally signifies good
and prosperity, the last naturally evil by its malignity; therefore
consider the Planets’ places from the Ascendant where they are; for if a
Planet be in his Light, or his Hayz in any of his Dignities, or in a good place from the Ascendant, it
signifies good, and if it be a
good planet the better.
|
|
The 47th is, To consider whether
the Significator be in his Light or no, that is a Diurnal Planet in the day, above the earth,
and in the night under the earth; and a Nocturnal Planet in the night
above the earth, and in the day under it; for this renders such a Planet
more strong. But if a Nocturnal
Planet be Significator of anything in the day above the earth, or a
Diurnal Planet in the night, the
same is thereby weakened and under a kind if impediment, that he can
scarce accomplish what he signified.
|
The 48th is, To consider, when
an Infortune is Significator and his ill effects are mitigated, whether
Jupiter behold him, or is joined corporally to him? For that will wholly
destroy his malignity and turn
his nature into good, how bad soever he be; so that if Saturn in that
place of himself would not bestow some good or perform what he seems to
promise, Jupiter will make him do it, provided he be not afflicted
himself, as in his fall, Combust or Retrograde (yet even then he helps, but not so
powerfully). On the other side Venus takes off the fury of Mars, by reason of that endearing
intimacy which is between them, unless the thing be very difficult, as wars and bloodshed, &c.
But she cannot so well divert the mischief of Saturn without the help of
Jupiter (and then she can do it as well as at other times that of Mars).
The reason is, there is no such sympathy between Saturn and she, in any
respect; for he is slow. she
swift; he heavy, she light; de delights in melancholy, she in mirth.
|
|
The 49th is to consider, Whether
one of the Infortunes being Significator, be joined to another, for if he
signified a good himself, this will destroy or frustrate it; but if any
evil, it will augment and double it, or change it into some worse mischief
of another of another kind; as when the pain near the navel turns into a dry Dropsy; but if
joined to a Fortune with a
Reception on either side, the evil will be converted into good; but
without a Reception it will only
be allayed and abated, according to the strength of such Fortune.
|
|
The 50th is, To observe the Lord
of the Ascendant and the Moon, whether they or either of them are
afflicted by either of the Infortunes, by Conjunction, Opposition, or
Square, the business will be spoiled without the aspect of a Fortune, but
if the Fortune, that is, Jupiter, Venus, the Sun or Moon shall behold
them, it slackens and dissolves the rigours of such Infortunes, and the
party signified shall be freed from the danger impending, although the aspect be a Square, provided it
be with Reception: but if a Fortune without Reception, by a Square or Opposition, or an
Infortune with a Trine or Sextile without Reception, shall behold the said
Lord of the Ascendant, ‘tis possible the party maybe delivered from the present
danger; but it will be turned into another as great: so that it will not profit him.
|
|
The 51st is, To see whether the
Significator be cadent from an angle or from the Ascendant, and in none of his Dignities, nor in
his Joy; for then he signifies nothing but doubts and mischief, and there are no hopes of
good or profit from a planet so disposed.
|
|
The 52nd is, When the three
Inferiors, Venus, Mercury, and Luna, come from under the rays of the Sun,
and appear in the evening after his setting, for before (viz., till they
are got from him 12 degrees) they, or any other planet, are weak, so that
a Fortune can advantage little, and an Infortune prejudice as much. Now if
the Fortune come forth slow in motion, as with labour, then will not the
good expected be obtained without much pains and trouble; and if it be an Infortune, his signification will
appear slowly. But in the Superiors, as Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, these
things happen when they come from under the Sun beams, that they rise in the morning before the Sun, and shine
before his rising.
|
|
The 53rd Consideration is,
Whether the significator be under the Sun beams, for then he will be of
small efficacy in anything as aforesaid; yet the Malevolents will be
something more strong in evil
than the Benevolents in good.2
2
NOTE BY LILLY.
“Now a planet is
properly said to be under the Sun beams, when they are only 12 degrees or
less, or above, or 16 minutes distance between it and the Sun; for when
there is only 16 minutes distance, it is said to be strong, being in
Cazimi, or the heart of the Sun; but when there are more than 12 degrees
and less then 15 degrees, it is said to be going from under the Sun ‘s
beams.”
|
|
The 54th is, To consider whether
a superior planet be removed 12 degrees from the Sun, going to his morning
rising, or an Inferior is so much, and direct, going to his evening
rising, for then he is said to be fortified; but when he is got 15
degrees, so that he appears, he
is more fortified in everything: like one coming out of a battle rejoicing
having destroyed and outed all
his enemies. But when the Sun follows the three Superiors, and there shall
be between them and him less than 15 degrees, their weakness is said to be
increased, until there shall be
only 7 degrees between them and afterwards, until they shall be in the
heart of the Sun, they are said to be in extreme debility; but the
debility of the Inferiors is contrary to them, for it is said to be
increased when they follow the Sun, and that there is between them and the Sun from 15 degrees to 7
degrees, and from 7 degrees till they are in the heart of the Sun, they are said to be in their
greatest debility.
|
|
The 55th is, To consider
whether the significator be Peregrine, for then the person whom he signifies, either in a Nativity or
Question, &c., will be subtle, crafty, malicious, one that shall know how to act both good and
evil, but more inclinable to the latter.
|
|
The 56th is, To consider if the
significator of anything shall commit his disposition or virtue to any other Planet? Whether it be to
one that is Oriental or Occidental? For if he be Oriental and one of the Inferiors and
direct, or if he be Occidental and one of the Superiors, and that there be not above 20 minutes between him and the Sun, he will
be weak says ‘Sarcinator,’ and not perform what he shows, but hinders many
things; under that impediment
like a sick man whose disease has prevailed so far, that he is forced to
lie by it, and cannot help
himself; or a falling house which none can preserve from ruin; and so much
further as such Planet shall be from the Sun, so much less shall he be
afflicted. And if it be
Oriental, and one of the Superiors, or Occidental, and one of the
Inferiors, and not Retrograde, he shall be strong and fit to perfect what
he promises; as one that hath been ill, but is more perfectly recovered,
or a building which fell and is repaired, and so of all other planets so
disposed.
|
|
The 57th is, To consider whether
the significator be in the Eighth from the Ascendant?
For if he be there, and a Fortune, though he do not harm, he will do no
good; and if he be an Infortune
he will do greater mischief than in any other place of the Figure; and if
the Question be of going to War, advise not the Querent to go there,
although it be a Fortune; for
always some evil is to be suspected, that is death, or at least captivity,
for it is a place of darkness
and death; but if it be an Infortune, judge death, unless he separate then
from the Lord of the Eighth; for then it may be only a wound, or bruise,
or a fall, wherein he was in danger of death, although he may escape; and
if it be a journey, especially a long one, he will be taken prisoner, or in great
dread of it; understand still if he separate from the Lord of the Eighth; and also remember that an Infortune so disposed always does
more mischief than a Fortune.
|
The 58th is to Consider,
Whether the Significator be fixed in that Sign where he is found? Now
‘Zael’ saith: “That a Planet is not said to be fixed in a Sign till
he hath passed 5 degrees thereof.” But I am of the opinion that when
he hath passed one whole degree of a sign he is firmly therein, but he
said it for more certainty. So likewise he says: “That a Planet is
not said to be cadent from the Ascendant, unless he be removed from
thence 5 degrees; as, for example, the Ascendant in 9 degrees of Aries,
and a Planet was in the 5th degree thereof ‘Ptolemy’, and many other
sages affirm, That Planet to be in an angle, with whom I agree; yet some
would have it, that a Planet should be said to be in an angle, when he
is in the very degree of the Ascendant, or one degree before it or two
after it; but they meant in Revolutions, and that they might be so
certain as not to be in the least deceived. But I have experienced that
a Planet is in an Angle to the space of 5 degrees beyond the cusp; for
as once I sought the Revolution of a year, I found Mars in the 5th
degree beyond the cusp of the angle of the earth in Capricorn, South
Latitude, which signified the killing of the Roman Emperor; and
acquainted him with it, for his court at ‘Grossietti’ and I at
‘Forlirii’; and it was found that
‘Pandulfus de Farsenella’ and ‘Theobaldus Franciscus’, and divers others
of the secretaries had conspired to slay him, and none of his own
Astrologers observed it, because they did not believe that Mars was in an
Angle, for he was 4 degrees beyond the cusp and 58 minutes in their
opinion; however, after a Planet shall be removed from the cusp or line of
any angle full 5 degrees or more, he is to counted Cadent from that
Angle.”
|
|
The 59th is to Consider, Whether
the significator be behind the cusp of an angle 15 degrees and no more;
for he shall be said to be in an Angle as well as he that is exactly
there, as ‘Zael’ affirms; whence he said before that it was not in an
Angle, nor had any strength there beyond the 1 5th degree after the cusp
of the Angle: For example, the Ascendant is 4 degrees of Taurus, and the
end thereof was behind the Angle, whatever planet is posited from the 4th
to the 19th degree thereof is in the angle, but what is beyond that is
not; but Ptolemy seems to imitate, though he says not expressly,
“that every planet who shall be 5 degrees before, or 25 degrees after the
cusp, is in the Angle.” Now
‘Zael’ would clear the doubt,
lest that great distance of the planet from the Angle should hinder the
business.
|
|
The 60th is to Consider,
Whether the significator be in a Sign fixed, common, or moveable; because in a fixed Sign he signifies
stability and countenance of the thing begun, or to be undertaken, or enquired of, In a common Sign, a change with a return or
repeating of it, that the same will once be broken off, and afterwards
begun again, or something added, or other alteration happen; for which reason in
things that require alteration, as buying, selling, or the like, we should put the
Significator and Moon, or one of them, into a common sign, but in a moveable Sign it signifies a
sudden change, a quick despatch or end whether good or evil. And therefore
in matters where we desire a sudden conclusion, we ought to put the
Significator in moveable Signs; but things that we desire should be fixed
and endure, we ought to place them in fixed Signs, there we would have a
mean, let them be in common Signs, understand the same always of the
nature of the Moon, if at any tine that canst observe it.
|
|
The 61st is to Behold, Whether
the Lord of the Ascendant or Moon, be with the Dragon’s Head or Tail; for
that is an impediment in all affairs, and the hindrance or mischief wilt
proceed from a cause simplified
by that House the Dragon’s Head or Tail hurts, unless it be corporal for they have no Aspect or Opposition. And it is worse when the
Significator or Moon goes
towards them, than when they go from them; for in the first case is
signified the mischief in its
full height, like a man in a ship that is split in the sea, when there is
no hope. But in the last, ‘tis like a ship that is only in danger, but has hopes
and probabilities of escaping. And note that when the significator or Moon
goes to the Dragon’s Head, its
malice is augmented, for its nature is to increase, and when they go to
the Tail, the mischief is not
absolutely at the worst, as ‘tis when they go from it, that is, within one
degree; for from one degree forwards ‘tis not so great as in that degree,
although much; and from 1 degree to 3 degrees less, and from 4 degrees to
5 degrees yet less, and from 5 degrees to 7 degrees very small; from 7 degrees to 9
degrees smaller, and from thence to 12 degrees little or nothing at all.
|
The 62nd is to Consider,
Whether the Moon be void of course? For that signifies that the thing
enquired after shall scarce ever come to a good end, and not without
much labour, sorrow, and
trouble, unless the Lord of the Ascendant or significator of the thing,
shall be in very good
condition, and then it may be hindered, but not wholly frustrated; yet
‘tis a good time then for drinking, bathing, feasting, &c., and to use
ointments for taking away of hair, especially if she be in Scorpio.
|
|
The 63rd is to Consider, Whether
the Moon be far from the Conjunction of the Infortunes, so as not to cast
her beams on theirs, for then the event will be good, but rather if she
touch with her beams those of the Fortunes. And yet better, if besides
this the Lord of the Ascendant, or of the business, be in good condition; for if they be not
well disposed, it may impair
the good promised, but not wholly prevent it.
|
|
The 64th is to Consider, Whether
the Moon be in Cancer, Taurus, Sagittarius, or Pisces; for it signifies
good in the business, although she be joined to the Infortunes and not to
the Fortunes; nor does she, being void of course, prejudice so much in
those places as elsewhere,
provided she be not Combust, for then they will advantage her little or
nothing.
|
|
The 65th is to Consider,
Whether the Lord of the Seventh is afflicted or not? For that will be
an impediment to the business.
And you ought to defer judgment if you can, and warily search always
whence such impediment shall arise, as well by the Conjunction of the Lord
of the Seventh with the
Planets, as by their separation, and also of the Moon; so may’st thou find whence it will proceed, and afterwards give judgment with more
safety.
|
|
The 66th is to Consider, When
the Infortunes threaten mischief, whether the place on which their threats fall, be the Dignity of
any of the Fortunes? And whether such Fortune behold the same place by
Trine or Sextile? For then it will take away the mischief and annul it
wholly. If by a square, it will only lessen it; if by an Opposition, take
away some part of it; but if it cast no aspect at all, the mischief will
happen; but it will proceed from honest, just, persons, and it will be the
Querent suffers rightfully, being cast in a just cause before a Judge, or
the like. But if the aforesaid place be the Dignity of an Infortune, the
prejudice will come from unjust men, false witnesses, a corrupt Judge, or
some sentence unjustly given through a mistake, &c.
|
|
The 67th is to Consider, Whether
there by any Eclipse near, which is less than 12 degrees from the
Significator? For the same will bring damage and mischief to the Querent
or business, unless there be a Fortune which hath Dignities in the same
place, for then the same is abated; but if there be no such, thou oughtest
to look what Planet beholds the said place of the Eclipse and how. For if
the Fortunes behold it, they do but augment the evil; and if they are
Infortunes, they lessen and abate it, which seems a kind of riddle or
wonder in Art.
|
|
The 68th is to Consider, In questions relating to sick people, or
Decumbitures, Whether the
Lord of the Seventh, and the Seventh House itself, be free from
Impediments? For if they
be, the sick may safely trust himself to the care of the Physicians, for
medicines will do very
well. But if the Seventh House and its Lord shall be Afflicted, Ptolemy
saith “The
Physician must be changed, for neither his physic nor care will do any
good”; for the
seventh signifies the medicine as ‘Zael’ saith; or at least the disease
grows chronical and
lasting. The like is to be expected if the same positions happen at the
beginning of any cure.
|
The 69th is to Consider,
Whether the significators of the Ascendant, and of the House
signifying the thing enquired, be of equal strength and debility? For
then thou canst not
safely give judgment: but in such case thou must mind the Lord of the
Conjunction or
Prevention (as the thing is either conjunctional or preventional) which
was last before, and
by that judge, but if the Lord of the Conjunction or Prevention, and of
the things, be still
equal, thou must then turn to the Moon, and see to whom she first
applies, and thence deduce judgment. If she join not to
any in or from the Sign in which she is, take that with whom she joins first in the next
Sign, and this is very considerably useful.
|
|
The 70th Consideration is, To
mind another secret; not well searched into by Astrologers, but often
times doing them much prejudice; that is, see in all Questions, etc.,
whether the Lord of the New or Full Moon, preventional last before, be in
any of the Angles of the thing
enquired after; if it be, it denotes that the business will be
accomplished, unless it be the Querent’s own fault (or that God overrule
against it),though perhaps by other significations it seemed not likely. But if it shall
not happen so but only the same is in the Ascendant; and the other significators that is, The
Lord of the Ascendant of the thing enquired of and the Moon, or any of
them assist, the thing well be done with ease. If it be in Cadent Houses,
it will scarce ever be, though other significators seem never so
favourable; and if two at least
of them be not so, take it for certain it will never be done.
|
|
The 7lst is to Consider whether
the Significators falls between the Ascendant and the Twelfth, for that
signifies continuance or length of time, when a thing will be done; or if
done already, how long it will continue in days or hours. If between the
twelfth and the tenth, it notes half-weeks; between the tenth and seventh,
months or weeks; between the seventh and fourth, years; and between the Fourth and the Ascendant, half
years.
|
|
The 72nd is to Observe, That if
the question be of a journey, and the Moon afflicted, it is not safe to undertake it; but if it
cannot be put off, make the Planet that afflicts her, Lord of the Ascendant at the time of the
Querent’s setting forth.
|
|
The 73rd is to Mind, Whether the
Questions signify good or evil? If good, whether the Fortunes behold the
Significator of the Question, or the Moon? For then the good Fortune
thereof will be increased: but if the Infortunes cast their beams, as much
or more diminished. But if it originally signify evil, and the Infortunes
behold the Significator or Moon, as aforesaid, the evil threatened will be increased and becomes
much worse.
|
|
The 74th is to Consider, Whether the Significator be in his first
station, going to be Retrograde? For
that signifies crossness and disobedience, and that the matter, though
never so probable, will not be accomplished. If any work or
building be then begun, it will not be finished. And if such Significator,
so asserted, be then under the earth, such building shall not be raised to
any purpose in thirty years, and then not finished; and if it be raised a
little then, it will be a raising thirty years more. And if not then
completed, it will not be completed
till ninety years after its first; and if not then, it will never be
finished, unless the property be
altered, and come into the possession of strangers from its former owners.
But if the Significator be in his second station, going to be
direct, it notes that the affair will be done, but slowly, intricately,
and with pains and trouble. And if an edifice be then begun, it will be finished; not so soon as was
first believed, provided the Significator be not under the earth;
for then he that begins it shall never make an end of it, nor raise it
very high above the earth.3
3
NOTE BY LILLY:
“And note A Planet in
his second station signifies an aptness, and the renewing and strength of
everything; but in his first station, dissolution and destruction.
Remember and understand these thing well, for they will often come in
practice.”
|
The 75th is to
Consider, Whether the Moon be afflicted by any Planet? For then,
whatever the question be, the same will suffer impediment. But if the
Moon be in a good place from the Ascendant, so as to behold it with a
Trine or Sextile, or if the Planet that afflicts her do behold the same. Either of these Aspects will mitigate the mischief
intended, and it may be,
wholly take it away, as the said afflicting Planet is disposed; so that
he be not Cadent from angles, nor from the Ascendant, nor in his fall;
that is with the seventh from is own House. ‘Zael’ seems to say That
is an Infortune afflicting be cadent from the Ascendant, or Retrograde,
it causeth fear in the Querent; but I always fear the affliction of the
Moon above all other Impediments, and scarce Remember that I ever saw a
good end of anything where she was afflicted and in journeys, if to war,
was apprehensive of the Querent ‘s care and person; if for traffic, of
straits, quarrels, sadness in his travels, and loss of money, &c.
|
|
The 76th is to Consider, From
what Planet the Moon separates, and which she is joined to; he whom she separates from signifies what hath been, the other what is
to come, as we have said. And therefore, if she separates from an
Infortune, and applies to a Fortune, the worst is past; and what hitherto has been had,
will end happily to the Querent’s content. But if she separates from a
Fortune, and goes to an Infortune, understand the contrary, the thing was
good in the beginning, but proves naught in the end. If from a Fortune to
a Fortune, is was and is good,
and will have a laudable end. If from an Infortune to an Infortune, it
will be an ugly conclusion.
[This Consideration is in the doctrine of ‘Translation.’ Translation of
the light and nature of a planet when a planet separates from one that is
slower than itself, and overtakes another either by conjunction or aspect.
In horary astrology it is a good omen if the aspect be good; but if by an
evil aspect, it is said to denote evil or difficulty when the event comes
to pass. Thus, if a question of marriage a light planet translates the
light of the lord of the 7th House to the Lord of the Ascendant, it is a
good omen, if it be by good aspect, and denotes that a person answering
the description of such translating planet will bring the parties together, and they
will be eventually happy. If it be by evil aspect, it will be done either
from ill motives or will be attended with much trouble and
disappointment.]
|
|
The 77th is to Consider,
Whether the Lord of the Ascendant or Moon be in Opposition, that is,
whether the Moon be in Capricorn, Mercury in Sagittarius or Pisces, or
Venus in Scorpio or Aries, the
Sun in Aquarius, Mars in Taurus or Libra, Jupiter in Gemini or Virgo,
Saturn in Cancer or Leo; for then such Lords of the Question abhor the
business; nor does he love it
should be accomplished, but is rather against it.
|
|
The 78th is to Consider, The
House that signifies the thing whereof the Question is asked. For the First signifies the Person, the
second, substance, the third, brethren, etc., as we have before taught, and as it shall appear,
so judge; having duly pondered all circumstances.
|
|
The 79th is to Consider, Whether
the Significator, or Moon, be joined to good or ill planets, by Conjunction or by Aspect, which is
diligently to be heeded and distinguished; for a corporal conjunction with the Sun is
the greatest misfortune can befall a Planet.
|
|
The 80th is to Consider, How the
Significator is posited in respect to his own House, whether in the
second, third, or fourth, &c., sign, from it, according to the
Signification of that sign shalt thou judge, as thou wouldest judge of any
Planet in such an House from the Ascendant.
|
|
The 81st is to Consider, Whether
the Significator be in an Angle or in a Succeedent or Cadent House? For how much any Planet
is near to the cusp of any Angle so much is he the stronger: how much farther so much the weaker; and by how much sooner he
shall be nearer the cusp of a Cadent House, so much shall he be the
weaker; how much the farther, so much the less weak.
|
|
The 82nd is to Consider, Whether
the Significator receive disposition or virtue from any Planet, Fortune or
Infortune. If from a Fortune it signifies good; and the better if such Fortune be in a good condition.
If from an Infortune, to the contrary; and so much the worse by how much
the more weak and afflicted he is.
|
|
The 83rd is to Consider,
Whether the Fortunes and Infortunes are equally strong in the Question:
for that signifies no positive judgment, either good or ill; but a kind of
indifferency, and that the business will bring neither gain or loss.
|
|
The 84th is to Consider, Whether
the Fortunes or Infortunes are strongest; for if both be strong, and the
Fortunes prevail in strength, it signifies a kind of mediocrity of good;
if the Infortunes in such a case
are strongest, a mediocrity of evil not in excess on either side.
|
|
The 85th is to Consider, Whether
the Part of Fortune fall in a good or bad place of the Figure; that is in
an Angles, or in a Succeedent or in a Cadent House; and how the same is
aspected, and by whom, a Fortune or an Infortune? And whether it be in
reception of that Planet by whom it is aspected? For questions may
sometimes seem good but the Part of Fortune happening in an untoward
Place, weakens it much and renders it less profitable so as to deceive the Querent’s hopes. And
on the contrary a question may seem ill, yet the Part of Fortune happening luckily, joined with a good Planet that receives it,
&c., lessens the evil, and not
so much happens to the Querent as the Figure otherwise seems to threaten.
|
|
The 86th is to Consider, Whether
either of the Infortunes behold the Significator both Retrograde, Cadent,
Peregrine, and in signs contrary to their respective natures? For then they bring such an absolute
mischief as cannot be avoided, nor averted by anything but God alone. And
if any shall be born under such positions, he will always be a beggar, let
him do what he can; if any House
be built then, no man shall ever live happily, or get money in it; but by
losses and crosses his estates and goods shall moulder away, and come to
nothing; and his most probable designs strangely frustrated and destroyed,
unless the Divine Goodness in mercy interpose.
|
|
The 87th is to Consider,
Novenarium Lunae, which is a thing much to be heeded, for it often hinders
the Astrologer from discovering the truth, and leads him into error, not
knowing the cause that makes him deceive.
|
|
The 88th is to Consider, The
Planet from whom not only the Moon separates, how he is disposed, &c., but
the next to whom she is joined, so that there be not above 51 minutes
distance between them, the first signifying what is past, the second what
is now present, as we have already said, and also look to whom she will
next be joined after separation from him with whom she is at present; for he will signify (according as he is
disposed) the issue, or what is
to come.
|
|
The 89th is to Consider, The
Duodenariam Lunae, a thing that is observable in many cases, even more than divers things that we
have said; for there is greatest danger of mistakes in abstruse
considerations, and such as Astrologers rather sloth than ignorance, do
not regard; whereby they often fall into disgrace and contempt of the
rabble, rather than take a little pains.
|
The 90th is to Consider,
Whether the Lord of the House in which the Sun is, and of that wherein
the Moon is, and also the Lord of the Ascendant be all oriental and in
Angles (though that rarely happens), and mutually behold each other from
good places with friendly Aspect; for these positions shall signify the
greatest good, and most superlative future imaginable. If they shall not
be all so disposed, the remaining part shall signify prosperity and
felicity proportionally as far as they are able, though not in so vast a
measure.
|
|
The 91st Consideration is, To
observe in Questions or Nativities, whether Mars be in any of the Angles of the Figure, especially in Fixed Signs; or when Scorpio
Ascends, for then he destroys all the good signified by that question, or
at least much impedes and diminishes it; Unless Jupiter behold him with a Trine
or Sextile; for then his malice is mitigated; but yet as Jupiter is either strong or weak.
|
|
The 92nd is to Observe in
Nativities and Questions especially of death, whether the Lord of the House of Death, or Significator of
Death, Lord of the House in which the Lord of the Eighth is posited,
applies to the Significator of the Native or Querent, or he to them;
because a Planet so affected becomes the destroyer of Life, and kills as
well if it be a Fortune as an
Infortune, and that whether there be a Reception or not.
|
|
The 93rd is to Consider, If the
Question concerns a thing that one would desire of another, or that one
would get out of a secret hidden place, whether the Significator of the
Querent, or thing inquired
after, behold Saturn or is corporally joined to him; or whether Saturn be
in the house of the thing
inquired after? For then the business will hardly be done, or not without much labour and trouble, and more tediousness than the Querent
can imagine.
|
|
The 94th is to Consider, In
Questions, &c. whether the Significator of the thing inquired about be
Cadent from the Ascendant, or other Angles, or from the house that
signifies the thing or business sought after, or its Lord? Or whether he
be Retrograde, or in a bad condition with the Sun, or whether there be in
the said house, signifying the thing inquired after, a Planet Cadent, or
Retrograde, or in such ill condition with the Sun, or in an ill place from
him, or ill aspected by him; for any of these things signify a hindrance
to the thing, although otherwise the Question seems good and probable.
|
|
The 95th is Whether the Planets
signifying the thing sought, join mutually with each other; for that
signifies it will be done; yet, be not too confident to judge so, till
thou hast well weighed the nature of the sign wherein they are joined,
whether it be of their own nature; for then it will be easy, otherwise
difficulty; or scarce at all.
|
|
The 96th is to Consider in
Questions which seem to show, that what is enquired after shall be
perfected, whether the Significator of the thing, and the Moon are in
Angles; for if they both be
above 25 degrees from Angles, it will not be accomplished; but if one
shall and the other shall not be
so far off, then it may be done but with difficulty, unless it be a
journey; which will speed well
enough if the significator be remote from Angles.
|
|
The 97th is to Consider, in what climate thou receivest the
Question; for judgment must be varied as the ascensions of countries and
climates differ, there being not the order in the ascensions or elevations
of signs, in one climate as in another, nor the same Ascendant in one
region as in another.4
4
NOTE BY LILLY.‘Beware
therefore of a mistake here, for it will be very unhandsome and
blameworthy; for whatever part thou travellest towards, from one region to
another, whether from the East to the West, from the North to the South,
or contrarily, your Ascendant will be changed from one degree from East to
West in Longitude and e contra, and from the North to South, and the
contrary. But some jocund fools or monks, in their cups, may arise and
say, If your judgments are changed according to the situation of Nations
they are false. But there is no talking to such brutes, they neither
understand nor believe, nor is anything probable to them: Yet there are
some very learned men amongst them, such as ‘Contradus Brixiensis, ‘a
preaching Friar, who excellently understands Art and practiseth it
honestly. Want of heeding what I have said hath made
|
|
The 98th is to Observe, Whether
if what appears by the sign likely to be effected, be signified by the
planets by corporal conjunction, or aspect or translation of Light? If
either of the two, first the
thing will be effected by the Querent, and the party enquired of, without any third person intermeddling;
but if by the last it shall be done by ambassadors, friends, or some person interposing himself; and
it shall be brought to pass by a person or thing signified by that House whose Lords translate the lights as aforesaid.
Thus if it be the Lord of the
second, it will be done by expenses, or a piece of money; and if by the
third, by some brother or the
like; if by the fourth, by the Father, &c., according to the respective
signification of each House.
|
The 99th is to Consider well
In Questions, Nativities, &c., what will certainly come of them; for
sometimes by the Figure, a thing seems likely to be absolutely done; but
is not wholly, but in part; sometimes it is wholly perfected, and
sometimes neither wholly nor in part: upon which account astrologers are
often blamed, and scarce know how to excuse themselves, not knowing how
this comes to pass, being a difficult point, and of a most subtle
disquisition; so that the ancients would not meddle with it save only
the most honoured ‘Albumazar’ said something more than the rest, whose
judgments I have found more efficacious and correct than others, though
‘Ptolemy’, the great explainer of this science, must be acknowledged
more curious than the rest. Now that which I say is the consideration of
certain Fixed Stars:
COLEY Notes —Note that these fixed
stars are now removed many degrees forward in the Ecliptic than they
were in the time of Bonatus; in respect of Longitude, which ought to be
carefully considered by the industrious Astrologer, which I shall name,
whereof some are of the nature of the Fortunes, and perfect those things
with them not likely to be Fortunes, and perfected by the significations
of the Planets; others are of the nature of the Infortunes, which suffer
not things to be perfected according to the Planets’ significations: of which latter there are some in every
sign,as in Bonatus’s time there were two in the Head of Aries that is
one, in 13°45’ the other in 14°45’, and are southern, and of the nature
of Saturn and Mars. In Taurus are six stars, the first in 9°55’; the
Pleiades, which yet are called and counted but as one, and are of the
nature of Mars: and the Moon; another in 13°02’ another in J4045 called the Devil, another in
15, another in the belly of Taurus, 19°15’ called Aldebaran, which are
all of the nature of Mars and Mercury. In Gemini there is one in 8°,
called the “Shoulder of the Dog, “of the nature of Mars and Saturn;
another in 10°15’ of the nature of Mars called the “Warrior”; another in
17°15’; another in 18°52’, called “the Witch, “ of the nature of Sun and
Mars In Cancer, there is one in 2°03’, called the Camel, of the nature
of Saturn and Moon; another in 7°55’; another in 13°, called the Western
Camel, of the nature of Sun and Moon; another in the same degree, called
the “Foot of the Dog, “of the nature of Saturn and another in 17°55’ of
the same nature. In Leo there is one
Astrologers to err, and I doubt doth so still, for right
judgments cannot be given but by the Ascendant and other Houses, and
therefore, if these vary, those must do so too. Therefore you should
have Tables
of Elevation
for every Climate and Region; yet ‘tis more difficult to find out the
difference of one climate from another, than of one Region or country
from another, according to the Longitude; for if thou hast tables of the
elevation of the signs in any region from East to West, thou mayst by
guess find the elevation in another, which way thou pleases!, either
towards the East or West, according to the same climate, by taking the
difference, but in divers climate thou canst not so easily conjecture.”
in 15°55 ~ of the nature of Saturn.
In Virgo two, one in 7°11’ of the nature of Mars, and the other in 15°, of
the nature of Saturn. In Libra one in 26°, of the nature of Saturn. In
Scorpio three, one in 1°01’; another in 8°07’, another in 9°, all of the
nature of Mars. In Sagittarius two small ones, one in 19°52’ the other in 21°02’ of the nature of
Saturn. In Capricorn two, one in
27°02’, the other in 29°05’, both of the nature of Saturn. In Aquarius one
in 9°04’of the nature of Mars and Saturn. In Pisces one in 4°07’ of the
nature of Mars and Mercury. All these stars are hurtful and malevolent,
hindering and destroying things after they seem probable to be
accomplished, and therefore to be avoided as much as possible. Here ‘twill
not be superfluous but very convenient to insert a table of the fixed
stars that have small latitude, is they are now placed, or rectify them
for some succeeding years.”
|
|
The 100th Consideration is, To
observe the Fixed Stars assisting and promoting the accomplishment of
things, which are thus situated. In Aries there are two, one in 5°06’, of
the nature of Jupiter and Venus, another in 26°0l’ of the nature of
Jupiter. In Taurus three, one
in the l°03’, another in 8°07’, and the last in 9°0l’, all of the nature
of Venus. In Gemini are two stars one in 19°02’, the other in 21°08’, both of the nature of
Jupiter and of the second magnitude. In Cancer likewise two, one in 2°02’,
the other in 29°05’, both of the nature of Jupiter. In Leo one in 9°04’,
of the nature of Jupiter and Venus. In Virgo one in 4°07’, of the nature
of Jupiter and Moon. In Libra two, both of the nature of Jupiter and
Venus, one in 13°45’, the other in 14°45’. In Scorpio four, one in 9°55’,
another in 13°01’, a third in 14°45’, the last in 19°15’, all of the
nature of Jupiter. In Sagittarius two, one in 10°15’, the other in 7°55’,
both of the nature of Jupiter. In Capricorn three, one in 2°03’, another
in 7°55’, both of the nature of Jupiter. In Pisces two, one in 7°11’ of
the nature of Venus, the other in 14°59’ of the nature of Jupiter. Wherefore always
when thou findest the
signification in a corporal conjunction with anyofthese, thou mayst
pronounce happiness and a good end.
|
|
The 101st Consideration
is, To mark in Nativities or Questions, which Planet is the cutteroff
of life or years, or hinderer of a thing from being done; for he it is who
destroys the life of the Native, &c., who is strongest in testimonies of dignities or
power. Yet Messabala concealed this, and discovered the secret only to a
certain scholar of his, who out of pride appropriating the same to
himself. Now after thou hast found who is this destroyer, &c., then see to
whom the Lord of the Ascendant or the Moon is joined (who participates in
signification of everything, as we have said before), or the Lord of the
thing enquired after, and the
Lord of the house of the Moon, or one or more of them; for if it be joined
to a planet Retrograde or Combust, or cadent from the Ascendant, or any other Angles,
or to any of the Infortunes who
doth not receive him; or is afflicted by an Infortune, which cuts off the
light of the significator: the
thing is destroyed, and so the years of the Native are diminished and he lives not long. Further, If
the Lord of the Ascendant, or the Moon, or the Lord of the thing enquired
after, be joined to a Planet who is free from the conjunction of the
Infortunes, and so safe as to himself but is joined to another Planet
afflicted, some of the aforesaid
ways, the matter shall be brought to nought, even after it seems
accomplished, and the Native” life shall be suddenly cut off, when there is all the
probability that may be of the contrary: and this will also happen though
there be no conjunction with the killing Planet, if only the significator or
Moon be afflicted in manner aforesaid.
|
|
The 102nd Consideration is, of
things signified, how they shall be found or known, and from what
significator they are to be taken? Which must be from the significators of
the querent, and of the thing
Questioned or enquired after: which two significators, if they shall be joined together with the
Moon it signifies wholly and absolutely the effect of the thing; if not joined, then the contrary. And from
the conjunction of the significators we ought to know why, or by what the
question is made. And by the Lord of the House in which such conjunction
happens, we know of what the question will be, or the end thereof~ for if
that be a Fortune it will be good, according to the conditions and
signification of such Fortune, and the House wherein he is, and
signification of the place in which the Lord is posited of that House
wherein itself is. But if it be an Infortune, it will be bad, according to
the signification of the Infortunes, and such other positions as
aforesaid. If the Lord of the House or Exaltation, or of any two smaller
Dignities, casts an aspect, or there be a translation of light, you may know by
that the question shall be brought to pass: but if there be none of these it cannot be precisely known, but it will be by or from
a cause not yet discovered: and by the aspects of the fortunes or
Infortunes may be known what will be the effects.
|
|
The 103rd Consideration is, To
mind in Nativities and general Questions in what House the Part of Fortune happens; for from the
things signified by that House will the Fortune or gain of the Native or Querent arise, if the same be well disposed, otherwise
the same will be cause of his misfortune and loss.
|
|
The l04th Consideration, To
observe in Nativities and general Questions whether the significator of
the Native or Querent be posited in the Seventh from his own House, or the
Opposition to the Lord of the Ascendant: for be will not in such case
signify gain from the things
signified by that House, but rather expense and loss.
|
|
The l05th Consideration is, To
observe in Nativities or general Questions, whether that an Infortune,
unfortunate be in the Seventh? for that signifies that the Native or
Querent shall not live in peace or any delight with his wives,
sweethearts, or companions, but will perpetually have brawls and quarrels
with them: it seldom happens otherwise from such a position.
|
|
The l06th Consideration is, To
consider in Nativities and general Questions, it a Fortune fortunate, and
in no way afflicted be in the Seventh? for then the Native or Querent
shall be happy in good wives and associates, yet shall have many rivals
and persons that hate him, but rather out of envy than cause, so that he
shall seldom bring his enterprises and designs to pass, without much
labour and trouble.
|
|
The 107th is, To consider in
Nativities and general questions, whether Mars be in the Second or in the Tenth, and
well disposed; for it denotes that the Native or Querent shall gain a
Fortune or Estate by those
persons that deal or work in Iron and Fire, as Smiths, Furnacemen,
Glassmen, etc.: or in Victualling or keeping Inns, Taverns, etc.: but if
Mars be weak or afflicted, loss and damage from all those.
|
|
The 108th
Is To Consider, If neither of the Planets beholds two Houses? For his
virtue and fortitude shall be in that wherein he hath most dignities, and
which is most proper for him, and the thing he signifies.
|
|
The 109th Is, To consider
whether the Lord of the Fifth be in the Seventh afflicted? For then the
Native will never be happy at Feasts or Banquets; either be averse from or
slighted at such meetings, or some affront put upon him; never be happy at
Feasts or Banquets; either be averse from or slighted at such meetings, or
some affront put upon him; nor will he ever go neat in his clothes, nor
get any credit by them.
|
|
The 110th is,
To consider in Nativities, whether Scorpio ascends? For such a Native is
never like to get any great preferment in the Roman Church: because Cancer
(the Exaltations of Clerks
(priests, parsons, &c., &c), will then be in the Ninth House, which
signifies the Church, and Jupiter is an enemy to Mars, who is Lord of the
Ascendant.
|
|
The 111th is, to consider in
Nativities and Questions especially of Lawsuits and controversies, whether
the Dragon’s Tail be in the Seventh? For that signifies damage or
overthrow to the Native’s enemies and prosperity to the Native or Querent,
because the Dragon’s Head will then be in the Ascendant. If it be in the
8th it denotes the decay and loss of their estate or substances, and
increase of the Native’s. In the third, prejudice to the Native’s brethern.
In the fourth, to the Parents.
In the fifth, to his children. In the sixth, to his servants. In the
ninth, to his journeys. In the
tenth to his preferment. In the eleventh, to his Friends. In the twelfth,
to his cattle of the greatest sort, &c. and so to all other things
signified by each House respectively: so do Saturn and Mars also, but not
so much. Likewise ‘tis observable that other ill positions may make void
the said significations, but not so much as Saturn and Mars, unless they
themselves are significators of the mischief, and then much of their malice is abated.
|
|
The 112th is strictly to examine
and regard in every Nativity or Question, the Ascendant; for whosoever
shall have ‘Virgo’ ascend and Mercury in good condition, or at least not
afflicted; if he study and practice Physic he shall have success and do
great cures, but shall be unhappy in his salary or profit thereby; not
being able to get his fees of most of his Patients; and besides, shall be
unhappy in Lawsuits. But if he follow the law, he shall be unfortunate in
all his business, and slighted; his words, though never so prudent, not regarded, no not by
them for whose advantage he
speaks, but a fool’s discourse preferred, and whatever he meddles in shall
turn out untoward, and people be his enemies without cause, and asperse
and scandalize him, but they know not why. But far otherwise will it be if
Sagittarius, Taurus, or Pisces
ascend and Jupiter, Venus and Mercury, shall be in the Ascendant, or if
Jupiter and Venus shall happen to be in ‘Zaminium, or the heart of the
Sun, whatever the Ascendant be the native shall be admired as a Prophet,
and all his words received as
Oracles, or the distates of destiny.
|
|
The 113th Is To Consider,
Whether either of the Infortunes be in the IXth House, and with out
Dignity? for then the Native or Querent shall be often blamed and accused,
and that without cause, as much as for one, But if a Fortune be there well
affected (especially having Dignity there) he shall on the other side be praised,
applauded, and honoured, whether there be cause or reason for it or no.
|
|
The 114th Is To Consider,
Whether the Lord of the Eighth be a Fortune, and in the Second? for then the Native or Querent shall gain considerably by the goods of
people deceased, of his enemies, and by his wives, especially if such
planet shall be free from Impediment or have Dignities there. But if an
Infortune be there, it signifies loss and decay of the Native’s estate,
unless he have dignities there and be otherwise well affected, and in good
condition, for then it will be little or no prejudice; but without dignities, and
in an ill state, it wholly and totally destroys and ruins all hopes of estate.
|
|
The 115th Is To Consider,
Whether the Eighth House, or it Lord be afflicted? For then shall the
Querent or Native be damnified, and lose an estate by the death of a wife,
which she enjoyed for life or the like.
|
|
The
116th Is, To Consider which of the Houses, or their Lords are
afflicted, or under impediment?
For that signifies that hurt and damage will accrue to the Native, by
reason of the things signified by that House; and soon the contrary, if
they are Fortunes, good and advantage from tile same things.
|
|
The 117th Is To Consider, If the
Dragon’s Tail be in the Fourth; for that signifies, that whatever the
Native or Querent shall get shall be squandered away, and come to nothing;
and wherever it is, it
signifies damage to the Native in and from that House represented.
|
|
The 118th Is, To consider in
what House a Fortune shall be fortunate and strong, well disposed, and not
afflicted; for in and by these persons or things by that House signified,
shall the Native or Querent
gain profit, and make his fortune; and so on the contrary of a House that
is afflicted.
|
|
The 119th Is To Consider, If
the Lord of the second be in the seventh, and the Seventh be in Aries,
Scorpio, Capricorn or Aquarius;
for then the Native’s enemies shall easily take away his goods and right; and if he associate himself
with persons,. they shall rob him: and his wife or mistress shall cheat
him, and steal whatever she can from him: unless the Lord of the Ascendant
be in Trine or Sextile to the
Lord of the Seventh, or in other aspects with reception.
|
|
The 120th Consideration is, To
observe whether the Lords of any of these Eight Houses, viz., the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 9th, 11th, or
12th, be in the 7th ? for
whichsoever of them is there, the person by him signified will prove the
Native’s enemy, unless a perfect reception, with some good aspect as Trine
or Sextile intervene. Yet a Square or Opposition with Reception will abate
the enmity, but not wholly prevent it. Thus if it be the Lord of the 3rd,
his Brethern will prove his enemies; if the 4th, his Parents; if of the 5th, his
Children, &c., nor shall he gain of or by them so much as he shall lose another time; or if any of them
sometimes appear kindly, it will be but from the teeth outward, and for their own ends, &c.
|
|
The 121st
is whether the Moon be in the 8th and the Lord of the Ascendant in the
Ascendant; 2nd, or 12th,
Retrograde? For then the Native or Querent will not be fortunate, nor have
any luck at playing at dice or any other gaming.
|
The 122nd is, Whether the Part
of Fortune be in the first 10 degrees of the 4th House, with the
Dragon’s Head, the Moon, Venus and Jupiter, and they direct? - for that
signifies that the Native shall be lucky in discovering and finding out
hidden treasure. If it be in the second 10 degrees, or but with two of
the said Planets, he shall find some, but not in so great quantity. In
the last 1 degrees, and with but one less, and yet a considerable
parcel; and if only the Part of Fortune be there not afflicted, then a small
quantity. If the Sun behold it with a Trine or Sextile, it will be Gold
uncoined; if the Moon, Silver; if Jupiter, a mixture of Gold and Silver,
&c. If Venus, precious stones, Lockets, and for the most part Women’s
Ornaments. But if they be Retrograde, he shall discover the treasure,
but not for himself, another shall get the profit. If the Lord of the
8th behold the Lord of the Ascendant with a square or Opposition, the
finder shall die by reason of it; but if it be with a Trine or Sextile,
he shall only catch some small disease or sickness. If the Dragon’s Tail
be there instead of the I-lead, he shall find it, but it shall be taken
from him; he shall find it, but it shall be taken from him; or being
ignorant what it is, he shall give it away almost for nothing; and if
the Moon be then separated from the Lord of the Ascendant and joined to
an Infortune that afflicts her, he to whom ‘tis so given shall have
little profit by it. If Mars or the Lord of the Eighth behold the Lord of the Ascendant,
they that take it from him shall kill him. But if Mars and Saturn shall
be in the place of Jupiter and Venus, the business will be only brass or
copper or lead, and if the Lord of the Ascendant be with them, the
discoverer is wearied with it, whatever it be, whether vile or precious.
|
|
The 123rd Consideration Is, To
observe in Nativities or Questions? Whether the Sun and Moon are in Conjunction in one and the same
minute, both according to Longitude and Latitude, and any of the Fortunes
in the Ascendant that is within 15’ above the cusp thereof, or 24’ below
it; for that signifies that the Native shall be happy in getting a great
estate and heaping up of money; but if they be only in exact Conjunction
to Longitude, and not according to Latitude, and their distance one from
the other be within 15’ he will still be fortunate in acquiring substance;
but so much the less, by how much the further such distance is and so
proportionately. If they happen to be above 15’ distance, the same thou mayst
conclude if the Moon shall be in the very minute of opposition to the Sun, and a Fortune be in the
seventh, which signifies the estate of the Querent or Native in respect of
his wives, companions, or enemies. And if at that time of birth Taurus
ascend, and the Moon be there, or the very minute ascending, or Leo
ascending, and the Sun in the minute ascending, and not afflicted by
either of the Infortunes, it signifies that the Native shall get much
money, and come to great preferment and honour; but either of the
Infortunes be in the said places instead of the Fortune, it denotes
loss and destruction of estate to the Native or Querent by or on the occasions aforesaid.
|
The 124th
Consideration Is, To regard in Nativities and Questions, the
Significators of the Querent’s and Native’s estate and also of his
preferment, calling or profession; which thou mayest take to be the Lord
of the Tenth, or of the Ascendant, if the other shall not be fit to
signify the same; for if the
Lord or Almuten of the l0th be with the Light of Time or erect and tall
from it, and distant 60
degrees or upwards even to 90 degrees ; if it be one of the Superiors,
or 30 degrees if it be on of the Inferiors, and in the Angle of the
Tenth, or in the Ascendant within 30 minutes above the cusp, or a degree and a half
below it, and not afflicted: it signifies that the Native shall attain to the Dignity and profession of his
Ancestors, and not exceed it, yet shall be more skillful, excellent, and
perfect therein than any of them; but if there be in either of the said
Angles any of tile aforesaid
helping and fortunate Fixed Stars with the Planet of Fortune or any of
the Planets, he will far surpass his forefathers in dignity. And if such
Fixed Stars shall be of the first Magnitude and sole Significators, the
Native or Querent shall be raised to cast honours and riches, almost
inestimable: which if beheld by the Lord of the Ascendant, then his fame
and honour lies in his own Person; if by the Lord of the 2nd, in his riches; if by the Lord of the 10th in his
offices, command, or empire;
and this though in never so poor and vile people; the meaner their
condition was, to so much the greater height shall they arrive. But this
shall not endure long, for they seldom go beyond 27 or 30 years. And
look, how much the more sublime was their fortune, by so much the more
grievous, miserable, and calamitous shall be their fall; for they shall
die an ignoble filthy death, or if they escape it, the same shall happen to
their next successor.
|
|
The l25th Consideration is, To
observe in Nativities or Questions what sign ascends: if it be the sign of a Planet that hath two Houses,
the exercise of troubles of the Native or Querent shall be chiefly in
those things signified by the other House of the said Planet, which shall
lightly happen to him and for the most part through his own means. As if
the Ascendant be in Aries, he shall be excused in those things as shall be
in the cause of his own death or fall because Scorpio the other House of
Mars will be then in the Eighth House: but if Mars be well disposed and
the Part of Fortune happen in the Eighth he shall be very fortunate in all
things signified by that House. If Taurus ascend he shall be exercised in
those things as shall cause his own weakness, because Libra which is the other House of Venus will
be then the Sixth House. But if Venus be well disposed, and Part of
Fortune in the Sixth, he shall be most lucky in things appertaining to the
Sixth House. If the Ascendant be
in Gemini he shall be exercised in such things as shall occasion his being
taken; because Virgo, Mercury’s other House, will be on the fourth; but if
Mercury be well disposed and Part of Fortune in the fourth, he will be
prosperous in things belonging to the Fourth House. If Virgo ascends, he will be exercised in
things that will gain him honour and power, because Gemini, Mercury’s other House, is in the tenth. If Mercury be then in Conjunction
with the Part of Fortune and in the Ascendant, he shall acquire as it were
a King’s revenue. But if Mercury be in the tenth with the Part of Empire,
fortunate and strong, he shall undoubtedly obtain a Kingdom or supreme
command; and if this Part of
Fortune and the Moon be also in the Tenth, he will be a mighty Prince
infallibly. If Libra ascend, he shall be exercised in things that shall
hasten his own death, because
Taurus the other House of Venus will be then in the Eighth. But if Venus be well disposed and the Part of Fortune in the Eighth he
will be lucky in things represented by the Eighth House: and so of any other sign. Scorpio ascending
the Native or Querent shall bring diseases on himself because Aries is the sixth. Sagittarius
ascending, he shall fool himself into captivity because Pisces is on the Fourth. Capricorn ascending, he
shall gain much by his industry, for Aquarius is then on the Second House.
But if Saturn be ill disposed he shall squander away and waste his own
substance idly. If Aquarius ascend he shall procure himself many secret
enemies. Because Capricorn will be than in the Twelfth House. If Pisces
ascend, he shall raise himself to honour, etc.
|
|
The 126th consideration is, To
take notice in Nativities and Questions, whether Mercury be significator
wholly or in part, fortunate and strong and in Capricorn or Aquarius? For
then the Native shall be of profound and piercing wit, and great
understanding; one that shall dive into the bottom of things, and see from
the beginning what the issue will be; and so much the more if Saturn
fortunate shall behold Mercury with a good aspect, especially if Mercury
be in Aquarius, which is the
delight of Saturn; and still more if a Fortune shall be with Mercury, and
he with one of the propitious
Fixed Stars. But if Mercury be in Aries or Scorpio, the Native will be
bold, Perfidious, inconstant, arrogant, and yet quick of apprehension;
rather nimble to repeat or find out things said by others than invent them
himself.
|
The 127th Consideration is, To
observe in Nativities, if the Lord of the Ascendant be Saturn or Mars,
and sole Lord of the Nativity, without any Fortune partaking in the
dominion, the taste or smelling of the native or his complexion shall
not be like those of other men, for if it be Saturn he shall delight in
sour or insipid things, as ‘Halion Otolemy’ avers; if it be Mars, in
sharp and bitter, flesh half stinking, wine dead, and pallid aloes,
snuffs of candles, dung, etc., as also with filthy, dirty, unhandsome women; more than in
others; or if it be a woman, in the homeliest men, &c.
|
|
The l28th Consideration is, In
Nativities, whether the Ascendant be a human sign or the Lord of it in a
human sign? For that signifies the native an honest, sociable, and
neighbourly man, more especially if both happen together. But if the
Ascendant carry the similitude of some creatures which men use to labour
with, as Aries, Taurus, the last part of Sagittarius and Capricorn, the
Native is very submissive and humble to men, yet very sociable. But if it
be a sign half-feral, as Cancer
and Pisces, he will be yet less sociable; but if it be feral, furious or
salvane sign, as Leo and Scorpio, he will be of a brutish
temper, delighting in the woods, hunting and living upon spoils and rapine; caring not to associate
himself with men, so that he seldome remains long with his own Parents or
nearest Relations.
|
|
The 129th Consideration is, To
observe in Nativities, whether the Moon be in Opposition to the Sun, with any of the stars called
“cloudy” which are ‘Althazaic’, and the “Head of Gemini,’ or in a place called ‘The Place
of Falling into the Water,’ which Aquarius spouts forth, or the drops of
the Lion, said to be near his
heart, and others which by reason of their mixture with each other do not
shine distinctly (nebulous stars). For when the Moon shell not be above 10
minutes’ distance from them,
according to Longitude and Latitude, it seems unavoidable that the native
shall have diseases in his eyes;
not to be remedied by any human help or medicine. If the Moon be then
Occidental in an Angle and Mars
and Saturn likewise Occidental, not far distant from her, or opposing the
Sun in any of the Angles: it
signifies that the native shall be blind of both eyes at his death; nor
does there appear any way
whereby it may be prevented; but if it be not of luminaries, but only one,
he shall lose but one eye, and if it be Sol and a man the right eye, if a
woman the left eye: but if it be the Moon and a man, the left eye; but if a
woman, the right eye.
|
|
The 130th Consideration, is, To
regard in Nativities whether the Moon be joined with Mercury by Body or
Aspect, or there be a translation of light by any planet between them? If
there be nothing of this and the sign ascending be neither of the nature
of Mercury or the Moon; and Saturn in a diurnal nativity and Mars in a
nocturnal, and one be in an Angle, the native will be mad, distracted,
troubled with fits, a fool or at
least exceedingly forgetful, unless a Fortune very strong shall at the
same time behold the Ascendant, Mercury, or the Moon; and so much the
worse if the Angle wherein such Infortune is, happen to be Cancer, which
is the exaltation of Jupiter, or Virgo the exaltation of Mercury, or
Pisces the exaltation of Venus. The reason is because the Moon in Nativities is the general Significatrix
of the native’s Person; and the Planet with whom she is joined of his faculties and powers; and
therefore if she be corporally joined or applying to such Planet, the native will prove of good understanding, and very well retain his
senses and intellectuals. And if Mercury be in Capricorn or Aquarius, not
afflicted, but in good condition, the native will be of an exceeding wit, and a great Philosopher,
and if Jupiter and Venus be in (Zamini Solis) he will prove a Hermit or
kind of Prophet, whose words shall be received as Oracles beyond those of
other men.
|
The 131st Consideration is, To
take notice of the Nativity of a man, whether the Sun and Moon be both
in Masculine Signs, or both in one Masculine Quarter or one Masculine
Sign; for if so, it signifies that the native’s acts and temper shall be
naturally such as belong to men. But in a woman’s Nativity, the
Luminaries so disposed, make a kind of Virago, one that shall despise
men, and obtrude herself into their affairs; and such a one, if she
marry, will be sure to wear the breeches. If Venus and Mars shall be
both in Masculine signs, the native will be moderately affected towards
the delights of Venus, and use them according to nature and law; but if
they happen to be Oriental,
he will be more fallacious and immoderate, inclinable to incest, sodomy, etc. But if they be Occidental and in
Feminine Signs, his spirits will be nasty and brutish; and so much the more, if Saturn cast any Aspect to them. But if it be a Woman, and
Mars and Venus Oriental and in Masculine Signs, she will ebhor men’s
embracds, and take no delight therein, but rather please herself with
some little wantonness with persons of her own sex. But if Mars and
Venus be in Feminine Signs and Occidental, she will love and take
delight in men’s kindness. And Ptolemy in his Centiloquium affirms, That
if Venus be joined with Saturn in a Nativity, and have Dignities in the Seventh, the Native shall be
somewhat faulty and untoward in his venereal caresses.
|
|
The 132nd is to mark in
Nativities, Whether Mars be corporally joined with a certain Fiery star of his own nature in Taurus,
called ‘Algol’, so that they are not above 16 minutes asunder, Mars applying thereunto and the Lord of the
House wherein the Luminary, for the time ruling is pointed, which is called the Lord ‘Anaubae’; or
of its Exaltation, and two others of its Dignities, and shall be in
Opposition or Square of Mars,
and neither of the Fortunes shall behold the Ascendant, nor be [pointed] in the 8th House; it undoubtedly signifies the native shall
be beheaded. And if Mars shall not be distant from it in Latitude above 6
minutes, it will infallibly happen so; not to be avoided but by God alone.
And though a Fortune, Retrograde, or Combust should behold the Ascendant,
yet it will scare preserve him from beheading: only in such cases it may
happen not to be occasioned by his own fault: for a Fortune in such a case
not impedited, may save him from such an ill death, and permit him to die
in his bed, but then it will be of some capital disease, proceeding from a hot house, and this
before he comes to be fifty years of age. But if Mars shall not be thus affected, yet if an Infortunate
be in the 8th, the Native shall come to an untimely or ignominious end;
but if a Fortune be there in good state, he shall expire naturally; but if
such a Fortune be afflicted, he
shall die of some mischance coming upon him.5
5
NOTE BY
LILLY: Ptolemy in his ‘Centiloquium’ tells us, ‘That if the Light of the
Time shall happen to be in the
Midheaven (I say
in the conditions aforesaid) such native shall be hanged! If either of the
Infortunes be in Gemini, and the other in Pisces, his hands or feet shall
be cut off according to the signification of the sign wherein the Planet
is posited which is most malevolent. If Mars be in conjunction with the
Lord of the Ascendant in Leo, and hath no Dignities in the Ascendant, nor
neither of the Fortunes in the 8th, the native shall be burnt to death;
and ~f Mars be then Retrograde, Combust, or in his Fall, it will be for
some crime, otherwise by mischance or unjustly. Ptolemy saith that, If
Saturn, in a Nativity, be in the mid-heaven and the Planets to which he is
“Aanauba” (a Dispositor) be in opposition to him, and a dry sign on the
cusp of the Fourth, the native shall be knocked on the head, or die by
some ruins falling on him; but if a moist sign be there he shall be
drowned; but if it be an human sign, he will be strangled. If Mars or
Saturn be in the Ascendant at birth,
and Peregrine, the native shall have a scar or mark on his head or face; if the
Infortune be afflicted, Combust or Retrograde, the same will be very
deformed, and much disfigure him, otherwise not.’
|
|
The 133rd consideration is To
mark in Nativities, whether Gemini or Sagittarius ascend, and whether its
Lord be well disposed, that is, fortunate and strong, and likewise the
Moon; for that signifies that
if the native live, he will get great riches. If Virgo or Pisces ascend
and its Lord or the Moon be well
affected, he shall get money and lay the same out well, and live
splendidly, being beloved for his generosity and bounty. But in the other
case where the Ascendant is Gemini or Sagittarius, he will not be so
liberal, but very frugal and sparing; besides, he who hath Gemini or
Virgo for his Ascendant may lose
his estate and come to want; but he that hath Sagittarius or Pisces shall never lose his means, nor fall
into poverty. If Aries, Scorpio, Capricorn, or Aquarius ascend, the native
will be miserably covetous. If Jupiter behold the Ascendant, he may
somewhat mitigate the sordid
humour, but will not wholly prevent or take it away.
|
The 134th is, To mind
in Nativities, whether Mars or Venus be in the Sixth, and likewise well
disposed? for that signifies that the native shall be not really fit for
Physic, and grow a perfect doctor in every part of the Art. If Mercury be in conjunction with Venus
and she Retrograde, he will make naturally a good singer; but if Mercury
be in the Twelfth not afflicted, he will be studious and famous in most
sciences, especially Philosophy.
|
|
The 135th consideration is, To
consider in Nativities, whether the Lord of the Ascendant and the Moon, and Jupiter, and Venus, are
either all in the Ascendant, or whether Jupiter and Venus behold the Lord of the Ascendant, and the Moon
in the Ascendant by a trifle or Sextile, and free from affliction? for then the native will prove very strong and courageous;
and none will dare to disobey
his commands.
|
|
The 136th consideration is, To
note in the Nativities of Kings and rich men, and such grandees as are fit to bear rule, whether both
Luminaries are in the Degrees of their Exaltations, or in their own Houses, in the dame degree one with the other, and free from
affliction? for this signifies that the native shall obtain great honours;
for he shall be made Emperor, or something like it; so that he shall be as
it were~ monarch of the world, which shall continue to the fourth
generation of his posterity. But
if all the Planets below Jupiter shall be disposed of by him and he shall
receive virtue from every one of
them, notwithstanding the condition aforesaid, and afternoon commit both
them, and himself to Saturn, and
both be Oriental from the Sun and in Angles, the native will be a person
of great renown and power,
although perhaps not with the title of king; but his fame shall endure for
a long time, that is to say ,
all his lifetime; and after his death from three revolutions of Saturn,
or Jupiter.
|
|
The 137th is, To see whether
Mercury be in conjunction with Saturn in the Ascendant? For that signifies that the natives is a foolish
talkative fellow, that would be counted wise; he shall speak ill of both men and
women; the greatest wit he hath is to invent lies; nor doth he ever open
his mouth, but something of
untruth appears intermixed with his discourse: so natural it will be for
him to tell lies, Saturn give
him a foul tongue, and Mercury a sharpness of malice to employ it.
|
|
The 138th is to see in
Nativities, Whether the two Infortunes are in the Fourth House, or whether
the Angles are possessed with moveable signs, and Mars and Saturn in them?
For then the native will be
poor, wretched, and unfortunate, above all others, all his lifetime,
unless Jupiter, of the Lord of the Triplicity ascending prevent.
|
|
The 139th is, To be careful,
both in Nativities and Questions, where the Dragon’s Tail is? For that signifies the wasting and
destruction of the thing signified by that House, especially if it relates
to gain, for in the 1st it signifies expenses, and loss of gain to the
Querent, from or by reason of his person: in the 2nd, construction, loss
by means of Brethern, Sisters, Neighbours, &c.: the 11th, damage that one
shall sustain by one’s Grandfather, Father-in-law, and such things
relating to Inheritances; and that the Native shall change Houses often,
and get little by it; in the 5th, damage from or by reason of children, in the
6th, loss by servants or small cattle; in the 7th, loss by women, Companions, or open enemies: in the
9th, loss by Religious men, and on the account of religion; in the 10th, by or in his preferments, honours, &c.: in the 11th, loss by
his friends, or for their sakes: and in the 12th, damage sustained by great Cattle, or by means of hidden
enemies.
|
The 140th consideration is, To
see whether the Significator of the thing in question, or the Moon be so weak that it cannot
bring the matter to perfection? And if they be, take the Significator of the Querent and thing
inquired after, and subtract the lesser from the greater, and add to the
remainder the degrees of the sign Ascending, and project what they
amount unto from the Ascendant, and observe where it happens; for the
Lord of that sign signifies what was enquired of and according to his conditions shalt thou give
judgment, as thou findest him fortunate and strong, or unfortunate and
weak. For if the business concern a man’s estate, and he be placed in
the Second, as he is; so shall the Querent’s estate prove; if in the
Third, the Brethren, Neighbours, etc., etc., will be disposed
accordingly; in the Fourth, those of greatest Relations; in the Fifth,
the Children; in the Sixth, Servants; in the Seventh, Wives; in the 8th
Wives’ portions; in the 9th , Long journeys; in the 10th , his preferments; in the 11th his
Friends; in the 12th , his
secret Enemies.
|
The 141st is to consider in
Nativities, The gifts and properties bestowed on men by the fixed Stars,
and how long they continue, together with the reason why they prove, not
lasting as those which proceed from the Planets, since it seems a little
probable that they should continue longer that those; of which I do not
remember to have met with anything in the Ancients, save only that
‘Ptolemy’ in his Centiloquim says, The fixed Stars sometimes confer
exceeding great benefits; but oftentimes they end will. And
‘Almensa’ in his Treatise to the Great King of the Saracens, says that
the Fixed Stars bestow notable
gifts, and raise from poverty to happiness and high degree more than any
of the seven planets: Now the reason that the gifts of the Fixed Stars
to men, abide with them than those given by the Planets is, because the
fixed stars being the Agents, and the men the Patients; the subject on which they
are to operate are not agreeable to them, nor are born to be able to receive their impression; for
it is requisite that there should be sonic conformity and likeness, or
agreeableness between the Agent and the Patient. But the fixed stars are
most slow in motion; and consequently in mutation, whence it comes to
pass that their impressions require subjects and patients of the same nature; that is
to say, such as are the most lasting, and carry a conformity with them to prefect or accomplish their
effects: For the Revolutions of the fixed Stars is finished, but in six and thirty thousand years, but
the “Viventhipolis” or life of man, generally exceeds not three
revolutions of Saturn: that is to say, the space of ninety years; very
few exceed that age, thought possibly some may by the addition of the
years of some Planets to the years of the “Alcocoden” in their
Nativities, which bears no conformity or proportion with 36,000 years to
complete the effects of their influences. And therefore as an Eagle
cannot exercise the complement of her flight or power on a Fly, nor a
Stone coming forth (a Sundra trabathi) do any great execution (in
Musciovem) no more can the Fixed Stars complete the effects of their
impressions; and therefore
their gifts of the good promised by them continue no longer with men,
because men are of so small a
duration, and subject to a swift mutability in respect of their Motion.
And upon this is that Aphorism grounded, that Advises to make use of
fixes Stars in the foundation of Cities, but of Planets in the erection
of Houses; because Cities are generally of the longest continuance
amongst corruptible things, and far more durable than particular Houses:
for these in respect of their individuals do not endure always,
whereas Cities remain by a successive building and rebuilding of Houses; and therefore though Castles are very lasting, yet are they
not equal in this respect to
Cities; so that although we may use the superior planets in elections
for building Castles, it is
better to take Fixed Stars; yet still because Cities are of longer
continuance than Castles,they are more appropriated to the fixed Stars,
whose Subjects they are. For the impression which a solid thing makes in
a more solid thing, continues much longer than that which it makes on a
less solid thing; and far less in a thing not solid, than a thing
somewhat solid; and yet less in a very slippery transient thing, than in a thing less
lubricous or changeable. Hence the impressions which the fixed Stars make on Cities are more correlative to them in length of
time, and accordingly those of Castles more durable than those of
Houses, for the same reason proportionally. But bodies of men are more
remote from those fixed stars than Houses themselves, and so more
corruptible; and for that acause their Significations apply less to
them, or if they happen, abide but little; the Significations of the
fixed Stars being so great and noble, so high and free from corruption
and mutability, that they cannot easily take upon them a variable
commixture with things quickly corruptible and suddenly changeable,
unless it be as oil on water; for though it may enter into it, yet such
impression will not long continue; for the fixed Lights operate with so
much nobleness, that by reason of their long distance from those vile
corruptible changeable bodies, and neighbourhood to the Supreme Light,
their effects cannot remain in or with them, when they are lightly or
suddenly changed and corrupted; especially in base people and mean spirits; for
they seldom trascend his person to whom they happen, and oftentimes
leave him whilst he lives, and that to his damage, so great that Good alone can prevent; as I affirm for the most part;
though ‘tis possible they may sometimes terminate in good and continue
long: As it hath sometimes happened that some have lived to the greatest
years of the Alcocoaen, of whom I never say but one in my time, who was
named Richard, who affirmed himself to have been a Courtier under
Charles the Great, King of France, and that he had lived 500 years. At
what time there was a report of one that had continued alive ever since our Saviour’s days
called ‘Johan Buttadeus’ because he had impolissed the Lord as he was led to be crucified, Who said to him, “Thou shalt expect, or wait
for me, till I come.” The aforesaid Richard I saw at Ravenna in the year
1223, and the said John is said to have passed through Florilivium, in
his journey to St. James’s at Compostella, in the year 1267. Nor could
the Significations of the fixed Stars be applied; or adhere to men nor
sensibly remain in them, unless there were some Medium by which they
might Act upon them which are the Planets, which are secondary Agents,
as the first are principal; for whenever there are divers actions in
order, attributed to several Agents, the principal act ought to be
referred to the principal Agent, which in respect of the effects on
corruptible things, was the primary Cause. And the Planets are Secondary: for that corruption which
those inferiors suffer, happens by reason of their too great distance
from the incorruptible superiors; yet their effects sometime continue
long in Grandees, and persons very rich, who are apt for Empire,
magnanimous, and of brave and excellent spirits; such as in my time was
the Emperor Frederick the Second; who when he was indigent and in great
necessity, was arrived to the
Imperial Dignity, and brought under his obedience all Apulia, the
Kingdom of Sicily, Jerusalem,
Crocovia, Italy and the whole Empire (except Lombard) subduing all
Enemies, Traitors and Rebels, and remained in that Illustratious
flourishing condition; yet at last died miserably, being poisoned by his domestics, and
all his family extirpated so that scarce any of them remained. Such an other was Ecilinus de Romano,
who when he was but mean, was far exalted above all other Italians, for
he ruled and, as it were, tyrannized over the Marquisate of Treves even
to Almaine and Trent, and
within four or five miles of Venice, and his Tyranny continued
twenty-six years; but at last all these glories were overcast with
calamity, for when it seemed impossible to suppress him, he fell into
the hands of his enemies at a battle in the Country of Mediolanensi apud
Cassianum, and died wretched, and all his posterity was destroyed, not
one of them remaining. In the same manner there was in the Kingdom of
Apulias of base descent, called Peter de Vinea: who when he was a scholar at Bononia was forces
to beg for his living, and had not bread to eat, yet was made a notary, and after that Protonotary of the Court of the Emperor
Frederick the Second; he became a Judge and climbed to such grandeur,
that he was happy that could obtain the least of his favour, for whatever he did the Emperor would
confirm; but himself would often set aside what had been established by
the Emperor, who made him Lord of Apulin; whereby he grew so rich, that
he had 10,000 pounds of Gold besides other Treasures almost inestimable;
yet in the end he fell, and was reduced to such misery, that the Emperor
ordered his eyes to be put out; enraged at which out of mere indignation
he struck out his own against a wall, as it was then commonly reported.
Another was at Pysa called Smerolus one of the drefs of the vulgar, who
came to be, as it is said, Lord of that Province: nor durst any of the
nobility for a while contend with him; yet at last he came to nothing.
After whom one Gualduzius, a mean fellow, tapered up so high that he did
as it were, sway the whole city and none would contradict him, till
Galyver, a Judge, caused him to be chopped all to pieces. The same
happened at Florylyciurn. One called Simon Mustaguere the son of obscure Parents, who mounted so
high that all the people adored him: nor durst any oppose him, save only myself, who knew him thoroughly: and what mischief he could, he
did at his pleasure for three
years’ space: but at last down he came being banished from the City
which happened for the odiousness of his person and cowardice. Another
being a Friar of the Preaching Order, by name John, by Nation Vicentinus,
was admired as a Saint by all the Italians that acknowledged the Roman
Church; but I ever thought him an Hypocrite; he grew so high that he was
reported to have raised 18 from the Dead (though never one of them could
be seem), and to cure all diseases, fright Devils, etc., yet could I not
perceive anybody freed by him, though I made much enquiry into his
miracles; however, the whole world seemed to run after him, and he
thought himself happy that could get a thread of his Cap. Which they
esteemed equal with the relics of the Saints; and in his preaching he
would publicly boast, that he had Converse with Jesus Christ, the Virgin
Mary, and Angels when he list. By which tricks, the Friars of his order
at Sononia got more than 20,000 marks. And his power was so great that
by his own will he released a Soldier as he was going to Execution for
Murder; Nor durst the
Magistrates deny him, not speak ill of him but myself, who knew all his
wheadles and cozenages: for which the rabble, merely out of fear of him,
reported me an Heretic. In
which esteem and pomp he continued above a hear, but at last went out
like the snuff of a candle,
with a stink, his devices and hypocrisie being discovered, so that he
became as generally: and
everybody was ashamed to be seen in his company.
|
The l42nd
Consideration is,
To observe in Nativities and general questions, the gifts and good
advantages bestowed on men by the Planets: because those are applied
more easily to them, and continue longer extended to their successors,
according as they are well disposed in the Radicas of their Nativities;
but they are seldom exceeding great, unless when applied by fortunate
fixed Stars; because being of a more swift mutability they have ca
closer affinity with them, especially if proceeding from the inferior
Planets; for their conformity with men, their correlative subjects.
Those of the Superiors last not so long with men but in building of
houses they are much better than the other. 6
6 NOTE
BY LILLY : Of the Good given by Saturn and Other Planets, etc. ---Saturn
Oriental and well disposed, that is strong and in Reception, gives great
fortune in building, planting trees requiring a long growth, in manuring
ground, erecting waterworks and the like. Jupiter gives good luck in
Sciences such as the Law; and Dignities, being made a Bishop, a Judge, or
the like. Mars in leading forth of Armies, etc. Sol in Lay Preferments, as
Kingdoms, Governments, etc. But the Lower Planets bestow their gifts
inherent to men and more durable: as Venus, in the attempts of women,
their ornaments, courting them, etc. Mercury in trading, writing, etc. The
Moon in navigation, planting vines, using drinks, selling wine, etc. All
these, I say are excellently well bestowed by the Planets advantageously
posited, and endure longer, that is to say, The prosperities given by the
Moon may continue to the 7th year or generation, because she is the 7th
planet reckoning downwards: and if they pass the 7th age or generation
they cannot exceed the 8th as suppose from the 42nd year to the 45th year
including those of Mercury may endure to the 6th age, being the 6th from
Saturn, but will scare hold out of the 7th. Those of Venus to the 5th age,
she being the 5th Planet from Saturn: but will not exceed the 6th. Those
of the Sun to the 4th age. Those of Mars to the 3rd age. Those of Jupiter
to the 2nd age. Those of Saturn only for one age, and cannot transcend;
nay seldom reach the 3rd. And though I say they may continue so long, yet do I not
say they shall not be finished before, for as Aristotle says, There are
terms that cannot be passed over: yet he does not say but that they may be
prevented and come short off so in these cases; and further, when I say
that they cannot continue longer, I mean without vanishing wholly, or so
depressed, that it will be no more like what was before, than green or
russet to a perfect white unless by chance something from another cause
happens anew;
|
The 143rd
Consideration, Is to understand the true method of judging, and by what
ways thou mayest come to some result, that thou mayst examine and rightfully
discuss the same, and discover the truth of what the stars shall
show thee? And herein there are 14 points to be considered and heeded:
1. Whether the Querent proposes the
question really and intentively or not? For if the Lord of the Ascendant
and the Lord of the hour be in the same or the Signs wherein those
Significators are placed be of the same Triplicity or complection the
Question is serious; but otherwise, if the Ascendant shall be the end of any
Sign, the Question is not Radical.
2. Behold the Ascendant and his Lord,
the Moon and the Planet from which she separates and assign them for Significators of the
Querent; the Seventh and the Planet with which the Moon is joined, shall represent the person enquired after; but if it be
necessary, descend to the persons, as the things are signified by the
House, from the first to the twelfth.
3. Consider the nature of the thing
enquired about, the House and Sign whereby it is signified.
4. The Aspects of the Planets both
good and malevolent to the Significators of the things sought after.
5. In what place from its own House
each of the Significators are: viz., Whether in his own or the
second, third, or fourth, etc., or in
the Combust way or the like places.
6. Whether they are found in Angles
Cadent or Succeedent Houses.
7. Diligently see where the Querent’s
Assistants must come, viz., whether from a Father, a Son, a
King a Kinsman, or a Friend, etc.
8. By the mirth of the Querent, as if
the Lord of the Ascendant shall be in the fifth, or elsewhere joined
with its Lord; free from being afflicted by the Infortunes. Or by his
sadness; as if his Significator happen in the 6th 7th 8th, or 12” ;
unless the question be of things signified by those Houses; and as thou
findest so judge.
9. By the Fortunes and Infortunes,
according as thou findest them in places signified, the things about
which the Querent is moved; and if the benevolents are more, ‘tis good,
if otherwise the contrary; if
the testimonies are equal, then indifferent.
10. Whether the Lord of the Ascendant
be in the House of the thing enquired after, or with its Lord. 11. In what House the Lord of the
first is joined with the Significator of the things looked after; for
by the Significator of the House, or
his occasion, thou mayst judge the matter will be brought
about.
12. If the Significators are not
joined there, whether there be aby Translation of Light between them
by any Planet, or receives their
description, thou shalt judge the same thing.
13. By the natures of the
Significators themselves, agreeing in their natures and significations
with
each other.
14. According to the receiver of the
Significator’s virtue or disposition shall be a Fortune or Infortune
strong or weak, and does behold the Significator, or the Moon, or any
with Aspect of love or
enmity, so shalt thou pronounce judgment.
which seldom
changes, nor can truly be said to be the same. But quite another thing
from the first. Hence comes perhaps the common observation; that goods or
possessions ill got, never abide to the 5th or 3rd age: many that use that
proverb not knowing whence it comes to pass but only because they have
heard others say so or seen it often happen thus. But from what we have
here laid down, some reason may be given; for ill gotten goods count such
as are got by way of usury, lies, deceit, theft, repine, and the like.
|
|
The 144th Consideration is, To
observe in Questions, Nativities, or Elections, when the Significators
shall not clearly show thee what thou wouldst know but the signifcation
remains dubious, so that the
mind is in suspense, take the place of the Lord of the Ascendant, and the
place of the Lords of the Flouse
of the Moon, and see the distance of degrees between them, beginning from
Aries, of which make signs, and add the degree of the sign ascending: and
project from the Ascendant as well by day as night, and where the number
falls, the Lord of that House shall be Significator and from him take the
Signification of the business enquired, for according to his disposition
thou mayest judge.
|
|
The 145th Consideration is, That
thou see in Diurnal Nativites, whether Cor Leonis be in the Ascendant,
that is to say in the Oriental Line or above it one degree or below it
three degrees; or whether it be
in the tenth in like degrees, without the Conjunction or Aspect of any of
the Fortunes; for this alone
signifies that the Native shall be a person of great note and power, too
much exalted, and attain too high preferment and honours, although
descended from the meanest parents. And if any of the Fortunes behold that place
also, his glory shall be the more increased: but if the Nativity be nocturnal, his fortune will be
somewhat meaner, but not much; but if the Infortunes cast their aspects
there it will still be more mean; but if the Fortunes behold it also they
will augment the good promised a
fourth part, and mitigate the evil as much; yet still what ever of all
this happens, it signifies that
the Native shall die an unhappy death; or at least that all his honours,
greatness, and power, shalt at
last suffer an eclipse, and set in a cloud.
|
|
The l46th consideration is,
That thou take the place of the Lord of the Ascendant, and the place
of the Lord of the 12th , and subtracting the lesser from the
greater add to the remainder the degrees of the sign ascending and project from the
Ascendant; and where the number falls the Lord of the sign shall be partner with the Lord of the
Question, and shall be called the Principal Partner. Again, take the place of the Lord of the said sign,
and place of the Lord of the Part of Fortune, and subtracting the lesser from the greater add the
degrees of that sign shall be another Partner, and be called the Secondary
Partner; which if it happen to be the same Planet, regard only that; but
if different, then take both and
subtract the lesser from the greater and add the degrees of the sign
ascending, and the planet on
whose House the number falls shall be the third Partner; and which of
those three is the strongest shall be the chiefest sharer in the
significations of the thing enquired after. If all the remainders, or two of them, shall
happen on the House of one Planet; that shall be preferred. If the Question seem good, and those Partners
are ill disposed, they will diminish of the good signified by the
Question, and so on the contrary; but if the Question seem evil, and they
are well disposed, they will
allay and mitigate the evil signified by the Question, and so likewise on
the contrary.
END OF THE CONSIDERATIONS OF GUIDO BONATUS. |
|