Product Description

This is a source work of medieval magic that gives complete sets of zodiacal lames, characters, and planetary sigils, with full details for their manufacture and consecration, often omitted by later writers. Paracelsus is essentially concerned with the practical applications of magic, especially with regard to healing, rather than the extravagant fantasies of theorists. His sections on alchemy include details of the planetary spirits, the conjunction of the male and female principles, and each step on the path to the Tincture—one of the most complete descriptions in the whole Hermetic canon. Paracelsus outlines techniques for the exorcism of evil spirits, conjuration, and counteracting witchcraft. Stephen Skinner’s introduction provides a brief biography of Paracelsus and explains the influence of his work on the Western Mystery Tradition.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1078102 in Books
• Published on: 2004-12
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 158 pages

From the Publisher
One of the core writings on alchemy and medieval magic. Facsimile reprint of the 1656 edition translated by Robert Turner.

About the Author
Paracelsus (Philippus Aureolus Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim, 1493-1541) was a Swiss physician who also gained magical knowledge from Johannes Trithemius, Agrippa's teacher, and was acquainted with the famous alchemist, Solomon Trimosin (author of Splendor Solis). In his use of herbal remedies and principle of "signatures," he could easily be credited as one of the fathers of modern pharmacology. His work had a major influence on John Dee, Francis Barrett, A.E. Waite, and many others.

Customer Reviews

A Symphony of Occult Topics!
Leaves you blitzed and bemused by the stupefying collection of topics. Just when you thought you knew a good chunk of this stuff, along comes a book like this and it proves you still have a universe within a universe to learn. A great read.

A medieval occult manual and reference
A facsimile reprint of the original edition from the English translation of 1656, down to the somewhat uneven typeface, The Archidoxes Of Magic is a medieval occult manual and reference that includes complete sets of zodiac lames, characters, and planetary sigils. Covering alchemy, medieval magic, and some alternative healing techniques, and herbal remedies, this groundbreaking work includes an introduction by Stephen Skinner, which offers a brief biography of the Swiss physician and author Paracelsus, as well as an overview of how Paracelsus' work influenced the Western Mystery Tradition for centuries to come. A core reference for magic, alchemy or occult studies shelves.

The Archidoxes of Magic
This is the classic Renaissance manual on magic. Paracelsus falls midway between Marsilio Ficino and Athanasius Kircher in the exploration of hermetic systems as keys to understanding the inner workings of creation. This particular edition reproduces the actual pages of an early English translation, which makes it slightly harder to read but lends it great charm. The soft cover has a smooth, waxy feel.