desirous of warning the multitude, we have been the more painstaking, in order not to omit any expedient[1] practised by the magicians, for those who may be disposed to be deceived. We have been however drawn, not unreasonably, into a detail of some of the secret [mysteries] of the sorcerers, which are not very requisite, to be sure, in reference to the subject taken in hand; yet, for the purpose of guarding against the villanous and incoherent art of magicians, may be supposed useful. Since, therefore, as far as delineation is feasible, we have explained the opinions of all [speculators], exerting especial attention towards the elucidation of the opinions introduced as novelties by the heresiarchs; [opinions] which, as far as piety is concerned, are futile and spurious, and which are not, even among themselves, perhaps[2] deemed worthy of serious consideration. [Having pursued this course of inquiry], it seems expedient that, by means of a compendious discourse, we should recall to the [reader's] memory statements that have been previously made.
Chapter xliii.
Recapitulation of Theologies and Cosmogonies—System of the Persians—of the Babylonians—the Egyptian notion of Deity—their Theology based on a Theory of Numbers—their System of Cosmogony.
Among all those who throughout the earth, as philosophers and theologians, have carried on investigations, has prevailed
- ↑ Or, "topic discussed;" or, "not leave any place (subterfuge) for these," etc.
- ↑ Or, "you will suppose."
mathematical skill and erudition generally. It was persons who practised wicked arts, and assumed the name of Magi, that brought the term into disrepute. The origin of magic has been ascribed to Zoroaster, and once devised, it made rapid progress; because, as Pliny reminds us, it includes three systems of the greatest influence among men—(1) the art of medicine, (2) religion, (3) divination. This corresponds with Agrippa's division of magic into (1) natural, (2) celestial, (3) ceremonial, or superstitious. This last has been also called "goetic" (full of imposture), and relates to the invocation of devils. This originated probably in Egypt, and quickly spread all over the world.
