The Preface to the Reader.

...can it be proved, etc.? But it shall find the real Sign and Seal of truth within itself, as the Scripture declares in 1 John 2:20, 27: That the anointing original: "unction" from the Holy One teaches all things;
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so that no one needs to teach those in whom it abides. But this knowledge—this precious Pearl of light, this darling of wisdom, this
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Garland and Crown of Virgin Sophia In mystical theology, Sophia represents Divine Wisdom., which surpasses all the beauty and treasure, all the pomp, power, and pleasure of this world; this universal touchstone A stone used to test the purity of gold or silver; here, a metaphor for a standard of truth. to test and find out the qualities and virtues of all things; this heavenly tincture A term from alchemy referring to a spiritual essence that can transform the soul.; this true Philosopher’s Stone; this highest good original: "Summum bonum", which no human tongue can express—is only obtained in the new birth. By this new birth, the light and life of God is renewed in us; the essential Word of divine love, Christ himself, is begotten and formed in us. The whole Scripture and the writings of divinely illuminated men original: "illuminate Men" — those who have received spiritual enlightenment. direct us to the reading and experimental Based on direct experience rather than just theory. understanding of this Word of life, light, and love. All words, works, and books that do not proceed from that Word, and do not lead us back to that Word, are either merely astral Related to the stars or the natural, worldly mind as opposed to the divine spirit., outward, and transitory; or they are the fantastical idols of the mind original: "Idola mentis", the shadows of fancy, and learned Pharisaicall reason. This reason, through its deceitful words of subtlety and human wisdom, entices people to believe strong delusions and follow after lies in hypocrisy.

In our own book, which is the image of God...