The Highest Good (1629) - Page 4

The page features a hierarchical classification diagram of magic structured as a logical tree. Large curly brackets divide and categorize the text from general concepts on the left to more specific definitions and sub-types on the right. The diagram distinguishes between good and evil forms of magic. It further branches into fields like Theosophy, Anthroposophy, and various forms of demonic arts such as Necromancy and Theurgy.

Magic or Wisdom in general is a science either:

Aphorism of the Arbatel The Arbatel of Magic is a spiritual grimoire first published in 1575. It focuses on the relationship between humanity and celestial spirits.

Of the Good, and it is true Wisdom, of which one type is:
- Theosophy TheosophyLiterally "divine wisdom." Knowledge of God and spiritual matters obtained through direct revelation or mystical insight.
  - Knowledge of the Word of God, and the establishment of life according to the Word of God.
  - Knowledge of God's governance through Angels, whom the Sacred Scripture calls "watchers," and the understanding of the mysteries of Angels.
  - The science of natural things and the wonders contained within them, which belongs to Natural Philosophy.
- Anthroposophy AnthroposophyLiterally "human wisdom." The study of the spiritual nature of the human being., given to man by God:
  - Prudence in human affairs, which is the subject of Moral and Political Philosophy.
Of the Evil, and it is Pseudo-wisdom, or that human wisdom which is false and fraudulent. This is twofold:
- Cacosophy CacosophyLiterally "bad wisdom." The opposite of theosophy, involving the rejection of divine truth.
  - Contempt for the Word of God and living according to the will of the Devil.
  - Ignorance of God's governance through Angels.
  - Despising the protection of Angels and being companions to Devils.
  - Idolatry and Atheism.
- Cacodaemonia CacodaemoniaThe practice of communicating with or using evil spirits. From the Greek 'kakos' (evil) and 'daimon' (spirit)., which is occupied with the prudence of the human race. Its types are:
  - Poisoning (Veneficium), which is occupied with medicinal drafts, cups, and love potions original: "philtris" prepared for human harm.
  - Necromancy, composed of dealings with unclean spirits through the rites of ominous and wicked curiosity, illicit incantations original: "carminibus," meaning songs or verses, and prayers.
  - Theurgy TheurgyHigh magic meant to invoke divine presence. Fludd notes here that it often disguises demonic work under holy names., which seems to be guided by good Angels and divine power, yet is bound by the evil deceits of demons under the names of God and Angels.
  - The Art of Illusion (Scientia praestigiatrix), by which Magi produce phantasms and even many miracles. This is done partly through fumigations, lights, love potions, rings, images, and mirrors. Necromantic incantations, curses, and the deceits of demons also intermingle with this.