RIPLEY’S PROLOGUE.

My son, faithfully apply your ears to my warnings,
Receiving my golden sayings through this teaching.
And let wisdom establish her seat within your heart,
She who was truly loved by the Sages of old. The "Sages" (Sophis) refers to the ancient masters of alchemy and philosophy who sought the Philosopher's Stone.
Be pure in soul: do not sin: lay aside
Your proud arrogance; may you bear a gentle heart.
Unless you do this; unless you are humble; the Most High from on high
Will show you the pleasing gifts of Wisdom original: "Sophia" far less.
He who contemplates impious things in a wicked heart, lacks the breath
Of the sacred Divinity, and is deprived of His gifts. Divinity The Latin "Numen" refers to a divine power or presiding spirit, often used in alchemical texts to describe the spiritual force behind natural transformations.
The holy Divinity does not dwell in a wicked heart;
Therefore, fearing God, may you observe His sacred commands.