To the most Distinguished and Excellent

MAN,

MR. DANIEL HEINSIUS,

KNIGHT OF THE ORDER OF ST. MARK, A prestigious Venetian order of knighthood often bestowed upon distinguished scholars and diplomats. HISTORIAN TO THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS

AND MOST POWERFUL LORDS OF THE STATES OF HOL-

LAND AND WEST FRISIA,

AND IN THE MOST CELEBRATED ACADEMY

OF LEIDEN, PROFESSOR OF POLI-

TICS, LIBRARIAN,

AND SECRETARY,

JOHANNES SELDENUS. John Selden (1584–1654) was an English jurist, politician, and polymath known for his immense knowledge of ancient laws and languages.

Most Distinguished Man,

Ornate decorative woodcut initial 'P' featuring intricate scrolling foliage and floral motifs.I duly hold the doorpost here original: "Postem heic ritè teneo." This is a classical Roman metaphor for the formal dedication of a temple or sacred object, signifying that Selden is officially presenting his work as if at a shrine.; and this little book—which, though full of gods, has been hitherto free from religious obligation, being dedicated to no one—I now consecrate to you as it is reborn This refers to the "rebirth" of the text in a new, revised edition.; having placed within it a most vivid image both of LOVE and of HONOR; and most willingly so. Dedications are usually made for the sake of both. And in the primary cause of ours, both feelings toward you are at their highest. One [Love] arises from that singular affection of yours toward me and my studies, and—not in the last place—toward these Syntagmata Syntagmata: A Greek word meaning "treatises" or "orderly arrangements"; here it refers to the specific sections or chapters of Selden's book on Syrian deities., which was born of your kindness, shown in various ways according to your extraordinary humanity; the other [Honor] arises from that immense [wonder at your] stupendous