Handbook of Restored Physics and the Secret Work of Hermetic Philosophy

...how bold they are in fashioning and nurturing masks laruis: literally "ghosts" or "masks," referring here to deceptive appearances or false theories that disguise the truth, and how stubborn their minds can be in pushing away the truth. I realized, finally, how difficult and even dangerous it often is to tear out the deep-seated roots of accepted opinions and plant new ones in their place.

At last, my love for the truth and for you—the fair-minded defenders of the Light of Physics Physicæ lucis: in this period, "physics" referred to the broad study of the natural world and the laws governing it—has triumphed. Thus, the same person who was the author of the search for truth has now become the one to publish it.

Let me ask only one thing of you, so that you may sit as more impartial judges: shake off the great names of Plato, Aristotle, and the titles of the leading Philosophers. Strip away the authority of these great men; keep your own judgment independent, rather than remaining bound to them. As you unroll their great monuments original: "monumentis"; referring to their enduring written works, add a word of caution original: "Præfiscini"; a classical Latin term meaning "may there be no ill will" or "no offense intended." The author uses it to show respect for the ancients while warning the reader not to be blinded by their fame., lest the popular charm of a famous name creep into your minds.

Far be it from me to suggest that even a tiny bit be taken away from the fame or the greatness of those geniuses, whom I believe should be honored like deities...