Introduction.

movement and the course of the stars, as well as the doctrine of the influence of the upper world upon the lower original: "Einfluss der obern in die untere Welt." This refers to the hermetic principle of "as above, so below," suggesting that celestial movements govern earthly events.. The theological part dealt with the deity, the soul of man, good and evil spirits, sacred ordinances, customs, and mysteries; furthermore, with faith, miracles, the power of certain words and figures In this context, "figures" refers to sigils, talismans, or geometric shapes believed to hold spiritual power., and secret effects in general. Among the oldest philosophers, according to some writers, Zamolxis A legendary social and religious reformer of the Thracian people, often mentioned by Greek historians as a teacher of the immortality of the soul. and Zoroaster The ancient Persian prophet, traditionally credited by Western esotericists as the "father" of magic. distinguished themselves so greatly in this that they were held to be its inventors. It is more probable, however, that it originates from the Chaldeans The people of ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), who were famous in antiquity for their advanced knowledge of astronomy and astrology., among whom it was propagated through tradition. It was the goal and primary object of all mysteries; and most philosophers of antiquity sought initiation and subjected themselves to the harshest trials just to obtain a share of these secret teachings. Among these are numbered Orpheus, Pythagoras, Abaris, Hermippus, Apollonius, and others. The Jewish historian Moses The author here views Moses not just as a prophet but as a scholar and chronicler who was educated in the high courts of Egypt. allowed himself to be initiated into all the Egyptian secrets; and the entire arrangement of the Jewish worship service bears unmistakable