KEY TO MEDICINE,

original: "physic" — in this context, it refers to the art of healing and medical science.

AND THE

OCCULT SCIENCES.

Wisdom is the light of Reason and the bond of Peace. It makes man like God and elevates his mind above unworthy pursuits. It is the primary excellence that distinguishes him from animals original: "brutes" and the chief ornament that dignifies his character. Whatever is founded on Wisdom’s laws defies the decaying original: "mouldering" hand of time and ranks with immortality. Because of this, a thirst for knowledge is natural to man; and if the cares and follies of this world could be separated from his concerns, his desire for information would be inseparable from his existence. Ignorance and superstition may be considered as the curse of God, which chains its followers original: "votaries" to unworthy objects; while, on the contrary, wisdom and understanding provide us with wings to soar above the earth—to contemplate the works of creation, to discern the mysteries of divinity, and to converse with angels.

The beautiful description given by Solomon of his requirements in wisdom is highly deserving of the attention of all men, but particularly of those who profess the science of medicine original: "physic" and the care of souls. “I prayed,” says Solomon, “and understanding was given me; I called upon God, and the spirit of wisdom came to me. All good things came with her, and innumerable riches in her hand.” A reference to the apocryphal book Wisdom of Solomon 7:7–11. What greater reward could anyone desire? And though the intellectual faculties of all men are not equally strong or suited for hidden original: "occult" speculations, yet it is manifest that all