Johannes Starycius in the Preface

Treatise of Theophrastus Paracelsus on the Limbo or the Interior Man. Magdeburg, published by Johann Franck. In the year 1616. original: "Tractatus Theophrasti Paracelsi de Limbo seu Interiore Homine." This work explores the spiritual or "astral" nature of humanity according to Paracelsian thought.

Decorative drop cap 'A' featuring intricate scrollwork and floral patterns within a square frame.

As I once again undertake to discourse a little on the Universal The "Universal Medicine" or "Universal Solvent" (Alkahest) sought by alchemists to cure all diseases and transmute metals. according to my own measure and talent original: "pro meo modulo & ingenio" / I am primarily motivated by the fact that nowadays, in nearly all banquets original: "Conviviis" and honorable gatherings / almost nothing else is spoken of than the common Stone of the Wise / which everyone now wants to know about; one calls it the Philosophers’ Stone original: "Lapis Philosophorum", another a Tincture / the third the Universal; everyone nowadays strives to obtain this / both the learned and unlearned / the experienced and inexperienced / and so they set to cooking / boiling and roasting / one vexes original: "vexirt." In alchemy, this refers to the intense heating or chemical manipulation of a substance to "punish" it into releasing its essence. mercury / seeking to take its life To "kill" mercury in alchemy meant to solidify it or remove its "volatility" (its liquid, evasive nature).; another pursues vitriol Sulfate minerals, often used to produce powerful acids. for its spirit; the third handles Jupiter original: "Jovem." The alchemical code name for the metal Tin. / and would like to have the soul from it. In short original: "Summa Summarum" / today one person finds this material / another finds that / and there are as many materials for the Stone, and as many methods of proceeding, as there are laborers and artists.