Texts on Prognostication

The subject matter of this small book is: the effect and efficacy of the moon and the other planets, as well as the seven original: "z" used as a shorthand for "septem" (seven) constellations and the influence they have on lower things Refers to the "sublunary" world, or Earth, which was believed to be governed by the movements of the heavens.. By the subtle consideration of the beginning of these constellations, God permits many things to be investigated by mortals who inquire with such diligence; concerning things in the future or things absent; concerning the qualities of men; and also the health and sicknesses of other animals, their state and prosperity, the healthfulness of the earth, the storms of the sea, the quality of the air, the business and profit of merchants, and the diligence of those at war: it reveals the evidence to those who attend to it closely.

The utility of this book, however, is this: that future and imminent dangers which are foreknown in the stars may be averted by preventing divine vengeance through prayer and the giving of alms, after the manner of the Ninevites A biblical reference to the people of Nineveh who repented to avoid destruction. and the example of King Hezekiah. For as Albumasar Abu Ma'shar (787–886 AD), a famous Persian astrologer and Islamic philosopher whose works were highly influential in Medieval Europe., the most excellent philosopher and especially in astronomy, says: reason commands the heavens, and calamities are increased by contrary influences; yet by a pact with the Creator who moderates all things, the stars are His officials. Therefore, whatever dangers are foreknown through dreams, visions, prophecies, or constellations: they may cease or be changed to the contrary through the humility and satisfaction of the penitent. For all divine threats are known to be conditional; because the spears that are seen coming do not strike as hard. The title is as follows: The Experimentarius of Bernard A famous medieval work of divination often attributed to Bernardus Silvestris..