St. Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, Cod. Sang. 756

Here, some say that Lucifer original: lucifer; likely referring to the "Light-Bringer" in a mythological sense or the fallen angel as a source of forbidden knowledge himself taught it. Others, however, provide many different accounts, adding that it was Shem, the son of Noah, before the Flood. Others say that the son of Noah was not sufficient, for it is said that there was no prior author except God, because it was the will of God that what was spoken should come to pass; at some other time, it was explained more fully and distinctly than it ever had been before. Others say it was the Sibyl A Greco-Roman prophetess; medieval traditions often retroactively attributed various occult arts to her; others say it was Ptolemy, the King of Egypt. And it is also said that this art took its origin—as is publicly found—before the time of the Deluge of waters which occurred in the days of Noah, who built the Ark by the command of God.

Another inquiry regarding this matter was made: it ought to be practiced wisely. Not every person should [perform it] principally at every hour of the day or night, for the matter [ought not be done] on that day unless in a case of necessity, lest something be added or taken away from another; let the question be transmitted for some reasonable cause.

He who wishes to propose any question ought first to well understand the matter—what he wants and what he does not—so that it is not undeliberated, but by the counsel of a discerning free will. He ought to go with good will to the master and devoutly ask counsel from him, telling him the cause of his coming, so that the master himself might be able to understand the clear sign and the matter of the question, the principal figures formed in the inquiry, and how to examine it reasonably and, once examined, to judge it rightly. He should not approach the master with the intent of testing the art, nor should he be someone who tries to tempt [the master], but he should be faithful in all things that ought to be governed. He should [act] so that good counsel can be given to him; for if he is doubtful, it could harm him, especially since God knows the secrets of the heart. It was said to those who sought grace from Him: "Go, your faith has made you whole" original: fides tua te salvam fecit; a common Gospel refrain emphasizing that the seeker's spiritual disposition is key to the outcome.. And thus, there can be an error in the judge, but not in the art, because the art is always true in itself and is not falsified by force. The art of the question is sought from the intention; therefore, the seeker ought to speak thus: "Master, I come humbly to you with the faith of love, understanding you to be expert in this art and able to counsel me well. Therefore, I ask you to look well into this matter, so that with your counsel regarding such a thing or such a subject, it may be resolved for me."

Master, wishing to take up the question for judging, should do so benignly...