EPISTLE

...many and infinite labors, I might be able to reach the desired harbor of True Science original: "Veræ scientiæ." In this period, "science" referred to certain knowledge or a specific branch of learning, in this case, the "Great Work" of alchemy. safely, quickly, and pleasantly.

To be sure, it was not my intention to publish this Harmony Harmony original: "Harmoniam." The author uses this term to describe his work because it seeks to "harmonize" or reconcile the often-contradictory writings of different alchemists.—prepared and adapted solely for myself and my Muses The "Muses" here represent the author’s private intellectual and creative life.—for the general public. However, the frequent encouragements—or should I say, the anxious demands—of friends have prevailed and extorted it from me, even against my will; for to fail those who encourage me would be dishonest, and not to comply with those who ask would be impious. While I was still doubtful and hesitating, I was driven by compassion for those who, since they do not know how to handle these studies, nor have they learned to investigate the genuine meaning of the Philosophers Referring to the "Adept" alchemical authors of the past, such as Hermes Trismegistus or Geber. rightly and methodically, are driven about by various errors, until at last, in the rough paths original: "salebris," referring to a rugged, potholed road that makes travel difficult and stumbling likely. of ignorance, just as...