Preface.

...will be used / to fathom the whole work.

In the second part, however, I will describe the Practice original: "Practica." This refers to the actual laboratory work and physical manipulation of substances, as opposed to the theoretical "Theoria.", including all the required manual operations / which I have hidden here and there among the particular processes original: "Particularia." In alchemy, "particulars" are specific recipes or minor transmutations that achieve limited results, often used by the author as a way to "hide" the true steps of the Great Work from the unworthy. / so that the lover of the Art may work according to the true letter.

I wish, however, to remind the kind reader once more / to handle this work and Art in such a way / that he may venture to answer for it on that great day / before the strict judge Jesus Christ / lest he prepare for himself (as the Prince of Tyre did) an eternal sweat-bench original: "Schwißbanck." A "sweat-bench" was a medical apparatus for inducing perspiration, but here the author uses it metaphorically for a place of intense heat and torment in Hell. in Hell / as can be read in the prophet Ezekiel in his 28th chapter In Ezekiel 28, the Prince of Tyre is condemned for his pride and for claiming to have the wisdom of a god because of his great wealth and secret knowledge. / from which may God the Father / God the Son / and God the Holy Spirit protect us all, together and individually, in His grace; to the highly praised and blessed Trinity be praise / honor / glory / and thanks / from eternity to eternity / Hallelujah / Amen.
Done at Deckenpfronn / District of Calw /
the 12th of May / in the Year 1723.