King James: Daemonologie (1597 First Edition) (1597) - Page 18

Dæmonologie. First Book.

EPISTEMON: Even by these three passions that are within ourselves: curiosity in great minds original: "ingines"; refers to people of high intelligence or natural talent; a thirst for revenge, for some wrongs deeply felt original: "tortes deeply apprehended"; or a greedy appetite for wealth original: "geare"; possessions, property, or money, caused by great poverty. As to the first of these, curiosity, it is only the enticement of magicians or necromancers. The other two are the lures used for sorcerers or witches. For that old and crafty serpent A biblical reference to the Devil/Satan., being a spirit, easily spies our affections and so conforms himself to them to deceive us to our ruin original: "wracke".

Chapter III

ARGUMENT

The meanings and etymologies of the words "Magic"

and "Necromancy." The difference between Ne-

cromancy and Witchcraft: What are the entrances

and beginnings that bring anyone to the knowledge

thereof.

PHILOMATHES

I would gladly first hear: what is this thing that you call Magic or Necromancy?

EPISTEMON: This word "Magic" in the Persian tongue signifies a contemplator or interpreter of divine and heavenly sciences. Because it was first used among the Chaldeans An ancient people of Mesopotamia famous for their study of astronomy and astrology., who were ignorant of true divinity, it was esteemed and reputed among them as a principal virtue. Therefore, it was unjustly given an honorable title. The Greeks then imitated this name, using it generally to refer to all these kinds of unlawful arts.