Agrippa v. Nettesheim — De Occulta Philosophia. Vol. II - Celestial Magic

Translated and introduced by Paul Summers Young
Cover Design by Alice Rocchetti
 
Book Two of Agrippa's work,  "Celestial Magic", explores the celestial realm and can be divided into two parts.
The first part focuses on the significance of numbers, harmonics, and their connection to the divine and ideal. Agrippa's intricate descriptions of mathematical relationships within the human body can be both fascinating and perplexing, leaving you wondering where it all leads.
A notable section, "The Scales," takes readers on a poetic journey through numbers, similar to the themes in the film "Pi." Agrippa emphasizes the omnipresence of mathematics in our world and suggests that understanding its secrets can unlock profound messages. This section blurs the line between inspiration and paranoia, making you question the true significance of everything.
Agrippa also delves into how numbers are expressed in writing, connecting music, magic, and the appreciation of our world.
 
The second part of the book explores the stars and their symbolism, including the Mansions of the Moon and the Decans. Unlike conventional astrology, these entities are more like ancient and unpredictable spirits, blighting and blessing without a moral compass. This controversial nature made them challenging to incorporate into serene worldviews.
Agrippa's work touches on geomancy, how celestial symbols influence the subconscious, and how the magician weaves these elements into something new. However, he tantalizingly leaves readers hanging, suggesting that they explore geomancy in more specialized texts.