Cosmic symbolism : $b Being a discussion and exposition of some recondite and obscure points in the art of the Kabalists, the mysteries of sound, form and number, and the basic principles of cosmic symbolismSepharial
Religion
Cosmic symbolism : $b Being a discussion and exposition of some recondite and obscure points in the art of the Kabalists, the mysteries of sound, form and number, and the basic principles of cosmic symbolism
Sepharial
Cabala; Occultism; Symbolism; Symbolism of numbers
It is safe to say that no considerable argument has ever been
successfully raised against the claims of Astrology to a place among the
sciences. No valid reason can be given for disputing its principles, and
its facts have never been overset. It is true that Pico della Mirandola,
called Flagellum Astrologiæ because of his avowed hatred of the subject,
attempted to expel it from among the Latins and was an ardent
pamphleteer in the cause of its suppression. But he justified its claims
and practically unsaid all that he had written by dying at the time
predicted by the astrologers. Dr. John Butler, Chaplain to James Duke of
Ormonde, had a mind to inveigh against its teachings, which by some
misconception he fancied to be pagan and subversive of Christianity. He
studied the subject the more effectively to assail the assertions of the
astrologers, and ended his campaign by writing a book in support of its
teachings. It is a book rather well known to students of the subject and
can be seen at the British Museum.
But perhaps the most sounding rebuke that was ever given to such as
foolishly repudiate the whole thing without taking the trouble to
examine its principles and methods, was given by Sir Isaac Newton to Mr.
Halley of comet fame when he ventured to dispute the subject with the
great philosopher. The latter heard him to a finish and then quietly
remarked: “I have studied the subject, Mr. Halley, you have not.” I do
not know what was Halley’s perspective and therefore I cannot say in
what regard he held the author of the _Principia_, but personally I
would rather be swallowed by an earthquake than have such a rebuke from
the same source. There was always that about Newton which inspired
confidence in his utterances, for a more fearless and at the same time
humble-minded investigator of Nature never breathed God’s air. He spoke
of what he knew.
In the presentation of astrological evidence we are not called upon to
display the _modus operandi_ of planetary action in human life. We can
observe facts without references to their causes. We may legitimately
theorize as to the means whereby a universe is brought into existence,
but none can say why. One is relieved of the necessity from the fact
that he is not the Creator of it.
But there are many suggestions afforded by modern scientific discoveries
which lead us to the idea that planetary influence, apart from the
attraction of gravitation, may be due to the functions of subtle states
of matter such as we posit as properties of spatial ether. And since we
know nothing of force apart from matter it is reasonable to presume that
whatever forces are at play in the cosmos have their appropriate
material vehicles. Spectrum analysis does not lead us to suppose that
there is any material difference in the chemical constituents of the
various bodies of the system, and what you find in the planets you find
also in the Sun.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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