Tetrabiblos, or Quadripartite — Ptolemy, trans. J. M. Ashmand (1822)
English·London, 1822·in the original language·355 passages·from a digitised copy at the Internet Archive
The text · part 3 of 9
for the following reasons:—the distance by diameter, however, is in itself sufficiently clear, and requires no further explanation ;—but, as to the rest, after the diametrical points have been connected by a straight line, AB; the space of the two right angles, contained on the diameter, is then to be divided into aliquot parts of the two greatest denominations; that is to say, into halves, AFC, CFB, and into thirds, AFD, DFE, EFB: there will then be provided for the third part (AD) a superproportion (DC), equal to its own half; and for the half (AC) a super-proportion (CE), equal to its own third part; so that the division into two aliquot parts, AC, CB, will make the quartile distance AC; and the division into three aliquot parts, AD, DE, EB, will make the sextile distance AD, and the trinal distance AE. The respective super-proportions (on either side of the intermediate quartile AC, formed by the one right angle AFC), will also again make the quartile AC (if there be added to the sextile, AD, the super-proportion DC, equal to the half of the sextile), and the trine AE (if there be added to the quartile AC the super-proportion CE, equal to the third part of the quartile).
Of these configurations, the trine and the sextile are each called harmonious, because they are constituted between signs of the same kind; being formed between either all feminine or all masculine signs. The opposition and quartile are considered to be discordant, because they are configurations made between signs not of the same kind, but of different natures and sexes*.
* From the tenor of this chapter it was formerly doubted whether the author intended to admit in his theory only zodiacal aspects, and to reject those which are called mundane; but Placidus has referred to the 4th Chapter of the 8th Book of the Almagest (which will be found in the Appendix to this translation) to prove that Ptolemy distinctly taught two kinds of aspect; one in the zodiac and one in the world. Whalley quotes
Chap. XVIII.] ProLeMmy’s TETRABIBLOS. 39
Cuaprer XVII. Signs commanding and obeying.
Any two signs configurated with each other at an equal distance from the same, or from either equinoctial point, are termed commanding and obeying, because the ascensional and descensional times of the one are equal to those of the other, and both describe equal parallels. The signs in the summer semicircle are commanding; those in the winter semicircle, obeying: for, when the Sun is present in the former, he makes the day longer than the night; and, when in the latter, he produces the contrary effect.
Chapter XVIII. Signs beholding each other, and of equal Power.
ANY two signs, equally distant from either tropical sign, are equal to each other in power; because the Sun, when present in one, makes day and night, and the divisions of time, respectively equal in duration to those which he produces when present in the other. Such signs are also said to behold each other, as well for the foregoing reasons, as because each of them rises from one and the same part of the horizon, and sets in one and the same part*.
the opinion of Placidus, which he says is farther confirmed by the 12th Chapter of the 3rd Book of this very treatise, where it is stated that the ascendant and the eleventh house are in sextile to each other; the ascendant and the mid-heaven in quartile; the ascendant and the ninth house in trine; and the ascendant and the occidental angle in opposition; all which certainly seems to be applicable to mundane aspects in particular.
* Whalley has a very lengthy note upon this and the preceding chapter, to shew that Ptolemy here speaks of zodiacal parallels, or parallels of declination, and to point out the necessity of observing a planet’s latitude, in order to ascertain its true parallels. It is, however, to be recollected, that the parallels
40 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
CHapreR XIX. Signs tnconjunct.
ALL signs, between which there does not exist any familiarity in any of the modes above specified, are inconjunct and separated.
For instance, all signs are inconjunct which are neither commanding nor obeying, and not beholding each other nor of equal power, as well as all signs which contain between them the space of one sign only, or the space of five signs, and which do not at all share in any of the four prescribed configurations :viz. the opposition, the trine, the quartile, and the sextile. All parts which are distant from each other in the space of one sign only are considered inconjunct, because they are averted, as it were, from each other; and because, although the said space between them may extend into two signs, the whole only contains an angle equal to that of one sign: all parts distant from each other in the space of five signs are also considered inconjunct, because they divide the whole circle into unequal parts; whereas the spaces contained in the configurations above-mentioned, viz. the opposition, trine, quartile, and sextile, produce aliquot divisions*.
now alluded to are distinct from the mundane parallels, which are equal distances from the horizon or meridian, and are considered by Ptolemy in the 14th and 15th Chapters of the 3rd Book of this work ;—although not under the express name of mundane parallels.
* It has never been very clearly shewn how the followers of Ptolemy have reconciled the new aspects [called the semiquadrate, quintile, sesquiquadrate, biquintile, &c.] with the veto pronounced in this chapter. Kepler is said to have invented them, and they have been universally adopted; even Placidus, who has applied Ptolemy’s doctrine to practice better than any other writer, has availed himself of them*, and, if the nativities pubChap. XX.] PTOLEMY 'S TETRABIBLOS. 41
CuaPrerR XX. Houses of the Planets.
THOSE stars which ‘are denominated planetary orbs have particular familiarity with certain places in the zodiac, lished by him are to be credited, he has fully established their importance.
Salmon, in his ‘‘ Horse Mathematice,’’ beforementioned, gives a long dissertation (from p. 403 to p. 414) on the old Ptolemaic aspects, illustrative of their foundation in nature and in mathematics; and, although his conclusions are not quite satisfactorily drawn, some of his arguments would seem appropriate, if he had but handled them more fully and expertly; particularly where he says that the aspects are derived ‘‘ from the aliquot parts of ‘*a circle, wherein observe that, although the zodiac may have ‘‘ many more aliquot parts than these four (the sextile, quartile, ‘*trine, and opposition), yet those other aliquot parts of the ‘* circle, or 360 degrees, will not make an aliquot division of the ‘‘ signs also, which in this design was sought to answer, as well ‘in the number 12, as in the number 360.’’ The passage in which he endeavours to shew that they are authorized by their projection, also deserves attention.
All Salmon’s arguments, however, in support of the old Ptolemaic aspects, militate against the new Keplerian ones; and so does the following extract from the ‘‘Astrological Discourse’’ of Sir Christopher Heydon: ‘‘For thus, amongst all ordinate planes ‘that may be inscribed, there are two whose sides, joined to- ‘* pether, have pre-eminence to take up a semicircle, but only the ‘‘ hexagon, quadrate, and equilateral triangle, answering to the ‘‘ sextile, quartile, and trine irradiated. The subtense, there ** fore, of a sextile aspect consisteth of two signs, which, joined ‘¢ to the subtense of a trine, composed of four, being regular and ‘‘ equilateral, take up six signs, which ‘is a complete seniicircle. ‘In like manner, the sides of a quadrate inscribed, subtending ‘‘ three signs, twice reckoned, do occupy likewise the mediety of ‘a circle. And what those figures are before said to perform ”’ (that is, to take up a semicircle) ‘‘ either doubled or joined by means of parts designated as their houses, and also by their triplicities, exaltations, terms, and so forth.
* Except the semiquadrate, which he has not at all noticed.
42 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
The nature of their familiarity by houses is as follows: Cancer and Leo are the most northerly of all the twelve signs; they approach nearer than the other signs to the zenith of this part of the earth, and thereby cause warmth and heat: they are consequently appropirated as houses for the two principal and greater luminaries; Leo for the Sun, as being masculine; and Cancer for the Moon, as being feminine. It has hence resulted, that the semicircle from Leo to Capricorn has been ordained solar, and the semicircle frm Aquarius to Cancer, lunar; in order that each planet might occupy one sign in each semicircle, and thus have one of its houses configurated with the Sun and the other with the Moon, conformably to the motions of its own sphere, and the peculiar properties of its nature.
Saturn, therefore, since he is cold and inimical to heat, moving also in a superior orbit most remote from the luminaries, occupies the signs opposite to Cancer and Leo: these are Aquarius and Capricorn; and they are assigned to him in consideration of their cold and wintry nature; and because the‘configuration by opposition does not co-operate towards the production of good*.
Jupiter has a favourable temperament, and is situated beneath the sphere of Saturn; he therefore occupies the next two signs, Sagittarius and Pisces. These signs are
‘‘ together, may also be truly ascribed unto the opposite aspect ‘* by itself; for that the diametral line, which passeth from the ‘‘ place of conjunction to the opposite point, divideth a circle ‘‘ into two equal parts: the like whereof cannot be found in any ‘‘ other inscripts; for example, the side of a regular pentagon ”’ (the quintile) ‘‘ subtendeth 72 degrees, of an octagon’’ (the semiquadrate) ‘‘ but 45; the remainders of which arcs, viz. 108 ‘‘and 135 degrees, are not subtended by the sides of any ordi- “mate figure.”’ * Saturn being also malefic in his nature.
Chap. XXI.] =‘ PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 43
airy and fruitful, in consequence of their trinal distance from the houses of the luminaries, which distance harmonises with the operation of good.
Mars is dry in nature, and beneath the sphere of Jupiter: he takes the next two signs, of a nature similar to his own, viz. Aries and Scorpio, whose relative distances from the houses of the luminaries are injurious and discordant. | Venus, possessing a favourable temperament, and placed beneath the sphere of Mars, takes the next two signs, Taurus and Libra. These are of a fruitful nature, iand preserve harmony by the sextile distance; and this planet is never more than two signs distant from the Sun.
Mercury never has greater distance from the Sun than the space of one sign, and is beneath all the other planets: hence the is placed nearest to both luminaries, and the re- Maining two signs, Gemini and Virgo, are allotted to him*,
Chapter XXI. The Triplicites. Tue familiarity existing by triplicity arises in the following mode: The triplicity preserves accordance with an equilateral triangle, and the whole zodiacal orbit is defined by three circles, viz. that of the equinox, and those of the two
tropics; the twelve signs are, therefore, distributed among four equilateral triangles.
* The planets, having two houses, are said to be more powerful in one by day and in the other by night: thus, Saturn’s day house is Aquarius, his night house Capricorn
The above is from Whalley; but the same disposition is to be found in all modern astrological writers.
44 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
The first triangle, or triplicity, is formed by three masculine signs, Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, having the Sun, Jupiter, and Mars as lords by house. Mars, however, being contrary in condition to the solar influence, this triplicity receives, as its lords, only Jupiter and the Sun. By day, therefore, the Sun claims the principal co-regency of it, and Jupiter by night. Aries is on the equinoctial circle, Leo on the summer, and Sagittarius on the winter circle. This triplicity is principally northern, owing to the concurrent dominion of Jupiter, who is fruitful and airy, and expressly connected with winds proceeding from the north; it is, however, also north-west, in consequence of being, in some degree, combined with the west by means of the house of Mars, who introduces western breezes and the feminine qualities of that quarter, in consequence of his lunar condition*.
The second triplicity, formed by Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, is allotted to the dominion of the Moon and Venus, since it consists of feminine signs. The Moon rules it by night, and Venus by day. Taurus is on the summer circle, Virgo on the equinoctial, and Capricorn on the winter. This triplicity is southern, in consequence of the dominion of Venus, whose warm and moist influence produces south winds: it, however, additionally receives a mixture of the east, by means of Saturn; for, as Capricorn is the house of that planet, and an eastern sign, Saturn becomes effective of winds from that quarter, and furnishes this triplicity with a mixture of the east, with which quarter he is further connected by means of his solar condition.
The third triplicity is composed of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, masculine signs. It holds connection with
* The “ lunar condition ’”? here spoken of refers to the position of Aries (Mars’s house) in the lunar semicircle.
+ Capricorn being in the solar semicircle.
Chap. XXI.] = PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 49
Saturn and Mercury by containing their houses, and is therefore attributed to them, and not to Mars, to which planet it bears no relation. Saturn rules it by day, owing to his condition*, and Mercury by night. Gemini is on the summer circle, Libra on the equinoctial, and Aquarius on the winter. This triplicity is principally eastern, by the influence of Saturn; but it becomes northeast by receiving also a mixture of the north from the condition of Jupiter, with which planet Saturn has, in this respect, a diurnal familiarityT.
The fourth triplicity, formed by Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, is left to the remaining planet, Mars, who has right in it by means of his house, Scorpio. But, as the signs which compose this triplicity are feminine, the Moon by night and Venus by day, through their feminine condition, govern it, together with Mars. Cancer is on the summer circle, Scorpio on the winter, and Pisces on the equinoctial. This triplicity is western, in consequence of the government of the Moon and Mars; but it is also blended with the south by the joint dominion of Venus, and therefore becomes south-west.
Chapter XXII.
Exaltations.
Tat which is termed the exaltation of the planets is considered by the following rules: The Sun on his entrance into Aries is then passing into the higher and more northern semicircle; but, on his entrance into Libra, into the more southern and lower one: his exaltation, therefore, is determined to be in Aries, as,
* The reason for making Saturn diurnal lord of this triplicity may be found in Chap. vii.
+t This familiarity seems to arise from the sextile aspect between Aquarius, the diurnal house of Saturn, and Sagittarius, the diurnal house of Jupiter.
46 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
when present in that sign, he begins to lengthen the days, and the influence of his heating nature increases at the same time. His fall is placed in Libra, for the converse reasons. Saturn on the contrary, in order to preserve his station opposite to the Sun, in this respect, as well as in regard to their respective houses, obtains his exaltation in Libra, and his fall in Aries: since, in all cases, the increase of heat must be attended by a diminution of cold, and the increase of cold by a diminution of heat.
The Moon, again, after conjunction with the Sun in Aries, the seat of his exaltation, makes her first appearance, and begins to augment her light in Taurus, the first sign of her own triplicity, which is consequently ascribed to be her exaltation; while Scorpio, the opposite sign, is her fall. Jupiter, since he is efficacious in exciting fruitful breezes from the north, and since he becomes most northerly, and augments his peculiar influence when in Cancer, accordingly obtains his exaltation in that sign, and hie fall in Capricorn.
Mars possesses a fiery nature, which receives its greatest intensity in Capricorn, in which sign this planet becomes most southerly; his exaltation is therefore placed in Capricorn, in oposition to that of Jupiter, and his fall in Cancer.
Venus is of a moist nature, and becomes chiefly moist when in Pisces. Under that sign a dampness begins to be perceptible in the atmosphere, and Venus, from being in that sign, derives an augmentation of her own proper influence: her exaltation is consequently placed therein, and her fall in Virgo.
Mercury is of a nature opposite to that of Venus, and is more dry: in opposition to her, therefore, he takes his exaltation in Virgo, in which sign the autumnal dryness makes its first appearance; and he receives his fall in Pisces.
Chap. X XIII.] ProtEMy’s TETRABIBLOS. 47
Chapter XXIII.
The Disposition of the Terms*.
THERE are two methods of disposing the terms of the planets, in reference to the dominion of the triplicities; one is Aigyptian, the other Chaldaic.
But the Adgyptian method preserves no regular distribution, neither in point of successive order nor in point of quantity. In point of order it is defective, since it, in some instances, allots the first degrees of a sign to the lord of the house, in others to the lord of the triplicity, and m others again to the lord of the exaltation. By selecting examples this failure in order will easily be seen; for instance, if the order were regulated by the government of houses, for what reason should Saturn take the first degrees in Libra, since that sign is the house of Venus? or why should Jupiter take them in Aries, which is the house of Mars? If the government of triplicities were followed, for what reason should Mercury take the first degrees in Capricorn, which is in the triplicity ruled by Venus? If the government by exaltations, why should Mars take the first degrees in Cancer? that sign being the exaltation of Jupiter. And if the order were regulated even by considering the planet which possesses most of these dignities in
* In reference to the terms of the planets, Placidus has these words (according to Cooper’s translation): ‘‘ The dignity of the ‘‘ planets in the signs and their parts, which are called the ‘‘ bounds and terminations,’’ (quasi, terms) ‘‘ have a real and “ natural foundation; to wit, the powerful aspect or propor- ‘ tional influxes to the moveable points in which the stars begin ‘¢to produce the primary qualities. So that, according to those ‘things we have explained in the philosophy of the heavens, ‘‘ these are found to agree so well with the AMgyptian boun- ‘¢ daries,’’ (terms) ‘‘ that they are highly deserving of admira- ‘* tion.”’
48 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
the sign, for what reason should Mercury take the first degrees in Aquarius, in which sign he rules only by triplicity, and why not Saturn, who has government in it by house, as well as by triplicity? or why in short should Mercury, who does not possess any kind of dominion in Capricorn, receive the first degrees in that sign also? The same want of order is abundantly evident in the rest of the distribution.
An equal irregularity exists in the respective quantities of degrees allotted by the Aigyptians to the several terms of the planets. For it is by no means a proper nor esufficient demonstration of accuracy that the aggregate sum of all the numbers of every single planet amounts to the precise total requiring to be divided into portions of time*; since, even if it be admitted that this total, collected from every single star, is correctly asserted by the Aigyptians, it may still be objected that the same total, so collected by them, may be found in many other ways by interchanging the numbers in a sign. There are persons also who contend that in every latitude the same space of time is occupied in ascension by every star; this, however, is manifestly wrong: for, in the first place, these persons are guided by the vulgar opinion of the plane heights of ascension, which is totally foreign to truth, and according to which, in the parallel of Lower igypt, the signs of Virgo and Libra would ascend each in thirty-eight degrees and a thirdt, and Leo and Scorpio each in thirty-five degrees; when it 1s, on the contrary, shewn by the Tablest, that the latter two signs occupy in their several ascensions
* This total is the 360 degrees of the zodiac, requiring to be divided according to correspondent portions of the equator; by which all time is reckoned. | t+ The degrees here mentioned are degrees of the equator.
~ See, in the Appendix, an extract from these tables; the whole of which are to be found in the Almagest.
Chap. XXIII.] ProLtemy’s TETRABIBLOS. 49
more than thirty-five degrees each, but Virgo and Libra less. It should further be observed, that those who support this opinion seem (by so doing) not only to dispute the quantity of the terms most generally received, but to be driven also to the necessity of falsifying many points; since (as it is indispensable to keep to the same total amount of all the terms together) they make use of parts of degrees; but even that contrivance does not enable them to reach the true point.
The old terms, admitted by many persons on the authority of former tradition, are as follows:
The Terms according to the Agyptians.
Thus, by the Hgyptian distribution, it appears that the total numbers of the degrees for each planet, added together, make 360:—viz. for Saturn, 57, Jupiter, 79, Mars 66, Venus, 82, and Mercury 76.
50 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
The method of the Chaldzans contains a certain simplicity of arrangement as to quantity, and preserves an order of succession rather more conformable to the dominion of the triplicities. It is, nevertheless, highly imperfect, as may be easily discovered even without being pointed out: for in the first triplicity, (which the Chaldzans also attribute to the same signs; viz. Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius,) Jupiter, the lord of the triplicity, takes the first degrees; Venus, who rules the next triplicity, follows him; after her, in succession, are Saturn and Mercury, the lords of the triplicity of Gemini; and lastly Mars, lord of the remaining triplicity. In the second triplicity, (also allotted to the same signs, viz. Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn) Venus stands first; next to her, Saturn and Mercury; after them Mars, and Jupiter last. In the other two triplicities a similar order of succession is closely followed; and with respect to the third triplicity, which is ascribed to two lords, viz. to Saturn and Mercury, Saturn is placed first in order by day and Mercury by night.
The quantity of degrees allotted to each planet is also simply regulated in the Chaldaic method ; it diminishes in graduation from the quantity given to the planet first in order, so that each successive planet takes one degree less than that which preceded it. Thus the first planet takes eight degrees, the second seven, the third six, the fourth five, and the fifth four. By this arrangement the degrees of Saturn amount by day to 78, and by night to 66; the degrees of Jupiter to 72, of Mars to 69, of Venus to 75, and of Mercury by day to 66, and by night to 78—the whole amounting to 360.
Of these two distributions of the terms, that of the _Aigyptians seems more to be relied on than the other; since it has been handed down and recommended in the writings of the Aigyptian authors, and also because the degrees of the terms, in nativities rectified by them as exChap. XXIV.] PToLEMY’sS TETRABIBLOS. dl amples, are universally in accordance with this distribution; while, on the other hand, neither the order nor the number of the Chaldaic method has ever been recorded or explained by any writer—not even by the writers of that very nation: the accuracy of that method is consequently doubtful, and its irregularity as to the order of placing the planets is widely open to censure.
There is, however, an ancient writing which has fallen into the author’s possession, and which gives a rational and consistent account of the nature of the terms; of the order in which they are to be taken, and of the quantity belonging to each. It will be found in the subsequent _ chapter.
CHAPTER XXIV.
The Terms according to Ptolemy.
In arranging the order in which the planets take their terms in each sign, their exaltations, triplicities, and houses, are taken into consideration; and whatever planet, whether benefic or malefic, may possess two rights of dominion in one and the same sign, such planet is universally placed first in order in that sign. In other cases, however, where it does not happen that a malefic possesses two rights of dominion in the sign, it 1s always placed last.
The lord of the exaltation is placed first; then the lord of the triplicity; and then the lord of the house; in regular succession, according to the series of the signs; but it must again be remembered that any planet, having two rights of dominion in the same sign, takes precedence, as before mentioned, of those having only one. In Cancer and Leo, however, the malefics occupy the first degrees; as those signs are the houses of the Moon and the Sun, which take no terms; and the malefics being found to have greater potency in those signs therefore take precedence in them. Mars, consequently, receives the first
52 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I degrees in Cancer, and Saturn in Leo, by which arrangement a proper order is preserved*.
The respective quantities of degrees for the several terms is thus determined: viz. when there is no planet found to be lord by two rights in the same sign, or in the two signs next following, each of the benefics, Jupiter and Venus, takes seven degrees; the malefics, Saturn and Mars, take five degrees each; and Mercury, being of common influence, takes six degrees; thus completing the whole thirty. Since, however, there are some cases 1n which a planet has always a double right—(for Venus obtains the sole government of Taurus and Pisces, as the Moon does not share in the terms)—it is to be observed that when such double right (whether it exist in the same sign or in the signs next following as far as may complete a quadrant) may be possessed by any planet, that planet receives in addition one degree. The planets thus entitled were distinguished by points in the ancient writing above mentioned. And the degree, added to the quantity of the planet which exercises a double right, is subtracted from those of single right; most generally from Saturn and Jupiter, in consequence of their slower motion.
These terms are detailed in the following table :—
* The cause of this disposition is that Cancer, the house of the Moon, partakes of moisture, and counteracts Mars’s dryness; while Leo, the Sun’s house, is hot, and counteracts Saturn’s cold. —Vide Chap. iv, and conclusion of Chap. vii of this book.
It may further be observed, that Jupiter’s right, by triplicity, to the first degrees in Leo, is of course surrendered to Saturn, on the principle that the malefics have greater potency in the houses of the luminaries.
Chap. XXV.| PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 53
Mercury | 8/19)Jup.| 7 |, 511q@Ven.| 8
Sat. at. § 6/25 Mars
CHAPTER XXV. The Places and Degrees of every Planet.
THE signs have been subdivided by some persons into parts still more minute, which have been named places and degrees of dominion. Thus the twelfth part of a sign, or two degrees and a half, has been called a place, and the dominion of it given to the signs next succeeding. Other persons again, pursuing various modes of arrangement, attribute to each planet certain degrees, as being aboriginally connected with it, in a manner somewhat similar to the Chaldaic arrangement of the terms. But all these imaginary attributes cannot be herein detailed, for they receive no confirmation from nature, are not capable of being rationally demonstrated, and are, in fact, merely the offspring of scientific vanity.
54 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
The following observation, however, deserves attention, and must not be omitted. The beginnings of the signs, and likewise those of the terms, are to be taken from the equinoctial and tropical points. This rule is not only clearly stated by writers on the subject, but is also especially evident by the demonstration constantly afforded, that their natures, influences and familiarities have no other origin than from the tropics and equinoxes, as has been already plainly shewn*. And, if other beginnings were allowed, it would either be necessary to exclude the natures of the signs from the theory of prognostication, or impossible to avoid error in then retaining and making use of them; as the regularity of their spaces and distances, upon which their influence depends, would then be invaded and broken in upon.
CHarpTteR XXVI.
Faces, Chariots, and other stmalar Attributes of the Planets.
THE familiarities existing between the planets and the signs are such as have been already particularised. There are also, however, further peculiarities ascribed to the planets. Each is said to be in its proper face, when the aspect it holds to the Sun, or Moon, is similar to that which its own house bears to their houses: for example, Venus is in her proper face when making a sextile aspect to either luminary, provided she be occidental to the Sun, but oriental to the Moon, agreeably to the primary arrangement of her housest. Each planet is also said to be in its proper chariot, or throne, or otherwise triumphantly situated, when it holds * Vide Chapters xii and xiv of this Book. t Vide Chapter xx. It of course follows that Saturn is in his proper face when he is five signs, or in quintile, after the Sun or before the Moon; that Jupiter is so when in trine; Mars when in quartile; Venus when in sextile; and Mercury when only one sign, (or in modern phrase, in semi-sextile,) after the Sun or before the Moon.
Chapter XXVII. Application, Separation, and other Faculties. In all cases when the distances between planets or luminaries are but trifling*, the planet which precedes is said to apply to that which follows; and that which follows to be separating from that which precedest. The same
* This has been understood to mean, when the planets or lumi- Nnaries are within each other’s orbs; Saturn’s orb being 10 degrees, Jupiter’s 12, Mars’s 7 degrees 30 minutes, the Sun’s 17 degrees, Venus’s 8, Mercury’s 7 degrees 30 minutes, and the Moon’s 12 degrees 30 minutes. + Astrologers generally agree, that the inferior planets always apply to the superior, but the superior never to the inferior, except when the inferior be retrograde. In the present instance it seems most probable that the author means the planet which is more occidental, by ‘‘ the planet which precedes.’’? He often uses ‘* precedent ’’ as equivalent to “‘ occidental ’’ in regard to the daily revolution of the heavens: and thus a planet in the first degree of Aries would precede, and be more occidental than one in the sixth degree of Aries, to which latter it would, by the regular planetary motion, be applying.
56 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book I.
rule obtains both in respect to bodily conjunction and to any other of the aspects before described ; except that, in the application and separation of the bodily conjunction, it is also essential to observe the actual latitudes of the bodies, in order to receive and consider only such a transit as may be made in the same parts of the zodiac*. But in the application and separation of aspects merely, the same attention is not requisite, since all the rays are uniformly converged into one focus, that is to say, into the angle of the eartht, and meet there alike from every quarter. It appears, therefore, by the whole of what has been already delivered, that the effective influence of the stars must be considered as arising not only from their own peculiar natures and properties, but also from the quality of the surrounding signs, and from configuration with the Sun and the angles; all which has been pointed out. The influence of each planet, however, is strengthened chiefly when it may be oriental, swift and direct in its proper course and motion—for it has then its greatest power: but, on the other hand, it loses strength when occidental and slow in motion or retrograde; as it then acts with smaller effectt. Its influence also receives
* On this, Whalley says that ‘‘ the less the difference of lati- ‘‘ tude of the planets in conjunction, the more powerful will be | ‘the influence: for if two planets in conjunction have each ‘*‘ considerable latitude of different denomination, the influence ‘“‘ of such conjunction will be much lessened.’’ + Tout’ est ext to xevtpoy rns yns. The precise meaning of the word kevtpoy is ‘‘ centre,’? rather than ‘‘ angle’’; but Ptolemy uses it throughout this work, in speaking of the four angles of heaven, and I conceive he uses it here to signify an angle at, or on, the earth. The following definition of an aspect, by Kepler, strengthens my opinion: ‘‘ An aspect is an angle formed on the ‘earth, by the luminous rays of two planets; efficacious in ‘‘ stimulating sublunary nature.’’ t Placidus (Cooper’s translation) says that ‘‘ the three supe- ‘‘riors are supposed to be stronger, if they are found to be ‘‘ matutine, or eastern, from the Sun; the three inferiors, ves- ‘‘ pertine, or western; for then they have a greater degree of ** light, in which consists their virtual influence, and then they
Chap. XXVII.] Ptolemy’s TETRABIBLOS. 57
accession or diminution, from its position with regard to the horizon; as, if it be situated in the mid-heaven, or succedent to the mid-heaven, it is especially strong; likewise, if it be on the actual horizon, or succedent to the horizon, it is also powerful—particularly if in the eastern quarter. Should it, however, be below the earth, and configurated with the ascendant, either from the lower heaven, or from any other part below the earth, its influence then becomes more languid; but if, when below the earth, it hold no such configuration, it is entirely deprived of efficacyf.
are called oriental; but occidental if otherwise. Every one ‘‘ knows how largely, yet to no purpose, authors have treated of ‘‘ the orientality of the planets.”’
Moxon’s Mathematical Dictionary has the following words on the same subject: ‘‘Now the three superior planets are strongest, ‘‘ being oriental and matutine; but the three inferior when they ‘‘ are occidental and vespertine. The reason is, because the first ‘‘ in the first case, but the last in the second, do then descend to ‘‘the lowest part of their orbit, are increased in light, and ‘‘ approaching nearer the earth; and so on the contrary, the ‘‘inferiors matutine, the superiors vespertine are weakened.”’
t In a note on the 6th Chapter of this Book, Whalley says that, ‘‘ according to Ptolemy, such as are between the ascendant ‘¢ and mid-heaven obtain the first place of strength, and are said ‘‘to be in their oriental orientality: but, between the western ‘horizon and the lower heaven, in their occidental orientality, ‘¢ which is the second place of strength : between the lower heaven ‘‘and the ascendant, in their oriental occidentality, the first ‘¢ depree of weakness; and between the mid-heaven and western ‘‘ horizon, in their occidental occidentality, the weakest place of ‘all.’ This is all very pretty jargon, but certainly Not ‘‘ according to Ptolemy,’’ who distinctly says, on the contrary, that if a planet ‘‘ is on the actual horizon, or succedent to the ‘‘ horizon, it is also powerful, and particularly if in the eastern ‘‘ quarter.’? The last member of this sentence, as well as the conclusion of this 27th Chapter, shows that Ptolemy did not consider a situation between the mid-heaven and western horizon to be ‘‘ the weakest place of all.”’
58 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.
BOOK THE SECOND.
—S
CuarTer I.
General Division of the Subject.
THE great and leading points, requiring to be attended to as a necessary means of introduction to the consideration of particular predictions, having been succinctly defined, the further parts of the subject, comprehending every thing which may tend to facilitate prediction, and render it complete, shall now be duly proceeded im; and, at the same time, care shall be taken to confine the whole doctrine within the limits of natural reason. The foreknowledge to be acquired by means of Astrology 1s to be regarded in two great and principal divisions. The first, which may be properly called General, or Universal, concerns entire nations, countries, or cities; and the second, denominated Particular, or Genethliacal, relates to men individually. — In considering these respective divisions, it seems proper to give priority to that which has the more general application and influence: because, in the first place, general events are produced by causes greater and more compulsatory than the causes of particular events; secondly, because natures of more extended potency must invariably control those which are more limited in action; and, thirdly, because particular events, or individual affections, are comprehended in those of general influence*. It is therefore especially necessary, in desiring
* Vide Chap. iii, Book I, pp. 13-14.
Chap. I.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 59
to investigate particular events, to treat first of those which are general.
Again, general events are subdivided according to their operation upon entire countries, and upon certain cities or districts: one subdivision being regarded as affecting entire countries, and the other certain cities or districts only. They are also separately considered according to the causes by which they are produced; war, pestilence, famine, earthquakes, inundations, and other similar visitations being dependent on such greater and more important causes, as arise only after considerable periods; while slighter causes, arising more frequently, have reference only to the revolution of the seasons; their greater or less variation in cold and heat; the severity or mildness of the weather; the occasional abundance or scarcity of provisions; and other like occurrences.
Hence the consideration of those events which concern whole countries, and are dependent on the greater causes, (since it has a more extended scope than the other, which attaches only to certain cities, or districts, and is subject to slighter causes) takes precedence. And, for its due investigation, two essential points are to be attended to: the first 1s, the appropriate familiarity of the zodiacal signs and the fixed stars with the several regions which may be concerned; and the second comprises the indications occasionally arising in those parts of the heavens where such familiarity is found: for instance, the eclipses of the Sun and Moon, and such transits as may be made by the planets, when matutine, and in their respective stations.
The nature of the sympathy between these things must, however, be explained first; and a brief description will therefore be given of the chief peculiarities observable in whole nations; in regard to their manners and customs, as well as to their bodily formation and temperament; considered agreeably to their familiarity with those stars
60 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.
and signs whence the natural cause of their peculiarities duly proceeds.
CuaprTer II. Peculiarities observable throughout every entire Climate.
Tue peculiarities of all nations are distinguished according to entire parallels and entire angles, and by their situation with regard to the Sun and the Ecliptic.
The climate which we inhabit is sitwated im one of the Northern Quadrants: but other nations, which lie under more southern parallels, that is to say, in the space between the equinoctial line and the summer tropic, have the Sun in their zenith, and are continually scorched by it. They are consequently black in complexion, and have thick and curled hair. They are, moreover, ugly in person, of contracted stature, hot in disposition, and fierce in manners, in consequence of the incessant heats to which they are exposed; and they are called by the common name of Aithiopians. But the human race does not alone afford evidence of the violent heat in these regions; it is shown also by all other animals and by the state of the surrounding atmosphere.
The natives of those countries which lie under the more remote northern parallels (that 1s to say, under the Arctic circle and beyond it*) have their zenith far distant from the zodiac and the Sun’s heat. Their constitutions, therefore, abound in cold, and are-also highly imbued with moisture, which is in itself a most nutritive quality, and, in these latitudes, is not exhausted by heat: hence they are fair in complexion, with straight hair, of large bodies and full stature. They are cold in disposition, and wild in manners, owing to the constant cold. The state of the surrounding atmosphere and of animals and
* ** Under the Bears,’’ in the Greek.
Chap. I1.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 61
Plants, corresponds with that of men; who (as natives of these countries) are designated by the general name of Scythians.
The nations situated between the summer tropic and the arctic circle, having the meridian Sun neither in their zenith nor yet far remote from it, enjoy a well-temperated atmosphere. This favourable temperature, however, still undergoes variation, and changes alternatively from heat to cold; but the variation is never vast nor violent. The people who enjoy this kindly atmosphere are consequently of proportionate stature and complexion, and of good natural disposition: they live not in a state of dispersion, but dwell together in societies, and are civilised in their habits. Among the nations comprehended in this division, those verging towards the south are more industrious and ingenious than the others, and more adapted to the sciences: and these qualifications are engendered in them by the vicinity of the zodiac to their zenith, and by the familiarity thus subsisting between them and the planets moving in the zodiac, which familiarly gives activity and an intellectual impulse to their minds. Again, the natives of those countries which lie towards the east excel in courage, acting boldly and openly under all circumstances; for in all their characteristics they are principally conformed to the Sun’s nature, which is oriental, diurnal, masculine and dexter —(and it is plainly apparent that the dexter parts of all animals are much stronger than others)—hence results the greater courage of the inhabitants of the East. And as the Moon, on her first appearance after conjunction, -1s always seen in the West, the western parts are therefore lunar, and consequently feminine and _ sinister; whence it follows that the inhabitants of the west are milder, more effeminate and reserved. Thus, in all countries, certain respective peculiarities exist in regard to manners, customs and laws; and in each it is found that.some portion of the inhabitants differs partially and individually from the usual habits
62 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.
and condition of their race. These variations arise similarly to the variations perceptible in the condition of the atmosphere; as, in all countries, the general state of whose atmosphere may be either hot, or cold, or temperate, certain districts are found to possess a particular temperature of their own, and to be more or less hot, or cold, by being more or less elevated than the general face of the country. So, likewise, certain people become navigators owing to their proximity to the sea, while others are equestrian, because their country is a plain; and others, again, become domiciliated by the fertility of their soil.
And thus, in each particular climate, certain peculiar qualities are to be found, arising from the natural familarity which it holds with the stars and the twelve signs. And although these qualities do not pervade it, in such a manner as to be necessarily exhibited by every individual native, yet they are so far generally distributed as to be of much utility in investigating particular events; and it is highly important to take at least a brief notice of them.
CuaptTer III.
The Familiarity of the Regions of the Earth with the Triplicities and the Planets.
Ir has been already stated that there are four triplicities distinguishable in the zodiac. The first, composed of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, is the north-west triplicity; and Jupiter has chief dominion over it on behalf of its northern proportion; but Mars also rules with him in reference to the west. The second, consisting of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, is the south-east; and in this triplicity Venus bears chief rule, in consequence of the southern proportion; but Saturn also governs with her in consideration of the east. The third, composed of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, is north-east; and Saturn
Chap. III.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 63
is here the principal lord, in consequence of the eastern proportion ; Jupiter, however, governs with him in reference to the north. The fourth triplicity is constituted of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, and is south-west; 1t owns Mars as its principal ruler, in consideration of its western proportion; and, on behalf of the south, it is also governed by Venus.
The four triplicities being thus established, the whole inhabited earth is accordingly divided into four parts, agreeing with the number of the triplicities. It is divided latitudinally by the line of the Mediterranean Sea, from the Straits of Hercules to the Issican Gulph, continued onwards through the mountainous ridge extending towards the east; and by this latitudinal division its southern and northern parts are defined. Its longitudinal division is made by the line of the Arabian Gulph, the Aigean Sea, Pontus, and the lake Meotis; and by this line are separated its eastern and western parts.
Of the four quadrants of the earth, thus agreeing in number with the four triplicities, one is situated in the north-west of the entire earth, and contains Celto-galatia; or, as it 1s commonly called, Europe. Opposed to this quadrant lies that of the south-east, towards Eastern ABthiopia; it is called the southern part of Asia Magna. Another quadrant of the entire earth is in the north-east, about Scythia, and is called the northern part of Asia Magna. To this is opposed the quadrant of the southwest, which lies about Western Atthiopia, and is known by the general name of Libya.
Each of these quadrants contains certain parts, which, in comparison with its other parts, lie more contiguous to the middle of the earth; and these parts, in respect of the quadrant to which they belong, have a situation opposite to the rest of that quadrant, in the same manner as that quadrant itself is situated in regard to the rest of the earth. For instance, in the quadrant of Europe, which is situated on the north-west of the whole earth, those
64 PTOLEMY'S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.
parts of it which lie towards the middle of the earth, and near the angles of the other quadrants, are manifestly situated in the south-east of that quadrant. The like rule obtains in regard to the other quadrants. And hence it is evident that each quadrant is in familiarity with two oppositely-placed triplicities, its whole extent being adapted to the one triplicity which governs it as an entire quadrant; but its particular parts, situated about the middle of the earth, and lying, as regards the rest of the quadrant, in a direction contrary to that assigned to the whole quadrant altogether, being adapted to the other triplicity which rules the particular quadrant lying opposite toit. The planets exercising dominion in both these triplicities also hold familiarity with these particular parts; but, with the other more remote parts of any quadrant, only those planets hold familiarity which rule in the single triplicity to which the whole quadrant is allotted. With the said particular parts about the middle of the earth, Mercury also, as well as the other planets in dominion, bears familiarity, in consideration of his meditative condition and common nature.
Under this arrangement, it follows that the northwestern parts of the first quadrant, or that of Europe, are in familiarity with the north-west triplicity, composed of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius; and they are accordingly governed by the lords of that triplicity, Jupiter and Mars, vespertine. These parts, as distinguished by their appropriation to entire nations, are Britain, Galatia, Germany, Barsania*, Italy, Apulia, Sicily, Gaul, Tuscany, Celtica, and Spain. And, since the triplicity itself and the planets connected with it in dominion are adapted to command, the natives of these countries are conse quently impatient of restraint, lovers of freedom, warlike, industrious, imperious, cleanly, and high-minded. But, owing to the vespertine configuration of Jupiter and
* Or, perhaps, Bastarnia, a part of the ancient European Sarmatia.
Chap. III.] PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. 65
Mars, as well as the masculine condition ot the anterior parts of the triplicity, and the feminine condition of its latter parts*, the said nations regard women with scorn and indifferencet. They are, however, still careful of the community, brave iand faithful, affectionate in their families, and perform good and kind actions.
Among the countries before named, Britain, Galatia, Germany, and Barsania have a greater share of familiarity with Aries and Mars; and their inhabitants are accordingly wilder, bolder, and more ferocious. Italy, Apulia, Sicily, and Gaul are in familiarity with Leo and the Sun; and the natives of these countries are more imperious, yet kind and benevolent, and careful of the commonwealth. Tuscany, Celtica, and Spain, are connected with Sagittarius and Jupiter; and their inhabitants are lovers of freedom, simplicity, and elegance.
The south-eastern parts of this quadrant, which are situated towards the middle of the earth, viz. Thrace, Macedonia, Illyria, Hellas, Achaia, and Crete, as well as the Cyclad Isles and the shores of Asia Minor and of Cyprus, assume, in addition, a connection with the southeast triplicity, which is composed of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, and ruled by Venus and Saturn; and, in consequence of the vicinity of these regions to the middle of the earth, Mercury likewise has a proportionate dominion
* This should probably be understood to mean in a mundane point of view, agreeably to Chap. 6 and 15, Book i. For when Aries is on the ascendant, it is, of course, oriental and masculine; and Sagittarius must consequently then be in the eighth house, occidental, and therefore feminine.
+ The customs of nations have, in some degree, altered since Ptolemy made this severe charge against us and our brethren in the north and west of Europe. The following passage also occurs in this part of the original text:— pos 3¢ ras ovvovcias TwY apoEViKwY avakivouuevo: Kat (nAoUYTES, Kal MNTE GLO Xpoy NTE avaydpoy TovTo voucoyres. S1a TovrTo ovde exAvoyTai, oT: ovde ws wacxovTeEs Siaxewrat ext TouTw, aAAa puAaTTovel Tas Wuxas avdpeious
66 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.
over them. Hence their inhabitants, being subjected to the rulers of both triplicities, enjoy a favourable temperament of mind and of body. From Mars they imbibe their fitness for command, their courage, and impatience of restraint; from Jupiter their love of freedom, their selfrule, their skill in guiding public affairs, and in legislation: through the influence of Venus they «re also lovers of the arts and sciences, as well as of music and poetry, of public shows, and all the refinements of life; and from Mercury they deduce their hospitality, their fondness for society and communion, their love of equity and of literature, and their power of eloquence. They are also in the highest degree conversant with sacred mysteries, owing to the vespertine figuration of Venus.
It is further to be observed of these last-named countries, that the inhabitants of the Cyclad Isles, and of the shores of Asia Minor and of Cyprus, are more particularly under the influence of Taurus and Venus, and are therefore voluptuous, fond of elegance, and over-studious in their attention to the body. The people of Hellas, Achaia, and Crete, have a stronger familiarity with Virgo and Mercury, and are therefore learned and scientific, preferring the cultivation of the mind to the care of the body. The people of Macedonia, Thrace, and Illyria, are chiefly influenced by Capricorn and Saturn; whence they are greedy of wealth, inferior in civilisation, and have no ordinances of civil polity.
The second quadrant consists of the southern division of Asia Magna. Such of its parts as are contained in India, Arriana, Gedrosia, Parthia, Media, Persia, Babylonia, Mesopotamia, and Assyria, are situated in the south-east of the whole earth, and have due familiarity with the south-east triplicity (composed of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn), and consequently with Venus, Mercury, and Saturn, in matutine figuration. The nature of the inhabitants of these countries is obedient to the dominion of these ruling influences; they worship Venus under the
Chap. III.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 67
name of Isis; and they also pay devotion to Saturn, invoking him by the name of Mithranhelios. Many of them likewise foretell future events; and they consecrate to the gods some of their bodily members, to which superstition they are induced by the nature of the figuration of the planets before mentioned*. They are, moreover, hot in constitution, amorous and lustful, fond of acting, singing, and dancing, gaudy in their dresses and ornaments; owing to the influence of Venus. Saturn, however, inclines them to simplicity of conduct; and, in consequence of the matutine figuration, they address their women publiclyt. There are also many among them who beget children by their own mothers$. The matutine figurations also influence their mode of worship, which is performed by prostration of the breast; because the heart is the nobler part of the body, and, in its vivifying faculties, acts like the Sun. And, although the influence of Venus makes the people, generally speaking, finical and effeminate in their personal adornment and apparel, yet the connection which Saturn holds with them, by means of the east, still renders them great in mind, eminent in council, courageous and warlike.
It is to be remarked, that Parthia, Media, and Persia, have a more particular familiarity with Taurus and Venus; whence it follows that the dwellers in those countries wear splendid garments, and clothe the whole person entirely, except the breast; they are also fond of elegance
* The Greek is as follows: kai 7a popia avtwy ra yevynrixa avatiOeact Tots Peas. Stor: OTK NMATICOMOS TWH ELPNMEVwWY ASEpwY hYTE TREPMATIKOS ETL.
Follies, similar in their kind to these, are still practised by the Faquirs of Hindostan, and by other religious sects in Asia. + Savepws wotovpevo: Tas Hpos Tas yuvaixas cuvovoias, t The author gives a singular reason for this incest: picovai de Tas (cvvovoias) zpos Tous apgevas’ 81a TovTo Kas of WAEISOL aUTwY EK Tw MATEpwY T €EKVOTOLOVUCL,
68 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.
and refinement. ‘The countries about Babylon, Mesopotamia, and Assyria, are connected with Virgo and Mercury; their inhabitants are consequently studious of the sciences, and, among other attainments, excel in making observations on the five planets. India, Arriana, and Gedrosia, are connected with Capricorn and Saturn; the natives of these regions are, therefore, ill-formed in person, of dirty habits, and barbarous manners. The remaining parts of this second quadrant, viz. Idumea, Ceelesyria, Judea, Pheenicia, Chaldea, Orchynia, and Arabia Felix, occupy a situation in the vicinity of the middle of the earth, and in the north-west of the quadrant to which they actually belong: hence they are in familiarity with the north-west triplicity (which consists of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius), and they have for their rulers, Jupiter and Mars, together with Mercury. By means of the figuration of these planets, the natives of the said countries are skilful in trade and all mercantile affairs, heedless of danger, yet treacherous, servile, and thoroughly fickle. The inhabitants of Coelesyria, Idumea, and Judea, are principally influenced by Aries and Mars, and are generally audacious, atheistical*, and treacherous. The Phoenicians, Chaldeans, and Orchynians, have familiarity with Leo and the Sun, and are therefore more simple and humane in disposition; they are also studious of astrology, and pay greater reverence than all other nations to the Sun. The people of Arabia Felix are con-
* The epithet is remarkable, not only as being, in the opinion of a Gentile, merited by the Jews, among other nations, but also at a period scarcely exceeding a century after their most heinous crime had been committed, expressly under the cloak of religion. It seems, however, that the Jews were charged with atheism by other writers also, and on account of their neglect of the false gods of the heathens; viz. ‘‘ falsorium deorum neglectus: quam ‘‘candem causam etiam Judsis maledicendi Tacitus habuit, et ‘¢Plinius Major, cui Judsi dicuntur gens contumeliad numinum ‘¢ insignis.”? See Clark’s Notes on Grotius de Verit. Relig. Christ. Lib. 2, §2.