Tetrabiblos, or Quadripartite — Ptolemy, trans. J. M. Ashmand (1822)

98 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.

period of the Sun’s transit through either tropical or equinoctial point, whichever it may be; and to arrange the angles (as in the case of a nativity) according to the degree and hour at which the new or full Moon may be found to happen, in every latitude for which the consideration may be desired. Such planets and stars as may have dominion over the places where the said new or full Moon happens, and over the following angle, are then to be noted, in the same manner as that stated with regard to eclipses. And after these preliminary steps have been attended to, a general inference may be drawn as to the proper qualities of the whole quarter; and the intensity or relaxation of their operation 1s to be contemplated from the natures of the ruling planets and stars, distinguished by the faculties they possess, and by the mode in which they affect the atmosphere.

The second part of the consideration relates to each month, and requires a similar observation of the new or full Moon first taking place on the Sun’s progress through each sign: and it must be remembered, that, if a new Moon should have happened at a period nearest to the Sun’s transit over the past tropical or equinoctial point, the new Moon also in each succeeding sign, until the commencement of the next quarter, are to be observed ; but, if a full Moon should have so happened, then similar observation is to be made of each subsequent full Moon. The angles, also, must be duly attended to, as well as the planets and stars ruling in both the places*; and especially the nearest phases, applications, and separations of

do not conceive, that he intended to teach, in this chapter, that a@ previous lunation, when at s0 great a distance before the important ingress, would have a greater influence over the ensuing quarter of the year, than a subsequent lunation taking place so closely after the said ingress. * ‘ Both the places.’’ These are the places of the new or full Moon, and of the following angle; as before mentioned with regard to the quarterly consideration.

Chap. XIII.] PproLEMy’s TETRABIBLOS. 99

the planets, and their properties. The peculiar qualities of the two places, and the winds, liable to be excited by the planets themselves and by those parts of the signs in which they may be situated, are likewise to be considered ; and also that particular wind, which is indicated by the direction of the Moon’s ecliptical latitude. By the aid of these observations, and by weighing and comparing the existing vigour of each of the several properties and qualities, the general constitution of the atmosphere during each month may be predicted.

The third part of this consideration appertains to significations applying more minutely, and points out their force or weakness. In this case, the partile configurations of the Sun and Moon, at the intermediate quarters, as well as at the new or full Moon, are to be attentively regarded ; since there is a certain variation in the constitution of the atmosphere, which usually commences about three days before, and sometimes, also, about three days after the Moon has equated her course to the Sun. The configurations effected between the Moon, at each quarterly equation, and the planets, whether by the trine, sextile, or other authorized distances, are also to be observed; because the peculiar property of the change in the constitutions of the atmosphere depends much upon such configurations, and may be accordingly perceived by considering the nature of the influence which the said configurated planets and the signs exercise over the atmosphere and the winds.

The particular quality of the weather, thus produced, will be more fully established on certain days; especially when the brighter and more efficacious fixed stars may be near the Sun, either matutine or vespertine; as, when s0 posited, they most frequently convert the constitution of the atmosphere to an agreement with their own natures: and, when the Luminaries may transit any one of the angles, a similar effect is also produced. At all such positions the particular constitutions of the atmosphere

100 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book II.

are subject to variation, and thus become alternately more intense or more relaxed in their respective qualities. In this manner, by certain positions of the Moon, the flux and reflux of the sea are caused:and, when the Luminaries may be in angles, a change of the wind is produced, according to the direction of the Moon’s ecliptical latitude.

Finally, in all these considerations, it must be remembered that the more general and first constituted cause takes precedence, and that the particular cause comes subsequently and secondarily: and, that the operation is in the highest degree confirmed and strengthened, when the stars, which regulate the general effects, may be also configurated towards the production of the particular effects.

CHAPTER XIV. The Signtfication of Meteors.

In order to facilitate prognostication in minor and more limited instances, it is important to make further observation of all remarkable appearances occasionally visible around or near the Sun, Moon, and stars. And, for the diurnal state of the atmosphere, the Sun’s rising should be remarked; for the nocturnal state, his setting; but the probable duration of any such state must be considered by reference to the Sun’s configuration with the Moon; for, in most cases, each aspect, made between them, indicates the continuance of a certain state until another aspect shall take place.

Hence, the Sun, when rising or setting, if he shine clear and open, free from mists, gloom, and clouds, promises serene weather. But, if he have a wavering or fiery orb, or seem to emit or attract red rays, or if he be accompanied in any one part by the clouds called parhelia, or by other reddish clouds of extended figure, in the form of long rays, he then portends violent winds, chiefly liable

Chap. XIV.] | PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 101

to arise from those parts in which the said phenomena may have shewn themselves. If he should be pale or lurid, and rise or set encumbered with clouds, or surrounded by halos, he indicates storms and winds coming from the quarter of his apparent situation: and, if he be also accompanied by parhelia, or by lurid or dark rays, similar effects are also threatened from the parts where those appearances may be situated*.

The Moon’s course is to be carefully observed, at the third day before or after her conjunction with the Sun, her opposition, and her intermediate quarters; for, if she then shine thin and clear, with no other phenomena about her, she indicates serenity ; but, if she appear thin and red, and have her whole unilluminated part visible, and in a state of vibration, she portends winds from the quarter of her latitude and declinationt: and if she appear dark, or pale and thick, she threatens storms and showers. All halos formed around the Moon should also be observed; for, if there appear one only, bright and clear, and decaying by degrees, it promises serene weather; but, if two or three appear, tempests are indicated: and, if they seem reddish and broken, they threaten tempests, with violent and boisterous winds; if dark and thick, they foreshow storms and snow; if black and broken, tempests with

* Similar precepts may be found finely illustrated in Virgil’s Ist Georgic, vide I. 433 et infra: ‘* Sol quoque et exoriens et cum se condit in undas ‘¢ Signa dabit:”’

+ Virgil has said almost the same thing in these beautiful lines : ‘¢ At si virgineum suffuderit ore ruborem

‘‘Ventus erit: vento semper rubet aurea Phebe.”’ Georg. I, 1. 430.

See also the whole passage, beginning at 1. 424: ‘Si vero Solem ad rapidum Lunasque sequentes ‘ Ordine respicies,’’ &c.

102 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book ITI.

both winds and snow; and, whenever a greater number may appear, storms of greater fury are portended. The planets, also, and the brighter fixed stars, occasionally have halos, which indicate certain effects appropriate to their tinctures, and to the nature of the stars around which they may be situated. The apparent magnitudes of the fixed stars, and the colours of the luminous masses among them, are likewise to be remarked: for, when the stars appear brighter and larger than usual, they indicate an excitation of the wind from that quarter in which they may be situated. The nebulous mass of the Presepe in Cancer, and others similar to it, also require observation; as, if in fine weather they appear gloomy and indistinct, or thick, they thereby threaten a fall of rain; but, if clear and in continual vibration, they announce rough gales of wind*. Appearances occasionally visible in the sky, resembling the trains of cometsf, usually indicate wind and drought; in a degree proportionate to their multitude and continuance. Appearances, resembling shooting or falling stars, when presented in one part only, threaten a movement of wind from that part? ; when in various and opposite parts, they portend the approach of all kinds of tempestuous

* At this place, the following sentence, not found in the Greek, is inserted in a Latin translation: ‘* If the northern of the two stars, situated one on each side of ‘‘the Presepe, and called the Asini, should not appear, the ‘north wind will blow: but, if the southern one be invisible, ‘‘ the south wind.’’ +t These coruscations are, perhaps, similar to those now known by the name of the Aurora Borealis. t Virgil again: ‘‘ Sepe etiam stellas vento impendente videbis ‘‘ Preecipites cceelo labi.’’—&c. Georg. I, 1}. 365. A great part of the Ist Georgic consists of astrological rules for predicting the weather, closely resembling the precepts here given by Ptolemy. Virgil is said to have adopted his doctrine from Aratus.

Chap. XIV.] PToLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 103

weather, together with thunder and lightning. Clouds resembling fleeces of wool will also sometimes presage tempests; and the occasional appearance of the rainbow denotes, in stormy weather, the approach of serenity; in fine weather, storms.—And, in a word, all remarkable phenomena, visible in the sky, universally portend that certain appropriate events will be produced, each harmonising with its proper cause, in the manner herein described.

After the foregoing brief investigation of the more limited as well as more extensive significations, regarding general events, it becomes proper to proceed to the doctrine of genethliacal prognostication, or judgments of individual nativities.

Env oF Boox II.

104 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. (Book III.

BOOK THE THIRD.

CuaPrer I.

Proem.

IN the preceding pages, such events as affect the world generally have been discussed in priority; because they are operated by certain principal and paramount causes, which are, at the same time, predominant over particular and minor events applicable only to the separate properties and natural peculiarities of individuals. The foreknowledge of these particular events is called Genethlialogy, or the science of Nativities.

It must be remembered that the causation, by which all effects, whether general or particular, are produced and foreknown, is essentially one and the same; for the motions of the planets, and of the Sun and Moon, present the operative causation of events which happen to any individual, as well as of those which happen generally; and the foreknowledge of both may be obtained by the several creatures and substances, subjected to the influence of the heavenly bodies, and by due attention to the changes produced in those natures, by the configurations displayed in the Ambient by the planetary motion.

Still, however, the causes of general events are greater and more complete than those of particular events; and, although it has been now stated, that one single identical power supplies both the causation and the foreknowledge

Chap. I.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 105

of general as well as particular events, yet there does not belong to the two sorts of events a similar origin or beginning, at which observation of the celestial configurations must be made, for prognostication. In regard to general events, the dates of origin and commencement are many and various; for all general events cannot be traced to one origin, neither is their origin always considered by means of the matter subjected to their operation, for it may be also established by circumstances occurring in the Ambient and presenting the causation. It may, in fact, almost be said that they all originate in eminent eclipses of the Luminaries, and in remarkable transits made by the stars, at various times.

Particular events, however, which concern men individually, may be traced to one origin, single as well as manifold. Their origin is single, in respect to the primary composition of the nascent man; but it is also manifold, in respect to other circumstances subsequently indicated by dispositions in the Ambient, correlative to the primary origin. In all particular events, the origin, or birth, of the subjected matter itself, must, of course, be the primary origin; (and, in succession thereto, the various beginnings of other subsequent circumstances are to be assumed. Hence, therefore, at the origin of the subjected matter, all the properties and peculiarities of its contemperament must be observed; and then the subsequent events, which will happen at certain periods, sooner or later, are to be considered by means of the division of time, or the scale of the ensuing years*.

* The Division of Time is subsequently laid down by the author, in the last Chapter of the fourth Book.

106 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

Chapter II.

The Conception and the Parturition, or Birth; by whitch latter Event the Animal quits the Womb, and assumes another State of Extstence.

THE actual moment, in which human generation commences, is, in fact, by nature, the moment of the conception itself; but, in efficacy with regard to subsequent events, it is the parturition or birth.

In every case, however, where the actual time of conception may be ascertained, either casually or by observation, it is useful to remark the effective influence of the configuration of the stars as it existed at that time; and, from that influence, to infer the future personal peculiarities of mind and body. For the seed will, at the very first, and at once, receive its due quality, as then dispensed by the Ambient; and, although in subsequent periods its substance is varied by growth and conformation, it will still, by the laws of nature, congregate, during its growth, only such matter as may be proper to itself, and will become more and more imbued with the peculiar property of the first quality impressed on it at the time of conception. These precepts must always be attended to, when that time can be ascertained.

But, if the time of conception cannot be precisely made out, that of the birth must be received at the original date of generation; for it is virtually the most important, and is in no respect deficient, on comparison with the primary origin by conception, except in one view only; viz. that the origin by conception affords the inference of occurrences which take effect previously to the birth, whereas the origin by birth can, of course, be available only for such as arise subsequently. And, although the birth should im strictness be called the secondary beginning, while the conception might be insisted on as the primary beginning, it is still found

Chap. IT.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 107

to be equal to the conception in its efficacy, and much more complete, although later in time. For the conception may, in fact, be said to be the generation of mere human seed, but the birth that of man himself; since the infant at its birth acquires numerous qualities which it would not possess while in the womb, and which are proper to human nature alone; ‘‘ such, ‘‘ for instance, as the particular action of the senses and ‘‘the movement of the body and limbs*.’’ Besides, even if the position of the Ambient, actually existing at the birth, cannot be considered to assist in forming and engendering the particular shape and qualities of the infant, it is nevertheless still auxiliary to the infant’s entrance into the world: because nature, after completing the formation in the womb, always effects the birth in immediate obedience to some certain position of the Ambient, corresponding and sympathising with the primary position which operated the incipient formation. It is therefore perfectly admissible, and consistent with reason, that the configuration of the stars, as it exists at the time of birth, although it cannot be said to possess any share of the creative cause, should still be considered to act in signification, as fully as the configuration at the time of conception; because it has, of necessity, a power corresponding to that configuration which actually possessed the creative cause.

In speaking of the practicability of prognostication, in the commencement of this treatise, the intention of setting forth this part of the subject, now under consideration, in a scientific manner, has been already notified. The ancient mode of prediction, founded on the commixture of all the stars, and abounding in infinite complication and diversity, will therefore be passed over; and, in fact, any attempt to detail it, however accurately and minutely made, in conformity to the several precepts

* The words, thus marked ‘‘ ”’, are not in the Greek, but in two Latin translations.

108 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

given in the traditions relating to it, would prove unserviceable and unintelligible: it is therefore entirely abandoned. And the doctrine, now presented, comprehending every species of event liable to happen, and explaining all the effective influences generally exercised by the stars, in their separate qualities, over every species of event, shall be delivered succinctly, and in agreement with the theory of nature. With this view, certain places in the Ambient, regulating the formation of all inferences of the events liable to affect mankind, are appointed as a kind of mark to which the whole theory of those inferences is applied, and to which the operative powers of the stars, when holding familiarity with the said places, are in a general manner directed: in the same way as, in archery, the arrow 1s directed to the target.—And any event, which depends on the compound temperament of many various natures and influences together, must be left to the discretion of the artist, who, like the skilful archer, must himself judge of the best mode of hitting the mark. To proceed methodically and in due order, it is proper to commence by investigating such general events as are open to consideration, and liable to have happened, or to happen, at the actual origin by birth; since, from that origin, all things necessary to be investigated may be gathered; as before stated. Yet, if a previous inquiry, by means of the primary origin by conception, should nevertheless be desired and undertaken, such an inquiry may still in some degree assist prognostication; although only in regard to properties and qualities dispensed and imbibed at the time of conception.

Chapter ITT. The Degree ascending.

THERE frequently arises some uncertainty as to the precise time of birth, and some apprehensions lest it should not be accurately noted. In most cases, the actual] minute

Chap. ITI.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 109

of the hour, at which the birth happens, can only be ascertained by making a scientific observation, at the time, with an horoscopical astrolabe*; for all other instruments, employed in ascertaining the hour, are almost fallacious, although used by many persons with much care and attention. The clepsydrat, for instance, is subject to error, because the flow of the water will, from various causes, proceed irregularly: and the sundial is often incorrectly placed, and its gnomon often distorted from the true meridian line. ‘To obviate the difficulty arising from the imaccuracy of these instruments, it seems highly necessary to present some method by which the actually ascending degree of the zodiac may be easily ascertained, in a natural and consistent manner.

And in order to attain this essential point, it 1s necessary first to set down the ordimary degree which, by the Doctrine of Ascensions{, is found near the ascendant at the presumed hour. After this has been done, the new or full Moon, whichever it may be, that may take place next before the time of parturition, must be observed: and, if a new Moon, it will be necessary to mark exactly the degree of the conjunction of the two luminaries; but, if ta full Moon, the degree of luminary only which may be above the earth during the parturition. After this, it must be observed what planets have dominion over the said degree: and their dominion depends always on the five following prerogatives, viz. on triplicity, house,

* It is, perhaps, needless to remark that modern improvements in science have superseded the use of this, and other ancient instruments here mentioned.

+ Although the ‘‘clepsydra,’’ or water-clock, was commonly used among the ancients for various purposes, it appears, from Martian (a Latin writer, who lived about A.D. 490,) that there was also a clepsydra in special use as an astrological engine.

t ‘‘ The Doctrine of Ascensions,’’—in allusion to the method of calculating the actual position of the ecliptic.

110 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

exaltation, terms, and phase or configuration*; that is to say, a planet, eligible to dominion, must be connected with the degree in question either by one, or more, or all of these prerogatives.

If, therefore, there may be found any one planet properly qualified in all or most of these prerogatives, the exact degree, which it ocupies in that sign in which it may be posited during the parturition, is to be remarked; and it is then to be inferred that a degree of the same numerical denomination was actually ascending, at the precise time of birth, in that sign which appears, by the Doctrine of Ascensions, to be nearest to the ascendantf.

But when two planets, or more, may be equally qualified in the manner prescribed, it must be seen which of them may transit, during the parturition, a degree nearest In number to the ordinary degree shewn by the Doctrine of Ascensions to be then ascending; and that said degree, nearest in number, is to be considered as pointing out the numerical denomination of the degree actually ascending. And when the degrees of two planets, or more, may closely and equally approximate in numerical denomination to the ordinary degree found by the Doctrine of Ascensions, the degree of that planet which possesses further claims, by connection with the angles and by its own condition, is to regulate the number of the actually ascending degree.

It must however be observed, that if the actual distance of the degree, in which the ruling planet may be posited, from the ordinary degree ascending, be found to exceed its distance from the ordinary degree of the mid-heaven; the numerical denomination, found in the way above-mentioned, is then to be considered as applicable to the actual

* “ Phase or configuration.’? Or, holding some authorized aspect to the degree in question.

t Or, on the ascendant.

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degree in culmination; and the other angles are to be arranged in conformity therewith*.

Chapter IV. Distribution of the Doctrine of Nativities.

AFTER due attention to the preceding instructions, the doctrine of genethliacal prognostication should be separately and distinctly considered, for the sake of order and persplcuity, in its first, second and successive divisions or heads of inquiry. It will thus be found to present a mode of investigation, at once practicable, competent and agreeable to nature.

One division is applicable only to certain circumstances established previously to the birth; as, for instance, to those which concern the parents; another to circumstances, which may be established both before and after the birth; as those respecting brothers and sisters; another to circumstances actually occurring at the very time of birth, and immediately consequent thereupon: and this head of inquiry embraces various points, and is by no means simple: and the last division relates to events liable to take place after the birth, at various periods, earlier or later; and it involves @ still more diversified theory.

Thus, the questions to be solved, in regard to the actual circumstances of the birth iteslf, are, whether the production will be male or female; twins, or even more; whether it will be monstrous; and whether it will be reared.

The questions of the periods subsequent to the birth relate first to the duration of life, (which is distinct from the question of rearing), then to the shape and figure of

* The precepts delivered in this Chapter have obtained the name of Ptolemy’s Animodar: the term is probably Arabic, if it be not a corruption of the Latin words animum, or animam, dare, ‘‘ giving animation or life;’’ yet this meaning seems scarcely close enough.

112 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

the body, to the bodily affections, and to injuries or defects in the members. After these, further inquiry is instituted as to the quality of the mind, and the mental affections; then, as to fortune, in regard to rank and honours as well as wealth. In succession to these, the character of the employment or profession is sought out; then, the questions relative to marriage and offspring, and to consentaneous friendship, are to be considered; then, that concerning travel; and, lastly, that concerning the kind of death which awaits the native. The question of death, although depending, in fact, upon the same influence as the question of the duration of life, seems yet to find its proper situation in being placed last in the series.

On each of the foregoing points of inquiry, the doctrine and precepts to be followed shall be thoroughly and succintly detailed; but all idle-conceits, promulgated by many persons without any foundation capable of sustaining the test of reason, shall be utterly avoided, in deference to the only true agency, which is derived from primal Nature herself. It is only upon clearly effective influences that this treatise is established: and all matters, which are open to an authorized mode of inquiry by means of the theory of the stars, and their positions and aspects with regard to appropriate places, shall be fully discussed here; but the divination by lots and numbers, unregulated by any systematic causation, must remain unnoticed.

The brief remarks, immediately following, are applicable to all cases, generally, and are now at once stated, to avoid the repetition of them under each particular division or head of inquiry.

Firstly, notice must be taken of that place in the zodiac which corresponds, according to the scheme of the nativity with the particular division of inquiry; for example, the place of the mid-heaven is adapted to questions comprised under the head of employment or profession; and the Sun’s place to those relative to the concerns of the father.

Chap. IV.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 113

Secondly, after the proper place has thus been duly ascertained, the planets holding right of dominion there, by any of the five prerogatives hereinbefore mentioned, are to be observed; and, if any one planet be found to be lord by all these prerogatives, that planet must be admitted as the ruler of the event liable to happen under that particular head of inquiry. If, however, two or three planets hold dominion, that one among them, which may have most claims to the place in question, must be selected as the ruler.

Thirdly, the natures of the ruling planet and of the signs, in which itself and the place which it thus controls may severally be situated, are to be considered as indicating the quality of the event.

Fourthly, the proportionate vigour and strength, or weakness, with which the dominion is exercised, as exhibited either by the actual cosmical position of the ruling planet, or by its position in the scheme of the nativity, will point out to what extent and with what force the event will operate And a planet is found to be cosmically powerful when in one of its own places*, or when oriental, or swift in course; and it is strong in the scheme of the nativity, when transiting an angle or succedent house; especially those of the ascendant, or of the midheaven. But it is cosmically weaker, when not in one of its own places; or when occidental, or retarded in its course; and in respect to the scheme of the nativity, it is weak when cadent from the angles.

Lastly ; the general time, about which the event will take place, is to be inferred from the ruling planet’s matutine or vespertine position, in regard to the Sun and the ascendant, and from the circumstance of its being situated in an angle, or a succedent house. As, if it be matutine, or in an angle, its influence operates earlier and more

* In House, Triplicity, Exaltation, Term or Face.

114 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book ITT.

promptly; but, if vespertine or in a succedent house, later and more tardily. And, in reference to this point, the quadrant which precedes the Sun, and that which precedes the ascendant, together with the quadrants opposite to these, are oriental and matutine; and the other quadrants, following the former, are occidental and vespertine.

CHAPTER V. The Parents.

Unpber each head of inquiry, the proposed investigation must be entered upon in the manner mentioned in the preceding chapter: and, to proceed in due order, the circumstances relating to the parents require to be first disposed of. In conformity with nature, the Sun and Saturn are allotted to the person of the father; and the Moon and Venus to that of the mother: and the mode in which these luminaries and planets may be found posited, with reference to each other, as well as to other planets and stars, will intimate the situation of affairs affecting the parents. Thus, for example, the degree of their fortune and wealth will be indicated by the doryphory*, or attendants of the luminaries. If the luminaries be accompanied, (either in the same signs in which themselves are placed, or in the signs next following,) by the benefics, and by such stars or planets are as of the same tendency as themselves, a conspicuous and brilliant fortune is presaged : especially, should the Sun be attended by matutine stars, and the Moon by vespertinet, and these stars be also well

* Aepuvgopia. This word has been heretofore rendered “ satelli- ‘“‘tium’”’ and ‘“‘ satellites’, but, as these terms do not seem sufficiently precise in their meaning, and are already in use to signify the minor orbs which revolve round a principal planet, I have ventured to anglicise the Greek word; the usual signification of which is a ‘* body-guard.”’ + Or, in other words, ‘‘ should the stars, which attend the ‘‘ Sun, be such as rise before him; and those, which attend the ‘‘ Moon, such as rise after her.’’

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established in the prerogatives before mentioned. Laikewise, if Saturn or Venus be matutine, and in proper face*, or in an angle, it foreshews the prosperity of either parent respectively, according to the schemet. If, however, the luminaries hold no connection with the planets, and be unattended by any doryphory, the adverse fortunes of the parents, their humble state and obscurity, and then denoted ; especially, if Saturn and Venus may not be favourably constituted. The parents are also subjected to a state of vicissitude, never rising above mediocrity, when the luminaries may have a doryphory of a condition or tendency foreign to their own: as, for instance, when Mars may ascend near in succession to the Sun, or Saturn to the Moon; or if the benefics be found constituted unfavourably, and not in conformity with their own natural condition and tendency. But should the part of fortune, as shewn by the scheme of the nativity, be found in a favourable position, and in consonance with the doryphory of the Sun and Moon, the estate of the parents will then remain steady and secure. If, however, the position be discordant and adverse, or if the malefics compose the doryphory, the parents’ estate will be unproductive and even burthensome.

The probable duration of the lives of the parents is to be inferred by means of other configurations. And, in the case of the father, a long life is presaged, if Jupiter, or Venus, be in any mode whatever configurated with either the Sun, or Saturn; or, also, if Saturn himself make an harmonious configuration with the Sun; (that is to say, either by the conjunction, the sextile, or the trine;) provided such configuration be fully and strongly established and confirmed{ :—and, when not so established and con-

* As described in Chap. 26, Book I. +t Saturn being applicable to the father, and Venus to the mother. t The Perugio Latin translation, of 1646, inserts here, ‘‘ and ‘* provided Saturn and the Sun are not impeded by being posited ‘‘in unfortunate or unsuitable places.’’

116 PTOLEMY ’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

firmed, although it does not actually denote a short life, yet it will not then equally presage a long life.

If however the planets be not posited in the manner just described ; and if Mars be elevated above*, or ascend in succession to the Sun, or to Saturn; or, even, should Saturn himself not be in consonance with the Sun, but configurated with it by the quartile or opposition, and if, when thus circumstanced, both he and the Sun should be posited in cadent houses, it is then indicated that the father is liable to infirmities; but, if in angles or succedent houses, the father will live only a short life, and suffer from various bodily injuries and diseases. The The shortness of his life is particularly intimated by the position of the Sun and Saturn in the first two angles, viz. the ascendant and the mid-heaven, or in their succedent houses; and his affliction by diseases and injuries, when they may be posited in the two other angles, the western and the lower heaven, or in the houses succedent

* “ Elevated.’’ Moxon’s Mathematical Dictionary gives the following definition of this astrological term. ‘ Elevated. A ‘‘ certain pre-eminence of one planet above another; or, a con- ‘‘ currence of two to a certain act, wherein one being stronger, ‘fis carried above the weaker, and does alter and depress its ‘‘nature and influence: But wherein this being elevated ‘‘ consists, there are several opinions; some say when a planet ‘is nearest the zenith, or meridian; others will have it only ‘‘that planet is highest; or nearest to the Apogeweon of his ‘‘ eccentric or epicycle. And Argol admits of all these, and ‘several other advantages, and thence advises to collect the ‘‘ several testimonies, and that that planet, who has most, shall ‘be said to be elevated above the other.”’ According to Whalley, Cardan’s opinion was that ‘‘ that planet is most ‘‘ elevated which is more occidental and ponderous.’’ For myself, I conceive this opinion -to be inaccurate, because, if Ptolemy meant to signify only the greater occidentality of the planet, he would (as in other instances) have used the word ‘¢ preceding *’ instead of ‘‘ elevated above’’; and I incline to think, that greater prorimity to the zenith is the truer, as well as more simple, meaning of the term “ elevated.”’

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thereto. And, if Mars be aspected to the Sun in the way before-mentioned, the father will die suddenly, or receive injury in his face or eyes; but, should Mars be so aspected to Saturn, he will be afflicted with contractions of the muscles or limbs, and with fevers and disorders proceeding from inflammation and wounds ;—or even death may be the consequence. And even Saturn himself, if badly configurated with the Sun, will also inflict disease and death on the father, by inducing such particular disorders as are incidental from watery humour.

The foregoing observations are applicable to the father, and those which follow must be attended to in the case of the mother.

Should the Sun be configurated, in any mode whatever, with the Moon or Venus, or, should Venus herself be harmoniously configurated with the Moon, either by the sextile, the trine, or the conjunction, the mother will live long.

If, however, Mars be succedent to the Moon and Venus, or in quartile or opposition to them, or, if Saturn be similarly aspected to the Moon only, and both of them be void of course or retrograde, or cadent, adverse iaccidents and disease will attend the mother; should they, on the other hand, be swift in motion and placed in angles, they portend that her life will be short, or greviously afflicted. Their position in the oriental angles, or succedent houses, particularly denotes the shortness of her life; and, in those which are occidental, her affliction. In the same manner, should Mars be thus aspected to the Moon, (and should that luminary at the same time be oriental) the mother’s sudden death, or some injury in her face or eyes, will be produced: and, if the Moon be then occidental, death will be occasioned by miscarriage in parturition, by inflammation, or by wounds. Such are the effects which ensue from these aspects made by Mars to the Moon; but, should he make them to Venus, death will

118 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

then take place from fever, some latent disease, or sudden sickness. Saturn’s aspect* to the Moon, when she is oriental, inflicts on the mother disease and death from extreme colds, or fevers; but, should the Moon be occidental, the danger arises from affections of the womb, or from consumption.

In the investigation of all these circumstances, it 18 highly essential that the properties of the signs, in which are situated the stars actuating the influence, should be also taken into consideration; and that, by day, the Sun and Venus should be principally observed; and by night, Saturn and the Moon.

If, however, after due attention has been paid to the foregoing points, a more specific inquiry still be demanded, it will then become necessary to assume the place allotted to the naternal or maternal condition, as the case may be, for an horoscope or ascendant, in order to pursue the investigationt. And by this means, which in this respect will answer the purpose of a nativity, all other particulars concerning the parents may be viewed succinctly; according to the general forms hereinafter given, as adapted for practice and applicable to all events.

In these and in all other cases, the mode, in which the influences are commixed, must be carefully kept in view;

* By the quartile or opposition, as before mentioned. t On this passage, Whalley remarks that ‘‘ Ptolemy teacheth, ‘‘ from the child’s nativity, to erect schemes for the father and ‘‘ mother, and thence to give judgment, as if it were their ‘‘ proper nativities; the rule is this: If the nativity be diurnal, ‘‘ for the father, observe the degree the Sun is in, in the child’s ‘‘ nativity; and make that the degree ascending for the father; ‘and conformable to that, order the cusps of all the other ‘‘ houses. If for the mother, use Venus. But if the nativity ‘“‘ be nocturnal, for the father, take the place of Saturn; and ‘‘for the mother, that of the Moon.’’ Whalley adds, that ‘‘what in this chapter hath relation to the parents, is what ‘“ shall happen to them after the nativity, and not before.”

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and it must be observed whether any particular stars possess, in themselves alone, the operative cause, or whether others share dominion with them; and it is then to be seen which among them all are more powerful, and which of them take the lead in establishing the event: so that due inference may be drawn agreeably to their several natures. And should the several stars, which may happen to be combined in dominion, be also equal in power, the diversity of their several natures, and the admixture of qualities thence arising, must then be taken into consideration; and, by fairly weighing this various admixture, the nature and quality of the future event may be apprehended. Stars, posited separately or at a distance from each other, distribute, at their appropriate times and periods, the events operated by each: thus the earlier events are brought about by stars which are more oriental than others, and the latter events by those which are more occidental. For it is indispensably requisite that the star, under the influence of which some particular event is expected to happen, should be originally* connected with the place to which the inquiry, concerning that event, is allotted; and, if such connection should not have existed, no effect of any importance can possibly be produced; because a star does not exercise a vigorous influence, unless it was fully in communication at. the beginning. But, however, the time, at which the effect will take place, is further regulated by the relative distance of the star, governing the effect, from the Sun and the angles of the world, as well as by its primary position of dominion.

Cuarpter VI. Brothers and Sisters.

Unper this head of inquiry, a general and cursory investigation, only, can be performed; and an attempt to

* Or, at the actual time of nativity.

120 PTOLEMY 'S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

dive into minute particulars would be fruitless, and would prove to be merely a vain search after things not open to discovery*. The place, whence inferences are drawn respecting brothers and sisters, is to be considered as being applicable only to children of the same mother, and it 1s consequently, agreeably to nature, presumed to be the same as the maternal place; viz. the sign occupying the midheaven; or, by day, that which contains Venus, and, by night, the Moon. This sign and its succedent are considered as indicative of the mother and her children, and the same place is therefore properly allotted to brothers and sisters. Hence, provided this place be configurated with the benefics, there will be several brothers and sisters: the number of them depending upon the number and positions of such benefic stars, whether in bicorporeal signs, or in signs of single form.

If, however, the malefics should be in elevation over this place, or be hostilely situated in opposition thereto, the brothers and sisters will then be few in number; and this fewness especially follows when the malefics may surround the Sun. Should the hostile configuration be presented from the other anglest, and, particularly, if from the ascendant, Saturn will then represent the elder born; and Mars, by inflicting death, will diminish the total number of brothers and sisterst.

* In spite of this declaration of the author, it seems, by Whalley’s note on this chapter, that Cardan maintained that the particular circumstances, liable to affect the brothers and sisters, might be inferred by adopting, as an ascendant, the degree of the planet holding chief dominion over the place of brethren, and erecting a scheme thereby; in a mode similar to that allowed by Ptolemy in the case of the parents.

t That is to say, from the angles in quartile (and therefore hostile also) to the mid-heaven. t The text does not shew whether it be necessary that Saturn

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Again, should the stars, which promise brethren, be favourably circumstanced as to their cosmical position, the brethren will be eminent and illustrious; but humble and obscure, if the cosmical position be of an adverse nature. If, also, the malefic stars should be in elevation over those which give brethren, the life of the brethren will then be only of short duration.

Stars, constituted masculinely, represent brothers; those femininely, sisters. The more oriental stars likewise represent the elder born; and those which are more occidental, the younger.

Moreover, should the stars, which give brethren, be harmoniously configurated with that one which has dominion of the sign allotted to brethren, the brethren will be mutually friendly and affectionate; and, if an harmonious configuration be also extended, by the same planets, to the part of fortune, the brethren will live together in communion. But, if the stars, which give brethren, should, on the contrary, be in situations unconnected with each other, or be in opposition, the brethren will then live at variance, mutually practising enmity and fraud.

Chapter VII. Male or Female.

AFTER the indications which regard brothers and sisters have been investigated by the foregoing rules, consonant with nature and reason, the actual native, or the person to whom the scheme of nativity is specially appropriated, demands attention ; and the first and most obvious inquiry is whether the said native will be male or female.

and Mars should both be in the ascendant, in order to produce the effect described; nor whether the same effect would not follow, if one of them should be in the ascendant, and the other in the occidental angle, or even in some other position.

122 PTOLEMY ’S TETRABIBLOS. (Book III.

The consideration of this question rests not on a single basis, nor can it be pursued in one sole direction only: it depends, on the contrary, upon the several situations of the two luminaries and the ascendant, and upon such planets as possess any prerogatives in the places of those situations; and all these circumstances should be specially observed at the time of conception, and, in a general manner also, at that of birth.

Observation of the said three places, and of the mode in which the planets ruling them may be constituted, is wholly indispensable: it must be seen whether all, or most of them, may be constituted masculinely or femininely; and prediction must, of course, be regulated in conformity with their disposition, so observed; as tending to produce a male or female birth.

The masculine or feminine nature of the stars 1s to be distinguished in the manner already pointed out in the commencement of this treatise*. For instance, by the nature of the signs in which they are situated, by their relative position to each other, and also by their position towards the earth; as, when in the east, they are masculinely disposed, and, when in the west, femininely. Their relative position to the Sun also affords guidance in distinguishing them; since, if they shculd be matutine, they are considered to signify the male gender; and if vespertine, the female. Thus, from the sex chiefly prevalent, as observed by these rules, that of the native may be rationally inferred.

Cuaprer VIII. Twins.

Wirt respect to the probability of the birth of twins, or a greater number at once, the same places must be observed, as those mentioned in the preceding chapter;

ee ee ee ee ———

* Vide Chapter 6, Book I.

Chap. VIII.] PToLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 123

that is to say, the places of both luminaries and the ascendant.

When two, or all three, of the said places may be situated in bicorporeal signs, births of this kind will occur, in consequence of the combination which then arises; especially, provided all the planets, which control those places, should also be similarly circumstanced : or although only some of them be posited in bicorporeal signs, while the rest may be placed by two or more together. Because even more than twins will be born, in a case wherein all the ruling places may be in bicorporeal signs, most of the planets being, at the same time, posited in the same way, and configurated with them. The number of children, however, to be produced at the birth, is to be inferred from the planet which exercises the right of determining the number*: and the sex or sexes are to be predicted by means of the planets in configuration with the Sun, Moon, and ascendant.

And, should the position of the heavens be arranged so that the tangle of the mid-heaven, and not that of the ascendant, may be connected with the luminaries, there will, in that case, be produced, almost always, twins; and sometimes even more.

To speak, however, more particularly, three males will be born, as in the nativity of the Anactorest, when

* The planet here alluded to, seems to be that which may be connected with most of the ruling places.

+ I have looked in many other books for this word ‘‘ Anac- ‘* tores,’”’ (plural of avaxrwp), as designating three particular individuals born at the same birth; for which signification it is here used by Ptolemy; but my search has been in vain. Cicero has, however, written a passage, in which a word, very nearly resembling it, occurs, and which would seem to relate to the very persons alluded to by Ptolemy: viz. ‘‘ The godship ‘‘ of the Dioscuri was established in various modes among the ‘‘ Greeks, and applied to various persons. One set sonsisted of ‘‘three persons, who were styled at Athens the Anactes, and

124 PTOLEMY ’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars may be configurated with the places before appointed, in bicorporeal signs; and three females, as in the nativity of the Graces, when Venus and the Muon, with Mercury femininely constituted, may be configurated in like manner. When Saturn, Jupiter, and Venus may be configurated, two males and one female will be born; as in the nativity of the Dioscuri*; and, when Venus, the Moon, and Mars may be so configurated, two females and one male; as in the nativity of Ceres,

Core, and [iberf.

In cases of this kind, however, it most usually happens that the conception has not been complete, and that the children are born with some remarkable imperfections or deformities. And, in some instances, owing to a certain concurrence of events, these numerous productions are quite extraordinary and amazing.

‘‘ were the sons of Jupiter, the most ancient king, and Proser- ‘‘ pine; their several names were Tritopatreus, Eubuleus and ‘* Dionysius.”?’ De Nat. Deor. lib. 3, cap. 21. * This is the second set of the Dioscuri, as stated by Cicero: they were the children of the third, or Cretan Jupiter (the son of Saturn) and Leda; their names were Castor, Pollux and Helena. Helena, however, is not mentioned by Cicero. t Core is a name of Proserpine; Liber, of Bacchus. And, although the mention here made of Ceres, Proserpine and Bacchus, as being the offspring of one and the same birth, does not accord with the usual notion of the genealogy of these divinities, it seems that Ptolemy did not so represent them without some reason. For, in cap. 24, lib. 2, De Nat. Deor., Cicero speaks of Liber as having been deified conjointly with Ceres and Libera, (another name of Proserpine); and adds, that ‘‘it may be ‘‘ understood, from the rites and mysteries of the worship, ‘‘ how the deification took place.’’ It appears also, by Davies’s notes on Cicero, that Livy and Tacitus both speak of the copartnership in divinity exercised by Liber, Libera and Ceres. There is not, however, any occasion at present to dive deeper into the question of the generation of these deities; for our author has advertised to them only to point out that so many males or females will be produced at one birth, under certain configurations of the stars.

Chap. I[X.] PTOLEMY’S TETRADIBLOS. 128

Chapter IX. Monstrous or defective Births.

THE same places, as those pointed out in the two chapters last preceding, are again to be considered, in inquiring into the probability of a monstrous or defective birth. For it will be found that, at a birth of this description, the luminaries are either cadent from the ascendant, or else not in any manner configurated with it; while, at the same time, the angles* are occupied by the malefics.

It therefore becomes necessary, when such a position of the heavens may occur at the time of birth, to observe forthwith the preceding new or full Moont and its ruler; as well as the rulers of the luminaries at the said time of birth. For, if all the places, in which the rulers of the luminaries, and in which the Moon herself and Mercury may be situated, at the birth, or, if most of those places should be totally inconjunct and unconnected with the places of the said preceding new or full Moon and its ruler, the birth will then be monstrous. And if it should be further found, in addition to this absence of connection, that the luminaries may be also posited in quadrupedal or bestial signs, and the two malefics in angles, the birth will in that case not be human. And should the luminaries, when so circumstanced, be not at all supported by any benefic planet, but only by malefics, the creature born will be wholly indocile, wild, and of evil nature: if, however, they should receive support from Jupiter or Venus, the offspring will then be like that of dogs or cats, or other creatures held in religious veneration and used in worship{: but, if Mercury support the

* Whalley says here, ‘‘ chiefly the ascendant and mid-heaven.”’ + Whichever might have been nearer in time. t It is perhaps superfluous to mention that the two kinds of animals here named, (as well as many others) were venerated by the Agyptians.

126 PTOLEMY 'S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

luminaries, it will resemble that of fowls, oxen, or swine, or, of other animals adapted to the service of mankind.

When the luminaries may be in signs of human shape, while other circumstances in the scheme of the nativity may exist as before described, the creature born will then be human, or will partake of human nature, although it will still be defective in some peculiar quality. And, in order to ascertain the nature of that defect, the shape and form of the signs found on the angles occupied by the malefics, as well as of those wherein the luminaries are situated, must be taken into consideration: and, if in this instance also, no benefic planet should lend support to any one of the prescribed places, the offspring produced will be utterly void of reason, and indeed indefinable*. If, however, it should happen, that Jupiter or Venus give support, the defect will be veiled by a specious outward appearance, similar to that of hermaplirodites, and of those persons called Harpocratiacit, or others of like imperfections. And should Mercury also give support, in addition to that of Jupiter or Venus, the offspring will then become an interpreter of oracles and divinations; but, if Mercury support alone, it will be deaf and dumbt, although clever and ingenious in its intellect.

CHAPTER X. Children not reared.

THE question which now remains to be considered, in order to complete the investigation of circumstances tak-

* The Greek says ‘‘ enigmatical.”’ + One Latin translation has rendered this word ‘‘stammerers ;’’ and, as Harpocrates was the god of silence, Ptolemy has probably used the epithet to signify defect of speech. t ‘““Dumb.”? The Greek ie o8ovrwy esepnuevoy ‘deprived of teeth.”’ and Allatius has so translated it: but other translations render these words by dumb, which considering the nature of Mercury, seems their preferable signification.

Chap. X.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 127

ing place simultaneously with the nativity, or immediately consequent thereon, is, whether the child, then born, will or will not be reared.

This inquiry is to be handled distinctly from that regarding the duration of life, although there is an apparent connection between them. The questions themselves are, indeed, similar; for it is much the same thing to inquire whether the child will be nurtured, or how long it will live; and the only distinction, between these two questions, arises from the different modes in which they are treated. For instance, the inquiry into the duration of life is to be pursued only in cases wherein there is allotted to the native some space of time, not less in duration than a solar period; that is to say, a year. Therefore, since time is also measured by smaller portions, such as months, days, and hours, and since the question, whether the native will or will not be reared, belongs to cases wherein some exuberance of evil influence threatens speedy destruction, and where life is not likely to endure throughout a whole year, the inquiry into the duration of life must consequently involve a more multifarious consideration, than that which relates to rearing; which may be at once disposed of, in a more general and summary manner.

Thus, if either of the two luminaries be in an angle, and one of the malefics be either in conjunction with that luminary, or else distant in longitude from each luminary, in an exactly equal space; so as to form the point of junction of two equal sides of a triangle, of which sides the two luminaries form the extremities, while, at the same time, no benefic star may partake in the configuration, and while the rulers of the luminaries may be also posited in places belonging to, or controlled by, the malefics; the child, then born, will not be susceptible of nurture, but will immediately perish.

Should the configuration, made between the malefic planet and the luminaries, not exist precisely in the

128 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

mode just mentioned; that is to say, should the said planet not be equally distant from both luminaries, so as to form the point of junction of two equal sides of a triangle; yet should it then happen that the rays of two malefics may nearly approach the places of the two luminarles, casting an injurious influence either on both, or only one of them, and if both the said malefics be together succedent, or in opposition, to the luminaries, or if one of them be succedent, and the other in opposition, or even if only one may particularly afflict one of the lumimaries, then, in any such case, no duration of life will be allotted to the child: for the supremacy of the power of the malefics extinguishes the influence favourable to human nature, and tending to prolong existence.

Mars is exceedingly pernicious when succedent to the Sun, and Saturn when succedent to the Moon. But a converse effect takes place when either of these planets may be in opposition to the Sun or Moon, or in elevation above them; for the Sun will then be afflicted by Saturn, and the Moon by Mars; and especially so, provided the said planets should have local prerogatives in the signs containing the luminaries, or in the sign on the ascendant. And, should a double opposition exist, by the circircumstance of the luminaries being placed in two opposite angles, and by the two malefics being each so posited as to be equally distant from each luminary, the child will be born almost, if not quite, dead. Nevertheless, if ‘*s ]uminaries should be separating from, or be otherwise configurated with benefic planets, whose rays may be projected to parts preceding the said luminaries, the child will then live as many days, or hours, as there are degrees, numbered between the prorogator* and the nearest malefic.

* A prorogator is either a luminary, planet, or a certain degree of the zodiac, which determines the duration or life, or the time of the accomplishment of any event:it is hereafter

Chap. XI.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 129