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

If malefics should cast their rays to parts preceding the luminaries, and benefics to parts following them, the child will be abandoned at its birth; but will afterwards meet with adoption, and will live. Yet, if the malefics should be in elevation above those benefics which are thus configurated, the child, so adopted, will lead a life of misery and servitude: if, on the contrary, the benefics should be in elevation, then whoever may adopt the deserted child will supply the place of its parents. And, provided a benefic planet should either ascend with, or near in succession to the Moon, or be applying to her, and one of the malefics be occidental, the child’s own parents will, in that case, take it again under their protection.

Rules similar to the foregoing are to be observed, when more than one child is born; for, if any one of those planets, which may be configurated towards the production of two, or even more, children, should be under the west, the children will be born half dead, or deformed, and imperfect in body. And, if the planet so situated should also be beneath the malefics, the children will not be susceptible of nurture, or their life will be of the shortest span.

Chapter XI. The Duration of Infe.

OF all events whatsoever, which take place after birth, the most essential is the continuance of life: and as it is, of course, useless to consider, in cases wherein the life of a child does not extend to the period of one year, what other events contingent on its birth might otherwise have subsequently happened, the inquiry into the duration of fully treated of in the 18th Chapter of this Book; which shews that, in the instance now mentioned, it would be a luminary, either in the ascendant, or in the mid-heaven.

130 PTOLEMY ’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

life consequently takes precedence of all other questions, as to the events subsequent to the birth.

The discussion of this inquiry is by no means simple, nor easy of execution; it is conducted in a diversified process, by means of the governance of the ruling places. And the method now about to be laid down seems, of all others, the most consonant with reason, and with nature: because the influence of the prorogiatory places, as well as of the rulers of those places, and the disposal of the aneretic* places or stars, perform the whole operation of regulating the duration of life. Each of these influences is to be distinguished in the mode pointed out in the chapters immediately ensuing.

Chapter XII. The Prorogatory Places.

Firstiy, those places, only, are to be deemed prorogatary, to which the future assumption of the dominion of prorogation exclusively belongs. These several places are the sign on the angle of the ascendant, from the fifth degree above the horizon, to the twenty-fifth degree below it;—the thirty degrees in dexter sextile thereto, constituting the eleventh house, called the Good Demon ;—also the thirty degrees in dexter quartile, forming the midheaven above the earth ;—those in dexter trine making the ninth house, called God ;—and lastly, those in opposition, belonging to the angle of the west.

Secondly, among these places, the degrees which constitute the mid-heaven are entitled to preference, as being of a.more potent and paramount influence : —the degrees in the ascendant are next in virtue;—then the degrees in the eleventh house succedent to the mid-heaven ;—then those in the angle of the west;—and, lastly, those in the ninth house, which precedes the mid-heaven.

The epithet ‘aneretic is a term of art, adopted from the Greek, signifying fatal, or destructive.

Chap. XIII.] Ptolemy’s TETRABIBLOS. 131

No degrees under the earth are, in any manner, eligible to the dominion now in question; except such only as enter into light actually above the succedent, or, in other words, with the ascendant. And any sign, although it may be above the earth, is still incompetent to partake in this dominion, if it be inconjunct with the ascendant: hence the sign which precedes the ascendant, and constitutes the twelfth house (called that of the Evil Demon), ls incompetent; and not only for the above reason, but also because it is cadent, and because the beams cast by the stars posited therein, towards the earth, are impaired by the thick and dark exhalations arising from the earth’s vapours, which produce an unnatural colour and magnitude in the appearance of stars 90 posited, confusing, and in some measure annihilating, their beams. Thus far with regard to the places of prorogation.

Chapter XIII.

The Number of Prorogators, and also the Part of Fortune.

AFTER due attention has been given to the instructions in the preceding chapter, the Sun, the Moon, the Ascendant, and the part. of Fortune, are to be considered as the four principally liable to be elected to the office of prorogator ; and their positions, together with those of such planets as rule in the places of their positions, are to be observed. The part of Fortune is ascertained by computing the number of degrees between the Sun and the Moon; and it is placed at an equal number of degrees distant from the ascendant, in the order of the signs. It is in all cases, both by night and day, to be so computed and set down, that the Moon may hold with it the same relation as that which the Sun may hold with the ascendant; and it thus becomes, as it were, a lunar horoscope or ascendant*.

* The Latin translation, printed at Perugio in 1646, has here the following passage in addition:‘‘ But it must be seen which

132 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBIOS. [Book III.

Among the candidates for prorogation,'as beforementioned, by day the Sun is to be preferred, provided he be situated in a prorogatory place; and, if not, the Moon;

‘‘ luminary may follow the other in the succession of the signs; ‘‘ for if the Moon should so follow the Sun, the part of Fortune ‘‘is also to be numbered from the horoscope or ascendant, ‘according to the succession of the signs. But if the Moon ‘* precede the Sun, the part of Fortune must be numbered from ‘“the ascendant, contrary to the succession of the signs.’’

There is a long dissertation on the part of Fortune, in Cooper’s Placidus, from pp. 308 to 318; and, among the directions there given for computing ite situation, the following seem the most accurate and simple:viz. ‘‘ In the diurnal geniture, the Sun’s ‘‘ true distance from the east is to be added to the Moon’s right ‘‘ ascension, and in the nocturnal, subtracted; for the number ‘* thence arising will be the place and right ascension of the part ‘‘of Fortune:and it always has the same declination with the ‘* Moon, both in number and name, wherever it is found. Again, ‘‘ let the Sun’s oblique ascension, taken in the ascendant, be ‘‘ subtracted always from the oblique ascendant of the ascend- ‘‘ ant, as well in the day as in the night, and the remaining ‘¢ difference be added to the Moon’s right ascension; the sum ‘‘ will be the right ascension of the part of Fortune, which will ‘‘ have the Moon’s declination.’’ It is shewn also by this dissertation, that the situation of the part of Fortune must be necessarily confined to the lunar parallels; that it can but rarely be in the ecliptic; and that its latitude is ever varying. Cooper also adds, from Cardan’s Commentaries on the Tetrabiblos, that ‘¢ if the Moon is going from the conjunction to the opposition of ‘the Sun, then the Moon follows the Sun, and the part of For- ‘‘tune is always under the Earth, from the ascendant; but if ‘‘ the Moon has passed the opposition, she goes before the Sun, ‘Cand the part of Fortune is before the ascendant, and always ‘above the earth.’’ This remark of Cardan’s is, in effect, exactly equivalent to what is stated in the additional passage inserted in the Perugio Latin translation, and given above.

In the Primum Mobile of Placidus (Cooper’s translation, p. 45), the following remark and example are given:—‘‘ The part of ‘‘ Fortune is placed according to the Moon’s distance from the ‘* Sun; and you must observe what rays the Moon has to the ‘¢ Sun, for the latter ought to have the same, and with the same

Chap. XIII.] Ptolemy’s TETRABIBLOS. 133

but if the Moon, also, should not be so situated, then that planet is to be elected which may have most claims to dominion, in reference to the Sun, the antecedent new Moon, and the ascendant; that is to say, when such planet may be found to have dominion over any one of the places where these are situated, by at least three prorogatives, if not more; the whole number being five. If, however, no planet should be found so circumstanced, the Ascendant is then to be taken.

By night, the Moon is to be elected as prorogator, provided, in like manner, she should be in some prorogatory place; and if she be not, the Sun: if he also be not in any prorogatory place, then that planet which may have most rights of dominion in reference to the Moon*, and the antecedent full Moon and the part of Fortune. But, if there be no planet claiming dominion in the mode prescribed, the Ascendant must be taken, in case a new Moon had last preceded the birth; but, if a full Moon, the part of Fortune.

If the two luminaries, and also some ruling planet of appropriate condition, should be each posited in a prorogatory place, then, provided one luminary may be found to occupy some place more important and influential

——,

“‘ excess or deficiency, as the part of Fortune to the horoscope. ‘* As the Moon is to the Sun, so is the part of Fortune to the ‘‘ horoscope; and as the Sun is to the horoscope, so is the Moon ‘‘to the part of Fortune. So, in the nativity of Charles V, the ‘¢ Moon applies to the ultimate sextile of the Sun, but with a ‘ deficiency of 70 45/:I subtract the 70 45/ from 50 34 of ‘‘ Scorpio, the ultimate sextile to the horoscope, and the part of ‘‘ Fortune is placed in 280 9/ of Libra.—N.B. In this nativity, according to Placidus, the Sun is in the second house, in 149 30/ of Pisces; the Moon in the ascendant, in 60 46/ of Capricorn; the ascendant is 50 34/ of Capricorn; and the part Fortune is in the ninth house, in 280 9/ of Libra.

* According to her position in the scheme of the nativity.

134 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

than the others, that luminary must be chosen; but should the ruling planet occupy the stronger place, and have prorogatives of dominion suitable to the conditions of both luminaries, the planet must then be preferred to either of them*.

CuapPrer XIV. Number of the Modes of Prorogation.

WHEN the prorogator has been determined as above directed, it is also necessary to take into consideration the two modes of prorogation; one into succeeding signs. under the projection of rays, as it is called; and, when the prorogator may be in an oriental place, that is to say, in any place between the mid-heaven tand the ascendant, this made only is to be used. The other mode extends into signs preceding the prorogator, according to what is called horary proportiont; and, in cases when the prorogator may be situated in any place receding from the midheaven, or, in other words, between the mid-heaven and the angle of the west, both modes of prorogation are to be adopted.

It is next to be observed, that certain degrees are ane-

* Placidus, in remarking on the nativity of John di Colonna, after stating his opinion that it is an error to suppose that a malign influence to the horoscope when the horoscope has not the primary signification of life is answretic, says, that ‘‘ the order ‘Cand method which Ptolemy lays down for the election of a pro- ‘‘ rogator are quite absurd, unless life be at the disposal of a ‘‘ sole prime significator only.’?’ He proves by other arguments also, and by instances of the fact, that ‘‘ one only signifies life, ‘‘ elected according to Ptolemy’s method.’’ (Cooper’s translation, p. 184.) t ‘‘ Horary proportion.’’ So the Perugio Latin of 1646; the Greek word, however, is wpimaay, which seems to be compounded of wpa and =muaw ; and, if so, the literal signification would be ‘‘ extraction of hours.”’

Chap. XIV.] PTOLEMY ’S TETRABIBLOS. . 185

retic; though, in the prorogation made into signs preceding, the only degree which is strictly anzretic is that of the western horizon ;—and it becomes so because it obscures the lord of life;— while other degrees, of stars meeting with or testifying to the prorogator, both take away from and add to the aggregate amount of the prorogation, which would otherwise continue until the descen- _ sion or setting of the prorogator. Of these last-mentioned degrees, however, there are none properly aneretic; since they are not borne to the prorogatory place, but, on the contrary, that place is carried to their positions*. In this manner the benefics increase the prorogation, but the malefics diminish it; and Mercury assists the influence of either party with which he may be configurated. The amount of the increase or diminution is indicated by the degree, in which each star, so operating, is exactly situated ; for the number of years will depend upon, and corres-

* By the apparent motion of the planetary system. On this passage, Placidus has the following observations: ‘‘ In directing ‘‘the significator to the west, you must consider what stars or ‘* mundane rays are intercepted between the significator and the ‘‘ west; if fortunate, add their arc to the significator’s arc of ‘‘ direction to the west; if unfortunate, subtract it from the ‘¢ same, and it will give the arc of direction, augmented or dimi- ‘‘ nished according to Ptolemy.—How largely and differently ‘‘ authors have spoken of this direction of the significator to the ‘‘ west, putting various constructions on the words of Ptolemy,. ‘‘ig known to every one. See Cardan in his Commentaries, ‘*Maginus in Prim. Mob. and the Use of Legal Astrology in ‘‘ Physic, c. viii, where he delivers the sentiments of Naibod. ‘* Argol censures wholly this doctrine of Ptolemy’s, of directing ‘‘the moderator of life to the west, as vain and useless; but I ‘‘ say it is worthy or remark, and altogether conformable to ‘‘truth; because then the rays and intermediate stars of the ‘* malign only lessen the arc of direction to the west, and do not ‘‘ destroy life, when, by a right direction, the moderator or life ‘‘ does not remain at the same time with the malignant planet: ‘‘for, should this happen, they kill, without any manner of ‘*doubt.’’? (Cooper’s translation, pp. 106 and 108.)

136 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

pond with, the horary times* proper to each degree; and if the birth be by day, care must be taken to calculate the diurnal horary times; if by night, the nocturnal. These directions are to be understood as applicable to instances wherein the degrees in question may be in the ascendant; if farther advanced, a deduction proportionate to the distance is to be made, unless they should be on the occidental horizon, in which case there can be no remainder.

But, in the prorogation made into succeeding signs, the places of the malefics, Saturn and Mars, are aneretic, whether meeting the prorogator bodily, or by emission of rays in quartile, from either side, or in opposition: they are also sometimes aneretic, by a sextile ray, if in a sign of equal power, obeying or beholding the sign of the prorogator. And even the mere degree, in signs following, in quartile with the prorogatory place, as also the degree im sextile, if badly afflicted, which is sometimes the case im signs of long ascension, and, still further, the degree in trine, if in signs of short ascension, are all aneretic: so also is the Sun’s place, should the Moon be prorogatory. But, although the meetings, which occur in the course of prorogation thus made, have, respectively, some of them an aneretic, and other a preservative, power, in consequence of their occurring by means of an actual transmission to the prorogatory placet; yet their aneretic tendency is not always effectual, but only in cases where the places, so brought to the prorogatory place, may be badly afflicted. For should those places be situated within the terms of a benefic, the operation of their anzretic degree becomes impeded; and it will likewise be impeded, if either of the benefics should cast a ray in

* « Horary times.’’ These are the number of equatorial degrees which any degree of the zodiac may appear, in a certain latitude on the earth, to transit in an equatorial hour.

+t By the apparent motion of the planetary system.

Chap. XIV.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 137

quartile, trine, or opposition*, to the said aneretic degree itself, or to some other degree near in succession, and not farther distant from it than twelve degrees, if the benefic be Jupiter; nor than eight, if Venus: the like impediment will also subsist, if both the prorogator and its opponentt should be bodiest, and not have the same latitude.

Therefore, whenever there may be found two or more conflicting configurations, auxiliary on the one hand, and hostile on the other, due observation must be made to ascertain which party surpasses the other, 1n power as well as in number. The pre-eminence in number will be, of course, obvious, from the greater number§ on one side than on the other; but, for pre-eminence in power, it must be seen whether the stars, auxiliary or hostile as the case may be, are, on the one side, in places appropriate to themselves, while they are not so on the other; and especially whether those on the one side may be oriental, and those on the other occidental. It is also to be observed, in all cases, that not any one of such stars, whether hostile or auxiliary, is to be left out of the present calculation,

* In reference to this passage, Placidus, in speaking of the death of Octavian Vestrius of Rome, has these words: ‘‘ the Moon ‘‘is found in a parallel declination of Mars, and Saturn with the ‘‘ opposition of Mars; the sextile of Jupiter to the Sun could ‘* give no assistance, because Jupiter is cadent, and the ray sex- “‘ tile is very weak, especially when it is the principal ray :for ‘¢ which reason, Ptolemy, in the chapter of Life, when he men- ‘‘ tions the planets that are able to save in the courses of the ‘‘ infortunes, does not name the sextile, but the quartile, trine, ‘‘ and opposition; because the sextile ray is feeble, particularly ‘¢ when it is less than 600: neither could Venus assist, as she was ‘¢ cadent from the house, and in a sign inimical to the Sun,’’ &c. (Cooper’s Translation, p. 286.)

+ Literally, and perhaps more properly, ‘‘ its meeter.”’

t That is to say, orbs, in contradistinction to prorogations made by aspects or degrees merely.

§ Of the stars and places brought into configuration.

138 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

on account of its casual position under the sun-beams*. This rule must be particularly attended to, because, even though the Moon be not prorogatory, the solar place itself becomes aneretic, if shackled by the simultaneous presence of a malefic, and not restored to freedom of operation by any benefic.

The number of years, depending on the distances between the prorogatory and aneretic places, cannot be always gathered simply and at once from the ascensional timest of each respective degree; but only in cases when the ascendant itself, or some other specific degree or body, actually ascending in the oriental horizon, may possess the prorogation. For, if it be desired to calculate agreeably to nature, every process of calculation that can be adopted must be directed to the attainment of one object; that is to say, to ascertain after how many equatorial times$ the place of the succeeding body, or degree, will arrive at the position preoccupied at the birth by the preceding body, or degree: and, as equatorial time transits equally both the horizon and the meridian, the places in question§ must be considered, in respect of their proportionate distances from both these; each equatorial degree|| being taken to signify one solar year. In conformity with the foregoing remarks, when it may

* Whalley’s translation of this passage is in direct contradiction to the sense:and even that of Allatius, as well as other Latin ones, are (if strictly correct) confused in their meaning. t ‘‘Ascensional times.’? These are, in other words, the number of degrees of the equator, equivalent to a certain number of zodiacal degrees, ascending in any particular latitude. They are also otherwise called the oblique ascension of such zodiacal degrees. | I ‘‘ Equatorial times ’’ here aignify degrees of the equator, by which all time is measured.

§ That is to say, of the preceding and of the succeeding body of degree.

|} Which may be intercepted in the arc between them.

Chap. XIV.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 1389

happen that the prorogatory and preceding place may be actually on the oriental horizon, it will be proper to reckon, at once, the ascensional times which may inteérvene until the meeting of the degrees; because, after the same number of equatorial times, the anereta will arrive at the prorogatory place; that is to say, at the oriental horizon. Should the prorogatory place be found oni the meridian, the whole number of degrees by right ascenision, in which the whole intercepted arc will transit the meridian, must then be taken. And if the prorogatory place be on the occidental horizon, the number of descensions, in which every degree of the distance will be carried down, (or, in other words, the number of ascensions, in which their opposite degrees will ascend), is in that case to be reckoned*. - When, however, a prorogatory and preceding place may not be situated on any one of the three aforesaid points, but in some intermediate station, it must be observed that other timest will then bring the succeeding place to the preceding one; and not the times of ascension or descension, or transit of the mid-heaven, as above spoken of. For any places whatever, which have one particular position, on the same degree, in regard to the horizon and meridian, are alike and identical. This is the case, for instance, with all places lying on any one of those semicircles which are drawn through the arcs of the meridian and horizon; and each of these semicircles (all of which have position at the same equal distance from each other) marks one temporal hourt; and, as the time occupied in

* This number is that of the oblique descensional times of the intercepted arc, or of the oblique ascensional times of the arc opposite to it.—The whole of the instructions in this paragraph are fully exemplified in the following Chapter.

+ Or, times to be reckoned in another manner.

t On this passage, there has been founded, (to use Whalley’s words) ‘‘ what we call Mundane Parallels, or parallels in the ‘‘ world. And, as zodiacal parallels are equal distances from the

140 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

proceeding through the places* above described, and arriving at the same position of the horizon and meridian, is rendered unequal to and different from the time of transits in the zodiac; so, also, the transits of other spaces are made, agreeably to their position, in time again distinct from this.

There is, however, a method by which the proportion of time, occupied in the progress of a succeeding place to a prorogatory and preceding place, in whatever position, whether oriental, meridianal, or occidental, or any other, may be easily calculated. It is as follows:—

When it has been ascertained what degree of the zodiac is on the mid-heaven, as also which are the preceding and

‘* tropical or equinoctial circles, so mundane parallels are a like ‘equal distance from the horizontal or meridianal points or ‘* circles. And as zodiacal parallels are measured by the zodi- ‘‘ acal circle, so those mundane parallels are measured by the ‘‘ diurnal or nocturnal arcs: and just so long as the Sun or any ‘other planet is, in proceeding from the cusp of the twelfth ‘* House to the cusp of the tenth, the same Sun or other planet ‘* will be in proceeding from the cusp of the tenth to the cusp of ‘the eighth House. And the distance between Sun-rising and ‘‘ setting, is the diurnal arc which the meridian cuts in two equal ‘‘ parts. In directions, these mundane parallels have a twofold ‘* consideration : first, simple; secondly, according to the rapt mo- ‘“‘tion of the earth, or the primum mobile: all which have been ‘largely explained by the learned Monk, Placidus,’’ &. That Author has certainly stated, in one of his Theses, that ‘‘ those ‘ seats, or parts of the circle, are to be received, in which the “stars, having a different declination, effect equal temporal ‘‘ hours,’’ (p. 22, Cooper’s Translation.) and he has fully exemplified this principle in other parts of kis ‘‘ Primum Mobile;” but Ptolemy here speaks only of one of the semicircles between the horizon and meridian, without reference to any other semicircle, corresponding in distance from the horizon and midheaven; and all that he has said on the subject amounts only ty this, that the prorogation is completed when the succeeding place arrives at the same semicircle on which the preceding place had been posited. * The ascendant, mid-heaven, and western horizon; as mentioned in the preceding paragraph.

Chap. XIV.] PTOLEMY ’S TETRABIBLOS. 141

succeeding degrees, the period of whose meeting is to be calculated, the position of the preceding degree, and its distance in temporal hours from the meridian, are next to be noted; because any part of the zodiac, on becoming distant from the meridian in the same temporal hours, must fall on the same individual semicircle*. For ascertaining this distance, the number of sascensions, in a right sphere, found in the intermediate space between the said preceding degree and the mid-heaven, either above or under the earth, is to be divided by the number of the diurnal or nocturnal horary times of the said preceding degree: for instance, if that degree be above the earth, by its diurnal horary times; and, by its nocturnal, if it be under the earth. It is then to be discovered in what number of equatorial times the succeeding degree will be distant from the same meridian, by as many similar temporal hours as those by which the preceding degree is distant from it. And, to effect this, the hours in question must be noted, and it must first be observed, by the right ascensions again, how many equatorial times the succeeding degree, at its original position, is distant from the degree on the mid-heaven; and then it must be seen how many equatorial times it will be distant, on coming to the preceding degree’s distance in temporal hours from the said mid-heaven: this will be found, by multiplying those hours by the succeeding degree’s horary times; diurnal, if the future position be above the earth, and nocturnal if under; and the difference in amount, of these two distances, in equatorial times, will present the number of years inquired for.

CHarTer XV. Ezemplification. In order to exemplify the foregoing instructions, let the first point of Aries be supposed as the preceding place, and

* Vide Note t, pp. 139, 140.

. Seen soe”

142 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

the first point in Gemini the succeeding; and let the latitude of the country, to which the operation relates, be such as will cause the longest day to consist of fourteen hours* ; and where the horary magnitude of the beginning of Gemini will be about seventeen equatorial timesf.

Let the first point of Aries be first placed on the ascendant, so that the beginning of Capricorn may be on the mid-heaven above the earth, and the first point of Gemini be distant from the said mid-heaven 140 equatorial times¢. Now, since the first point of Aries is distant six temporal hours from the mid-heaven above the earth, the times of that distance will be found, by multiplying the said six hours by the seventeen equatorial times of the horary magnitude of the first point of Gemini, to be 102§. The whole sum of the distance to the mid-heaven above the earth, is 148 times; and as 148 times exceed 102 by 46, the succeeding place will consequently devolve into the preceding place after 46 times; (being the amount of the times of ascension of Aries and Taurus|l), since, in this instance, the prorogatory place is established in the ascendant.

* This, in the Northern Hemisphere, would be the latitude of Alexandria, (where Ptolemy flourished) or, in his own words, that of the 3d Climate, passing through Lower Egypt, numbered 30° 22’.—Vide extracts from the Tables of the Almagest, ingerted in the Appendix.

+ This is the magnitude of the diurnal temporal hour of the first point of Gemini in the latitude prescribed.

t By right ascension, as shewn by the Extract, inserted in the Appendix, from the Table of Ascensions in the Almagest. The exact distance, however, according to that Table, is 147° 44’.

§ Or rather, according to the Table 102° 39’.

|| That is to say, of the oblique ascension, which is here required to be reckoned; because the prorogatory and preceding place is in the ascendant. Vide p. 139, and Note t¢ in p. 138.— And the first point of Gemini, on arriving at the ascendant, will be distant from the mid-heaven 102° 39’ by right ascension ; the 13th degree of Aquarius being then in culmination in the prescribed latitude. The oblique ascensions in the latitude

Chap. XV.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 143

In like manner, let the first point of Aries be next placed on the mid-heaven, culminating; so that the first point of Gemini, in its first position, may be distant from the said mid-heaven 58 equatorial times*. Now, as it is required to bring the first point of Gemini, in its second position, to the mid-heaven, the whole distance is to be reckoned, viz. 58 times, in which Aries and Taurus pass the mid-heaven; because, again, the prorogatory place was culminatingt.

In the same way, let the first point of Aries be descendingt; so that the beginning of Cancer may occupy the midheaven, ard the first point of Gemini precede the midheaven at the distance of 32 equatorial times§. Therefore, as the first point of Aries is on the west, and again distant six temporal hours from the meridian, let these six hours be multiplied by the seventeen times; which will produce 102, making the sum of the distance|| of the first point of Gemini, at its future descension, from the meridian§. But, as the first point of Gemini, at its first position, was already distant from the meridian 32 times; which number 102 exceed by 70; it will consequently arrive at its descension after 70 times, the amount of the excess; in which space Aries ‘and Taurus will have descended, and their opposite signs Libra and Scorpio arisen**.

80° 22’ N. are also shewn in the extract referred to in the preceding note: and it thereby appears, that Aries and Taurus ascend in 45° 5’, instead of 46°. * Or, rather, 57° 44’ — by ment ascension. — Vide extract above referred to. t Vide p. 139. t Or on the cusp of the 7th House. § Or, rather, 32° 16’—by right ascension again.—Vide extract as before. {| By right ascension.—The amount according to the Table is, however, 102° 89’, as before stated. G On which the 10th degree of Virgo will then be posited. ** By oblique descension and ascension: vide p. 139.—The Table shews the amount to be 70° 23’.

144 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

Agan, let the first point of Aries have another position, not in any angle*, but, for instance, at the distance of three temporal hours past the meridian; so that the 18th degree of Taurus may be on the mid-heaven, and the first point of Gemini be approaching the mid-heaven, at the distance of thirteen equatorial times. The seventeen times must, therefore, be again multiplied by the three hours, and the first point of Gemini, at its second position, will be found to be past the meridian, at the distance of 51 timest. The distance of 13 times of the first position and 51 times of the second position are then both to be taken; and they will produce 64 times. In the former instances the prorogatory place performed in the same succession ; viz. occupying 46 times in coming to the ascendant, 58 in coming to the mid-heaven, and 70 in coming to the west; so that the present number of times, depending on the intermediate position between the mid-heaven and the west, and being 64, also differs from each of the other numbers, in proportion to the three hours difference of position. For, in the other cases which proceeded by quadrants}, according to the angles, the times progressively differed by twelve, but, in the present case of a minor distance of three hours, they differ by six§.

There is, however, another method which may be used, and which is still more simple; for instance, should the preceding degree be on the ascendant, the following inter-

* In reference to p. 139, and note t in the same page. +t The 18th degree of Cancer being then in culmination. t Or semi-diurnal arcs, each equal to six temporal hours.

§ The amount of the progressive difference of the times of prorogation, as here mentioned, is of course only applicable to the parallel of declination of the first point of Gemini, in the latitude before quoted. It must necessarily vary in all other parallels of declination, and also in all other latitudes.

Chap. XV.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 145

mediate times of ascension*, between it and the succeeding degree, may be reckoned; should it be on the mid-heaven, the times of ascension must be reckoned on a right sphere; and, if it be on the west, descending, the intermediate times of descensiont are to be reckoned. But, should the preceding degree be between any two of these angles, as, for instance, at the distance of Aries, just spoken of, the proper times for each angle must first be considered And, since the first poimt of Aries was assigned a: position between the two angles of the mid-heaven and the west, the proper times of the distances from these angles to the first point of Geminif would be found to be 58 from the midheaven, and 70 from the west. The distances, in temporal hours, of the preceding degree from each of these angles, are then to be ascertained; and whatever proportion these same temporal hours, contained in such distances between the said preceding degree and each angle, may bear to the temporal hours of the whole quadrant, the same proportion, out of the excess of the times of distance of one angle over those of the other, is either to be added to, or deducted from, the actual number of times of the respective angles. For instance, in the example before set forth, 70 times exceed 58 times by 12; and the preceding place was distant from the angles three equal temporal hours, which are the half of six, the number belonging to the whole quadrant. Now, three being the half of six, and 12 being the amount of the excess, the half of 12 is therefore to be taken, giving 6 to be either added to the 58 times, or subtracted from the 70: thus, in

* Oblique ascension.

+ The times of oblique descension of any arc of the zodiac are equal to the times of oblique ascension of its opposite arc; as before explained.

t That is to say, at the time of the lst point of Aries transiting the cusp of each angle respectively.

146 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

either way, producing 64, the required number of times.

If, however, the preceding place should be distant from either angle two temporal hours, which are the third part of six, then, in that case, the third part of 12, the amount of the excess, must be taken, viz. 4: and, if the said two hours be the distance, as calculated from the mid-heaven, the said 4 times are to be added to the 58 times; but, if it be the distance from the occidental angle, the 4 times are to be subtracted from the 70.

In conformity with these rules now laid down, the amount of the times must necessarily be obtained*.

The aneretic and critical influences of all meetings or

* The calculation of time may be greatly facilitated by the use of a zodiacal planisphere, said to have been invented about thirty years ago by Mr. Ranger, who died without making his invention public. The invention consists of a set of instruments perfectly adapted, as far as relates to the zodiac, for astronomical, as well as astrological, purposes; and the completeness with which it solves, in the most intelligible and expeditious manner, all the astronomical problems of the zodiac, deserves attention. Whether a similar planisphere was known in the days of Placidus, I am not aware; but it is worthy of remark that the following words occur in his ‘‘ Primum Mobile,’’ and seem almost to have been predicted of Mr. Ranger’s planisphere: —‘‘ If any one would provide himself with a Ptolemaic ‘¢ pnlanisphere, with the horary circles, crepuscules, the zodiac’s ‘latitude, and all other things requisite, it would be of very ‘* great service towards forseeing the aspects.’’ (Cooper’s Translation, p. 87.) In the Appendix will be found a plate, containing diagrams drawn by the instruments in question, which, though not completely filled up, will shew how easily, and, at the same time, how accurately, the measure of time in directions may be ascertained. The said diagrams have been adapted to the ‘‘ exemplification’’’ here given by Ptolemy; one of them being laid down for the latitude of Alexandria, and the other for the latitude of southern Britain (51° 30’ N.), with similar positions of the preceding and succeeding places adverted to in the text.

Chap. XV.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 147

descensions of prorogators* remain to be determined ; beginning, in due order, with such as are accomplished in the shortest time. And whatever else may happen, by means of any affliction or assistance offered (in the manner heretofore prescribed) during the actual transit of the meeting, is also to be decided on, as well as whatever may occur through other circumstances, arising out of the ingresses taking place at the time: because, should the places of both the significators be afflicted, and should the transit of the stars, at the then existing ingress, operate injuriously on the chief ruling places, it is then altogether probable that death will ensuet; and, even though one of the places{ may be disposed favourably to human nature, the crisis will still be important and perilous; but, if both the places be so disposed favourably, some debility only, or transient malady, or hurt, will then happen. It is, however, necessary in these cases, to consider also what familiarity, or analogy, the peculiar properties of the places, thus meeting, may bear to the circumstances of the nativity.

In order to obviate the doubts which frequently arise, as to the particular star or place to which the aneretic dominion ought to be assigned, all the meetings should be duly contemplated and considered, each by each; and thus, after considering those chiefly corresponding with

* These meetings and descensions are technically termed ‘* directions.”’

+ On these words Placidus has the following remark: ‘‘ The ' “ revolutions may possess some virtue, but only according to ‘‘ the constitution of the stars to the places of the prorogators ‘‘ of the nativity, and their places of direction, but no farther ; ‘‘as Ptolemy was of opinion, and briefly expresses himself in ‘his Chapter of Life. ‘ Those who are afflicted, both in the ‘¢ ¢ places and conclusions of the years, by the revolution of ‘*¢the stars infecting the principal places, have reason to ‘¢ ¢ expect certain death.’’’ (p. 127, Cooper’s Transl.)

t Of the significators beforementioned.

148 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

the events already past, and with the future events about to follow, or with the whole altogether, it will be practicable to found an observation on the equality or inequality of their influence.

Chapter XVI. The form and Temperament of the Body.

THE matters affecting and regulating the duration of life have now been disposed of; and it becomes proper to enter into further particulars, commencing, in due order, with the figure and conformation of the body; because Nature forms and moulds the body before she inspires it with a soul. In fact, the body, in its materiality, is endowed with suitable constitutional properties begotten with it, and almost apparent from its very birth; but the soul afterwards, and by degrees, develops the appropriate qualities which it derives from the primary cause, and which become known much later than external atributes, and in process of time only.

In regard to the body, therefore, it is in all cases requisite to observe the oriental horizon, and to ascertain what planets may preside or have dominion over it, and also to pay particular attention to the Moon. For, from both these places*, and from their rulers, as well as from the natural formation and contemperament appertaining to every species of the human race, and also from the figure ascribed to those fixed stars which may be co-ascending, the conformation of the body is to be inferred. The planets possessing dominion have the chief influence, and the proper qualities of their places co-operate with them. And, in order to simplify these instructions, and as the planets are first to be treated of, each planet is individually to be considered as follows: viz.

* That of the ascendant, and that of the Moon.

Chap. XVI.] PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. 149

Saturn, when oriental, acts on the personal figure by producing a yellowish complexion and a good constitution; with black and curled hair, a broad and stout chest, eyes of ordinary quality, and a proportionate size of body, the temperament of which is compounded principally of moisture and cold. Should he be occidental, he makes the personal figure black or dark, thin and small, with scanty hair on the head; the body without hair, but well shaped; the eyes black or dark; and the bodily temperament consisting chiefly of dryness and cold.

Jupiter ruling, when oriental, makes the person white or fair, with a clear complexion, moderate growth of hair, and large eyes, and of good and dignified stature; the temperament being chiefly of heat and moisture. When occidental, he still causes a fair complexion, but not of equal clearness; and he produces long straight hair, with baldness on the forehead or on the crown of the head; and he then also gives a middle stature to the body, with a temperament of more moisture.

Mars, ascending, gives a fair ruddiness to the person, with large size, a healthy constitution, blue or grey eyes, pa, sturdy figure, and a moderate growth of hair, with a temperament principally of heat and dryness. When occidental, he makes the complexion simply ruddy, and the personal figure of moderate stature, with small eyes; the body without hair, and the hair of the head light or red; and straight; the bodily temperament being chiefly dry. * Venus operates in a manner similar to that of Jupiter, but, at the same time, more becomingly and more gracefully; producing qualities of a nature more applicable to women and female beauty, such as softness, juciness, and greater delicacy. She also peculiarly makes the eyes beautiful, and renders them of an azure tint.

Mercury, when oriental, makes the personal figure of a yellowish complexion, and of stature proportionate and

150 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

well-shaped, with small eyes and a moderate growth of hair; and the bodily temperament is chiefly hot. If occidental, he gives a complexion white or fair, but not altogether clear; straight, dark hair, a thin and slight figure, some squint or defect in the eyes, and a long visage* faintly red; the temperament being chiefly dry.

The Sun and Moon, when configurated with any one of the planets, also co-operate: the Sun adds a greater nobleness to the figure, and increases the healthiness of the constitution; and the Moon, especially when holding or delaying her separationt, generally contributes better proportion and greater delicacy of figure, and greater moisture of temperament; but, at the same time, her influence in this latter particular is adapted to the proper ratio of her illumination; as referred to in the modes of temperament mentioned in the beginning of this treatiset. Again, should the planets be matutine, and fully conspicuous§, they will cause the body to be large; if in their first station, they will make it strong and vigorous; if they should precede or be in advance, it will be disproportionate; if in their second station, it will be weaker, and, if vespertine, altogether mean and subservient to evil treatment and oppression. At the same time, the places of the planets||, as has been already said, co-operate especially in producing the shape of the personal figure, and contribute also towards the temperament.

* The original word is (in the accusative plural) which Allatius has rendered, by ‘‘ pedibus caprinis,’’ goatfooted, as if it were compounded of az capra and -xovs pes; but the preferable derivation seems to be from az and oy vultus; meaning ‘‘ goat-faced.”’ +t From any one of the said planets.

I Vide Chap. 8, Book 1.

§ The Greek is roovpevo: paces ; literally ‘‘ making apparition ;” but the subsequent context seems to require the meaning I have adopted.

|! The parts of the signs in which the planets are posited.

Chap. XVI.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 151

And further, it is the general tendency of the quadrant comprised between the vernal equinox and the summer tropic to produce good complexions, advantageous stature, fine constitutions, and fine eyes; with a temperament abounding in heat and moisture. The quadrant from the summer tropic to the autumnal equinox tends to produce an ordinary complexion, proportionate stature, a healthy constitution, large eyes, a stout person, with curled hair, and a temperament abounding in heat and dryness. The quadrant from the autumnal equinox to the winter tropic causes yellowish complexions, slender, thin, and sickly persons, with a moderate growth of hair, fine eyes, and a temperament abundantly dry and cold. The other quadrant, from the winter tropic to the vernal equinox gives a dark complexion, proper stature, straight hair on the head and none on the body, a goodly figure, and a temperament abounding in cold and moisture.

To speak, however, more particularly, all constellations of human form, both those within and those without the zodiac, act in favour of giving a handsome shape to the body, and due proportion to the figure; while those not of human form vary its due proportions, and incline it towards their own shape; assimilating it, In some measure, to thelr own peculiarities, either by enlarging or diminishing its size, by giving it additional strength or weakness, or by otherwise improving or disfiguring it. Thus, for example, Leo, Virgo, and Sagittarius, enlarge the person; and Pisces, Cancer, and Capricorn tend to make it diminutive; and thus, again, the upper and anterior parts of Aries, Taurus, and Leo, increase its strength, and their lower and posterior parts render it weaker: while, on the other hand, Sagittarius, Scorpio, and Gemini, act conversely; for their anterior parts produce greater debility, and their posterior parts greater vigour. In like manner, Virgo, Libra, and Sagittarius, contribute to render the person handsome and well-proportioned ; and Scorpio, Pisces, and Taurus, incline it to be mis-shapen and disfigured.

152 PTOLEMY 'S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

The other constellations* also operate on similar principles; and all these influences it is necessary to bear in mind, in order that the peculiar properties, observed in their joint temperament, may be so compounded as to authorise an inference therefrom, concerning the form and temperament of the body.

CuarteR XVII. The Hurts, Injurves, and Diseases of the Body.

NEXT in succession to the foregoing chapter, the circumstances relating to bodily hurts, injuries, and diseases, claim to be discussed; and they require to be considered in the following mode.

For the investigation of these circumstances, the two angles on the horizon, both the ascendant and the western, must in all cases be remarked; but more especially the western angle and its preceding houset, which is iInconjunct with the ascendant. After these angles have been noted, it must be observed in what manner the malefic planets may be configurated with them: for, if both the malefics, or even if one of them, should be stationed bodily on any of the successive degrees composing the said angles, or be configurated with such degrees in quartile or in opposition, some bodily disorders or injuries will attach to the native or person then born: and this will especially happen, if, also, both the luminaries, either together or in opposition, or even if one of them, should be angularly posited in the manner described. Because, in such a case, not only a malefic

* For the operative qualities of the other constellations, vide Chapters 10 and 11, Book 1.

+ The sixth house.

Chap. XVII.] PToLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 153

which may have ascended in succession to the luminaries, but also any one which may have pre-ascended, if placed in an angle, has power to inflict certain diseases and injuries, such as may be indicated by the places of the horizon and of the signs, as well as by the natures of the planets themselves; whether malefics, or others evilly afflicted and configurated with them.

Such parts of the signs, as contain the afflicted part of the horizon, will shew in what part of the body the misfortune will exist, whether it be a hurt, or disease, or both: and the matures of the planets, in operating the misfortune, also regulate its particular form or species. For, among the chief parts of the human body, Saturn rules the right ear, the spleen, the bladder, the phlegm, and the bones; Jupiter governs the hand, the lungs, the arteries, and the seed; Mars, the left ear, the kidneys, the veins, and the privities; the Sun rules the eyes, the brain, the heart, the sinews or nerves, and all the right side; Venus, the nostrils, the liver, and the flesh; Mercury, the speech, the understanding, the bile, the tongue, and the fundament; and the Moon governs the palate, the throat, the stomach, the belly, the womb, and all the left parts.

It generally happens that some casual hurt, or injurious affection of the body, is the utmost that takes effect when the malefics may be oriental, and that considerable diseases occur only when the malefics may be occidental. And a hurt is distinct from a disease, inasmuch as the pain, which it induces at the time, is not afterwards continued; while a disease is, on the other hand, imposed on the sufferer either constantly or at repeated intervals. These remarks are applicable to all cases; but, in order to inquire particularly into the nature of the hurt or disease, a further attention must be paid to the figures, or schemes, with which the effects, about to be produced, will for the most part correspond in character.

154 PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. [Book III.

For instance, blindness of one eye will ensue, when the Moon may be in the before-mentioned angles, either operating her conjunction, or being at the full: it will also happen should she be configurated with the Sun in any other proportional aspect, and be at the same time connected with any one of the nebulous collections in the zodiac; such as the cloudy spot of Cancer, the Pleiades of Taurus, the arrow-head of Sagittarius, the sting of Scorpio, the parts about the mane of Leo, or the urn of Aquarius. Moreover, both eyes will be injured should the Moon be in an angle, and in her decrease, and Mars or Saturn, being matutine, ascend in succession to her; or, again, if the Sun be in an angle, and these planets pre-ascend before him, and be configurated with both luminaries, whether the luminaries be in one and the same sign, or in opposition; provided also the said planets, although oriental of the Sun, be occidental of the Moon.—Under these circumstances, therefore, Mars will cause blindness by a stroke or blow, or by the sward or by burning; and, if he be configurated with Mercury, it will be effected either in a place of exercise of sport, or by the assault of robbers. Saturn, however,.under the Same circumstances, produces blindness by cataract, or cold, by a white film, or by other similar disorders.

Venus, if in one of the angles before-mentioned, and especially if she be in that of the west, and Saturn be in conjunction or in configuration with her, or be changing place with her*, while Mars, at the same time, is in elevation above her, or in opposition to her, will produce impotence in the native, if a male; and, if a female, will render her liable to abortion, or to produce children stillborn, or not capable of being extracted except in mangled parts. Such misfortunes, especially happen under Can-

* This seems to imply, if Saturn be in one of Venus’s places of dignity, and Venus in one of Saturn’s. Such a counterposition is technically termed ‘‘ mutual reception.’’

Chap. XVII.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 155

cer, Virgo, and Capricorn; even though the Moon may be in the ascendant, in conjunction with Mars. And if, under the same circumstances, Venus be also configurated with Mercury, as well as Saturn, Mars again being in elevation above her, or in opposition to her, the native will be either an eunuch or hermaphrodite, or devoid of the natural channels and vents. And, when these positions occur, should the Sun also partake in the configuration, the luminaries and Venus being all masculinely constituted, the Moon in her decrease, and the malefics brought up in the degrees next successively ascending, the males will be born maimed or crippled, or injured in their private members; (particularly under Aries, Leo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Aquarius;) and the females will remain childless and unprolific. And it also occasionally happens that the natives, under such a configuration, are likewise injured in the face or eyes.

If Saturn and Mercury, in conjunction with the Sun, be in the before-mentioned angles, the native will have some defect in the tongue, and stammer or speak with difficulty: especially if Mercury be occidental, and both he and Saturn configurated with the Moon. Should Mars, however, be found together with them, he will for the most part remove the defect in the tongue, after the Moon shall have completed her approach to him.

Further, should the malefics be in angles, and the luminaries, either together or in opposition, be brought up to them; or, if the malefics be brought up to the luminaries, especially when the Moon may be in her nodes, or in her bend*, or in obnoxious signs, such as Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, and Capricorn, the body will then be afflicted with excrescences, distortions, lameness or paralysis.

* In her exterme latitude, whether north or south.

156 PTOLEMY S TETRABIBLOS. [Book ITI.

If the malefics be in conjunction with the luminaries, the calamity will take effect from the very moment of birth: but should they be in the mid-heaven, in elevation above the luminaries, or in opposition to each other, it will then arise out of some great and dangerous accident; such as « fall from some height or precipice an attack of robbers, or of quadrupeds. And thus, if Mars hold dominion, he will produce the misfortune by means of fire or wounds, through quarrels, or by robbers; and if Saturn, it will be caused by a fall, by shipwreck, or by convulsive fits or spasms.

The minor bodily disorders mostly occur on the Moon’s being posited in a tropical or equinoctial sign; and, if in that of the vernal equinox, these disorders usually arise from the white leprosy; in that of the summer tropic, from tetters; in that of the autumnal equinox, from leprosy; and in that of the winter tropic, from the eruption of pimples, and similar inconveniences.

Considerable diseases, however, take effect when the malefics may be configurated in the same situations as those before prescribed, yet differing in one respect; that is to say, being occidental of the Sun and oriental of the Moon. In such cases, Saturn will generally produce cold in the bowels, excessive phlegm, rheumatism, emanciation, sickliness, jaundice, dysentry, cough, obstruction, cholic, or scurvy; and, in women, besides these diseases, he produces complaints of the womb. Mars will cause expectoration of blood, atrabilarious attacks, pulmonary complaints, sores, and diseases in the private parts, (which will be rendered still more painful by surgical burning or incision,) such as fistula, hemorrhoids, or knots in the fundament, and also inflamed and putrifying ulcers. In women, to these calamities, he adds abortion, excision of the foetus or its mortification.

And, even though these planets should not be properly configurated towards the particular parts of the body,

Chap. XVII.] PTOLEMY’S TETRABIBLOS. 157

their qualities will still operate. Mercury also will act with them, and contribute to the increase of the evil: thus, if he be in familiarity with Saturn, he will much augment the coldness, and promote the continuance of rheumatism, and the disturbance of the fluids; especially in the chest, throat, and stomach. If in familiarity with Mars, he will tend to produce greater dryness, and will increase ulcers, abscesses, loss of hair, scarified sores, erysipelas, tetters, blackness of bile, insanity, epilepsy*, and similar disorders.

Some of the properties, peculiar to disease, arise out of the various character of the signs which may contain the above-mentioned configurations in the two angles. Thus Cancer, Capricorn, and Pisces, and, in short, all signs ascribed to terrestrial animals and fishes, appropriately cause diseases of putridity, tetters, excoriation, scorfula, fistula, leprosy, and the like; while Sagittarius and Gemini produce disease by falling fits and epilepsy. And if the planets happen to be posited in the latter degrees of the signs containing them, the extremities of the body will then be chiefly affected by the disease or hurt; which will arise from humours or accidents, produ- - eing leprosy, gout, or other infirmities, in the hands and feet.

Under the circumstances above detailed, the disease or hurt will be incurable, provided there shall be not one of the benefics in configuration with the malefics which effect the evil, nor with the luminaries posited in angles; and even though the benefics may be so configurated, the misfortune will still be incapable of remedy, if the malefics be well fortified, and in elevation above them.