The Forty Questions of the Soul

By the study of these writings men may come to know (every one according to his condition, property and inclination) how all the real differences of opinions, of all sorts, may be reconciled; even the nicest differences of the most learned critics in all ages: that which seemeth different in the writings of the profound magical, mystical, chemic philosophers, from that which we find in the experimental physicians, philosophers, astronomers, astrologers and mathematicians may be reconciled, by considering what this author teacheth, that the names which were given to the seven planets do signify the seven properties of eternal nature, and are the cause of all those things which are by experimental men accounted the first and deepest causes of all.

Also thereby the differences in religion may be so reconciled, that the minds and consciences of all doubting persons may be satisfied about predestination, election, creation, corruption, salvation and restoration, so clearly, that all will love one another; and that hard lesson to love our enemies will be readily learnt, and men will quietly contribute to the studying that one necessary thing, that treasure hidden in the field, that gold of the kingdom of heaven, that precious pearl, that all in all, faith and love, and Christ, and God, when they shall perceive that all this lieth hidden in every soul, in one measure or other, and may be found, and the way set down so plain, that every soul may find it.

Thereby the writings of all men will be understood, even the very darkest Mysteries contained in the writings of the prophets and apostles will be made plain and easy to the simplest thirsty soul; and then, when that appeareth which is now hidden, that excellent glory, every one will not only see it, but walk in the way that leadeth to it, and so attain it in the highest degree of every one's capacity and capability.

While this wisdom is growing, it will so reform the laws, by degrees, in every nation, that at length the whole world will be governed in peace, to the joy of all.

Perhaps some will think this impossible. Let them consider, that if they be told of a curious city, and of the incredible things that are done there, by him that hath been there, and seen what he relateth, and he describe the way so plain that they may come thither themselves, will they not go, that they may know, as well as he that told them? Do so by this author. Read this book diligently, and seriously, till you apprehend the true meaning but of some part of the way he here describeth, which may easily be done: and you will be satisfied the things are true, and that the way he sheweth is true, and be able to walk in it, and also be very thirsty to labour in that way, more and more, till you attain your whole desire; and then you will keep it as the best jewel, a memorial of all Mysteries.

But let everyone read it themselves, whether it be the highest king that sitteth upon a throne, or the meanest maid that grindeth in a mill, or hear it read with their own ears, if they mean to partake of this so high a gift from the most high, or else the devil may easily bereave them of it.

THE AUTHOR'S PREFACE TO BALTHASAR WALTER

1. BELOVED Sir, and my good Friend, it is impossible for reason to answer these your questions, for they contain the chiefest and greatest Mysteries, which are alone known to God.

2. Hence saith * Daniel to King Nebuchadnezzar: That which the King asketh and desireth of the learned Chaldeans, Astrologians, and wise men, is not in their power. The God of heaven only can reveal secret things: it is not in my reason to answer the king; but that the king may perceive the thoughts of his heart, God hath revealed it, not that my reason is greater than any man's living.

3. So likewise I say to you: you shall be answered, not that my reason is greater than any man's hving, but only that you may perceive the thoughts, the earnest seeking and desire of your heart, it is given me to answer you.

4. And you should not, 2 in such a way, so anxiously seek after these things; they are in no outward reason: But to the spirit of God, nothing is impossible: seeing we are the children of God, and in Christ new born of God, the son seeth very well what the father doth in his house, and also learneth his art and work.