experiments
51 occurrences across the corpus
The Key of Solomon
Note that each experiment or magical operation should be performed under the planet, and usually in the hour, which refers to the same. For example: -- In the days and hours of Saturn thou canst perform experiments to summon the souls from Hades, but only of those who have died a natural death. Similarly on these days and hours thou canst operate to bring either good or bad fortune to buildings; to have familiar spirits attend thee in sleep; to cause good or ill success in business, possessions, goods, seeds, fruits, and similar things, in order to acquire learning; to bring destruction and to give death, and to sow hatred and discord. The days and hours of Jupiter are proper for obtaining honours, acquiring riches; contracting friendships, preserving health; and arriving at all that thou canst desire. In the days and hours of Mars thou canst make experiments regarding war; to arrive at military honour; to acquire courage; to overthrow enemies; and further to cause ruin, slaughter, cruelty, discord; to wound and to give death. The days and hours of the Sun are very good for perfecting experiments regarding temporal wealth, hope, gain, fortune, divination, the favour of princes, to dissolve hostile feeling, and to make friends. The days and hours of Venus are good for forming friendships; for kindness and love; for joyous and pleasant undertakings, and for traveling. The days and hours of Mercury are good to operate for eloquence and intelligence; promptitude in business; science and divination; wonders; apparitions; and answers regarding the future. Thou canst also operate under this Planet for thefts; writings; deceit; and merchandise.
Note that each experiment or magical operation should be performed under the planet, and usually in the hour, which refers to the same. For example: -- In the days and hours of Saturn thou canst perform experiments to summon the souls from Hades, but only of those who have died a natural death. Similarly on these days and hours thou canst operate to bring either good or bad fortune to buildings; to have familiar spirits attend thee in sleep; to cause good or ill success in business, possessions, goods, seeds, fruits, and similar things, in order to acquire learning; to bring destruction and to give death, and to sow hatred and discord. The days and hours of Jupiter are proper for obtaining honours, acquiring riches; contracting friendships, preserving health; and arriving at all that thou canst desire. In the days and hours of Mars thou canst make experiments regarding war; to arrive at military honour; to acquire courage; to overthrow enemies; and further to cause ruin, slaughter, cruelty, discord; to wound and to give death. The days and hours of the Sun are very good for perfecting experiments regarding temporal wealth, hope, gain, fortune, divination, the favour of princes, to dissolve hostile feeling, and to make friends. The days and hours of Venus are good for forming friendships; for kindness and love; for joyous and pleasant undertakings, and for traveling. The days and hours of Mercury are good to operate for eloquence and intelligence; promptitude in business; science and divination; wonders; apparitions; and answers regarding the future. Thou canst also operate under this Planet for thefts; writings; deceit; and merchandise.
Note that each experiment or magical operation should be performed under the planet, and usually in the hour, which refers to the same. For example: -- In the days and hours of Saturn thou canst perform experiments to summon the souls from Hades, but only of those who have died a natural death. Similarly on these days and hours thou canst operate to bring either good or bad fortune to buildings; to have familiar spirits attend thee in sleep; to cause good or ill success in business, possessions, goods, seeds, fruits, and similar things, in order to acquire learning; to bring destruction and to give death, and to sow hatred and discord. The days and hours of Jupiter are proper for obtaining honours, acquiring riches; contracting friendships, preserving health; and arriving at all that thou canst desire. In the days and hours of Mars thou canst make experiments regarding war; to arrive at military honour; to acquire courage; to overthrow enemies; and further to cause ruin, slaughter, cruelty, discord; to wound and to give death. The days and hours of the Sun are very good for perfecting experiments regarding temporal wealth, hope, gain, fortune, divination, the favour of princes, to dissolve hostile feeling, and to make friends. The days and hours of Venus are good for forming friendships; for kindness and love; for joyous and pleasant undertakings, and for traveling. The days and hours of Mercury are good to operate for eloquence and intelligence; promptitude in business; science and divination; wonders; apparitions; and answers regarding the future. Thou canst also operate under this Planet for thefts; writings; deceit; and merchandise.
The hours of Saturn and Mars and also the days on which the Moon is conjunct with them, or when she receives their opposition or quartile aspect, are excellent for making experiments of hatred, enmity, quarrel, and discord and other operations of the same kind which are given later on in this work.
The hours of Mercury are good for undertaking experiments relating to games, raillery, jests, sports, and the like. The hours of the Sun, of Jupiter, and of Venus, particularly on the days which they rule, are good for all extraordinary, uncommon, and unknown operations.
The hours of the Moon are proper for making trial of experiments relating to recovery of stolen property, for obtaining nocturnal visions, for summoning spirits in sleep, and for preparing anything relating to water.
For experiments of a peculiar nature, which cannot be classed under any certain head, the Moon should be in an airy sign, viz.: -- Gemini, Libra, or Aquarius.
But if these things seem unto thee difficult to accomplish, it will suffice thee merely to notice the Moon after her combustion, or conjunction with the Sun, especially just when she quits his beams and appeareth visible. For then it is good to make all experiments for the construction and operation of any matter. That is why the time from the New unto the Full Moon is proper for performing any of the experiments of which we have spoken above. But in her decrease or wane it is good for war, disturbance, and discord. Likewise the period when she is almost deprived of light, is proper for experiments of invisibility, and of death.
But if these things seem unto thee difficult to accomplish, it will suffice thee merely to notice the Moon after her combustion, or conjunction with the Sun, especially just when she quits his beams and appeareth visible. For then it is good to make all experiments for the construction and operation of any matter. That is why the time from the New unto the Full Moon is proper for performing any of the experiments of which we have spoken above. But in her decrease or wane it is good for war, disturbance, and discord. Likewise the period when she is almost deprived of light, is proper for experiments of invisibility, and of death.
But if these things seem unto thee difficult to accomplish, it will suffice thee merely to notice the Moon after her combustion, or conjunction with the Sun, especially just when she quits his beams and appeareth visible. For then it is good to make all experiments for the construction and operation of any matter. That is why the time from the New unto the Full Moon is proper for performing any of the experiments of which we have spoken above. But in her decrease or wane it is good for war, disturbance, and discord. Likewise the period when she is almost deprived of light, is proper for experiments of invisibility, and of death.
Verily, since no experiments for converse with spirits can be done without a circle being prepared, whatsoever experiments therefore thou wishest to undertake for conversing with spirits, therein thou must learn to construct a certain particular circle; that being done surround that circle with the circle of art for better caution and efficacy.
Verily, since no experiments for converse with spirits can be done without a circle being prepared, whatsoever experiments therefore thou wishest to undertake for conversing with spirits, therein thou must learn to construct a certain particular circle; that being done surround that circle with the circle of art for better caution and efficacy.
If thou wishest to succeed, it is necessary to make the following experiments and arts in the appropriate days and hours, with the requisite solemnities and ceremonies contained and laid down in the following chapters.
Experiments, then, are of two kinds; the first is to make trial of what, as I have said, can be easily performed without a circle, and in this case it is not necessary to observe anything but what thou wilt find in the proper chapters. The second can in no way be brought to perfection without the circle; and in order to accomplish this perfectly it is necessary to take note of all the preparations which the master of the art and his disciples must undertake before constructing the circle.
The first disciple will bear the censer, the perfumes and the spices; the second disciple will bear the book, papers, pens, ink, and any stinking or impure materials; the third will carry the knife and the craft knife of magical art, the lantern, and the candles; the fourth, the Psalms, and the rest of the instruments; the fifth, the crucible or chafing-dish, and the charcoal or fuel; but it is necessary for the master himself to carry in his hand the staff, and the wand or rod. The things necessary being thus disposed, the master will go with his disciples unto the assigned place, where they have proposed to construct the circle for the magical arts and experiments; repeating on the way the prayers and orations which thou wilt find in Book II.
We have also spoken enough in our present Key, regarding the manner in which it is necessary to attract the spirits so as to make them speak. Now, by divine aid, I will teach thee how to perform certain experiments with success.
O thou ALNIRAS, master of invisibility, with thy ministers CHEROS, MAYTON, METAGIR, EBIROS, DIONEDIS, UGEMENOS, ABADEM, PERIBERIM, TRANGIALEM, TRANSIDEM, SUCCANTOS, ABELOY, BORED, BELAMIA, CASTORMY, DETEL; I conjure ye by him who maketh Earth and Heaven to tremble, who is seated upon the throne of his majesty, that this operation may be perfectly accomplished according to my will, so that at whatsoever time it may please me, I may be able to be invisible. I conjure thee anew, O ALNIRAS, Chief of Invisibility, both thee and thy ministers, by him through whom all things have their being, and by SATURIEL, ARCHIEL, DANIEL, BELLIE, ASIMONE, that thou immediately comest thither with all thy ministers, and achievest this operation, as thou knowest it ought to be accomplished, and that by the same operation thou render me invisible, so that none may be able to see me. In order then to accomplish this aforesaid operation, thou must prepare all things necessary with requisite care and diligence, and put them in practice with all the general and particular ceremonies laid down for these experiments; and with all the conditions contained in our first and second books. Thou shalt also in the same operations duly repeat the appropriate conjurations, with all the solemnities marked in the respective chapters. Thus shalt thou accomplish the experiment surely and without hindrance, and thus shalt thou find it true.
EXPERIMENT OF LOVE, AND HOW IT IS TO BE PERFORMED If you wish to undertake any experiments of favor, influence, or love, for possessing the love of any person, whether man or woman, it is necessary that the operator has prepared in such a manner, as is said in the chapter concerning the exorcist (Book II, chapter 2). Then you may begin to perform the said experiment, which you may complete at any time that has been noted, but if the time and day are not mentioned, use those discussed in the chapter on the hours. And if the experiment requires an image of wax, or any other material, you must prepare it specially as described in the chapter on the same (Book II, chapter 18). Afterwards you should say the following words over the matter prepared: Noga, Jes, Asropolim, Asmo, Couau, Zedæ, Vesabaday, Serim, Emis, Liuaria, Eurim, Babus, Jasator, Jehi, Pirus, Theut, Vereset, Lanistarod, Ladonay, Eritret, Viloparas, Tamis, Astropiel, Seriel, Accoponiel, Lucontaphoras, Latisten, Omoratos, Epicharmas, Sophtorim, Pironias, Sonotrabas, Bislorium, Inopason, Necopolites, Vsion, Omas, Cados, Moas, Sophina, Amos, Tratos, Soma, Inaso, Jesel, Aby, Galien, Inauis, Astartem, Astanimin, Darauicies, Affacum, Ara, Meli, Egeriel, Artabael, Biliach, Boncifal, Osau, Arari, Zeuper, Mador, Ariel, Zeuiet, Alnina, Latisten, Belfer, Emulzard, Aglato, Ton, Ely, Phatexion, Zelatente, Pumaton, Tucon, Nastrashit, Meri, Meauel, Genitu, Lerphoram, Caribom, Sugam, Acenide, Calrmi, Zacmeni, Bermona, Caaglaot, Temptator, Somniator, Accusator. I conjure you, all you ministers of love and fornication, him who cast you down to Hell, and through all his names which daily bind you, that you consecrate and confirm this wax here present, that it may have the desired virtue which it should potently gain, through the power and might of the most holy Adonay, whose Malkuth (Kingdom) endures through the ages of the ages. Amen. Having completed these things, form the image as described in the experiment, and if it is necessary to write on the image, use the needle or quill pen and ink of the Art. If incensing or other observances are required, see the instructions in the relevant chapters. And if an invocation should be made, let it be as specified above, and at the end of your conjurations, make the fumigation, and hold the image over the smoke, saying: O Oriens, distinguished king who reigns and rules in the East, whose rule and kingdom had its beginning in the ages, and will last until the end of the ages. O Paymon, mighty king who rules in the western part of the sky. O Egym, strong king, whose kingdom and rule extends to the icy North. O Amaymon, most noble king whose domain is in the South. I powerfully invoke and arduously implore you, through him who spoke, and it was done, and who with a word alone created all, and whom all the creation obeys, through the seat of that majesty, through his will and his name, which existed before the ages were created, and who is described in four letters, Iod, He, Vau, He, and through all the Canderias, and their virtues, and through the emblems, and the names of the Creator, so that this image here present may be appropriately consecrated and formed, that it may obtain the desired virtue. Through the most holy name Adonay, whose virtue has no beginning, and will have no end. This done, conjure again using the conjuration specified in the experiment itself, and if the woman arrives that very hour it is well. If however she doesn’t appear, put the image under the head of your bed, and within three days you will see a great wonder, for the woman will come to you at once, or else will send a message to you. If the image is painted, or engraved in any metal, or cast in lead or tin, let it be done as said, and if the experiment requires characters or names to be written or painted, use the paper, needle, quill pen and colours (or else ink), as described in the appropriate places, observing the days and hours, and all the necessary solemnities required by the experiment. If however the experiment requires you to touch the loved-one, or put some brief (short summary or letter), or similar thing under the threshold or other place which the woman must pass, if the experiment requires some dust to be made and strewn about, or requires something to be drunk or eaten, make sure to solemnly observe the hours, times, materials, and tools, as described in the relevant chapters. Afterwards, say the following oration over the dust to be scattered, or things to be drunk or eaten: In whichever part of the world you may be, and by whatever names you may be called, I conjure and appeal to you, O daemons who have the power to be overturn the hearts of men and women, through the one who created you out of nothing, that this night you immediately convene without delay, face to face, [exerting your influence (?)] over this thing, that it become consecrated, so that thereby it may accept the virtue of binding [or gently drawing] all men and women that I desire, with love for me. Then perform those things described in the experiment, and with the experiment written with figures and characters in the name of whichever person, and such that she passes over it. Once the characters, figure, image of wax or other materials has been prepared or inscribed, say over those things the following conjuration: I conjure you Anael, Renquel [or Donquel], Teliel, princes of love, and whomever of your ministers that have the power to ignite passion for men and women, and kindle them with the fires of love. I conjure you, I say, through him who sits above the cherubim contemplating the abyss, and through him who makes the world tremble, and whom all creations obey,........................ so that she will choose me, and fall in love with me, desires me, yearn for me, burn for me, and care little for all others, and the whole of her thoughts may be always on me. Afterwards bury the experiment in the crossroad, then complete the experiment [and you will see the truth].
EXPERIMENT OR OPERATION OF THE FRUIT When you wish to perform the experiment of the fruit, prepare the same in the appropriate day and hour. But must be a beautiful fruit, and spotless (and when I say fruit, understand that I mean any kind of produce). You should therefore take it in your hand in a secret place, and before you pick it from the tree (if it still requires harvesting), sprinkle it with the water of the art. Then, in the secret place, pick it, using incense, and saying this oration over it. O God almighty who created the Earth, and you yourself marvellously laboured to make Eve from Adam’s side, who just as she had given him the fruit to eat, she caused him to sin; make it also that she who will eat or touch this fruit, will do my will always. I conjure you, O fruit, through him who made you, and through these most sacred names EL, ELOHIM, ELOHA, EHEIE ASHER EHEIE, and through the three princes of the angels of Paradise, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, and through all the heavens and host of angels. Likewise through the strength of God and his ineffable names, namely, JOD, HE, VAU, HE, JAH, AGLA, PRIMATON, SADAY, JAH, JAH, JAH, EL, EL, EL, ENSOPH, who created all things, and even the ages in the beginning of the ages, make it such that she who will eat or touch this fruit may have no rest, unless she completely fulfils my will. I conjure you likewise O fruit, through Kether, through Hochma, through Binah, and through all the ten Sephiroth, and also through all demons of the infernal abyss, that she (or he) to whom I will give or show you, or have touch you, may she be inflamed with the fire of love for me, so that she will not rest, unless she completely fulfils my will. And if you have to write anything on the fruit, follow the teachings of this art. You can also make other experiments of love, which involve gazing at the sight and eyes of the woman. In that case, such experiments are prepared with the suitable hours and times, as above.
EXPERIMENT OR OPERATION OF THE FRUIT When you wish to perform the experiment of the fruit, prepare the same in the appropriate day and hour. But must be a beautiful fruit, and spotless (and when I say fruit, understand that I mean any kind of produce). You should therefore take it in your hand in a secret place, and before you pick it from the tree (if it still requires harvesting), sprinkle it with the water of the art. Then, in the secret place, pick it, using incense, and saying this oration over it. O God almighty who created the Earth, and you yourself marvellously laboured to make Eve from Adam’s side, who just as she had given him the fruit to eat, she caused him to sin; make it also that she who will eat or touch this fruit, will do my will always. I conjure you, O fruit, through him who made you, and through these most sacred names EL, ELOHIM, ELOHA, EHEIE ASHER EHEIE, and through the three princes of the angels of Paradise, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, and through all the heavens and host of angels. Likewise through the strength of God and his ineffable names, namely, JOD, HE, VAU, HE, JAH, AGLA, PRIMATON, SADAY, JAH, JAH, JAH, EL, EL, EL, ENSOPH, who created all things, and even the ages in the beginning of the ages, make it such that she who will eat or touch this fruit may have no rest, unless she completely fulfils my will. I conjure you likewise O fruit, through Kether, through Hochma, through Binah, and through all the ten Sephiroth, and also through all demons of the infernal abyss, that she (or he) to whom I will give or show you, or have touch you, may she be inflamed with the fire of love for me, so that she will not rest, unless she completely fulfils my will. And if you have to write anything on the fruit, follow the teachings of this art. You can also make other experiments of love, which involve gazing at the sight and eyes of the woman. In that case, such experiments are prepared with the suitable hours and times, as above.
REGARDING EXPERIMENTS TO BE MADE REGARDING HATRED AND DISCORD
Experiments upon enemies may be performed in several ways, but, whether with waxen images or some other instrument, the particulars of each must be diligently and faithfully observed. Should the day and hour fail thee, proceed as already laid down, and prepare the image or instrument proper to this effect in the order and manner thereof. Fumigate with the proper perfumes, and if writing be required on the image, let it be done with the needle or stylet of the art, as aforesaid. Next recite the following words once over the said image:- VSOR, DILAPIDATOR, TENTATORE, SOMNIATORE, DEVORATOR, CONCISOR, ET SEDUCTOR. O all ye ministers and companions, I direct, conjure, constrain and command you to fulfil this behest willingly, namely, straightway to consecrate this image, which is to be done in the name of N., that as the face of the one is contrary to the other, so the same may never more look upon another. Deposit the image in some place perfumed with evil odours, especially those of Mars, such as sulphur and assafoetida. Let it remain there for one night, having duly asperged it, observing the proper hour and time. Do likewise when the experiment is performed with characters and names, by touching the lovers with words, or by whatsoever other manner. But when the experiment is made by giving something to be eaten, the same must be performed on the day and hour proper to this work. All things being prepared, place them before you, and say: Where are ye, SOMNIATOR, VSOR, DILAPIDATOR, TENTATOR, DIVORATOR, CONCISOR, SEDUCTOR, ye who sow discord, where are you? Ye who infuse hatred and propagate enmities, I conjure you by him who hath created you for this ministry, to fulfill this work, in order that whenever N. shall eat of like things, or shall touch them, in whatsoever manner, never shall he go in peace. Give then whatsoever you please to the person designated, but let it be in the hour of Saturn or that of Mars, observing all things needful for such experiments.
Experiments upon enemies may be performed in several ways, but, whether with waxen images or some other instrument, the particulars of each must be diligently and faithfully observed. Should the day and hour fail thee, proceed as already laid down, and prepare the image or instrument proper to this effect in the order and manner thereof. Fumigate with the proper perfumes, and if writing be required on the image, let it be done with the needle or stylet of the art, as aforesaid. Next recite the following words once over the said image:- VSOR, DILAPIDATOR, TENTATORE, SOMNIATORE, DEVORATOR, CONCISOR, ET SEDUCTOR. O all ye ministers and companions, I direct, conjure, constrain and command you to fulfil this behest willingly, namely, straightway to consecrate this image, which is to be done in the name of N., that as the face of the one is contrary to the other, so the same may never more look upon another. Deposit the image in some place perfumed with evil odours, especially those of Mars, such as sulphur and assafoetida. Let it remain there for one night, having duly asperged it, observing the proper hour and time. Do likewise when the experiment is performed with characters and names, by touching the lovers with words, or by whatsoever other manner. But when the experiment is made by giving something to be eaten, the same must be performed on the day and hour proper to this work. All things being prepared, place them before you, and say: Where are ye, SOMNIATOR, VSOR, DILAPIDATOR, TENTATOR, DIVORATOR, CONCISOR, SEDUCTOR, ye who sow discord, where are you? Ye who infuse hatred and propagate enmities, I conjure you by him who hath created you for this ministry, to fulfill this work, in order that whenever N. shall eat of like things, or shall touch them, in whatsoever manner, never shall he go in peace. Give then whatsoever you please to the person designated, but let it be in the hour of Saturn or that of Mars, observing all things needful for such experiments.
Experiments relating to mockery and scorn may be performed in many ways. When thou shalt wish to practice these experiments with regard to any person, thou shalt observe the day and the hour as we have already said. Should it be necessary to write characters or words, it should be done upon virgin paper, as we shall show farther on. As for the ink, if it be not specially ordained in this operation, it is advisable to use the blood of a bat with the pen and the needle of art. But before describing or writing the characters or names, all the necessary rules should be observed as given in the proper chapters, and having carefully followed out all these, thou shalt pronounce with a low voice the following words:—
Experiments relating to mockery and scorn may be performed in many ways. When thou shalt wish to practice these experiments with regard to any person, thou shalt observe the day and the hour as we have already said. Should it be necessary to write characters or words, it should be done upon virgin paper, as we shall show farther on. As for the ink, if it be not specially ordained in this operation, it is advisable to use the blood of a bat with the pen and the needle of art. But before describing or writing the characters or names, all the necessary rules should be observed as given in the proper chapters, and having carefully followed out all these, thou shalt pronounce with a low voice the following words:—
If thou practicest these things in this manner correctly, thou shalt arrive at the effect of thine operations and experiments by the which thou mayest easily deceive the senses.
HOW EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIMENTS AND OPERATIONS SHOULD BE PREPARED We have spoken in the preceding chapters of common experiments and operations, which it is more usual to practice and put in operation, and therein thou mayest easily see that we have told thee sufficient for their perfection. In this chapter we treat of extraordinary and unusual experiments, which can also be done in many ways. None the less should those who wish to put in practice the like experiments and operations observe the days and hours as is laid down in the proper chapters, and should be provided with virgin paper and other necessary things. Having prepared a similar experiment thou shalt say:— PRAYER.
HOW EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIMENTS AND OPERATIONS SHOULD BE PREPARED We have spoken in the preceding chapters of common experiments and operations, which it is more usual to practice and put in operation, and therein thou mayest easily see that we have told thee sufficient for their perfection. In this chapter we treat of extraordinary and unusual experiments, which can also be done in many ways. None the less should those who wish to put in practice the like experiments and operations observe the days and hours as is laid down in the proper chapters, and should be provided with virgin paper and other necessary things. Having prepared a similar experiment thou shalt say:— PRAYER.
HOW EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIMENTS AND OPERATIONS SHOULD BE PREPARED We have spoken in the preceding chapters of common experiments and operations, which it is more usual to practice and put in operation, and therein thou mayest easily see that we have told thee sufficient for their perfection. In this chapter we treat of extraordinary and unusual experiments, which can also be done in many ways. None the less should those who wish to put in practice the like experiments and operations observe the days and hours as is laid down in the proper chapters, and should be provided with virgin paper and other necessary things. Having prepared a similar experiment thou shalt say:— PRAYER.
HOW EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIMENTS AND OPERATIONS SHOULD BE PREPARED We have spoken in the preceding chapters of common experiments and operations, which it is more usual to practice and put in operation, and therein thou mayest easily see that we have told thee sufficient for their perfection. In this chapter we treat of extraordinary and unusual experiments, which can also be done in many ways. None the less should those who wish to put in practice the like experiments and operations observe the days and hours as is laid down in the proper chapters, and should be provided with virgin paper and other necessary things. Having prepared a similar experiment thou shalt say:— PRAYER.
Figure 14.-- The fourth pentacle of Saturn.-- This pentacle serveth principally for executing all the experiments and operations of ruin, destruction, and death. And when it is made in full perfection, it serveth also for those spirits which bring news, when thou invokest them from the side of the South.
Should it then happen that thou hast undertaken any secret operation for conversing with or conjuring spirits, in which the day and the hour are not marked, thou shalt put it in execution on the days and hours of Mercury, at the sixteenth or twenty-third hour, but it will be still better at the eighth, which is the third of the same night, which is called and means before the morning, for then thou shalt be able to put in practice all the arts and operations which should be performed, according as it shall please thee by day or by night, provided that they have been prepared at the hours suitable to them, as hath been already said. But when neither hour nor time of operation or invocation is specified, it is then much better to perform these experiments at night, seeing that it is more easy to the spirits to appear in the peaceful silence of night than during the day. And thou shouldst inviolably observe, that wishing to invoke the spirits, either by day or by night, it is necessary that it should be done in a place hidden, removed, secret, convenient, and proper for such art, where no man frequenteth or inhabiteth, as we shall relate more fully in its place.
Experiments of games, raillery, deceit, illusion, and invisibility, ought to be done at the first hour of Venus, and at the eighth hour of the day; but by night at the third and at the seventh.
Extraordinary experiments, depending on the situation, should be prepared and completed in the first hour of Jupiter, and the eighth of the night, and the thirteenth of the day.
Therefore, to execute these experiments in any manner whatsoever, it should be done when the Moon is clear, and when she is increasing in light.
For experiments of seeking love and favor, in whatever way it may be desired, they will succeed, provided that they have been prepared at the proper hours. and that the Moon be increasing in light and in the Sign of the Twins.
To complete extraordinary experiments, having completed all other preparations, the Moon should be in Aquarius or Leo, and in the increase.
Indeed it is impossible, or at least difficult, to test the truth of any of the aforesaid experiments with the days and hours specified, it will be suitable to observe the following.
So exact a preparation of days and hours is not necessary for those who are adepts in the art, but it is extremely necessary for apprentices and beginners, seeing that those who have been little or not at all instructed herein, and who only begin to apply themselves to this art, do not have as much faith in the experiments as those who are adepts therein, and who have practiced them. But as regards beginners, they should always have the days and hours well disposed and appropriate unto the art. And the wise should only observe the precepts of the art which are necessary, and in observing the other solemnities necessary they will operate with a perfect assurance.
Note then that it will be much better to perform the experiments or operations in the direction of the east, putting everything necessary in practice towards that point.
But for all other operations or extraordinary experiments, and for those of love, they will be much more efficacious directed towards the North. Take heed further, that every time that thou performest any experiment, to reduce it unto perfection with the requisite solemnities, thou shalt recommence the former experiment if interrupted therein, without the preparation of hours or other solemnities. If by chance it should happen that having performed an experiment with due observance of days, hours, and requisite solemnities, thou shalt find it unsuccessful, it must be in some manner false, ill-arranged and defective, and thou must assuredly have failed in some matter; for if thou doest ill in one single point, these experiments or these Arts will not be verified. Thus upon this chapter dependeth this whole key of arts, experiments, and operations, and although every solemnity be rightly observed, no experiment will be verified, unless thou canst penetrate the meaning of this chapter.
But for all other operations or extraordinary experiments, and for those of love, they will be much more efficacious directed towards the North. Take heed further, that every time that thou performest any experiment, to reduce it unto perfection with the requisite solemnities, thou shalt recommence the former experiment if interrupted therein, without the preparation of hours or other solemnities. If by chance it should happen that having performed an experiment with due observance of days, hours, and requisite solemnities, thou shalt find it unsuccessful, it must be in some manner false, ill-arranged and defective, and thou must assuredly have failed in some matter; for if thou doest ill in one single point, these experiments or these Arts will not be verified. Thus upon this chapter dependeth this whole key of arts, experiments, and operations, and although every solemnity be rightly observed, no experiment will be verified, unless thou canst penetrate the meaning of this chapter.
But for all other operations or extraordinary experiments, and for those of love, they will be much more efficacious directed towards the North. Take heed further, that every time that thou performest any experiment, to reduce it unto perfection with the requisite solemnities, thou shalt recommence the former experiment if interrupted therein, without the preparation of hours or other solemnities. If by chance it should happen that having performed an experiment with due observance of days, hours, and requisite solemnities, thou shalt find it unsuccessful, it must be in some manner false, ill-arranged and defective, and thou must assuredly have failed in some matter; for if thou doest ill in one single point, these experiments or these Arts will not be verified. Thus upon this chapter dependeth this whole key of arts, experiments, and operations, and although every solemnity be rightly observed, no experiment will be verified, unless thou canst penetrate the meaning of this chapter.
IN WHAT MANNER THE MASTER OF THE ART SHOULD KEEP, RULE, AND GOVERN HIMSELF. He who wisheth to apply himself unto so great and so difficult a science should have his mind free from all business, and from all extraneous ideas of whatever nature they may be. He should then thoroughly examine the art or operation which he should undertake, and write it regularly out on paper, particularly set aside for that purpose, with the appropriate conjurations and exorcisms. If there be anything to mark or write down, it should be performed in the manner specified regarding the paper, ink, and pen. He should also observe at what day and at what hour this experiment should be undertaken, and what things are necessary to prepare for it, what should be added, and what can be dispensed with. The which matters being prepared, it is necessary for thee to search out and arrange some fitting place wherein the magical art and its experiments can be put in practice. All these things being thus arranged and disposed, let the master of the art go into a proper and fitting place; or into his cabinet or secret chamber if it be convenient for the purpose, and he can there dispose and set in order the whole operation; or he can use any other convenient secret place for the purpose, provided that no one knoweth where it is, and that no man can see him when there. After this he must strip himself entirely naked, and let him have a bath ready prepared, wherein is water exorcised, after the manner which we shall describe, so that he may bathe and purify himself therein from the crown of his head unto the sole of his foot, saying:— O Lord ADONAI, Who hast formed me Thine unworthy servant in Thine Image and resemblance of vile and of abject earth; deign to bless and to sanctify this water, so that it may be for the health and purification of my soul, and of my body, so that no foolishness or deceitfulness may therein in any way have place.
When the master of the art shall wish to perform his operations, having previously arranged all things which it is necessary to observe and practise; from the first day of the experiment, it is absolutely necessary to ordain and to prescribe care and observation, to abstain from all things unlawful, and from every kind of impiety, impurity, wickedness, or immodesty, as well of body as of soul; as, for example, eating and drinking superabundantly, and all sorts of vain words, buffooneries, slanders, calumnies, and other useless discourse; but instead to do good deeds, speak honestly, keep a strict decency in all things, never lose sight of modesty in walking, in conversation, in eating and drinking, and in all things; the which should be principally done and observed for nine days, before the commencement of the operation. The disciples should do the same, and should equally put in practice all things necessary to be observed, if they wish to make use of all these operations and experiments.
OF PLACES WHEREIN WE MAY CONVENIENTLY EXECUTE THE EXPERIMENTS AND OPERATIONS OF THE ART The places best fitted for exercising and accomplishing magical arts and operations are those which are concealed, removed, and separated from the habitations of men. Wherefore desolate and uninhabited regions are most appropriate, such as the borders of lakes, forests, dark and obscure places, old and deserted houses, whither rarely and scarce ever men do come, mountains, caves, caverns, grottos, gardens, orchards; but best of all are cross-roads, and where four roads meet, during the depth and silence of night. But if thou canst not conveniently go unto any of these places, thy house, and even thine own chamber, or, indeed, any place, provided it hath been purified and consecrated with the necessary ceremonies, will be found fit and convenient for the convocation and assembling of the spirits. These arts or operations should be carried out at the prescribed time, but if there be no time specially appointed it will be always better to perform them at night, which is the most fit and proper time for the operations of necromancy; this is also a symbol that it is just and right to hide them from the sight of the foolish, the ignorant, and the profane. But when thou shalt have selected a place fitting, thou mayest perform thine experiments by day or by night. It should be spacious, clear, and bounded on all sides by hedges, shrubs, trees, or walls. Thou shalt thyself cleanse it thoroughly and render it neat and pure, and while doing this thou shalt recite Psalms: (Ps2=KJV2) Quare fremuerunt gentes (Why do the heathen rage....) (Ps66=KJV67) Deus misereatur nostri (God be merciful unto us....) (Ps53=KJV54) Deus in nomine tuo salvum (Save me, O God, by thy name....) After this thou shalt perfume it with the odours and suffumigations of the art, and shalt sprinkle it with the water and the hyssop; and after this thou mayest in this place make all the necessary preparations for an operation. But when, later on, thou shalt go unto this place, to complete and accomplish the operation, thou shalt repeat on the way thither the following prayer in a low and distinct voice:—
OF PLACES WHEREIN WE MAY CONVENIENTLY EXECUTE THE EXPERIMENTS AND OPERATIONS OF THE ART The places best fitted for exercising and accomplishing magical arts and operations are those which are concealed, removed, and separated from the habitations of men. Wherefore desolate and uninhabited regions are most appropriate, such as the borders of lakes, forests, dark and obscure places, old and deserted houses, whither rarely and scarce ever men do come, mountains, caves, caverns, grottos, gardens, orchards; but best of all are cross-roads, and where four roads meet, during the depth and silence of night. But if thou canst not conveniently go unto any of these places, thy house, and even thine own chamber, or, indeed, any place, provided it hath been purified and consecrated with the necessary ceremonies, will be found fit and convenient for the convocation and assembling of the spirits. These arts or operations should be carried out at the prescribed time, but if there be no time specially appointed it will be always better to perform them at night, which is the most fit and proper time for the operations of necromancy; this is also a symbol that it is just and right to hide them from the sight of the foolish, the ignorant, and the profane. But when thou shalt have selected a place fitting, thou mayest perform thine experiments by day or by night. It should be spacious, clear, and bounded on all sides by hedges, shrubs, trees, or walls. Thou shalt thyself cleanse it thoroughly and render it neat and pure, and while doing this thou shalt recite Psalms: (Ps2=KJV2) Quare fremuerunt gentes (Why do the heathen rage....) (Ps66=KJV67) Deus misereatur nostri (God be merciful unto us....) (Ps53=KJV54) Deus in nomine tuo salvum (Save me, O God, by thy name....) After this thou shalt perfume it with the odours and suffumigations of the art, and shalt sprinkle it with the water and the hyssop; and after this thou mayest in this place make all the necessary preparations for an operation. But when, later on, thou shalt go unto this place, to complete and accomplish the operation, thou shalt repeat on the way thither the following prayer in a low and distinct voice:—
May holy MICHAEL the archangel of God, and MUTIEL and MINIEL, the chiefs and captains of the celestial army, be my aid in the operation I am about to perform, so that I may write herewith all things which are necessary, and that all the experiments which I commence herewith may through you and through your names be perfected by the power of the most high Creator. Amen.
In many experiments it is necessary to use certain tools, such as a needle for sewing or pricking, or other needs. It should be prepared starting on the day and hour of Jupiter, making the needle, or other instrument, and not finished in that hour, but in the day and hour of Venus. And afterwards when finished, say over it this conjuration:
The Jerusalem Talmud
It was stated: One experiments neither with fat nor with incest or adultery. One who experiments on the Sabbath is not liable, with fat or with incest or adultery is liable. How is this? If he said, “am going to harvest the volume half of a dried fig” and then he harvested the volume of a dried fig, he is not liable. “I am going to eat half the volume of an olive” and ate the volume of an olive; he is liable. “I am going to arouse myself by her” and then touched her; he is liable.
It was stated: One experiments neither with fat nor with incest or adultery. One who experiments on the Sabbath is not liable, with fat or with incest or adultery is liable. How is this? If he said, “am going to harvest the volume half of a dried fig” and then he harvested the volume of a dried fig, he is not liable. “I am going to eat half the volume of an olive” and ate the volume of an olive; he is liable. “I am going to arouse myself by her” and then touched her; he is liable.