Several Tracts Pertaining to the Archidoxa

Preface of Theophrastus to the Reader.

Therefore, we should leave all Ceremonias ceremonies, Coniurationes conjurations, Consecraciones consecrations, and all this assumed foundation, and place our heart and trust solely upon the right rock. That is, what can stand with Scripture, and what springs and flows forth from the light of nature and the fountain of truth. We want to describe here and take for ourselves the secret and hidden things, with plain and short words, which neither Hainrici, Corneli Agripa, nor Peter de Abano, or even Thridemo understood or described before me. And no one should take offense here at this writing and philosophizing of mine, but rather test and weigh every word well. Then you will find and see from whom I speak, whether I have known and learned this from the Devil or from the light of nature.

On Consecrations.

Concerning the sanctification of places, of instruments, and of all creatures on earth, it is not necessary to talk or learn much about such things, since God the Almighty sufficiently sanctified all things for us in the beginning and creation of the world. For He himself is holy; therefore, whatever He ordained, that is also sanctified by Him. Hence, all things need no further sanctification by us humans, but can fare quite well without it. Above all, the places, the processions or paths, and circles, swords, clothes, candles, light, water, oil, fire, incense, characters, writings, books, the Panticulo pantacles, and Sigilo Salomonis Seal of Solomon, crown, scepter, belt, ring, etc., and equal to all that the ceremonial Nigromantici necromancers make and use against the fantastic spirits, as if they could otherwise not be forced and overcome. Yet in this, faith is the principal thing, and not the ceremonies, as the ceremonialists often say: that is consecrated, hallowed, or blessed, or that so many masses have been read over it, therefore it is against the Devil and all evil spirits.
Likewise, they must flee and fear, and cannot approach it. Oh you great arch-fool and so ignorant