"Hermes, the father of philosophy, speaks:
"So know, my son, that the beginning
of this wisdom lies in our nature.
It exists in water and
fire, and its perfection is complete
fusion. From earth and water arises
wind, and from wind is born air,
which permeates everything and carries
with it the miraculous.
When you understand this,
a great light will be revealed to you.
For out of light and darkness,
out of joy and sorrow,
out of spirit and body,
out of warmth and cold,
arises the great and eternal cycle."
Since you have explored the power of the elements
and the transformation of nature,
you are now able to perceive
the great miracle in its manifold form.
By separating the pure from the impure,
by using the power of fire
and applying the secret art,
you will attain great knowledge.
Know that light emerges from darkness,
and darkness is hidden within light.
Only he who sees both
will understand the truth and reach perfection.
When you merge opposites
and bring them into unity,
then the true power will be revealed to you.
Fire rises, and water descends,
earth is purified, and air
carries the spirit everywhere.
Thus, the great mystery is born,
where heaven and earth are united.
Remember this well,
for in it lies the key
to supreme knowledge."
— Splendor solis, c. 1582
Art: Leipzig, Universitätsbibliothek Leipzig, Cod. mag. 142, c. 1792
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