It is a Fact of History that the origins of magic and medicine are rooted in the starry wisdom of the ancients. Astrology is, in essence, an occult science whose principles interpenetrate the vast majority of the hermetic tradition. Beyond the observation of stars and planets for auguring future events, the diverse celestial powers of the firmament have been drawn upon by theurgic and thaumaturgic magic. Carefully timed and engraved talismans sought to imbue earthly matter with the luminous power of planets and stars, as did magical medicines. What radiates in the heavens also gives forth its power on earth: in herbs, stones, animals, and in the affairs of humanity. Magicians have long sought to direct those emanations, to shape the below by means of the above. The Celestial Art gathers together twelve essays on specific aspects of astrological magic, examining essence and practical application. Among the topics of research are Vedic Astrology, Alchemy, Greek Astrological Herbalism, the Planetary Magic of the Sabians of ancient Harran, the place of the Celestial Art in early modern British Magic, and practical planetary sorcery.

Book jacket.