CENTILOQUIUM OF PTOLEMY
OR
The Century Aphorisms written by the famous
CLAUDIUS PTOLEMY
Master Astrologer, Astronomer, Geographer & Philomath.
Each Aphorism fully explained and described for the students in the
ART OF ASTROLOGY
Written By Claudius Ptolemy. Hermeneutically written by Aaron Brody
2008.
ANTIQUUS ASTROLOGY At Antiquus Astrology we offer Traditional Astrology texts which have been modernly rescribed, printed and bound for the use of students interested in learning Traditional Astrology and gaining understanding of the complete system. Each book offered has been rescribed in an easy to read typeface making understanding the text a lot simpler. Many of these books also include illustrations and diagrams which may have sustained damage due to age or weathering, these have been expertly restored and cleaned up as they would have been prior to damage. While each book is scoured for errors, if you should happen to find an error in editing or based on the material, please give us the details concerning this error by emailing us through the website listed at the bottom. Some other works offered by Antiquus Astrology are;
An Astro‐Physical Compendium – Richard Ball
A Learned Astronomical Discourse of the Judgment of Nativities
The Geomancy Blagrave’s Introduction to Astrology – Joseph Blagrave & Many More!
Aaron Brody
www.Antiquus‐Astrology.com
To the Reader. Dear Reader, This work was compiled and written for all the students in Astrology to gain a deeper understand of this Art and Science. One of our masters, Claudius Ptolemy has blessed us with certain rules or aphorisms which have been used over the centuries by many other master Astrologers and they are therefore passed to us in our modern time for our use and application. However because these rules are the foundation of all forms of Astrology, they are sometimes quite hard to understand, especially for the industrious tyro. Therefore I have taken the liberty of making this work not only available for all to read but also have hermeneutically covered each of the points of Ptolemy so that each student whether novice or master may advance their knowledge by this Centiloquium of Ptolomeaus. Some of these Aphorisms have confused even the most adept Astrologers throughout the centuries and I do not claim immunity to ignorance however my opinion concerning their meaning is based off my experience and practice in Astrology and that is what I offer here before you. I hope that this work is helpful to all those who seek to understand Astrology on a deeper level. Ptolemy, unfortunately, is not consistent in observing the ordering of the classes of Astrology, not making it very clear to the tyro Astrologer what class of Astrology he is speaking about (as some rules will apply to one class and not to another). Therefore in order to avoid confusion, I have clearly labelled before my description the class so as they are not to be confused. This is a glossary of the abbreviations and their meanings throughout this book; [G] – General Astrology – This Aphorism is for all classes. [N] – Nativity or Genethliacal – for Nativities only. [H] – Horary – A rule for Horary. [T] – Terrestrial – Mundane Astrology reference.
[M] – Medical – A rule for Medical Astrology. [P] – Predictive – A rule covering predictive Astrology. [E] – Electional – A rule for Elections. To complete my brief introduction, I feel it appropriate to thank Henry Coley and John Partridge for providing these aphorisms for us in our native language to help further the advancement of Astrology into the future. For further information on learning and understanding traditional Astrology, please refer to the link at the bottom of this page.
Aaron Brody Teacher & Student of Astrology
www.Antiquus‐Astrology.com
Centiloquium Ptolomei Or Ptolemy’s Hundred Aphorisms. I.
A te & Scientia; from thy self and learning; for it cannot be, that he who is skilful should pronounce the particular forms of things; nor can the fancy undertake a particular, but general notion of the sensible matter; in such things we must use conjecture. None but those endued with Divine Inspiration predict particulars.
II.
[G] – This Divine Inspiration that gives Astrologers their talents and ability to predict and see the future events from the Celestials is a gift from God, bestowed from the stars into the body of man. For Astrologers are born and not made. Therefore anyone skilled in this Science and Art should have such indicators in their chart. When he that consults shall better consider of it; he shall find there will be small difference between the thing propounded, and the form thereof. The meaning of Ptolemy is no more than thus; viz. the sympathy of one shall observe that propounds his question, betwixt the matter intended, and the position of the heavens at the time of it’s proposition.
[G] – The latter statement is the work of Henry Coley which suffices for the explanation of this rule. III. He that is inclinable to any Art, without doubt in his Nativity had some star of the same nature very well fortified. [N] – An Astrologer will be described by his own Nativity, this primarily is the work of Mercury. However sometimes Mercury is not enough, as Mercury will add the studious drive to the Astrologer, but either the ninth House or Jupiter also must play a role in this. This is because Jupiter and the ninth House have rulership over the Arts and
Sciences. If Mercury is found below the Earth, it shows that the Natives intellectual focus is towards Arts and Sciences but if above the Earth, the Native focuses more on oratory and linguistic skill. If Mercury is found in the Terms or House of Jupiter, or in the ninth or Lord of the ninth, these are testimonies to the Native becoming an Astrologer. IV. A natural inclination to any knowledge, attains more perfection therein, than one that shall take hard pains by learning to obtain it. [N] – Those who have Nativities with many testimonies of success and skill, will always prove more successful and skilful then those who do not, even if they work twice as hard to achieve the same result. Whether or not this is agreeable is debatable but Astrology does bestow some with talent, and others not and therefore the judgment is in fact accurate. This statement clearly proves the usefulness of Nativities, for once talents are discovered through them, they can be applied and time not wasted on futile efforts of success when it is not promised. V. He that is skilful may divert many effects of the stars when he knows their natures, and will prepare himself before their event or coming. [N][P] – A very famous aphorism which illustrates that one who is ignorant is always slave unto the stars, like animals, whose nature will always remain the same. They will act without reason or justification. But man has the inborn holy power of intelligence, in which he can reason and thus, when he discovers a negative effect caused by the stars, whether in his Nativity or in the future, he may avoid disaster by either avoiding the actions that lead to disaster or by preparing for the event that will unfold.
VI. The Election either of day or hour shall then advantage when it is constituted from the Nativity; otherwise, though the Election be well made; it will not profit. [E] – An Election, without the use of a Nativity (when there is one) will prove unsuccessful because it has no relation to the Native. This means that if one were to obtain money, the best time would be to take the Radical (Natal) Lord of the second House, when he is in a benevolent aspect with the Lord of the Ascendant. During this time, if the Native were to go about any means of making money, he will be successful. This type of Election is called a Particular Election. The other form of Electional Astrology is Universal, wherein a Nativity is not needed (as their may not be one), as for example, the planting of seeds or plants. VII. None can discern the mixture of the stars, unless he first know their natural differences and mixtures one amongst another. [G] – It is important for all Astrologers to completely understand the complexion and temperament of the Planets. For when you must mix their influences you must understand the origin of what is produced. For example, the effects of a Saturn and Jupiter conjunction, will be displayed most differently than a Saturn and Mercury conjunction. For we know that Saturn is cold and dry, melancholic, earthy & etc. We know also that Jupiter is hot and moist, sanguine, airy, completely opposite to that of Saturn. Therefore their mixtures will give conflict between themselves because their natures conflict with one another. The most dignified Planet is therefore considered the strongest and his influence is thus more apparent than the weaker, who will submit to his power. Now, the conjunction between Saturn and Mercury is thus different because they agree both in complexion and temperament. They are both cold and dry, melancholic and earthy, therefore their conjunction is not detrimental nor conflicting and they agree well
together. Mercury is often said to be naturally malevolent because of his sympathy with Saturn. A good rule to understand is if two Planets joined (primarily through conjunction) are of the same quality (Hot/Cold & Dry/Moist) they will agree with each other and their influence together (especially in conjunction) will be benevolent. If two Planets join sharing one quality (for example one is hot & dry and the other is cold & dry) they will agree, but only partly. Now if they share no qualities (as Saturn and Jupiter) they will not agree at all and therefore their mixtures will be like that of fire and water. Ptolemy makes it clear that this is the relationships we need to understand of the Planets in order to correct mix the influences of the Planets. VIII. A judicious man helps forwards the Celestial operations, even as the discrete husbandman assists nature in his ploughing and preparing the ground. [G][P][N][E] – All those who practice Astrology or go to seek the wisdom of those who do, should always implement their testimonies of strength in any given area. To waste this knowledge and skill is unprofitable and can sometimes prove detriment to the Native. Ptolemy is saying that the husbandman or farmer knows the times in which to plant his crops so that they will come in before the frosts, one who is knowledgeable of Astrology or of his Nativity should take celestial opportunities provided to him and plant his seeds for success. IX. In generation and corruption, earthy forms are subordinate to the Celestials; wherefore they that frame Images, do then make use of them, by observing when the Planets do enter into those Constellations or Forms, & etc. [E] – All sublunary creatures are subject to the influences of the Planets and Celestial bodies and their rays. These Celestials are infinite in life but those that are sublunary are finite. The Celestials control over the generation and corruption of all things which are sublunary. Ptolemy
is here describing that in order to make magical images, we must create them during times which are favourable to our desired result. These images contain the influence of the Celestials which are imprinted into them. When these images are used, they will grant the power that is bestowed in them until they are destroyed. X.
In Election of days and hours, make use of two malevolent Planets * and (; for even so doth the expert Physician use poison moderately for cure of a man.
[E] – The Planets Saturn and Mars can be very fortunate if they are found in their own dignities and strong. This is called Essential Benevolence. Even though a Planet may be naturally a malevolent, being fortunate and happy in its own places, will make it benevolent and provide benevolent results. If you are looking to obtain the significations of either Saturn or Mars, they may both be used but be watchful that they are essentially dignified or else the results will be disastrous. XI. Make no Election either of day or hour, before you know the quality of the thing intended. [E] – If you intend to take on business of love or courtship, you must know before you look for an Election the significators and qualities of this request. For this example, you would take the significators of Venus (for the woman), Mars (for the man) for the general significators and the Lord of the Ascendant and the Lord of the Ascendant of whom you wish to court to be in trine aspect together. By understanding the significators of every matter, you can easily make a powerful Election. XII. Love and hatred cause error in judgment; for affection magnifies even trifles, and envy as much depresseth weighty things.
[G] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward, you should be judging those to whom you have no affection towards or against. If you judge those you are close to, you will be at more chance to error because you will favour to give them better results that may be demonstrated or you may neglect the negative for fear of their unhappiness. XIII. When the position of Heaven shall signify anything to come to pass, make use in the business as assistants of the malevolent Planets, though in the question they were not friendly. [H][E] – When the malevolents prove unfriendly in any question one is asked, but they are fortunate in the Heavens at a current time, you are to use their power to correct the malevolency created by them in the beginning. XIV. The Astrologer plunges himself into many errors, when the cusp of the seventh House, and Lord thereof are unfortunate and afflicted. [H] – The reason for this error and danger is because the 7th House in Horary questions represents the Astrologer (or Doctor with regard unto Medicine), therefore if the 7th House is unfortunate, so will the Astrologers ability to interpret the question correctly and accurately. Reading a chart whose 7th House is afflicted by the malevolent, will cause the Astrologer to gain a bad name for himself because the Astrologer will be seen as a liar or cheat, simply looking to take the money from the Querent. This is especially true if the Dragon’s Tail is involved, which will bring scandal to the Astrologer. XV. The Ascendants of the Kingdoms enemies, are those Signs which decline from the Ascendant of the Kingdom; the Ascendant of the Kingdoms friends are the Signs of the Angles, and of the Signs succeeding those angles; the same is considerable in the rising or beginnings of sects and schisms.
[T] – The Signs and Houses found in cadent or abject places of the figure represent the enemies of any State. The friends of the Kingdoms are shown by the angles (excluding the 7th) and the succedent places of the chart. XVI. When benevolent planets have dominion in the eighth House, & are ill dignified, he that is then born shall receive damage from honest men; but if those Planets be well affected, the contrary shall happen. [N] – Benevolent Planets always represent honest men, especially Jupiter. XVII. Being demanded of the length of an old mans life, be not rash to give your judgment before you have considered or measured according to his Nativity, how long he may live according to Nature. [P] – Do not invest your time in interpreting predictive charts that promise a short life to the individual. For if they show a short life, your predictions will be in vain and will come to nothing. XVIII. When the $ and S are in one and the self same degree and minute at the time of any ones birth, and a benevolent Planet is Lord of the Ascendant, the Native that time born, shall be fortunate in all his actions; the same shall happen if the two Lights be in opposition, the one in the Ascendant, the other in the seventh House, so qualified as before; but if an infortune be placed in the Ascendant, you may well judge the contrary. [N] The Sun and Moon are both considered bestowers of fortune as well, when they are joined with a benevolent Planet, this increases their fortune bestowing qualities and it will bring honor and dignity to the Native. Their conjunction or opposition, while in some cases can be detrimental is sometimes benevolent because of their relationship between each other.
XIX. A purging medicine shall not operate so effectually when the S is with ). [M] – The Moon is phlegmatic, and Jupiter sanguine, therefore the purging of either of these temperaments will be inhibited. In order to purge correctly, you need to either do so by sympathy or antipathy, neither of which Jupiter and Luna possess towards each other. XX. Draw not blood from that member, whilst the S is in a Sign representing the same. The meaning whereof is thus, that if you find at any time the S in (which signifies the arms) to be unfortunately afflicted of * or ( in , , or , it’s not then, says he, so good to let blood at that time, as when she hath made her progress out of that Sign; many expert Physicians now living know the truth hereof. [M] – This aphorism is clearly explained. Its primarily focused towards the subject of Phlebotomy but can also be useful for when planning surgery. XXI. When the S is in or , and the Lord of the Ascendant in aspect to the Planet under the Earth, it’s good to give purging medicines; but if the Lord of the Ascendant apply to the Planet above the Earth, it’s probable the sick shall vomit up his portion. [M] – When the Moon is below the earth, she pushes purging downwards therefore all medicines meant to purge downwards will be effective. When she is above the earth the opposite effect happens and it is a useful time to use medicines which purge upwards (vomiting & etc.). The Moon in watery Signs is good for purging, especially fluids choleric. Scorpio is best for poisons or rotting things. XXII. Neither cut out, or first put on a new garment whilst the S is in the Sign ; if she then be unfortunate, if so much the worse; this pertains to Elections. Mr Lilly, saith, once casually, without inspection to the position of the S, he put on a new suit, the S being in , and ill dignified, and tore many holes in the
suit going a Nutting, within a fortnight after; nor did that suit ever do him any service; yet we must not be superstitious but modest in our Elections, only use them as natural helps. [E] – The Moon has no dignity in Leo, and Leo’s rulership over 5th House matters will cause any fabrics or things which are used as ornaments will prove defective or not fit. In some cases, they may never be worn or used. XXIII. The aspect of the S, or her with the Planets inclines the Native to be moved in his disposition; if the Planets be strong, they show him to be active or full of spirit; but if they be ill fortified, they incline to sluggishness. [N] – Since the Moon rules the brain and body, any aspects made by the Moon unto other Planets, she will adopt their actions as her own. The stronger dignified the Planet, the more these actions and behaviours will show. The more benevolent the aspect, the better and more honest these actions are. The weaker the Planet, the less active and more detrimental these actions will be to the Native, as with the worse the aspect. XXIV. An Eclipse of the $ or S in the angles of a Nativity or yearly Revolution, is obnoxious; but we take the time thereof from the distance which is between the degree Ascending and place Eclipsed; and as in a Solar Eclipse we give or allow for each hour one year; so for the every hour in a Lunar Eclipse, we admit one month for the effects continuance. [N] – An Eclipse found in an Nativity is an almost certain signifier of death or debility to the Native. An Eclipse in the Nativity of a child shows that they will not be long lived unless some fortune bestows its benevolent rays upon it. Here Ptolemy gives instructions to determine the length of influence of the Eclipse which is as follows; each degree from the Ascendant unto the position of the Eclipse is counted for one year of influence upon the Native if it be a Solar Eclipse, if Lunar, one
month for every degree. Ptolemy uses the term “Hour” which is 60 minutes or 1 degree. XXV. Direct the Medium Cœli of a Nativity by the Table of Right Ascension, but the Ascendant by the oblique Ascensions under the elevation of the pole where the Native was born, & etc. [N][P] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward for those who still use the traditional method of creating their charts by hand. XXVI. The matter of any question is obscured when the Planet signifying it, is either under the Earth, or joined to the $ in an obscure House; but is manifest, when a Planet is brought out of his depression into his altitude, and posited in his proper Sphere or Element. [H] – When a Planet is under the earth it is considered darker or obscure, the darkest point in a chart is the 4th House, often called the dark cave. When it is next unto the Sun, the Sun with its powerful beams blocks the influence of that specific Planet and the Planet is thus muted or hidden. When the Planet goes above the Earth, and outside of the influence of the Sun, its influence is then freed and the matter is brought to the open. XXVII. Venus demonstrates that member to be neatly formed or shaped, in which she is posited at the time of birth; the like do the other Planets. [N] – Venus found in Aries, or in the Ascendant, will make the Natives face comely and beautiful, as with all of the other parts signified by that House and Sign. Mars found in Aries or the Ascendant gives a scar on the face, a red face & etc. according unto the Planets influence. Saturn’s placement gives deformity unless he is made benevolent in the chart as with the Dragon’s Tail.
XXVIII. In Elections, if you cannot fortify the S by her joining to, or aspecting of two Planets, see that she be near some fixed stars of that Nature your Planet ought to have been of, & etc. [E] – The Moon is the condenser of all the Planets influences and she disperses their influence to the Earth. When planning to carry out any action, using the proper significator, she must be joined to that significator in some way as well. If this cannot happen, Ptolemy tells us to place the Moon on a fixed star of the nature of the significating Planet. XXIX. The fixed stars do design immeasurable and admirable preferment’s, not withstanding determine in unusual calamities, unless the Planets concur in judgment or be in with them. [G] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward, when a Planet, point or cusp is placed by a certain fixed star of a great magnitude (no less than 3), it bestows great favour (if the stars be of Solary, Lunary, Jovial or Venereal quality) or destruction (if they be of Saturn or Mars). This favour or destruction is far stronger than the Planets alone can promise because the fixed stars are placed in a sphere that is above that of the Planets and therefore are considered more powerful and closer to God. XXX. Consider well the time of the coronation or creating the first King of any Kingdom; for if the Ascendant of his or their coronation concur with the Ascendant of the King’s Son, he shall then be successor to his father. [T] – This aphorism may be quite difficult to follow unless the country is new in origin. But if possible, it is fairly straightforward showing the chances of succession of any future King. It may be possible to use this Aphorism with current Kings or Rulers during their coronation as well but I have not attempted it therefore cannot verify its accuracy.
XXXI. When the principle significator of a Kingdom shall come to his climacterical year, either then the King of that Kingdom shall die, or some of the most eminent heroes of that nation; this was verified in the death of a valiant worthy person, and true lover of his country, that deceased some years since in England. [T] – There are many significations of how the a King or Kingdom will fall. Ptolemy simply states that the significator of a King or Kingdom placed in an abject place, or the appearance of a Comet or Great Conjunction can destroy Kings power or Kingdoms. XXXII. An amicable aspect of the stars doth conduce much to the friendship of two persons; but if you will know the quality of the thing wherein they shall agree, you must observe that from both their Nativities. [N] – When an individual is represented by one Planet, whom has its influence strong in his chart, he may agree or befriend one who is represented by another Planet (being strong in their chart) if both Planets happen to be in sextile or trine aspect with each other at that current time. In order to understand more deeply their relationship, the Nativities of both individuals must be compared. For those two Planets in sextile or trine to each other in both individuals charts promises friendship. XXXIII. From the benevolent or malevolent positure of the $ and S, and each others ascending Sign at time of birth is discerned the love or hatred betwixt any two; those Signs which we call obedient, do increase unity and friendship. [N] – For if one individual has the Ascendant of the others Midheaven, the individual with the Midheaven will be a master over that individual, or someone of higher dignity and standing. It may also represent that an individual introduces the other into his profession or bestows honours upon him.
XXXIV. That Planet who hath most dignities in the degree wherein the S changes, if he be cardinal, viz. in an angle, he doth demonstrate the principle actions of that month; this is of most force in the change of weather, & etc. [P][T] – Look to the exact degree and Sign that the Moon changes in and see which Planet has the most dignities (through a table of dignities) in that position. If it is placed in an angle during this time, this Planet will hold rulership over the month. XXXV. When the $ by Transit shall come to the degree of the Zodiac, wherein any principal significator, viz. Planet is, he makes that Planet more active in such things as concern change of air or weather. [P][T] – The influence of the Sun activates Planets when he passes over their radical positions. The influence that is activated is determined by the significators of the Planet which it passes. If by chance in a Nativity the Lord of the second House was Jupiter, and the Sun passed over that very position in its transit through the Zodiac, during that passing, the Native may bring in more wealth, especially from Jovial persons or activities. XXXVI. In the new construction of any city, make use of the adjuvant fixed stars; in building houses take the Planets; those cities that in the time of their foundation have ( culminating, their Princes usually die by the sword. [T] – When starting a city is it more profitable to use benevolent fixed stars, when raising houses, it is more profitable to use the Planets themselves as significators. XXXVII. Who hath the Sign of or in their Horoscope they shall attain preferment by their own industry and worth; but they who have or their Ascendant, shall wilfully or innocently be the cause of their own deaths.
[N] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward therefore there is no need to comment on it. XXXVIII. When & shall be well fortified or placed in either of the Houses of * in any ones Nativity, the Native hath a divine soul, and is capable of prying far into matters; if he be placed in the House of (, especially in , he inclines to eloquence. [N] – Mercury has rulership over those ingenious, and Saturn has influence over deepness and involvement, therefore when you find Mercury under the influence of Saturn he grants what is aforesaid. When Mercury is found in Aries, he tends towards quickness and wittiness. XXXIX. If the eleventh House be unfortunate, at what time a King is crowned, it’s an argument his domestical servants shall thrive little by him, or will that King grow rich; but if the second House of the figure be afflicted it shows his subjects shall be impoverished under his government. [T] – The succedent Houses rule over those who are our friends or companions which we may rely on, help and assistants. It is clear that if the 11th House is unfortunate during this time, the King shall not receive help from his assistants, nor receive any financial benefits (being his second House). XL. When the Sign ascending is besieged or infortunated by the malignant Planets, he who is then born will delight in course actions, and in his sense smelling shall take pleasure in filthy odours. [N] – Since the Ascendant and his Lord (especially) rule the actions and behaviours of the Native, besiegement by the Infortunes (Saturn & Mars) will cause the Native to have such actions which are likened to the qualities bestowed by Saturn and Mars. This aphorism is especially true with Scorpio ascending, ruling filthiness.
XLI. When thou settest forth upon any journey, beware that the eighth House and Lord thereof be not unfortunate; when you return, in the same manner have regard to the second House and his Lord. [E] – The eighth House represents death, but it is also the 12th from the 9th House which rules travel. This means that imprisonment and death are ruled by the 8th House when one is traveling. If it happens to be unfortunate during this time, the Native may come upon a lot of damage if not fatal. The 2nd House is 6th from the 9th and therefore represents disease and sickness to the Native during his travels. It also represents the Natives financial situation and therefore if he expects to gain from such a journey he should fortify that House. XLII. A disease or sickness first beginning, whilst the S is in a Sign wherein a malevolent was in the Nativity, or in or thereunto, will prove very grievous; and if at that time she is in ill aspect of an Infortune, it will be very dangerous; but if at the first Decumbiture she do possess the degree where a Fortune was, there’s little danger. [M] – This aphorism is fairly clear but it simply states that in a Decumbiture chart (the time taken from when one first lays down with sickness to their bed), we find the Moon possessing the same Sign and degree of an Infortune in the Nativity, or in quartile or opposition unto it, the disease will be very dangerous. The reverse is true for when the Moon possesses the location of a radical Fortune, or in trine or sextile to it. It is more dangerous if at that time the Infortune sends her an ill aspect as well. XLIII. The Infortunate Planets do impede those matters which they performed according to natural existence, as matrimony; but what things are acted according to Nature, and not unto Laws or Customs; or those affairs which neither are performed naturally, or according to laws; as such things receive destruction from the Fortunes.
[G] – Saturn being a slow Planet impedes matters by tediousness in their action. Mars being an overly active Planet, causes rashness in actions. Jupiter and Venus are significators of laws and customs therefore, when matters which are not ruled by customs or laws they will be impeded by them. XLIV. When the Figure erected at the beginning of any sickness is contrary to that of the Nativity, if no propitious thing be then in force, the sick party is like to be in great peril. [M] – Because of the difference between the Nativity and Decumbiture chart, it is seen that there is no help unto the Native for recovery. XLV. Whosoever hath not the predominant Planets of his Nativity in humane Signs, will be little sociable, and not very humane. [N] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward. These Planets and parts of a Nativity Ptolemy talks about are the Ascendant, Lord of the Ascendant, Lord of manners and behaviour, Almuten of the Figure and the Moon. The Signs which are humane or human are Gemini, Virgo, Libra, the first half of Sagittarius, and Aquarius. The others are bestial and therefore those with greater bestial signs are more inclined to take on those mannerisms. XLVI. Excellent prosperity is designed in men’s Geniture from the fixed stars, and from the Angles of the preceding Lunation’s, and from the degree of the O, when the degree ascending at the birth chances to be the same. [N] – By casting a chart for the preceding new or full Moon in any Nativity, we can determine by the angles and their placement on fixed stars, whether a Native will be prosperous or not. If the Part of Fortune happen to be in the previous chart at the same degree that the Ascendant is at birth, it promises the same effect.
XLVII. When in any ones Nativity a malignant Planet is placed where a Fortune was in another’s Geniture, he who hath the Fortune so placed, shall receive prejudice from him that had the Infortune so posited. [N] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward and needs no further explanation. XLVIII. When the Medium Cœli of a King’s Nativity is the Horoscope of a subject, or the principal dominators are in benevolent configurations, they shall continue inseparable; judge the like when a servants sixth House is the Ascendant of his Master. [N] – Make reference to Aphorism 32 for clarification of this aphorism. Sympathy or antipathy between charts can conjoin or divide people. XLIX. When the Ascendant of a subject shall culminate in his Princes Nativity, his Lord shall so entrust him, that he will be ruled by him. This must be understood of such of the nobility or gentry that have offices or commands in Princes Services. [N] – As with the previous aphorism, it declares relatively the same principle. L. Forget not in general judgments that one hundred and nineteen conjunctions; in well considering these, you shall understand what will be done in the World both of generation and corruption. What the conjunctions are, and how to understand them, you may have recourse to Mr. Lilly’s Prophetical Merlin. [G] – This aphorism is slightly cryptic, but it is simply making reference to all the conjunctions that each of the Planets can possibly make with each other.
LI. In what Sign the S is at the time of birth, make that Sign the Ascendant in conception; and in what Sign she is found at conception, make that or its opposite the Sign ascending at the birth. [N] – This concept is used to determine the true time of birth of an individual, or rectification of the birth time. LII. The Lord of the Geniture’s of men of tall stature are in their sublimities, and their Horoscopes in the beginning of Signs; but the Lords of their Nativities who are of short stature, are found in their falls; together with this, enquire whether the Signs be of right or oblique ascension. [N] – The Lords of the Geniture’s in their Exaltations show tallness of the Native. Tallness is also a product of the Ascendant falling in the first 15 degrees of a Sign. The Falls of the Planets show shortness as do their latter degrees ascending. LIII. The Lords of the Geniture’s of lean men have no latitude, but of fat men they have; if the latitude be south, the Native will be nimble; if North, more sluggish. [N] – This aphorism needs no clairification. LIV. When the principle Lords in buildings are joined unto a Planet under the earth, they hinder the erection of the building. [E] – When a Planet is under the earth, it is hindered in its function somewhat unless it is in its joy under the earth (as feminine Planets are). When that Planet goes above the earth, the hinderance is stopped and the production continues. LV. The malicious influence of * against ships is lessened when he is neither placed in the tenth or eleventh House of Heaven; in either of those places, he
destroys the ship, thieves surprising the possessing her by force; but the ship will be fired if the Ascendant be afflicted by any fixed star of the mixture of (. [G] – Saturn generally leads to shipwrecks, where as Mars leads to violent takeovers of ships (pirates) or fires onboard. Its important to make sure that these Planets are in no ways involved with ships or any means of transportation. LVI. When the S is in her first quarter, that is, from the time she is receded from the $‘s conjunction, the moistures of bodies do flow, until her second quarter, at other times they decrease. [G] – When the Moon is waxing, she causes an excess of moisture to flow. When she is waning moisture decreases. Waxing is from conjunction unto opposition of the Moon unto the Sun. Waning is from opposition unto conjunction. LVII. Change your Physician when you shall see the seventh House and his Lord afflicted in any sickness. [M] – As aforementioned, the 7th House rules over Physicians (as Astrologers). If the 7th House or Lord is afflicted by evil Planets, then his work shall be impeded. LVIII. Consider the place of the , in which part of Heaven it falls to be from the Ascendant of the year; for when the Profection shall arise unto that part of Heaven, then shall the event appear. [T][N] – I believe in this aphorism Ptolemy makes reference to Major & Minor conjunctions. He states that when the Profection comes to the point of that conjunction, the events promised by that conjunction will happen. This may also make reference to Nativities and considering when the events promised by a Revolution may fall out.
LIX. Pronounce not rashly that the absent party shall die, before thou considerest whether he be not drunken; or say that he hath received a wound, before you have enquired whether he were not let blood; or do you judge that he shall find treasure, before you have searched out, whether perchance he took nothing to pledge of late, seeing the Figures of all these demands are alike. [H] – Ptolemy is simply stating that the Astrologer when asked regarding the state of a person, they should look for Signs of illness before those of death. Never be too rash in giving judgments without seeking out the alternatives before the definates. LX. In consideration of the sick, behold the critical days, and the peragration of the S by the angles of a Figure well affected, it will fall out well to the sick party. On the contrary, it will fall out ill if you find them afflicted. [M] – The Moon is a general indicator of acuteness in diseases, if she is well posited and placed, the sickness will soon pass. However if she is ill dignified, especially in fixed Signs, she can denote a long drawn out sickness. The Moon is one of the most important Planets considered in Medical Astrology. The angles also denote a quickness of recovery, the cadent a slowness. LXI. The S signifies those things which appertain unto the body, as what have resemblance unto her in regard of her motion. [G] – Since the Moon has rulership over the brain, she has control over the body and thus her influence and patterns in the Heavens also translate down towards the bodies of men. Its no coincidence that when there is a full Moon, the base people say that the lunatics are coming out (lunatic deriving from a condition of Luna, or the Moon). LXII. When you shall make a minute of a your Basis or Radix, you may give judgment of the change of the weather in that month; for your judgment shall be framed according to the principle dominator of the angle of every Figure,
for that Planet overcomes in the Nature of the Air; assuming together with these things the quality of the present time, viz. the season of the year. [T] – The conjunctions of Planets (especially the superiors) can cause diverse alterations to happen unto the air, changing the quality and temperature of the air. When a conjunction happens Ptolemy instructs us to create a radix from that exact moment in time. From that we may judge of the weather for the entire month. LXIII. When * and ( make their , see which of them is most elevated, and pronounce judgment according unto his nature; do the like upon all the conjunctions of the other Planets. [G] – The more elevated Planet is usually master or superior over the lower one. This has to do with the fact that the higher in Heaven a Planet is placed (or the closer to the 10th House – the House of Masters), the greater dignity and power over others it produces. The lower the Planet, the more servile it is. LXIV. When thou hast considered the Lord of the Question, see what Essential Dignity he hath in the Querent’s annual Revolution, or in the Ascendant of the new S preceding, give judgment accordingly. [H] – By seeing how much dignity it has in the aforementioned charts, we can analyze whether or not the event will come to pass that year. The Lord of a question is the ruler of the matter that is propounded. For example, if the question were to be about a contract, the Lord of the 7th House will be defined as the Lord of the Question. LXV. In the least conjunction the difference of the middle, and in the middle conjunction the difference of the greatest. Lat. In minima Conjunctione, differentia media conjunctionis, & in media maximæ conjununctionis, differentia.
[G] – This aphorism has puzzled many adept Astrologers as to its meaning as it is fairly cryptic with no other supporting information. I have included both the English translation by Partridge as well as the original Latin. I believe personally however this has something to do with the Major and Minor conjunctions of the superiors. LXVI. Use not Profection alone, but also the agreement of the interficient and benevolent Planets and their aspects. This Aphorism hath relation unto nativities and is for discovery of the true time of the Natives death. [P] – The latter commentary is provided by Henry Coley who clarifies the context of the Aphorism. Ptolemy makes it clear that we should not rely on one method of prediction to predict the death (or any event) but must determine it by multiple testimonies that support it, usually other predictive charts. LXVII. The years of the Native are diminished and made much shorter, by reason of the imbecility of the Giver of Life. [N] – When we find the Giver of Life having malevolent aspect to malevolent Planets we must subtract the Small Years of that afflicting Planet from the years promised by the Giver of Life. This must be done for all Planets afflicting. The reverse is also true, that we may add the Small Years of any benevolent planet benevolently aspecting the Giver of Life. LXVIII. A malevolent Planet when he is Matutine, signifies a fall; when Vespertine a disease. [M] – By “a fall” Ptolemy makes reference to damage done to the body. Here Matutine means a Planet which rises before the Sun, or is oriental. Vespertine makes reference to a Planet that is occidental, or rises after the Sun. Therefore this aphorism means that if a malevolent Planet is afflicting for example, the Lord of the 6th House, and he be
oriental from the Sun, he signifies an external damage will be or has been done to the body. Whereas if that same Planet is occidental, the distemper is a disease which is internal. LXIX. There will be a blemish in the Native’s sight when the S is in to the $, and is near the Nebulous or cloudy fixed stars; or when the S is in the seventh House, and both * and ( in the Horoscope; but if together with this the $ be angular, the Native will quite lose his sight. [M][N] – The Sun and Moon rule each eye respective to the sex of the individual. When they are conflicted through opposition & in hazy (Ptolemy terms Nebulous) stars, the Native will be hard of seeing. If the Moon is afflicted by the malevolent, especially in the 1st (being rulership over the face and head) it can lead to blindness. LXX. & is not in with the S in their Nativities, who divine by a kind of fury of things to come, or is either of them in the Ascendant of those who are Demonic, in such a kind of a Figure in the night time * shall possess that angle, but in the day time (, especially in , or . [N] – This aphorism has little use in our time therefore I will pass over it. LXXI. In men’s Nativities, when born the $ and the S shall be in masculine Signs; their actions shall appear according to the Nature thereof; but in the Nativities of women, these very actions are augmented. Judge the same thing of ( and ', or being Matutine, they incline to be more manly; but Vespertine they are effeminate. [N] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward. The Sun and Moon being significators of actions and manners, being found in masculine signs, degrees, in masculine Houses & etc. produce more masculine Natives, (whether male or female). The opposite is true when these significators are found in feminine places of the figure, as they
produce more feminine women and more effeminate men. Mars, the general significator of men, and Venus the general significator of women found oriental produce masculine traits, where occidental they produce more feminine traits. LXXII. Require such things as concern the Native’s education from the Lords of the Triplicity of the Ascendant; what may concern life, must be delivered from the Lords of the triangularity of the conditional luminary. [N] – This aphorism may hold some confusion because this technique was rarely used by traditional authors let alone those of our modern times, however it simply states that the Triplicity Planets also rule over certain significations in a specific House. For example, when we find that Aries is found in the Ascendant, we judge that the Sun rules over the nature and life of the Native and also the beginning of life. Jupiter rules over the force and strength of the body & the midst of life and Mars rules over the end of life. We are also told that the Lord of the Triplicity in the place of the Temporal Light (Sun for diurnal Nativities and the Moon for Nocturnal) also dictates about the life of the Native. LXXIII. Whether the $ is found to be with Caput Algol if then he is neither aspected by a benevolent Planet, or that a benign Planet doth govern the eighth House, and the Depositor of the temporal Light shall be in to (, or afflicts him with a aspect, he that then is born shall be beheaded. But if the light shall culminate, or be in the tenth House, his body shall be wounded; if this copulation be in or , his hands and feet shall be cut off. [N] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward. If we find that the Sun is placed over the fixed star Algol (which is also termed the Head of Medusa), being Lord of the eighth (the House of death), and the depositor (or ruler of the placement) of the temporal light (for example if the Nativity is diurnal, the temporal light is the Sun, the Sun placed in Taurus, the depositor is Venus) in opposition or quartile with Mars
(violence), then the Native will be beheaded. Gemini rules over the arms, shoulders and hands, and Pisces the feet. LXXIV. Who hath ( in the Ascendant of his Nativity will not fail to have a scar in his face. [N] – This aphorism is clear. Mars represents violence and iron, therefore the scar will be a result of either. LXXV. When the $ is joined unto the Lord of the Ascendant in , or that ( hath no prerogative in the Ascendant, or no benevolent Planet is placed in the eighth House, he that is born under such a constellation shall be burned, viz. shall die by fire. [N] – The Sun being joined unto the Ascendant gives his significations to the body of the Native. Therefore a fiery Planet placed in a fiery Sign denotes fire in some matter towards the Natives body. LXXVI. When * possesseth the tenth House, viz. is posited therein, and the temporal Light of the time is in his , and an earthy Sign is in the fourth, he who is then born shall perish by the ruin or fall of houses or buildings; if the Sign of the fourth be a watery Sign, he will die in the water or by water, viz. he will be drowned; if the Sign of the fourth be humane, he will die by the hands of man, viz. will either be hanged or strangled, & etc. but if a benevolent Planet is posited in the eighth, he will be near to death by such accidents or casualties as aforesaid, but shall evade and not die thereby. [N] – This aphorism is fairly clear therefore no explanation is needed. LXXVII. Make use of, or direct the Profection of the Ascendant for such things as concern the body; direct the O for external or outward things; the S for such things as concern both the body and the mind; the M.C. for the actions, magistry or professions, & etc.
[P] – This aphorism is making reference to the Art of Directions. By directing the Ascendant unto its Promittors (other places in the chart that promise an outcome), we will see what goodness or damage will come to the body of the Native. For the Part of Fortune we see what fortune or material goods will be provided or taken away. Since the Moon rules over the brain, and the brain has control over the body, her Directions control over both of those parts. The Midheaven will show us any fortune or misfortune that may come from our public standing, profession, masters and the other significations of the 10th House. LXXVIII. A Planet doth many times exercise his influence in that part of the Heaven wherein he hath no Essential Dignity, bringing unto the Native unlooked for wealth. This hath relation unto the Antiscions of the Planets [N][P] – When a Planet comes to his Antiscion through Direction or other means, he brings upon himself his significations. LXXIX. When ( is in the eleventh House of Heaven, he that hath him so posited, shall not have dominion over his Master or Lord. [N] – The eleventh House rules over help or assistance of a master or Lord, those he is close to. However unless Mars is the Lord of the Ascendant or Lord of the Geniture, I see no reason as to why Mars in particular would indicate this as such. This is especially true if the Lord of the 10th was placed below the earth, making his master more inclined to servitude of the Native than mastery. LXXX. When ' is joined unto *, and he hath any dominion in the seventh House, he that is then born will be sordidi coitus. [N] – Sordidi coritus translates as “dirty heart” therefore indicates one of vile or filthy intentions or actions. However I believe this is only true when Venus and Saturn are both debilitated as well.
LXXXI. The times of the events of things are discovered seven manner of ways; first, for the interval or distance of the two Lords or Ruler; secondly, from the distance of their configuration each unto other; thirdly, by their access each unto other; fourthly, from the interval betwixt themselves, or the one of them, from the place signifying the thing desired or looked after; fifthly, from the setting of that star which gives assistance or impediment; sixthly, from the mutation of the principle significant Planet; seventhly, from the access of a Planet unto his own proper place. [P][N] – This aphorism gives us seven rules we are to follow when judging the time of any event that is promised to unfold by predictive methods. They are fairly straight forward and clear. LXXXII.When the Figures of a new and full S are equal, behold the Ascendant, which if that be also equal, then defer your judgment for that time. [G] – This aphorism does not give enough details as to the class of Astrology it belongs to (although I would assume Horary) therefore I cannot give a correct judgment on its meaning. LXXXIII. The time of craving anything at the King’s hands, doth show the affection betwixt the King and the Petitioner; viz. the time when the Petitioner receives the dignity granted him, shall show the quality of action depending upon the preferment, & etc. [E] – This aphorism makes reference for creating an Election to see someone of dignity or high standing. You must make sure that significators of the Petitioner and King are in good aspect with each other in order to obtain that favour. LXXXIV. When ( is Lord of the Ascendant at that time of taking any possession, and doth also govern the second House, or is in with the Lord of the second, he brings much damage or loss.
[E] – Mars, ill dignified, always brings loss or damage when involved with any matter. Mars also indicates things of hastiness or quick action. Therefore anything obtained under Mars will be lost just as quickly as it was obtained. LXXXV. When the Lord of the Ascendant is in configuration with the Lord of the second, the Prince or Lord shall willingly consume much treasure. This hath relation to the two preceeding Aphorisms. [T] – This aphorism is fairly straight forward, I assume though that it is making reference to Figures of the World than to any other class. LXXXVI. The $ is the Fountain of Vital Power, the S of Natural. [G] – The Sun is the giver of life, while the Moon is the maintainer of life. From the Sun flows the vital energy that everything possesses, from the Moon comes the functionality and control of this power. LXXXVII. Monthly conversions consist of twenty eight days, two hours, and about eighteen minutes; but some there are who judge them from the peragration of the $ when he is equated Partilely unto the degree and minute he was in the beginning of the month. [G] – This is basically stating there are two ways to judge the times of the month; one lunar, coming from the complete revolution of the Moon; and one solar, proceeding from when Sol possesses the same degree of the following Sign he was in at the beginning of the month. LXXXVIII. When we direct the Profection of the O for the whole year of a Revolution, we take it from the $ to the S, and project it only from the Ascendant. [G] – This aphorism shows the calculation to obtained the Part of Fortune. An easy to remember rule to find the Part of Fortune is
simply to find the distance between the Sun unto the Moon and add that distance found onto the Ascendant, from that you will have the true placement of the Part of Fortune. LXXXIX. Require what concerns the grandfather from the seventh House, but the uncle from the sixth House. [H][N] – The grandfather (of the father) is taken from the 7th House because that House is 4th from the 4th, therefore the father’s fathers House when we make the 4th House the Ascendant of the father. The same is applied to the 6th ruling uncles or the fathers brother (being the 3rd House from the 4th). XC. When the Lord of the Ascendant doth behold the Ascendant, the thing which lies undiscovered is of the nature of the Ascendant; if he behold not the Ascendant, its quality shall be according to the nature of the place where the Lord of the Ascendant is; the Lord of the hour demonstrates the colours, but the place of the S the times; if that place of the S be above the Earth, the thing or matter is new; if under the Earth, old. The O shows its quantity, whether it be long or short;; the Lords of the Terms of the fourth and tenth Houses, and of the S, show its substance. [H] – I believe this aphorism makes reference to questions regarding lost goods. However rather than dealing with the Houses which signify these lost goods, the aphorism deals specifically with the Ascendant which is confusing. Therefore I cannot give a correct judgment on this aphorism. XCI. It’s an ill sign when the Lord of the sick party is combust, especially if the O be afflicted. [M] – The combustion of any Planet in Medical Astrology associated with the sick party denotes danger. The Lord of the sick party is almost always the Lord of the Ascendant.
XCII. * being oriental, doth not so much oppress the sick body, nor doth ( when he is occidental. [M] – Saturn joys in an oriental position and is thus dignified when he is so posited. However, Ptolemy clearly states earlier that an occidental Planet gives disease, and Mars does not joy in an occidental position, in fact it debilitates him (for he joys being oriental). Therefore I do not understand how Mars, debilitated by his occidental position, is not as oppressive. Unless he is considering that a debilitated afflicter is easier on the patient and if this were true, he would state the same for Saturn which he does not. Whether or not this is a translation error I don’t know. XCIII. In Questions do not pronounce judgment before you consider the next subsequent new S; for the first beginnings are varied in every , wherefore mix both together, and you shall not err. [H] – Ptolemy tells us here that we should consider the next new Moon before we give judgment to a question. The reason for doing this however eludes my judgment. XCIV. The place of Heaven wherein the principle and most powerful significator is posited, doth declare such things as are in the thoughts of the Querent to be demanded. [H] – This is fairly clear but to clarify more, it states that the Houses which possess the strongest Planets in the chart, will show what the Querent thinks of. XCV. Those Images which do arise with several Decantes, they declare the inclination of the Native to that profession he handles. What these are, see Scaliger upon Manilius or Johannes Angelus.
[N] – The Faces of the Signs describe also the Natives profession and temperament. XCVI. The significations of an Eclipse shall be most apparent when the Eclipse is near unto an Angle; consider also the nature of the Stars in configuration to one another, as well of the erratical Planets as of the fixed stars; so also the Images co‐arising with the Signs ascending and pronounce judgment accordingly. By Images he means Asterisms, of which see Maginus, Origanus, and Argol. [T] – If an Eclipse falls into an angular House or is near it by 5 degree, its influence is much stronger and more apparent and whatever it signifies will also be more pronounced. XCVII. The matter or thing in question which is demanded, will be performed in a short time, when either the Lord of the New or Full S is cardinal. [H] – Cardinal signs represent things of soon completion. Fixed signs indicate that the events will take a while to unfold. While common signs show that the events will change and convert into something different. XCVIII. Blazing stars, and shootings of the stars in the air (or prodigious apparitions therein) have a second signification in mundane affairs; viz. Eclipses are in the Heavens, but apparitions in the air, therefore events portended by Eclipses are first preferred. [T] – Eclipses are deemed more important because they come from a higher place in the Heaven than blazing stars (which were believed to come from the air which is a layer under the Fire and Celestial Heaven). XCIX. Fiery apparitions show want of rain, or a dry air, which if they are carried or moved unto one part of the Heaven, they declare wind to come from that
quarter of Heaven; but if those apparitions are carried diversely, or into sundry parts, they show scarcity of rain or waters, the Elements are often troubled, and the incursions of armies. [T] – The differences seen in the air can predict the pattern of weather. C.
Comets, whose distance is eleven Signs from the $, if they appear in angles, the King of some Kingdom, or one of the principle men of the Kingdom will die; but if they appear in a succedent House, his treasures are like to do well, yet shall the King or Kingdom change their Governor; if they appear in a cadent or obscure House, diseases, and sudden death will succeed; if they move from the West to the East, a foreign enemy shall invade several Kingdoms and Countries; if the Comet move not, the enemy shall be provincial.
[T] – Being eleven Signs from the Sign of the position of the Sun gives it unto a similar effect that the signification of the 12th House has. The Sun represents that Monarch or Ruler of a country. The Comet shows destruction unto that leader or kingdom.
FINIS.
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