Preface.
This translation of theFirst Bookof the “Lemegeton” which is now for the first time made accessible to students ofTalismanic Magicwas done, after careful collation and edition, from numerousAncient ManuscriptsinHebrew,Latin, andFrench, by G. H.Fra.D.D.C.F., by the order of theSecret Chiefof theRosicrucian Order.[1]The G. H.Fra., having succumbed unhappily to the assaults of theFour Great Princes(acting notably under Martial influences), it seemed expedient that the work should be brought to its conclusion by another hand. The investigation of a competent Skryer into the house of our unhappyFra., confirmed this divination; neither ourFra.nor hisHermetic Mul.were there seen; but only the terrible shapes of the evilAdeptsS.V.A.[2]and H., whose original bodies havingbeen sequestered by Justice, were no longer of use to them. On this we stayed no longer Our Hand; but withdrawing Ourselves, and consulting the Rota, and the Books M. and Q. did decide to ask Mr. Aleister Crowley, a poet, and skilled student ofMagical Lore, and an expertKabbalist, to complete openly that which had been begun in secret.[3]This is that which is written: “His Bishoprick let another take.” And again: “Oculi Tetragammaton.” This is also that which is said: “Nomen Secundum refertur adGebhurah; qui estRex Bittulatque CorruptioAchurajim Patris et Matrishoc indigitatur.”
And so saying we wish you well.
Ex Deo Nascimur.In Jesu Morimur.Per S.S. Reviviscimus.
Ex Deo Nascimur.In Jesu Morimur.Per S.S. Reviviscimus.
Ex Deo Nascimur.In Jesu Morimur.Per S.S. Reviviscimus.
Ex Deo Nascimur.
In Jesu Morimur.
Per S.S. Reviviscimus.
Given forth from our Mountain of A., this day of C.C. 1903A. D.