"Mysteriorum Libri Quinque: John Dee's Five Books of Mysteries" by Joseph Peterson is a scholarly edition and translation of the Five Books of Mysteries (or Mysteriorum Libri Quinque) written by John Dee, the renowned 16th-century English mathematician, astrologer, and occultist. This work delves into Dee's attempts to communicate with angelic beings through scrying and alchemical practices, shedding light on his esoteric spiritual journey.
Key Aspects of the Book:
-
Author and Translator:
- Joseph Peterson is a respected scholar in the field of Western esotericism and alchemy. He is known for his detailed and accessible editions of historic occult texts.
- Peterson provides translations, annotations, and explanations, making Dee’s often cryptic writings accessible to modern readers.
-
Historical Context:
- John Dee lived during the Elizabethan era and was a polymath with interests ranging from navigation to mystical philosophy.
- Dee sought to uncover divine truths and believed his angelic communications would reveal the secrets of the universe and God's will.
-
Content of the Five Books:
- The Five Books of Mysteries are Dee's diaries and records of his angelic conversations, conducted with the help of his scryer, Edward Kelley.
- These writings document their experiments with a crystal ball and the reception of complex symbolic visions and messages, often in an angelic language later called Enochian.
- The records include rituals, prayers, cosmological insights, and instructions purportedly given by angels.
-
Significance of the Text:
- The Five Books form the foundation of the Enochian magic system, which has influenced occult traditions, particularly in the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and modern ceremonial magic.
- The text provides insight into the interplay of science, religion, and mysticism in the Renaissance period.
-
Peterson’s Contribution:
- Peterson meticulously transcribed Dee’s original Latin and English manuscripts.
- He offers detailed annotations to clarify historical, linguistic, and cultural references, making the text comprehensible to contemporary readers.
Themes and Interpretations:
- Mysticism and Divine Knowledge: Dee's quest for direct communication with God through angels reflects a Renaissance longing for unity between science and spirituality.
- Symbolism and Ritual: The book is rich in esoteric symbols and rituals that have become part of the Western magical tradition.
- Historical Insight: The text provides a window into Elizabethan attitudes toward magic, religion, and the pursuit of knowledge.
This edition is essential for anyone studying Dee, the history of Western esotericism, or the origins of Enochian magic. It bridges the gap between arcane historical texts and modern understanding.
"Mysteriorum Libri Quinque" contains a wealth of fascinating material, both in the form of John Dee’s original writings and Joseph Peterson’s scholarly commentary. Here are some detailed examples and notable quotes from and about the book:
1. Angelic Language (Early Enochian)
One of the key contributions of Dee's Five Books of Mysteries is the documentation of the angelic or Enochian language, received during his conversations with spirits.
Example: In the book, the angels provide a prayer written in this language. For instance, one fragment reads:
"OL sonf vorsg, goho Iad balt..."
This is part of the so-called "First Call" or angelic invocation.
About this:
Peterson provides linguistic analyses and notes that these sequences were often transcribed phonetically by Dee, as they were dictated by the angels through Edward Kelley. The structured grammar and syntax of the language have fascinated scholars and occultists for centuries.
2. Visionary Revelations
Dee and Kelley record detailed visions that they claim were shown to them by angels. These visions often involved symbolic objects or celestial beings.
Example: In one vision, Dee describes a complex cosmological diagram:
"A great circle appeared, filled with stars, and in the center was a throne upon which sat a crowned figure holding a scepter and an orb. Around the circle were the letters YHWH inscribed in fire."
Peterson’s Commentary:
Peterson explains that these visions reflect Dee’s blending of Hermetic and Christian mysticism. The throne and the letters are symbolic of God's divine authority and presence, integrating Judeo-Christian theology with Renaissance esotericism.
3. Ritual Instructions
The book is a rich source of ceremonial instructions purportedly given by angels to communicate with higher beings.
Example: Dee is instructed on how to construct a Holy Table, which is central to the rituals. The table includes specific symbolic engravings:
"Let the table be made square and upon it inscribe these names of power: Adonai, Elohim, Sabaoth…" Dee meticulously describes how the table should be consecrated with prayers and oils.
Peterson’s Analysis: Peterson highlights how the rituals reflect Dee’s synthesis of medieval grimoires and his own innovative ideas. The Holy Table became a cornerstone of Enochian magic and is still used by practitioners today.
4. Angelic Conversations
The recorded dialogues between Dee, Kelley, and the angelic beings are central to the Five Books. These conversations reveal theological and esoteric insights.
Example: At one point, an angel tells Dee:
"You are called to the service of the Highest. You shall uncover mysteries not given to man since the foundation of the world." This statement underscores Dee’s belief in his divine mission.
Peterson’s Commentary: Peterson notes the parallels between these conversations and the prophetic traditions in the Bible. He suggests that Dee saw himself as a prophet of his age, bringing new revelations to humanity.
5. The Role of Edward Kelley
Kelley’s role as a medium is crucial, and their relationship often becomes a subject of tension and intrigue.
Example: In one account, Kelley expresses doubts about the visions, to which an angel admonishes him:
"Doubt not, for the truth of heaven is greater than your understanding."
Peterson’s Perspective: Peterson explores the dynamics between Dee and Kelley, suggesting that Kelley’s skepticism and ambition often conflicted with Dee’s devout faith. The angelic admonitions reflect the psychological complexity of their partnership.
6. Historical and Cultural Context
The book places Dee’s work within the broader context of Renaissance magic, science, and religion.
Example: Peterson draws connections between Dee’s angelic communications and the Neoplatonic worldview, where spiritual intermediaries (like angels) play a key role in linking the human and divine realms.
Quote from Peterson:
“Dee’s Five Books are a unique fusion of Renaissance scientific inquiry and mystical spirituality, reflecting the intellectual climate of the Elizabethan era, where the boundaries between magic and science were fluid.”
7. Dee’s Personal Reflections
Dee often reflects on his unworthiness and doubts about his mission.
Example: In one entry, Dee laments:
"Lord, I am but a weak and sinful man. How can I, among men, be worthy of such heavenly mysteries?"
Peterson’s Insight: Peterson highlights Dee’s humility and his struggle to reconcile his spiritual ambitions with his human limitations. This theme is recurrent and provides a personal dimension to the otherwise abstract esotericism.
Conclusion:
Joseph Peterson’s edition of Mysteriorum Libri Quinque not only preserves the original writings of John Dee but also provides invaluable context and interpretation. The combination of Dee’s mystical visions, angelic communications, and detailed rituals creates a dense, intriguing text that has been pivotal in the study of Western esotericism.
This book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the origins of Enochian magic, the spiritual practices of the Renaissance, or the intellectual history of one of England’s most enigmatic figures.