萝莉社

PREFACE

FOR THE STUDENT

of Celestial Philosophy

TO THE READER

Indeed, dear Reader, the eternal wisdom of God plays so gracefully within the Earthly sphere that scarcely has there been an age so unrefined and uncultivated that God has not delighted the World with new spectacles of His divine power. He refreshes it as though from an ancient weariness and conveys preludes to a magnificent new stage, instructing and drawing people into His love and admiration. Whenever humanity has strayed from the path of divine commandments, He has brought transgressors back to their senses by terrifying them with monstrous prodigies and wonders. As has happened in the past, so too in these most recent centuries, astonishing events have unfolded among mortals. Those esteemed in antiquity were oblivious to the existence of the New World, the vast expanse surrounding the Earth, and the lands of the Antipodes. After fulfilling His divine plan, Almighty God unveiled this vibrant world filled with exotic wonders, as detailed by historians of the New World. Had these marvels been shared with the ancients, they would likely have regarded them as fables rather than credible histories. Divine benevolence extended further with the discovery of the New World, leading to the unveiling of celestial spectacles through the telescope, illuminating the heavens. Previously, ancient times, the operations of the World had shown only the external beauty of its face to humanity. Now, it discloses its inner workings. It reveals the arrangement, proportions, and functions of celestial bodies while exposing the hidden paths of celestial motion and chambers of light and heat. Philosophers were so astonished by these revelations that many couldn't resist studying nature's wonders with open eyes. The celestial theater, now displaying not only ancient nebulous stars but also numerous star clusters across the Milky Way, includes the remarkable birth of new stars in Cassiopeia, Serpentarius, and Cygnus, each differing in nature and color. The variety of Comets, often seen as dire omens, warrants attention. Even the Sun, once thought to be the brightest, reveals diverse spots and shadows. The Moon adorned with mountains, lakes, and seas, takes its place in this cosmic display. Venus now shows a less beautiful visage than ancient beliefs suggested, and Mercury offers a bright yet rugged sight. Mars, with its irregular shadow and rusty spot, appears formidable, while Jupiter, surrounded by its four moons, rarely appears alone. Saturn, the leader of the planets, showcases a terrifying yet awe-inspiring sight with its three bodies. This new understanding of the World and its playful nature stirs both curiosity and bewilderment among astronomers. As news of these astonishing events spreads, it awakens the interest of Mathematicians, Philosophers, and Rulers, including the esteemed Caesar Ferdinand III, a generous patron. Inspired by his curiosity, he encouraged me to explain the mysteries of the Subterranean World, which I have studied extensively. He also urged me to discuss the celestial wonders revealed in our time. Thus, I have composed this treatise not merely out of my own desire, but in response to the requests of such a significant ruler. Ignoring these petitions would be a grave transgression. To make it more engaging and appealing to the readers, it was decided to present this work as a dialogue titled "An Ecstatic Journey," which suggests observations subjected to the scrutiny of truth. With persistent determination, I explored combinations of elements and materials, aiming to unveil the hidden causes behind these great paradoxes, deeper than the simple explanations of previous eras and common Philosophers today. I intend to reveal that profound truths are concealed in the higher realms than previously believed. These hidden causes will soon be disclosed for the comfort of humanity. Before proceeding, I wish to clarify that I do not intend to contradict the teachings of the Holy Fathers, Sacred Scriptures, or deductions from observations and experiments. However, I earnestly ask readers to refrain from suspecting me of overstepping boundaries or claiming to be a prophet offering divine revelations. Those who know my work understand how far removed such ambitions are from my heart. Thus, this work seeks to follow the method used by ancients like Trismegistus, Plato, Lucian, and subsequently many poets and orators. This method artfully adorns discourse with symbolic explanations akin to light and color, intertwining with the reader's sensibilities. The poetic, thaumaturgic style aims to captivate minds and inspire contemplation of these ideas. Therefore, I affirm that this work contains no mysteries, divine revelations, or angelic epiphanies. Instead, everything is presented clearly, with reasoning guided by inventive fiction or the guise of fictitious ecstasies. My hope is that readers will find not only astonishment in these marvels but also reflect on the Creator's wisdom and love. Consequently, Theodidactus, inspired by divine love, seeks only to encourage readers to offer thanks and honor to God. Through the visible wonders of this world machine, may readers aspire to the abundance of invisible blessings and ultimately find solace in eternal fellowship with God鈥檚 children, leading to everlasting happiness鈥攖he ultimate goal of creation. With these introductory thoughts, let us delve into the subject at hand.