Magick in Theory and Practice (Section 4)

LIBER ASTARTE vel BERYLLI SUB FIGURA CLXXV. o. Fhis is the Book of Uniting Himself to a particular Deity by dévotion. 1. Considerattons before the Threshold:— First concermng the ch01 ce of a particular Deity. Fhis matter is of no import, sobeit that thou choose one suited to thine own highest nature. Howsoever, this method is not so suitable for gods austere as Saturn, or intellectual as Thoth. But for such deities as in them- selves partake in anywise of love ît is a perfect mode. 2. Concerning the frime method of this Magick Art : — Let the devotee consider well that although Christ and Osiris be one, yet the former is to be worshipped with Christian, and the latter with Egyptian, rites. And this, although the rites themselves are ceremonially équivalent. There should, however, be one symbol declaring the transcending of such limitations 3 and with regard to the Deity also, there should be some one affirmation of his identity both with ail other similar gods of other nations, and with the Suprême of whom ail are but partial reflections. 3- Concerning the chief flace of dévotion: —- This is the Heart of the Devotee, and should be symbolically represented by that room or spot which he loves best. And the dearest spot therein shall be the shrine of his temple. It is most convenient if this shrine and altar should be sequestered in woods, or in a private grove, or garden. But let it be protected from the profane. 4. Concerning the Image of the Deity: — Let there be an image of the Deityj first because in méditation there is mindfulness induced thereby; and second because a certain power enters and inhabits it by virtue of the ceremonies 5 or so it is said, and We deny it not. Let this image be the most beautiful and perfect which the devotee is able to procure ; or if he be able to paint or to carve the same, it is ail the better. As for Deities with whose nature no Image is compatible, let them be worshipped in an — 390