Agrippa von Nettesheim, also known as Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa, was a German polymath and occult writer in the 16th century. He is best known for his books on the occult, which explored various esoteric topics such as magic, astrology, and the mystical interpretation of the Bible. Three of his most significant works on occultism are "Three Books of Occult Philosophy," "Of Geomancy," and "Of the Vanity of Arts and Sciences." "Three Books of Occult Philosophy" is Agrippa's most famous and influential work. It was first published in 1531 and contains a comprehensive exploration of the magical arts. The book is divided into three parts or books, each focusing on a different aspect of occultism.
“Inner Traditions has done justice to this text. It is published in a three volume slipcase edition, which, though expensive, is handsomely executed. I believe that anyone with a deep interest in the Western occult tradition will want to own it.”
— Richard Smoley, Quest
One of the most important texts in the Western magical tradition for nearly 500 years, Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa s 1533 work Three Books of Occult Philosophy collates a multitude of sources from the Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance periods and organizes them into a coherent explanation of the magical world. If the Moon is unfortunate and carved in lead, and buried in some place, it makes that place, its inhabitants, visitors, ships, springs, rivers, and mills unfortunate.
The book is divided into three parts or books, each focusing on a different aspect of occultism. The first book discusses the natural magic and divination, the second book explores ceremonial magic and conjuring spirits, and the third book delves into celestial and natural magic. In this seminal work, Agrippa draws from various sources, including ancient Greek philosophy, Jewish mysticism, and medieval occult traditions.
Three books on occultism by Agrippa
The first new and complete English translation of Agrippa’s classic masterwork in more than 350 years
• Three hardcover volumes in slipcase
• Corrects the many mistranslations, copyist mistakes, and errors introduced from other editions, drawing on new research and access to Agrippa’s source texts
• Restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations
• Presents a nearly complete bibliography of Agrippa’s primary sources
One of the most important texts in the Western magical tradition for nearly 500 years, Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa’s 1533 work Three Books of Occult Philosophy collates a multitude of sources from the Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance periods and organizes them into a coherent explanation of the magical world. Divided into three parts--the natural world, the celestial world, and the divine world--the book systematically explains the philosophy, logic, and methods of magic and astrology and how they work.
The basis for 19th-century magical orders such as the Golden Dawn and a primary source for countless books on magical uses of stones, herbs, incense, and astrology, Agrippa’s many lists and diagrams have proven invaluable to magicians since the 16th century. Yet, until now, all English editions of Agrippa’s Three Books were based on the same flawed 1651 translation from the mysterious “J.F.”
In this new translation from the original 1533 Latin edition, Eric Purdue corrects the many mistranslations, copyist mistakes, and errors introduced from other editions as well as restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations. Purdue notates every correction and offers commentary, drawing on major developments in the research of older magical and astrological texts. He also presents a nearly complete bibliography of Agrippa’s primary sources, revealing Agrippa as a mainstream scholar of his day.
Presenting the first new English translation of Three Books of Occult Philosophy in more than 350 years, this three-volume hardcover boxed set repairs the gaps in knowledge pervasive in the original translation and restores the magical spirit of Agrippa’s masterpiece, allowing us to hear Agrippa speak again.
About the Author
Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa von Nettesheim (1486-1535) was a German polymath, physician, legal scholar, soldier, theologian, and occult writer. Entering the University of Cologne at the age of 13, he graduated with a Master of Arts at 16 and went on to study with abbot Johannes Trithemius, famous as the teacher of Paracelsus. Acclaimed for his lectures on Reuchlin and the Corpus Hermeticum at universities across Europe, Agrippa acted as archivist for the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. Defying accusations of heresy and scrutiny by the Inquisition of Cologne, he published the final version of Three Books of Occult Philosophy two years before his death. Agrippa is considered one of the most influential occultists of the early modern period.
Eric Purdue has studied metaphysics and the occult and has practiced magic and astrology for more than thirty years, with a particular focus on practical folk and astrological magic. Through his lectures and writings on traditional astrology and talismanic magic, he has been a notable voice on the subjects of medieval astrology, traditional magical systems, and the legacy of Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa. His new translation of Three Books of Occult Philosophy was more than 10 years in the making.
Praise For…
“Eric Purdue’s fine new translation of H. C. Agrippa’s Three Books of Occult Philosophy is a landmark edition of this essential work. Unquestionably the most comprehensive work of the European esoteric sciences, this timely new publication of this encyclopedic masterwork is accompanied by illustrations restored from the original as well as the translator’s erudite notes, sources, and references. Agrippa’s works are fundamental to the study of all branches and aspects of the tradition, and no esoteric book collection should be without this outstanding edition.”
— Nigel Pennick, founder of the Institute of Geomantic Research and the Library of the European Tradit
“Anyone interested in the roots and branches of modern magic has repeatedly heard of the works of Agrippa. Here in these beautiful volumes we have not only an aesthetically pleasing edition, but one that has paid close attention to the technical and linguistic details as never before. They will make for better historians and practical practitioners for those who wish to undertake experiments in the bold art of magic.”
— Stephen E. Flowers, author of The Fraternitas Saturni
“Inner Traditions has done justice to this text. It is published in a three volume slipcase edition, which, though expensive, is handsomely executed. I believe that anyone with a deep interest in the Western occult tradition will want to own it.”
— Richard Smoley, Quest
- Body, Mind & Spirit / Hermetism & Rosicrucianism
- Social Science / Freemasonry & Secret Societies
- Self-help / Personal Growth / Success
- Kobo eBook (November 23rd, 2021): $99.00
- Paperback (December 1st, 2007): $28.99
- Hardcover (December 1st, 2007): $37.99
- Hardcover (June 23rd, 2019): $31.97
- Paperback (June 23rd, 2019): $14.89
- Paperback (March 14th, 2011): $33.24
• Restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations
He emphasizes the importance of a deep understanding of natural laws and the relationship between humans and the celestial world. Agrippa promotes a holistic view of magic, combining elements from religion, science, and philosophy, and argues that true knowledge of the occult can lead to spiritual enlightenment and mastery over the natural world. "Of Geomancy" is a shorter work by Agrippa, dedicated entirely to the art of divination through earth signs. Geomancy is an ancient method of divination that involves interpreting patterns made by throwing handfuls of earth, sand, or other natural substances. In this book, Agrippa provides a detailed overview of the history and practice of geomancy, including its origins in the Middle East and its spread throughout Europe. He explains the various symbols used in geomancy and offers guidance on how to interpret them to gain insight into future events. "Of the Vanity of Arts and Sciences" is a critical and controversial work by Agrippa. In this book, he argues against the excessive reliance on human knowledge and the limitations of academic disciplines. Agrippa believes that human understanding is inherently flawed and that true wisdom can only be achieved through divine revelation and the study of occult sciences. He critiques the arrogance and vanity of scholars and scientists who claim to possess all knowledge, while ignoring the spiritual dimensions of existence. Overall, Agrippa's three books on occultism provide a comprehensive and complex exploration of the magical arts, divination, and the limitations of human knowledge. His works continue to be studied and debated by occultists, historians, and scholars interested in the esoteric traditions of the Renaissance..
Reviews for "The Occult Legacy of Agrippa: Exploring his Three Books on Occultism"
1. John - 1 star - I was really disappointed with "Three books on occultism by Agrippa". The content of the book was disorganized and difficult to follow. The author goes off on tangents that are irrelevant to the main topic, making it confusing to grasp the main concepts of occultism. Additionally, the explanations given are vague and lacking detail, leaving me with more questions than answers. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a comprehensive understanding of occultism.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - I have to say, "Three books on occultism by Agrippa" was not what I expected. The book promised to provide a deep dive into occultism, but it fell short in many aspects. The language used is archaic and difficult to understand, hindering my comprehension of the subject matter. Furthermore, the book lacks practical applications or examples, leaving me wondering how to apply the theories discussed. Overall, I found this book to be a tedious and frustrating read, and I would suggest seeking alternative resources for studying occultism.
3. Emily - 1 star - "Three books on occultism by Agrippa" was a complete waste of my time and money. The author rambles on without providing any concrete information or practical advice. I was hoping to gain a deeper understanding of the occult, but instead, I was left confused and frustrated. The lack of organization makes it difficult to follow the author's train of thought, leaving me questioning the relevance of certain sections. I would not recommend this book to anyone serious about studying occultism.