_The Fame and Confession of the Fraternity._
We shall now call the attention of our readers to the third of the books
we spoke of as published simultaneously about the year 1610, "the
substance of which," says De Quincey, "it is important to examine, because
they in a very strange way, led to the foundation of the Rosicrucian order
as a distinct body." The third book is the _Confessio Fraternitatis_,
which we present almost in its entirety.
_The Fame and Confession of the Fraternity of R:C:Community, of the Rosie
Cross._
THE EPISTLE TO THE READER:--To the Wise and Understanding Reader.
Wisdom (saith Solomon) is to a man an infinite Treasure for she is the
Breath of the Power of God, and a pure Influence that floweth from the
Glory of the Almighty; she is the Brightness of Eternal Light, and an
undefiled Mirror of the Majesty of God, and an Image of his Goodness; she
teacheth us Soberness and Prudence, Righteousness and Strength; she
understands the Subtilty of words, and Solution of dark sentences; she
foreknoweth Signs and Wonders, and what shall happen in time to come; with
this Treasure was our first Father Adam fully endued: Hence it doth
appear, that after God had brought before him all the Creatures of the
Field, and the Fowls under Heaven, he gave to every one of them their
proper names, according to their nature.
Although now through the sorrowful fall into sin this excellent Jewel
Wisdom hath been lost, and meer Darkness and Ignorance is come into the
World, yet, notwithstanding, hath the Lord God sometimes hitherto
bestowed, and made manifest the same, to some of his Friends: for the wise
King Solomon doth testifie of himself, that he upon earnest prayer and
desire did get and obtain such Wisdom of God, that thereby he knew how the
world was created, thereby he understood the Nature of the Elements, also
the time, beginning, middle, and end, the increase and decrease, the
change of times through the whole year, and Ordinance of the Stars; he
understood also the properties of tame and wilde Beasts, the cause of the
raiging of the Winds, and minds and intents of men, all sorts and natures
of Plants, vertues of Roots and others, was not unknown to him. Now I do
not think that there can be found any one who would not wish and desire
with all his heart to be Partaker of this noble Treasure; but seeing the
same felicity can happen to none, except God himself give Wisdom and send
his Holy Spirit from above, we have therefore set forth in print this
little Treatise, to wit, Famam and Confessionem, of the Laudable
Fraternity of the Rosie Cross, to be read by every one, because in them is
clearly shewn and discovered, what concerning it the World hath to expect.
Although these things may seem somewhat strange, and many may esteem is to
be but a Philosophical shew, and no true History, which is published and
spoken of the Fraternity of the Rosie Cross; it shall here sufficiently
appear by our Confession that there is more _in necessu_ than may be
imagined; and it shall be easily understood, and observed by every one (if
he be not altogether voyd of understanding) what now-adays, and at these
times is meant thereby.
Those who are true Disciples of Wisdom, and true Followers of the
Spherical Art, will consider better of these things, and have them in
greater estimation, as also judge far otherwise of them, as hath been done
by some principal Persons but especially of Adam Haselmeyer, Notarius
Publicus to the Arch Duke Maximilian, who likewise hath made an Extract
ex scriptis Theologicis Theophrasti, and written a Treatise under the
Title of Jesuiter, wherein he willeth, that every Christian should be a
true Jesuit, that is, to walk, live, be, and remain in Jesus. He was but
ill rewarded of the Jesuits, because in his Answer written upon the
_Famam_, he did name those of the Fraternity of the Rosie Cross, the
highly illuminated men, and undeceiving Jesuits; for they not able to
brook this, layd hands on him, and put him into the Calleis, for which
they likewise have to expect their reward.
Blessed Aurora will now henceforth begin to appear, who (after the passing
away of the dark Night of Saturn) with her Brightness altogether
extinguisheth the shining of the Moon, or the small Sparks of Heavenly
Wisdom, which yet remaineth with men, and is a Forerunner of pleasant
Phebus, who with his clear and fiery glistering Beams brings forth that
Blessed Day long wished for, of many true hearted; by which Daylight then
shall truly be known, and shall be seen all heavenly Treasures of godly
Wisdom, as also the Secrets of all hidden and invisible things in the
World according to the Doctrine of our Forefathers and ancient Wisemen.
This will be the right kingly Ruby, and most excellent shining Carbuncle,
of the which it is said, That he doth shine and give light in darkness,
and to be a perfect Medicine of all imperfect Bodies, and to change them
into the best Gold, and to cure all Diseases of Men, easing them of all
pains and miseries.
Be, therefore, gentle Reader, admonished, that with me you do earnestly
pray to God, that it please him to open the hearts and ears of all ill
hearing people, and to grant unto them his blessing, that they may be able
to know him in his Omnipotency, with admiring contemplation of Nature, to
his honour and praise, and to the love, help, comfort and strengthening of
our Neighbours, and to the restoring of the diseased.
Fama Fraternitatis,
Or, A Discovery of the Fraternity of the most laudable
Order of the Rosy Cross.
Seeing the only Wise and Merciful God in these latter days hath poured out
so richly his mercy and goodness to Mankind, whereby we do attain more and
more to the perfect knowledge of his Son Jesus Christ and Nature, that
justly we may boast of the happy time, wherein there is not only
discovered unto us the half part of the World, which was heretofore
unknown and hidden, but he hath also made manifest unto us many wonderful
and never-heretofore seen Works and Creatures of Nature, and moreover hath
raised men imbued with great Wisdom, which might partly renew and reduce
all Arts (in this our Age spotted and imperfect) to perfection; so that
finally Man might thereby understand his own nobleness and worth, and why
he is called Microcosmus, and how far his knowledge extendeth in Nature.
Although the rude World herewith will be but little pleased, but rather
smile and scoff thereat; also the Pride and Covetousness of the Learned is
so great it will not suffer them to agree together; but were they united,
they might out of all those things which in this our Age God doth so
richly bestow upon us, collect _Librum Naturae_, or a perfect method of all
Arts; but such is their opposition, that they still keep and are loth to
leave the old course, esteeming Porphiry, Aristotle, and Galen, yea and
that which hath a meer show of learning, more than the clear and
manifested Light and Truth, who if they were now living, with much joy
would leave their erroneous Doctrines. But here is too great weakness for
such a great Work, and although in Theologie, Physic, and the Mathematic,
the Truth doth oppose itself, nevertheless the old enemy by his subtilty
and craft doth shew himself in hindering every good purpose by his
Instruments and contentious wavering people. To such an intent of a
general Reformation, the most godly and highly illuminated Father, our
Brother, C. R., a German, the chief and original of our Fraternity, hath
much and long time laboured, who by reason of his poverty (although
descended of Noble Parents) in the fifth year of his age, was placed in a
Cloyster, where he had learned indifferently the Greek and Latin Tongues,
who (upon his earnest desire and request), being yet in his growing years,
was associated to a Brother P. A. L., who had determined to go to the Holy
Land.
Although this Brother dyed in Cyprus, and so never came to Jerusalem, yet
our Brother C. R. did not return, but shipped himself over, and went to
Damasco, minding from thence to go to Jerusalem; but by reason of the
feebleness of his body, he remained still there, and by his skill in
Physick he obtained much favour with the Turks. In the mean time he became
by chance acquainted with the Wise Men of Damasco in Arabia, and beheld
what great wonders they wrought, and how Nature was discovered unto them;
hereby was that high and noble Spirit of Brother C. R. so stirred up that
Jerusalem was not so much now in his mind as Damasco; also he could not
bridle his desires any longer, but made a bargain with the Arabians that
they should carry him for a certain sum of money to Damasco.
As we have on another page stated all these particulars on the authority
of the epistle dedicatory to the Axiomata we need simply allude to them as
recorded in the work from which we are now quoting. The account proceeds
pretty much as stated in the Axiomata by John Heydon, then after stating
that the Fraternity began with an association of four persons only, the
Fama says that finding their labour too heavy they concluded to draw and
receive yet others more into their Fraternity. To this end was chosen
brother R. C. his deceased father's brother's son, brother B. a skilful
Painter, G. and P. D. their Secretary, all Germans except J. A., so in all
they were eight in number, all bachelors and of sound virginity; by those
was collected a book or volumn of all that which man can desire, wish, or
hope for.
Although we do now freely confess that the World is much amended within an
hundred years, yet we are assured that our Axiomata shall unmovably remain
unto the World's End, and also the world in her highest and last Age shall
not attain to see anything else; for our Rota takes her beginning from
that day when God spake Fiat, and shall end when he shall speak Pereat;
yet God's Clock striketh every minute, where ours scarce striketh perfect
hours. We also stedfastly beleeve, that if our Brethren and Fathers had
lived in this our present and clear light, they would more roughly have
handled the Pope, Mahomet, Scribes, Artists, and Sophisters, and had
shewed themselves more helpful, not simply with sighs, and wishing of
their end and consummation.
When now these eight brethen had disposed and ordered all things in such
manner, as there was not now need of any great labour, and also that every
one was sufficiently instructed, and able perfectly to discourse of secret
and manifest Philosophy, they would not remain any longer together, but as
in the beginning they had agreed, they separated themselves into several
countries, because that not only their Axiomata might in secret be more
profoundly examined by the learned, but that they themselves, if in some
country or other they observed any thing or perceived some error, they
might inform one another of it.
Their Agreement was this:--1, That none of them should profess any other
thing than to cure the sick, and that gratis. 2, None of the Posterity
should be constrained to wear one certain kind of habit, but therein to
follow the custom of the Country. 3, That every year upon the day C. they
should meet together at the house S. Spiritus, or write the cause of his
absence. 4, Every Brother should look about for a worthy person, who after
his decease might succeed him. 5, The word C. R. should be their seal,
mark, and character. 6, The Fraternity should remain secret one hundred
years. These six articles they bound themselves one another to keep; and
five of the Brethren departed, only the Brethren B. and D. remained with
the Father Fra. R. C. a whole year; when these likewise departed, then
remained by him his Cousin and Brother J. O., so that he hath all the days
of his life with him two of his Brethren. And although that as yet the
Church was not cleansed, nevertheless we know that they did think of her,
and what with longing desire they looked for. Every year they assembled
together with joy, and made a full resolution of that which they had done;
there must certainly have been great pleasure to hear truly and without
invention related and rehearsed all the Wonders which God hath poured out
here and there through the World. Every one may hold it out for certain,
that such persons as were sent, and joyned together by God and the
Heavens, and chosen out of the wisest of men as have lived in many Ages,
did live together above all others in highest Unity, greatest Secrecy, and
most kindness one towards another.
After such a most laudable sort they did spend their lives; and although
they were free from all disease and pain, yet notwithstanding they could
not live and pass their time appointed of God. The first of this
Fraternity which dyed, and that in England, was J. O., as Brother C. long
before had foretold him; he was very expert, and well learned in Cabala,
as his book called H. witnesseth. In England he is much spoken of, and
chiefly because he cured a young Earl of Norfolk of the Leprosie. They had
concluded, that as much as possibly could be their burial place should be
kept secret, as at this day it is not known unto us what is become of some
of them, yet every one's place was supplyed with a fit successor; but this
we will confess publickly by these presents to the honour of God, that
what secret soever we have learned out of the book M. (although before our
eyes we behold the image and pattern of all the world) yet are there not
shewn unto us our misfortunes, nor hour of death, the which only is known
to God himself, who thereby would have us keep in a continual readiness;
but hereof more in our Confession, where we do set down 37 Reasons whereby
we now do make known our Fraternity, and proffer such high Mysteries
freely, and without constraint and reward: also we do promise more gold
than both the Indies bring to the King of Spain; for Europe is with child,
and will bring forth a strong child, who shall stand in need of a great
godfather's gift.
After the death of I. O. Brother R. C. rested not, but as soon as he
could, called the rest together (and as we suppose) then his grave was
made although hitherto we (who were the latest) did not know when our
loving father R. C. died, and had no more but the bare names of the
beginners, and all their successors to us; yet there came into our memory
a secret which through dark and hidden words, and speeches of the 100
years, brother A. the successor of D. (who was one of the last and second
row and succession, and had lived amongst many of us) did impart unto us
of the third row and succession; otherwise we must confess, that after the
death of the said A. none of us had in any manner known anything of
Brother R. C., and of his first fellow brethren, than that which was
extant of them in our Philosophical Bibliotheca, amongst which our
Axiomata was held for the chiefest Rota Mundi, for the most artificial,
and Protheus the most profitable. Likewise we do not certainly know if
these of the second row have been of the like wisdom as the first, and if
they were admitted to all things. It shall be declared hereafter to the
gentle Reader not only what we have heard of the burial of the R. C., but
also made manifest publickly by the foresight, sufferance and commandment
of God, whom we most faithfully obey, that if we shall be answered
discreetly and Christian like, we will not be afraid to set forth
publickly in Print, our names and surnames, our meetings, or anything else
that may be required at our hands.
Now the true and fundamental relation of the finding out of the high
illuminated man of God, Fra: C. R. is this; after that A. in Gallia
Narbonensi was deceased, then succeeded in his place our loving Brother N.
N. This man after he had repaired unto us to take the solemn oath of
fidelity and secrecy, he informed us _bona fide_, that A. had comforted
him in telling him, that this Fraternity should ere long not remain so
hidden, but should be to all the whole German Nation, helpful, needful,
and commendable; of the which he was not in any wise in his estate ashamed
of. The year following after he had performed his school right, and was
minded now to travel, being for that purpose sufficiently provided with
Fortunatus purse, he thought (he being a good Architect) to alter
something of his building, and to make it more fit; in such renewing he
lighted upon the memorial Table which was cast of brasse, and containeth
all the names of the brethren, with some few other things. This he would
transfer in another more fitting vault, for where or when Fra: R. C. died,
or in what country he was buried, was by our predecessors concealed and
unknown to us. In this table stuck a great naile, somewhat strong, so that
when he was with force drawn out, he took with him an indifferent big
stone out of the thin wall, or plastering of the hidden door, and so
unlooked for uncovered the door; wherefore we did with joy and longing
throw down the rest of the wall, and cleared the door upon which that was
written in great letters, Post 120 annos patebo, with the year of the Lord
under it: therefore we gave God thanks and let it rest that same night,
because first we would overlook our Rotam; but we refer ourselves again to
the confession, for what we here publish is done for the help of those
that are worthy, but to the unworthy (God willing) it will be of small
profit, for like as our door was after so many years wonderfully
discovered, also there shall be opened a door to Europe (when the wall is
removed) which already doth begin to appear, and with great desire is
expected of many.
In the morning following we opened the door, and there appeared to our
sight a Vault of seven sides and corners, every side five foot broad, and
the height of eight foot. Although the Sun never shined in this Vault,
nevertheless it was enlightened with another Sun, which had learned this
from the Sun, and was situated in the upper part in the centre of the
ceiling; in the midst, instead of a Tombstone, was a round Altar covered
over with a plate of brass.
Round about the first Circle or Brim stood Jesus mihi omnia. We kneeled
all together down, and gave thanks to the sole wise, sole mighty, and sole
eternal God, who hath taught us more than all men's wit could have found
out, praised be his holy name. This Vault we parted in three parts, the
upper part a ceiling, the wall a side, the ground a floor.
Of the upper part you shall understand no more of it at this time, but
that it was divided according to the seven sides in the triangle, which
was in the bright centre; but what therein is contained, you shall, God
willing (that are desirous of our society) behold the same with your own
eyes; but every side or wall is parted into ten squares, every one with
their several figures and sentences, as they are truly shewed, and set
forth Concentratum here in our book.
The bottom again is parted in the triangle but because therein is
described the power and rule of the inferior Governors, we leave to
manifest the same, for fear of the abuse by the evil and ungodly world.
But those that are provided and stored with the heavenly Antidote, they do
without fear or hurt, tread on, and bruise the head of the old and evil
serpent, which this our age is well fitted for. Every side or wall had a
door for a chest, wherein there lay divers things, especially all our
books, which otherwise we had, besides the Vocabular of Theoph. Par. Ho.,
and these which daily unfalsifieth we do participate. Herein also we found
his Itinerarium, and Vitam, whence this relation for the most part is
taken. In another chest were looking-glasses of divers virtues, as also in
other places were little bells, burning lamps, and chiefly wonderful
artificial Songs; generally all done to that end, that if it should happen
after many hundred years, the Order or Fraternity should come to nothing,
they might by this vault be restored again.
Now as yet we had not seen the dead body of our careful and wise father,
we therefore removed the Altar aside, there we lifted up a strong plate of
brass, and found a fair and worthy body, whole and unconsumed.
Concerning Minutum Mundum, we found it kept in another little Altar, truly
more finer than can be imagined by any understanding man; but we will
leave him undescribed until we shall truly be answered upon this our true
hearted Famam; and so we have covered it again with the plates, and set
the Altar thereon, shut the door, and made it sure, with all our seals;
besides by instruction and command of our Rota, there are come to sight
some books, among which is contained M. (which were made instead of
household care by the praiseworthy M. P.). Finally we departed the one
from the other, and left the natural heirs in possession of our Jewels.
And so we do expect the answer and judgment of the learned, or unlearned.
Howbeit we know after a time there will now be a general reformation, both
of divine and human things, according to our desire, and the expectation
of others; for it's fitting, that before the rising of the Sun, there
should appear and break forth Aurora, or some clearness, or divine light
in the sky; and so in the meantime some few, which shall give their names,
may join together, thereby to increase the number and respect of our
Fraternity, and make a happy and wished for beginning of our
Philosophical Canons, prescribed to us by our brother R. C., and be
partakers with us of our treasures (which never can fail or be wasted) in
all humility, and love to be eased of this world's labour, and not walk so
blindly in the knowledge of the wonderful works of God.
But that also every Christian may know of what religion and belief we are,
we confess to have the knowledge of Jesus Christ (as the same now in these
last days, and chiefly in Germany, most clear and pure is professed, and
is nowadays cleansed and voyd of all swerving people, Hereticks and false
Prophets), in certain and noted Countries maintained, defended and
propagated; also we use two Sacraments, as they are instituted with all
Formes and Ceremonies of the first renewed Church. In Politia we
acknowledge the Roman Empire and Quartam Monarchiam for our Christian
head; albeit we know what alterations be at hand, and would fain impart
the same with all our hearts, to other Godly learned men; notwithstanding
our handwriting which is in our hands, no man (except God alone) can make
it common, nor any unworthy person is able to bereave us of it. But we
shall help with secret aid this so good a cause as God shall permit or
hinder us, for our God is not blind as the Heathen's Fortuna, but is the
Church's ornament and the honour of the Temple. Our Philosophy also is not
a new Invention, but as Adam after his fall hath received it, and as Moses
and Solomon used it; also she ought not much to be doubted of, or
contradicted by other opinions, or meanings; but seeing the truth is
peaceable, brief, and always like herself in all things, and especially
accorded by with _Jesus in omni parte_ and all members. And as he is the
true Image of the Father, so is she his Image; it shall not be said, this
is true according to Philosophy, but true according to Theologie: and
wherein Plato, Aristotle, Pythagoras and others did hit the mark, and
wherein Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Solomon did excel; but especially wherewith
that wonderful book the Bible agreeeth. All that same concurreth
together, and make a Space or Globe whose total parts are equidistant from
the centre, and hereof more at large and more plain shall be spoken of in
Christianly Conference.
But now concerning (and chiefly in this our age) the ungodly and accursed
Gold-making, which hath gotten so much the upper hand, whereby under
colour of it, many runagates and roguish people do use great villanies,
and cozen and abuse the credit which is given them; yea nowadays men of
discretion do hold the transmutation of Mettals to be the highest point,
and _fastigium_ in Philosophy, this is all their intent and desire, and
that God would be most esteemed by them, and honoured, which could make
great store of Gold, and in abundance, the which with unpremeditated
prayers, they hope to attain of the all knowing God, and searcher of all
hearts; we therefore do by these presents publickly testify, that the true
Philosophers are far of another minde, esteeming little the making of
Gold, which is but a parergon; for besides that they have a thousand
better things.
And we say with our loving father _R. C. C. Phy: aurum nisi quantum
aurum_, for unto them the whole nature is detected; he doth not rejoyce,
that he can make Gold, and that, as Christ saith, the devils are obedient
unto him; but is glad that he seeth the Heavens open, and the Angels of
God ascending and descending, and his name written in the book of life.
Also we do testifie that under the name of 'Chymia' many books and
pictures are set forth in Contumeliam gloriae Dei, as we will name them in
their due season, and will give to the pure-hearted a Catalogue or
Register of them; and we pray all learned men to take heed of these kinde
of Books, for the enemy never resteth, but soweth his weeds, till a
strange one doth root it out. So according to the will and meaning of Fra.
C. R. C., we his brethren request again all the learned in Europe who
shall read (sent forth in five languages) this our _Famam and
Confessionem_, that it would please them with good deliberation to ponder
this our offer, and to examine most nearly and most sharply their Arts,
and behold the present time with all diligence, and to declare their
minde, either _Communicato consilio_, or _singulatum_ by print.
And although at this time we make no mention either of our names or
meetings, yet nevertheless every one's opinion shall assuredly come to our
hands, in what language soever it be; nor anybody shall fail who so gives
his name to speak with some of us either by word of mouth, or else if
there be some lett in writing. And this we say for a truth, that whosoever
shall earnestly, and from his heart, bear affection with us, it shall be
beneficial unto him in goods, body and soul; but he that is false-hearted,
or only greedy of riches, the same first of all shall not be able in any
manner of wise to hurt us, but bring himself to utter ruine and
destruction. Also our building (although one hundred thousand people had
seen and beheld the same) shall for ever remain untouched, undestroyed,
and hidden to the wicked world, sub umbra alarum tuarum Jehova.
A Preface of the Confession to the Reader who is desirous of Wisdom.
Here, Gentle Reader, you shall finde incorporated in our Confession thirty
seven Reasons of our purpose, and intention, the which according to thy
pleasure thou mayst seek out and compare them together: thou mayst also
consider with thyself, if they be weighty and sufficient enough to bring
and persuade thee for to take our parts.
Verily it requires no small pains to confirm that which men have not yet
seen, but when it shall once come to light we doubt not, but they will
then justly be ashamed of such doubts and conjectures. And as we do now
altogether, securely, freely, and without any hurt call the Pope of Rome
Antichrist, the which heretofore was held for a deadly sin, and such in
all countries were put to death for it. So we know certainly, that the
time shall likewise come, that that which we yet keep in secret, we shall
openly, freely, and with a loud voice publish and confess it before all
the world; the which Gentle Reader wish with us with all thy heart, that
it may happen with speed.
Confessio Fraternitatis,
Or, The Confession of the laudable Fraternity of the most honourable Order
of the Rosie Cross, written to the learned of Europe.
Whatsoever there is published, and made known to every one, concerning our
Fraternity by the foresaid Fama, let no man esteem lightly of it, nor hold
it as an idle or invented thing, and much less receive the same, as though
it were only a meer conceit of ours. It is the Lord Jehovah (who seeing
the Lord's sabbath is almost at hand, and hastened again, his period or
course being finished to his first beginning) doth turn about the course
of Nature; and what heretofore hath been sought with great pains and dayly
labour, is now manifested unto those who make small account, or scarcely
once think upon it; but those which desire it, it is in a manner forced
and thrust upon them, that thereby the life of the godly may be eased of
all their toyl and labour, and be no more subject to the storms of
unconstant Fortune; but the wickedness of the ungodly thereby, with their
due and deserved punishment, be augmented and multiplied.
Although we cannot be by any suspected of the least Heresie, or of any
wicked beginning, or purpose against the worldly government; we do condemn
the East and West (meaning the Pope and Mahomet) blasphemers against our
Lord Jesus Christ, and offer and present with a good will to the chief
head of the Romish Empire, our prayers, secrets, and great treasures of
Gold.
Yet we have thought good and fit for the learned sakes, to add somewhat
more to this, and make a better explanation, if there be any thing too
deep, hidden, and set down over dark in the Fama, or for certain reasons
were altogether omitted, and left out; hoping herewith the Learned will be
more addicted unto us, and be made far more fitter and willing for our
purpose.
Concerning the alteration and amendment of Philosophy, we have (as much as
at present is needful) sufficiently declared, to wit, that the same is
altogether weak and faulty; yet we doubt not, although the most part
falsely do alledge that she (I know not how) is sound and strong, yet
notwithstanding she fetches her last breath and is departing.
But as commonly, even in the same place or Country where there breaketh
forth a new unaccustomed disease, Nature also there discovereth a medicine
against the same; so there doth appear for so manifold infirmities of
Philosophy, the right means, and unto our Patria sufficiently offered,
whereby she may become sound again, which is now to be renewed and
altogether new.
No other Philosophy we have, than that which is the head and sum, the
foundation and contents of all faculties, sciences and arts, the which (if
we will behold our age) containeth much of Theology and medicine, but
little of the wisdom of Lawyers, and doth diligently search both heaven
and earth: or to speak briefly thereof, which doth manifest and declare
sufficiently Man; whereof than all learned who will make themselves known
unto us, and come into our brotherhood, shall finde more wonderful secrets
by us, than heretofore they did attain unto, and did know, or are able to
believe or utter.
Wherefore to declare briefly our meaning hereof, we ought to labour
carefully that there be not only a wondering at our meeting and
adhortation, but that likewise every one may know, that although we do
highly esteem and regard such mysteries and secrets, we nevertheless hold
it fit, that the knowledge thereof be manifested and revealed to many.
For it is to be taught and believed, that this our unhoped willing offer
will raise many and divers thoughts in men unto whom (as yet) be unknown
Miranda sextae aetatis, or those which by reason of course of the world,
esteem the things to come like unto the present, and are hindered through
all manner of importunities of this their time, so that they live no
otherwise in the world, than blinde fools, who can, in the clear Sun-shine
days, discern and know nothing than only by feeling.
Now concerning the first part, we hold this, that the Meditations,
knowledge and inventions of our loving Christian Father (of all that,
which from the beginning of the world, Man's Wisdom, either through God's
revelation, or through the service of the Angels and spirits, or through
the sharpness and deepness of understanding, or through long observation,
use and experience, hath found out, invented, brought forth, corrected,
and till now hath been propagated and transplanted) are so excellent,
worthy and great, that if all books should perish, and by God Almighty's
sufrance, all writings, and all learning should be lost, yet the posterity
will be able only thereby to lay a new foundation, and bring truth to
light again; the which perhaps would not be so hard to do as if one should
begin to pull down and destroy the old ruinous building, and begin to
enlarge the fore Court, afterwards bring the lights in the Lodgings, and
then change the doors, staples and other things according to our
intention.
But to whom would this not be acceptable, for to be manifested to every
one rather than to have it kept and spared, as an especial ornament for
the appointed time to come.
Wherefore should we not with all our hearts rest and remain in the only
truth (which men through so many erroneous and crooked ways do seek) if it
had only pleased God to lighten unto us the sixth Candelabrum, were it
not good that we needed not to care, not to fear hunger, poverty, sickness
and age.
Were it not a precious thing that you could always live so, as if you had
lived from the beginning of the world, and moreover as you should still
live to the end therof. Were it not excellent, you dwell in one place,
that neither the people which dwell beyond the River Ganges in the Indies
could hide anything, nor those which live in Peru might be able to keep
secret their counsels from thee.
Were it not a precious thing that you could so read in one only book, and
withal by reading understand and remember all that, which in all other
books (which heretofore have been, and are now and hereafter shall come
out) hath been, is, and shall be learned, and found out of them.
How pleasant were it that you could so sing, that instead of stony rocks
you could draw to thee pearls and precious stones, instead of wilde
beasts, spirits, and instead of hellish Pluto, move the mighty Princes of
the world.
O ye people, God's counsel is far otherwise, who hath concluded now to
increase and enlarge the number of our Fraternity, the which we with such
joy have undertaken as we have heretofore obtained this great treasure
without our merits, yea without any our hopes and thoughts, and purpose
with the like fidelity to put the same in practice, that neither the
compassion nor pity of our own children (which some of us in the
Fraternity have) shall draw us from it, because we know that these unhoped
for goods cannot be inherited, nor by chance be obtained.
If there be somebody now which on the other side will complain of our
discretion, that we offer our Treasures so freely, and without any
difference to all men, and do not rather regard and respect more the
godly, learned, wise, or princely persons than the common people; those we
do not contradict, seeing it is not a slight and easie matter; but without
we signify so much, that our Arcana or Secrets will no ways be common,
and generally made known. Although the Fama be set forth in five
languages, and is manifested to every one, yet we do partly very well know
that, the unlearned and gross wits will not receive nor regard the same;
as also the worthiness of those who shall be accepted into our Fraternity
are not esteemed and known of us by Man's carefulness, but by the Rule of
our Revelation and Manifestation. Wherefore if the unworthy cry and call a
thousand times, or if they offer and present themselves to us a thousand
times, yet God hath commanded our ears, that they should hear none of
them: yea, God hath so compassed us about with his Clouds, that unto us
his servants, no violence or force can be done or committed; wherefore we
neither can be seen or known by any body, except he had the eyes of an
Eagle. It hath been necessary the Fama should be set forth in every ones
Mother Tongue, because those should not be defrauded of the knowledge
thereof, whom (although they be unlearned) God hath not excluded from the
happiness of this Fraternity, the which shall be divided and parted with
certain degrees; as those which dwell in the city Damcar in Arabia, who
have a far different politick order from the other Arabians. For there
they do govern only wise men, who by the King's permission make particular
Laws; according unto which example, also the Government shall be
instituted in Europe (whereof we have a description set down by our
Christianly Father) when first is done and come to pass that which is to
precede. And thenceforth our Trumpet shall publiquely sound with a loud
sound, and great noise, when namely the same (which at this present is
showed by few, and is secretly, as a thing to come, declared in Figures
and Pictures) shall be free and publiquely proclaimed, and the whole world
be filled withall. Even in such manner as heretofore, many godly people
have secretly and altogether desperately pusht at the Pope's Tyranny,
which afterwards, with great earnest, and especial zeal in Germany, was
thrown from his seat and trodden under foot, whose final fall is delayed,
and kept for our times, when he also shall be scratched in pieces with
nails, and an end be made of his Asses cry, by a new voyce: the which we
know is already reasurably manifest and known to many learned men in
Germany, as their writings and secret congratulations do sufficiently
witness the same.
We could here relate and declare what all the time from the year of our
Lord, 1378 (in which year our Christian Father was born) till now, hath
happened, where we might rehearse what alterations he hath seen in the
world these one hundred and six years of his life, which he hath left to
our Brethren and us after his decease to peruse. But brevity, which we do
observe, will not permit at this present to make rehearsal of it, till a
more fit time; at this time it is enough for those which do not despise
our declaration, having therefore briefly touched it, thereby to prepare
the way for their acquaintance and friendship with us.
Yea, to whom it is permitted, that he may, and for his instruction use
those great Letters and Characters which the Lord God hath written and
imprinted in Heaven and Earth's Edifice, through the alteration of
Government, which hath been from time to time altered and renewed; the
same is already (although as yet unknown to himself) ours: and as we know
he will not despise our inviting and calling, so, none shall fear any
deceit, for we promise and openly say, that no man's uprightness and hopes
shall deceive him, whosoever shall make himself known unto us under the
Seal of Secrecy, and desire our Fraternity.
But to the false Hypocrites, and to those that seek other things than
Wisdom, we say and witness by these presents publickly, we cannot be made
known and be betrayed unto them, and much less they shall be able to hurt
us any manner of way without the Will of God; but they shall certainly be
partakers of all the punishment spoken of in our Fama; so their wicked
counsels shall light upon themselves, and our Treasures shall remain
untouched, until the Lion doth come, who will ask them for his use, and
employ them for the Confirmation and Establishment of his kingdom. We
ought therefore here to observe well, and make it known unto every one,
that God hath certainly and most assuredly concluded to send and grant to
the world before her end, which presently thereupon shall ensue, such a
Truth, Light, Life, and Glory, as the first Adam had, which he lost in
Paradise, after the which his successors were put, and driven with him to
misery, wherefore there shall cease all servitude, falsehood, lyes, and
darkness, which by little and little with the great World's Revolution,
was crept into all Arts, Works and Governments of Men, and have darkened
the most part of them. For from thence are proceeded an innumerable sort
of all manner of false opinions and heresies, that scarce the wisest of
all was able to know whose Doctrine and Opinion he should follow and
embrace, and could not well and easily be discerned, seeing on the one
part they were detained, hindered, and brought into Errors through the
respect of the Philosophers and learned men, and on the other part through
true experience. All the which when it shall once be abolished and
removed, and instead thereof a right and true Rule instituted, then there
will remain thanks unto them which have taken pains therein, but the Work
itself shall be attributed to the Blessedness of our Age.
As we now willingly confess, that many principal men by their Writings
will be a great furtherance unto this Reformation which is to come; so we
desire not to have this honour ascribed to us, as if such work were only
commanded and imposed upon us; but we confess, and witness openly with the
Lord Jesus Christ, that it shall first happen that the stones shall arise,
and offer their service before there shall be any want of Executors and
Accomplishers of God's Counsel: yea, the Lord God hath already sent before
certain Messengers, which should testifie his Will, to wit, some new
Stars, which do appear and are seen in the Firmament in Serpentario and
Cygno, which signifie and give themselves known to every one that they are
powerful Signacula of great mighty matters. So then, the secret hid
Writings and Characters are most necessary for all such things which are
found out by men, although that great Book of Nature stand open to all
men, yet there are but few that can read and understand the same. For as
there is given to man two instruments to hear, likewise two to see, and
two to smell, but only one to speak, and it were but vain to expect speech
from the ears, or hearing from the eyes: so there hath been Ages or Times
which have seen, there have also been Ages that have heard, smelt and
tasted: now there remains that which in short time, honour shall be
likewise given to the Tongue, and by the same, what before times hath been
seen, heard, and smelt, now finally shall be spoken, and uttered forth,
viz., when the World shall awake out of her heavy and drowsie sleep, and
with an open heart, bare-head and bare-foot, shall merrily and joyfully
meet the now arising Sun.
These Characters and Letters, as God hath here and there incorporated them
in the holy Scripture and the Bible, so hath he imprinted them most
apparently into the wonderful Creation of Heaven and Earth, yea, in all
Beasts. So that like as the Mathematician or Astronomer can long before
see and know the Eclipses which are to come, so we may verily foreknow and
foresee the darkness of Obscurations of the Church, and how long they
shall last, from the which characters or letters we have borrowed our
Magick writing, and have found out, and made a new language for ourselves,
in the which withall is expressed and declared the nature of all things,
so that is no wonder that we are not so eloquent in other languages, the
which we know that they are altogether disagreeing to the languages of our
forefathers, Adam and Enoch, and were through the Babylonical Confusion
wholly hidden.
But we must also let you understand, that there are yet some Eagle's
Feathers in our way, the which do hinder our purpose. Wherefore we do
admonish every one for to read diligently and continually the holy Bible;
for he that taketh all his pleasures therein, he shall know that he
prepared for himself an excellent way to come into our Fraternity; for as
this is the whole sum and content of our Rule, that every letter or
character which is in the world ought to be learned and regarded well; so
those are like unto us, and are very near allied unto us, who do make the
holy Bible a Rule of their life, and an aim and end of all their studies;
yea, to let it be a compendium and content of the whole world, and not
only to have it continually in the mouth, but to know how to apply and
direct the true understanding of it to all times and ages of the world.
Also it is not our custom to prostitute and make so common the holy
Scriptures, for there are innumerable expounders of the same, some
alledging and wresting it to serve for their opinion, some to scandal it,
and most wickedly do liken it to a Nose of Wax which alike should serve
the Divines, Philosophers, Physicians and Mathematicians, against all the
which we do openly witness and acknowledge, that from the beginning of the
World there hath not been given unto men a more worthy, a more excellent,
and a more admirable and wholesome Book than the holy Bible. Blessed is he
that hath the same, yea, more blessed is he who reads it diligently, but
most blessed of all is he that truly understandeth the same, for he is
most like to God, and doth come most near to Him. But whatsoever hath been
said in the Fama concerning the Deceivers against the transmutation of
Metals, and the highest Medicine in the world, the same is thus to be
understood, that this so great gift of God we do in no manner set at
naught or despise it. But because she bringeth not with her always the
knowledge of Nature, but this bringeth forth not only Medicine, but also
maketh manifest and open unto us innumerable secrets and wonders;
therefore it is requisite that we be earnest to attain to the
understanding and knowledge of Philosophy. And moreover, excellent Wits
ought not to be drawn to the Tincture of Metals, before they be exercised
well in the knowledge of Nature. He must needs be an unsatiable Creature,
who is come so far that neither poverty nor sickness can hurt him; yea,
who is exalted above other men, and hath Rule over that, the which doth
anguish, trouble and pain others, yet will give himself again to idle
things, as to build houses, make wars, and use all manner of pride,
because he hath of Gold and Silver infinite store.
God is far otherwise pleased, for he exalteth the lowly, and putteth down
the proud with disdain; to those which are of few words he sendeth his
holy Angel to speak with them, but the unclean Babblers he driveth in the
wilderness and solitary places; the which is the right Reward of the
Romish Seducers, who have vomitted forth their blasphemies against Christ,
and as yet do not abstain from their lies in this clear Shining Light: in
Germany all their abominations and detestable Tricks have been disclosed,
that thereby he may fully fulfil the measure of sin, and draw near to the
end of his punishment. Therefore one day it will come to pass that the
mouth of those Vipers will be stopped, and the three double horns will be
brought to nought, as thereof at our Meeting shall more plain and at large
be discoursed.
In Conclusion of our Confession, we must earnestly admonish you, that you
put away, if not all, yet the most books, written by false Alchemists, who
do think it but a jest or a pastime, when they either misuse the holy
Trinity, when they do apply it to vain things, or deceive the people with
most strange figures and dark sentences and speeches, and cozen the
simpliest of their money; as there are now-a-days too many such books set
forth, which the enemy of Man's Welfare doth daily, and will to the end,
mingle among the good seed, thereby to make the Truth more difficult to be
believed, which in herself is simple, easie and naked; but certainly
falsehood is proud, haughty, and coloured with a kind of lustre of seeming
godly and of humane wisdom. Ye that are wise, eschew such books, and turn
unto us, who seek not your moneys but offer unto you most willingly our
great Treasures. We hunt not after your Goods with invented lying
Tinctures, but desire to make you Partakers of our Goods: we speak unto
you by Parables, but would willingly bring you to the right, simple,
easie, and ingenuous Exposition, Understanding, Declaration and Knowledge,
of all Secrets. We desire not to be received of you, but invite you unto
our more than Kingly Houses and Palaces, and that verily not by our own
proper motion, but (that you likewise may know it) as forced unto it, by
the Instigation of the Spirit of God, by his Admonition, and by the
Occasion of this present time.
What think you, loving people, and how seem you affected, seeing that you
now understand and know, that we acknowledge ourselves truly and sincerely
to profess Christ, condemn the Pope, addict ourselves to the true
Philosophy, lead a Christian life, and dayly call, intreat, and invite
many more unto our Fraternity, unto whom the same Light of God likewise
appeareth. Consider you not at length how you might begin with us, not
only by pondering the Gifts which are in you, and by experience which you
have in the Word of God beside the careful Consideration of the
Imperfection of all Arts, and many other unfitting things, to seek for an
amendment therein; to appease God, and to accommodate you for the time
wherein you live. Certainly if you will perform the same, this profit will
follow, that all the Goods which Nature hath in all parts of the World
wonderfully dispersed, shall at one time altogether be given unto you, and
shall easily disburden you of all that which obscureth the understanding
of Man, and hindereth the working thereof, like unto the vain Epicides,
and Excentrick Astronomical Circles.
But those Pragmatical and busieheaded men, who either are blinded with
the glistering of Gold, or (to say more truly) who are now honest, but by
thinking such great Riches should never fail, might easily be corrupted,
and brought to Idleness, and to riotous proud living; those we do desire
that they would not trouble us with their idle and vain crying. But let
them think, that although there be a Medicine to be had which might fully
cure all Diseases, nevertheless those whom God hath destinated to plague
with diseases, and to keep them under the Rod of Correction, such shall
never obtain any such Medicine.
Even in such manner, although we might enrich the whole World, and endue
them with Learning, and might release it from innumerable miseries, yet
shall we never be manifested and made known unto any man, without the
especial pleasure of God; yea, it shall be so far from him whosoever
thinks to get the benefit, and be Partaker of our Riches and Knowledge,
without and against the Will of God, that he shall sooner lose his life in
seeking and searching for us, than to find us, and attain to come to the
wished Happiness of the Fraternity of the Rosie Cross.