These Chaldean Oracles were originally collected by Thomas Taylor and published as: "Collection of the Chaldean Oracles," in The Monthly Magazine and British Register, vol. III., 1797. They were later republished in Taylor's "Collectanea; or Collections consisting of Miscellanies inserted in the European and Monthly Magazines," 1806, and again with the addition of "Part IV," as: "Collection of the Chaldean Oracles," in the Classical Journal, December, 1817; March & June, 1818. These have now been reprinted, with adjustments in formatting and the addition of an Appendix containing the Oracles given in a new sequence. In the present volume, the formatting of the original has been changed in order to render the text more easily readable. The footnotes found in the originals have been collected and placed in order at the end of the Oracles, allowing for a more easily readable layout. Besides this change, and minor changes in formatting style, the text has not been altered, except in cases where certain Greek characters were in need of modernization. "These remains of Chaldean theology are not only venerable for their antiquity, but inestimably valuable for the unequalled sublimity of the doctrines they contain. They will, doubtless, too, be held in the highest estimation by every liberal mind, when it is considered that some of them are the sources whence the sublime conceptions of Plato flowed ... It is clear that the following oracles, which are collected from the writings of the Platonists, are of Chaldean origin [and] it is likewise evident, that some of these oracles may, with great confidence, be ascribed to the Chaldean Zoroaster. Short notes are added, by way of comment, on the most obscure of these oracles, and the exposition of Psellus is prefixed as containing the best account of the Chaldaic dogmas that can, at present, be obtained."-Thomas Taylor, from the Introduction.
This volume examines the discussion of the Chaldean Oracles in the work of Proclus, as well as offering a translation and commentary of Proclus’ Treatise On Chaldean Philosophy. Spanu assesses whether Proclus’ exegesis of the Chaldean Oracles can be used by modern research to better clarify the content of Chaldean doctrine or must instead be abandoned because it represents a substantial misinterpretation of originary Chaldean teachings. The volume is augmented by Proclus’ Greek text, with English translation and commentary. Proclus and the Chaldean Oracles will be of interest to researchers working on Neoplatonism, Proclus and theurgy in the ancient world.
Anonymous' 'The Chaldaean Oracles of Zoroaster' is a profound and enigmatic text that delves into the mystical teachings of ancient Chaldean philosophy and the revered wisdom of Zoroaster. This book is rich in esoteric content, with cryptic verses that explore the nature of the cosmos, the divine order of the universe, and the path to spiritual enlightenment. Written in a poetic and philosophical style, 'The Chaldaean Oracles of Zoroaster' provides readers with a unique insight into the mystical traditions of the ancient world, offering a glimpse into the profound mysteries of existence. The intricate symbolism and metaphysical concepts presented in this book invite readers to engage in deep contemplation and introspection. Despite the author's anonymity, 'The Chaldaean Oracles of Zoroaster' reflects a deep understanding of metaphysical philosophy and spiritual teachings. Anonymous' choice to compile and preserve these ancient oracles suggests a reverence for the wisdom of the past and a desire to share these teachings with a wider audience. The author's anonymity adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the text, enhancing its enigmatic nature and inviting readers to explore the depths of their own spiritual understanding. I highly recommend 'The Chaldaean Oracles of Zoroaster' to readers interested in ancient mysticism, esoteric philosophy, and spiritual enlightenment. This book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the mysteries of existence and explore the timeless teachings of Chaldean and Zoroastrian wisdom.
En 1956 était publié, à l'Institut d'Archéologie orientale du Caire, un ouvrage important de Hans Lewy sur les Oracles chaldaïques, "Chaldaean oracles and theurgy". Cette étude, vite épuisée, fut l'objet, en 1978, d'une nouvelle édition dans la Collection des Études augustiniennes, due à Michel Tardieu, qui accompagnait le texte de H. Lewy d'une série de douze compléments, parmi lesquels une contribution de E. R. Dodds, et une autre de P. Hadot. Cet ouvrage, qui reste fondamental pour la connaissance des Oracles chaldaïques et de toute la philosophie ancienne, était épuisé depuis longtemps, et Michel Tardieu en propose aujourd∎hui une troisième édition: à côté de menues corrections, cette nouvelle édition comporte un treizième complément, "Les Oracles chaldaïques 1891-2011", qui offre une synthèse de 120 ans de recherches, depuis les travaux de Jahn, en 1891, jusqu'à nos jours, et une bibliographie répartie en cinq sections, qui dépouille l'ensemble de la production sur le sujet.
Examining the final years of Delphic consultation, this monograph argues that the sanctuary operated on two connected, yet distinct levels: the oracle, which was in decline, and the remaining religious, political and social elements at the site which continued to thrive. In contrast to Delphi, other oracular counterparts in Asia Minor, such as Claros and Didyma, rose in prestige as they engaged with new "theological" issues. Issues such as these were not presented to Apollo at Delphi and this lack of expertise could help to explain why Delphi began to decline in importance. The second and third centuries AD witnessed the development of new ways of access to divine wisdom. Particularly widespread were the practices of astrology and the Neoplatonic divinatory system, theurgy. This monograph examines the correlation between the rise of such practices and the decline of oracular consultation at Delphi, analyzing several examples from the Chaldean Oracles to demonstrate the new interest in a personal, soteriological religion. These cases reveal the transfer of Delphi’s sacred space, which further impacted the status of the oracle. Delphi’s interaction with Christianity in the final years of oracular operation is also discussed. Oracular utterances with Christian overtones are examined along with archaeological remains which demonstrate a shift in the use of space at Delphi from a "pagan" Panhellenic center to one in which Christianity is accepted and promoted.