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Diotimos Library · Esotericism & Spirituality Collection · Bilingual Edition

Attributed to Jean d’Espagnet

The Summary of Physics Restored

A Fresh English Translation from the Complete 1653 Latin Enchiridion

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The Summary of Physics RestoredThe 245 Canons · English

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The 245 Canons · English

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Latin

Quintum illud quod vocant Elementum, est spiritus aethereus, incorruptibilis, à lumine, motu & virtute caelestium corporum in haec inferiora defluens, Elementa ad mixtionem & vitam praeparans; indiuidua Naturae, quantum patitur ipsorum constantia, à ruina prohibens, vnde sal Naturae, nexus Elementorum, & Spiritus Vniuersi ab occultae philosophiae mystis nuncupari meruit.

English

What they call the fifth element is an incorruptible ethereal spirit flowing down into these lower things from the light, motion, and power of the heavenly bodies. It prepares the elements for mixture and life, and keeps Nature’s individual beings from destruction as far as their own stability allows. Hence the initiates of hidden philosophy have deservedly named it the salt of Nature, the bond of the elements, and the spirit of the universe.

About This Reading Edition

The complete 1653 Enchiridion physicae restitutae, conventionally attributed to Jean d’Espagnet, with Latin and a fresh English translation, all 245 canons, the title and maxim, address to students, epigram, original marginalia, 140 modern annotations and the complete supplied Diotimos study apparatus.

Historical Text and Translation

Anonymous, Enchiridion physicae restitutae. Geneva: Jean-Antoine and Samuel de Tournes, 1653. ETH-Bibliothek Zürich, Rar 4790; digitised by e-rara, doi:10.3931/e-rara-21407. Conventionally attributed to Jean d’Espagnet; the original title page is anonymous.

About Diotimos Editions

This historical edition credits Diotimos Editions as its English translator.

Rights

The historical Latin text is a public-domain work. The supplied 2026 fresh English translation, readable Latin transcription and Diotimos editorial material are published with the site owner’s authorization.