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The table for comparison, with the emended value *asterisked: Dagron-Rougé 1982, 130-131 provide a fitting reconstruction of the circumstances, asserting that this case is very similar to the previous one. On July 14, 479, in Smyrna, a person who was worried about the fate of a ship sailing from Alexandria sought the astrologer to pose an inquiry. The astrologer assured the querent that although the ship had been struck by a storm, it—or rather, its cargo—would be saved after shipping over. He also managed to identify the cargo as little birds, books or papyrus rolls, bronze objects, and medical implements.

Table 35 The table for comparison, with the emended value *asterisked: Dagron-Rougé 1982, 130-131 provide a fitting reconstruction of the circumstances, asserting that this case is very similar to the previous one. On July 14, 479, in Smyrna, a person who was worried about the fate of a ship sailing from Alexandria sought the astrologer to pose an inquiry. The astrologer assured the querent that although the ship had been struck by a storm, it—or rather, its cargo—would be saved after shipping over. He also managed to identify the cargo as little birds, books or papyrus rolls, bronze objects, and medical implements.

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table below, and the differences are italicized: The only noteworthy error is that Mercury is put on the sun’s wrong side, making it The only noteworthy error is that Mercury is put on the sun’s wrong side, making it an evening star.
table below, and the differences are italicized: The only noteworthy error is that Mercury is put on the sun’s wrong side, making it The only noteworthy error is that Mercury is put on the sun’s wrong side, making it an evening star.
only—the midheaven.” The data can be tabulated as follows (with the sign names abbreviated with the first two letters—Cancer as Cn and Capricorn as Cp—for better readability): abbreviated with the first two letters—Cancer as Cn and Capricorn as Cp—for better Alexandria’s year of foundation, 330BCE, and he narrowed down the time frame to
only—the midheaven.” The data can be tabulated as follows (with the sign names abbreviated with the first two letters—Cancer as Cn and Capricorn as Cp—for better readability): abbreviated with the first two letters—Cancer as Cn and Capricorn as Cp—for better Alexandria’s year of foundation, 330BCE, and he narrowed down the time frame to
Neugebauer was only able to date one more horoscope, that of Constantinople, tc
Neugebauer was only able to date one more horoscope, that of Constantinople, tc
From the comparison, it turns out that not only the moon’s and Mars’s but alsc Mercury’s sign is incorrect, which, together with the fact that no reference to the year 335 concerning the foundation of Constantinople is known, raises some doubt against the reliability of Neugebauer’s dating. Another possibility would be that by “Constantinople,’ not the emperor Constantine’s New Rome but the ancient city of Byzantium should be understood. But as the chronographers do not agree even on the year in which the 7th. century BCE foundation took place,” the astrologer would have had practically unrestrainec liberty to propose any horoscope that appeared suitable to him.
From the comparison, it turns out that not only the moon’s and Mars’s but alsc Mercury’s sign is incorrect, which, together with the fact that no reference to the year 335 concerning the foundation of Constantinople is known, raises some doubt against the reliability of Neugebauer’s dating. Another possibility would be that by “Constantinople,’ not the emperor Constantine’s New Rome but the ancient city of Byzantium should be understood. But as the chronographers do not agree even on the year in which the 7th. century BCE foundation took place,” the astrologer would have had practically unrestrainec liberty to propose any horoscope that appeared suitable to him.
In conclusion, it seems that an astrologer living before about 900 or even before diurnal but nocturnal points to the second option. about 640, the capture of Gaza and Caesarea by the Arabs,” attempted to calculate the
In conclusion, it seems that an astrologer living before about 900 or even before diurnal but nocturnal points to the second option. about 640, the capture of Gaza and Caesarea by the Arabs,” attempted to calculate the
degrees. The results are the following:” *! The same results are yielded by a calculation using the parameters of Ptolemy’s Almagest. Let us now see whether the retro-calculated configuration fits the astrologica’
degrees. The results are the following:” *! The same results are yielded by a calculation using the parameters of Ptolemy’s Almagest. Let us now see whether the retro-calculated configuration fits the astrologica’
t The rising times given for the moon correspond with a position of Leo 4;55.
t The rising times given for the moon correspond with a position of Leo 4;55.
by italics. the same degrees and minutes of opposite signs; the deviations from this rule are indicated descendant and, on the other hand, the upper and lower midheaven are supposed to be o1 In what follows, the positions of the angles are tabulated. The ascendant and the
by italics. the same degrees and minutes of opposite signs; the deviations from this rule are indicated descendant and, on the other hand, the upper and lower midheaven are supposed to be o1 In what follows, the positions of the angles are tabulated. The ascendant and the
Ve;, there are some deviations, indicated by italics. and Ve, were computed with the “standard method”” for the zone of the Hellespont:
Ve;, there are some deviations, indicated by italics. and Ve, were computed with the “standard method”” for the zone of the Hellespont:
On the other hand, the cusps of the chart in Va, and Gaurico’s second chart—as he
On the other hand, the cusps of the chart in Va, and Gaurico’s second chart—as he
In every chart—including Gaurico’s first chart, which was also calculated with the ‘standard method” or anot which is incompati lace. If the possibi n mind is excluded ble with ity that ut was “calculated” with t her method similar to it—Saturn is found in the third place Manuel’s claim of the inception having Saturn in the seconc Manuel was either wrong or had a considerably different chart , it remains that the inception he referred to also had Cancer ascending he old “sign-place method,” thus having Saturn in Leo in the second place. In this way, the discrepancies between the zones and the place divisior nethods may be ex plained with a continuous interest in recomputing the chart with more yrecise data. However, this alone does not account for the existence of two different ascending degrees within Cancer, let alone Gaurico’s divergent chart with Gemini ascending place. If the possibility that Manuel was either wrong or had a considerably different chart
In every chart—including Gaurico’s first chart, which was also calculated with the ‘standard method” or anot which is incompati lace. If the possibi n mind is excluded ble with ity that ut was “calculated” with t her method similar to it—Saturn is found in the third place Manuel’s claim of the inception having Saturn in the seconc Manuel was either wrong or had a considerably different chart , it remains that the inception he referred to also had Cancer ascending he old “sign-place method,” thus having Saturn in Leo in the second place. In this way, the discrepancies between the zones and the place divisior nethods may be ex plained with a continuous interest in recomputing the chart with more yrecise data. However, this alone does not account for the existence of two different ascending degrees within Cancer, let alone Gaurico’s divergent chart with Gemini ascending place. If the possibility that Manuel was either wrong or had a considerably different chart
In “Balchus’s” Book of Astrology, four inceptions, including the one omitted in Pa,, appear again, with two further inceptions, dated to 474 and 475, also emerging. These two inceptions, together with two other, already known ones from Wi, and Pa,, are present in an Arabic version in the Book of Astrological Inquiries, composed around 900 by the Perso-Arabic astrologer al-Qasrani.'” In addition, two more inceptions, dated to 475 and 483, are found here, which yields a total of ten 5th-century inceptions ranging from 474 to 487 in these sources. The inceptions in their reconstructed™ order and their sources can be tabulated as C.11....... sources. The inceptions in their reconstructed™ order and their sources can be tabulated as here, which yields a total of ten 5th-century inceptions ranging from 474 to 487 in these
In “Balchus’s” Book of Astrology, four inceptions, including the one omitted in Pa,, appear again, with two further inceptions, dated to 474 and 475, also emerging. These two inceptions, together with two other, already known ones from Wi, and Pa,, are present in an Arabic version in the Book of Astrological Inquiries, composed around 900 by the Perso-Arabic astrologer al-Qasrani.'” In addition, two more inceptions, dated to 475 and 483, are found here, which yields a total of ten 5th-century inceptions ranging from 474 to 487 in these sources. The inceptions in their reconstructed™ order and their sources can be tabulated as C.11....... sources. The inceptions in their reconstructed™ order and their sources can be tabulated as here, which yields a total of ten 5th-century inceptions ranging from 474 to 487 in these
The types, locations, and subjects of the inceptions are the following:'” Since Cases IV-VII are not only apparently related to the politics of the emperor Since Cases IV-VII are not only apparently related to the politics of the emperot Zeno’s era but are obviously from someone belonging to Zeno’s circle, Pingree 1976c, 15¢ assumed that they were devised (Cases VI-VII) or transmitted (CasesIV-V) by ar anonymous astrologer working for the emperor. However, David Pingree left open the question of whether the remaining inceptions should be ascribed to the same astrologer Others endorsed this possibility on various levels of confidence,” but positive evidence strongly suggests that all the cases—perhaps together with other, now lost, examples— belonged to the catarchic casebook of Zeno’s Anonymous. My most important argument: are the following:
The types, locations, and subjects of the inceptions are the following:'” Since Cases IV-VII are not only apparently related to the politics of the emperor Since Cases IV-VII are not only apparently related to the politics of the emperot Zeno’s era but are obviously from someone belonging to Zeno’s circle, Pingree 1976c, 15¢ assumed that they were devised (Cases VI-VII) or transmitted (CasesIV-V) by ar anonymous astrologer working for the emperor. However, David Pingree left open the question of whether the remaining inceptions should be ascribed to the same astrologer Others endorsed this possibility on various levels of confidence,” but positive evidence strongly suggests that all the cases—perhaps together with other, now lost, examples— belonged to the catarchic casebook of Zeno’s Anonymous. My most important argument: are the following:
The relationships of the primary manuscripts can be presented on the following
The relationships of the primary manuscripts can be presented on the following
I have been unable to find any explanation for the fact that apart from the angles, whereas they are rounded to the degree for the rest of the planets. Ascertaining the locality and the moment is made difficult by two factors: the manuscripts give different longitudes for the ascendant and the midheaven—according t« “Balchus,” they are Lib respectively—but in eit ra1 and Cancer 1, but according to GU, Libra 0;41 and Cancer 0;41 her case the ascendant is around the fall equinox, which causes the midheaven to be around Cancer 1 regardless of the geographical latitude. However, sinc« Anon.’s personal Case I was probably cast for Constantinople, this is the most plausible locality, and if so, the horoscope was cast at about 7 am local apparent time—certainly in the second diurnal hour between about 6h 30m and 7h 30m)—when the letter arrived presumably to the emperor. The inception is, therefore, an accident.
I have been unable to find any explanation for the fact that apart from the angles, whereas they are rounded to the degree for the rest of the planets. Ascertaining the locality and the moment is made difficult by two factors: the manuscripts give different longitudes for the ascendant and the midheaven—according t« “Balchus,” they are Lib respectively—but in eit ra1 and Cancer 1, but according to GU, Libra 0;41 and Cancer 0;41 her case the ascendant is around the fall equinox, which causes the midheaven to be around Cancer 1 regardless of the geographical latitude. However, sinc« Anon.’s personal Case I was probably cast for Constantinople, this is the most plausible locality, and if so, the horoscope was cast at about 7 am local apparent time—certainly in the second diurnal hour between about 6h 30m and 7h 30m)—when the letter arrived presumably to the emperor. The inception is, therefore, an accident.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries (5) Venus, the lady of the ascendant (“housemistress of the inception”)," (at Leo 8) had no command over the ascendant (at Libra 0;41), the moon (at Libra 4), Jupiter (at Libra 7;55), and the lot of Fortune (at Libra 25) because the sun (at Virgo 10) intervened according to Dorotheus’s definition." (6) (By their squares at Libra8 and Virgo 15;56, respectively) Mars and Saturn enclosed Mercury (at Virgo 25), the ascendant (at Libra 0;41), the moon (at Libra 4), and Jupiter (at Libra 7;55) according to Antigonus’s definition;’ and Mars, a nocturnal planet in a diurnal horoscope, (in Capricorn) was in opposition with the midheaven (in Cancer).—It was a distressing letter with everything contrary to the expectation of the receiver.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries (5) Venus, the lady of the ascendant (“housemistress of the inception”)," (at Leo 8) had no command over the ascendant (at Libra 0;41), the moon (at Libra 4), Jupiter (at Libra 7;55), and the lot of Fortune (at Libra 25) because the sun (at Virgo 10) intervened according to Dorotheus’s definition." (6) (By their squares at Libra8 and Virgo 15;56, respectively) Mars and Saturn enclosed Mercury (at Virgo 25), the ascendant (at Libra 0;41), the moon (at Libra 4), and Jupiter (at Libra 7;55) according to Antigonus’s definition;’ and Mars, a nocturnal planet in a diurnal horoscope, (in Capricorn) was in opposition with the midheaven (in Cancer).—It was a distressing letter with everything contrary to the expectation of the receiver.
aspect in between two planets standing in the same sign but is bodily in an intermediate the summary of his Introduction, certainly does not apply here since the sun does not cast his definition of intervention, probably originating from Antiochus of Athens but missing from
aspect in between two planets standing in the same sign but is bodily in an intermediate the summary of his Introduction, certainly does not apply here since the sun does not cast his definition of intervention, probably originating from Antiochus of Athens but missing from
Libra, and consequently, Venus’s sextile aspect cast into Libra is debilitated. Venus at Leo 8 and the ascendant, the moon, Jupiter, and the lot of Fortune, all standing in Leo from Mercury (see Figure 5 below). Since these latter scenarios are nearly identical to
Libra, and consequently, Venus’s sextile aspect cast into Libra is debilitated. Venus at Leo 8 and the ascendant, the moon, Jupiter, and the lot of Fortune, all standing in Leo from Mercury (see Figure 5 below). Since these latter scenarios are nearly identical to
Figure 5. Intervention in the chart of Case V
Figure 5. Intervention in the chart of Case V
Figure 6. An example of the moon’s bodily enclosure by the malefics
Figure 6. An example of the moon’s bodily enclosure by the malefics
Figure 7. An example of the moon’s aspectual enclosure by Mars’s square and Saturn’s opposition
Figure 7. An example of the moon’s aspectual enclosure by Mars’s square and Saturn’s opposition
and Libra 8;""° it also does not seem to matter that the 9-degree interval between Saturn’s aspect and Mercury exceeds what “Porphyry” accepts (see Figure 9 below).
and Libra 8;""° it also does not seem to matter that the 9-degree interval between Saturn’s aspect and Mercury exceeds what “Porphyry” accepts (see Figure 9 below).
Figure 9. The enclosure of Mercury, the ascendant, the moon, and Jupiter by the squares of the malefics in the chart of Case I
Figure 9. The enclosure of Mercury, the ascendant, the moon, and Jupiter by the squares of the malefics in the chart of Case I
In this case, it is also possible that the text originally read something of the force of “Ares was, on the one hand (pv) diametrical to the Crab and trigonal to the Virgin, thus enclosing Aphrodite, and on the other (5), he was tetragonal to the Balance, and Kronos was tetragonal to the Virgin, etc.” (the second clause referring to the aspectual enclosure described above) but what is denoted with italics was omitted in the hyparchetype, Libra being corrected to Cancer by “Balchus” later. This assumed reading would restore the logic of the text and the missing 5€ of the peév ... 5 clause and would provide a philological explanation for the error in GU.
In this case, it is also possible that the text originally read something of the force of “Ares was, on the one hand (pv) diametrical to the Crab and trigonal to the Virgin, thus enclosing Aphrodite, and on the other (5), he was tetragonal to the Balance, and Kronos was tetragonal to the Virgin, etc.” (the second clause referring to the aspectual enclosure described above) but what is denoted with italics was omitted in the hyparchetype, Libra being corrected to Cancer by “Balchus” later. This assumed reading would restore the logic of the text and the missing 5€ of the peév ... 5 clause and would provide a philological explanation for the error in GU.
One should also mention that in GU, a slightly supplemented recension of Hadrian’s nativity is found after Anon.’s cases, the latter half of which is unfortunately lost. In this recension, Saturn is placed at Capricorn 16, and as a result, Mercury at Capricorn 12 is cleared of the enclosure. The fact that by this modification, the inception of Case I and Hadrian’s nativity become even more similar—the sun or Mercury alone escapes enclosure, respectively—may add more weight to a hypothesis that Anon. was responsible for reworking Hadrian’s nativity in GU.
One should also mention that in GU, a slightly supplemented recension of Hadrian’s nativity is found after Anon.’s cases, the latter half of which is unfortunately lost. In this recension, Saturn is placed at Capricorn 16, and as a result, Mercury at Capricorn 12 is cleared of the enclosure. The fact that by this modification, the inception of Case I and Hadrian’s nativity become even more similar—the sun or Mercury alone escapes enclosure, respectively—may add more weight to a hypothesis that Anon. was responsible for reworking Hadrian’s nativity in GU.
Unlike many others, this case seems to be one of Anon.’s private cases: the lateness of the moment of casting suggests that a handmaid of his own household consulted him upon discovering the theft, which makes the case—as it is directly expressed in §2a—an inquiry. Also, the allusions to the thief’s sexual disability in §2d and the fact that the stolen item appears to have been a piece of clothing of no value (§3b) imply that the theft was prompted by the thief’s fetishism. One may therefore wonder what piece the handmaid’s worn-out linen actually was.
Unlike many others, this case seems to be one of Anon.’s private cases: the lateness of the moment of casting suggests that a handmaid of his own household consulted him upon discovering the theft, which makes the case—as it is directly expressed in §2a—an inquiry. Also, the allusions to the thief’s sexual disability in §2d and the fact that the stolen item appears to have been a piece of clothing of no value (§3b) imply that the theft was prompted by the thief’s fetishism. One may therefore wonder what piece the handmaid’s worn-out linen actually was.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries
The table for comparison, with the emendation *asterisked: Although by a superficial glance, one may have the impression that the present case is not political, §5 alludes in no obscure terms to the fact that the subject, the lion cub, was seni Cancer 6—and therefore the lot of Fortune was also faultily allotted to the 7th place even
The table for comparison, with the emendation *asterisked: Although by a superficial glance, one may have the impression that the present case is not political, §5 alludes in no obscure terms to the fact that the subject, the lion cub, was seni Cancer 6—and therefore the lot of Fortune was also faultily allotted to the 7th place even
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries Aquarius 10), and Mars (at Libra 6) were in animal-shaped" signs (at Leo 24, Sagittarius 6,
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries Aquarius 10), and Mars (at Libra 6) were in animal-shaped" signs (at Leo 24, Sagittarius 6,
The following table demonstrates that Anon. used the standard definition: the ii. Classifications of the signs: animal-shaped, winged, aquatic, and terrestrial
The following table demonstrates that Anon. used the standard definition: the ii. Classifications of the signs: animal-shaped, winged, aquatic, and terrestrial
The table for comparison, the emended values *asterisked: In the present case, Venus and Mercury are said to be in the 10th and 12th places, respectively, even though they are found in the 11th sign from the ascendant and in the ascendant itself. Similar discrepancies are attested in Cases V and VII (and possibly in Case I). Since it is impossible that these statements are only erroneous and should be emended, the only explanation is that Anon. used a division of places other than the sign- place method.”
The table for comparison, the emended values *asterisked: In the present case, Venus and Mercury are said to be in the 10th and 12th places, respectively, even though they are found in the 11th sign from the ascendant and in the ascendant itself. Similar discrepancies are attested in Cases V and VII (and possibly in Case I). Since it is impossible that these statements are only erroneous and should be emended, the only explanation is that Anon. used a division of places other than the sign- place method.”
VII, see Subsections III.C.5.c and 7.c below. In the next table, all the instances of degree-wise calculations are collected with the
VII, see Subsections III.C.5.c and 7.c below. In the next table, all the instances of degree-wise calculations are collected with the
Figure 14. The chart of Pamprepius’s nativity (Expl. 5.113) in modern format provides us further clues (for the chart, see Figure 14 below). As seen from the table, the data provided in the cases do not enable us to identify the method used by Anon. However, as I will relate it below in Section IV.A.1, there are surviving the nativities cast by Anon., one of which, that of Pamprepius of Panopolis, provides us further clues (for the chart, see Figure 14 below).
Figure 14. The chart of Pamprepius’s nativity (Expl. 5.113) in modern format provides us further clues (for the chart, see Figure 14 below). As seen from the table, the data provided in the cases do not enable us to identify the method used by Anon. However, as I will relate it below in Section IV.A.1, there are surviving the nativities cast by Anon., one of which, that of Pamprepius of Panopolis, provides us further clues (for the chart, see Figure 14 below).
In tabular form with the places identified: The following table is a calculation of the places by means of the different methods:
In tabular form with the places identified: The following table is a calculation of the places by means of the different methods:
This survey suggests that the unmodified longitude methods cannot have been the different methods. Italics denote the discrepancies from the text again. Finally, the following table assesses the positions of the planets according to the ones used by Anon. because Saturn’s and Mars’s degree-wise placement would not
This survey suggests that the unmodified longitude methods cannot have been the different methods. Italics denote the discrepancies from the text again. Finally, the following table assesses the positions of the planets according to the ones used by Anon. because Saturn’s and Mars’s degree-wise placement would not
Figure 15. The chart of Case IV in modern format d. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries In any event, it is not surprising that Anon.'s “predictions, doubtlessly phrased ir hindsight, were correct: even though Basiliscus’s coup was initia prominent figures, including his sister, Verina, the empress dowager, ly backed by many he would quickly loss their support. As Zeno fled to Isauria, heavy taxes had to be introduced to finance the ensuing war, and Basiliscus’s religious policy of giving preference to Miaphysitism alsc alienated Constantinople’s Chalcedonian majority. Basiliscus’s fate was finally sealed wher his nephew Armatus and the Isaurian generals Illus and Trocundes de fected and allied wit Zeno: in August 476, Zeno entered the capital not only without resistance but also greetec by the people, and Basiliscus, although not executed immediately, was soon killed in exile together with his entire family.
Figure 15. The chart of Case IV in modern format d. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries In any event, it is not surprising that Anon.'s “predictions, doubtlessly phrased ir hindsight, were correct: even though Basiliscus’s coup was initia prominent figures, including his sister, Verina, the empress dowager, ly backed by many he would quickly loss their support. As Zeno fled to Isauria, heavy taxes had to be introduced to finance the ensuing war, and Basiliscus’s religious policy of giving preference to Miaphysitism alsc alienated Constantinople’s Chalcedonian majority. Basiliscus’s fate was finally sealed wher his nephew Armatus and the Isaurian generals Illus and Trocundes de fected and allied wit Zeno: in August 476, Zeno entered the capital not only without resistance but also greetec by the people, and Basiliscus, although not executed immediately, was soon killed in exile together with his entire family.
f we are to believe Anon. that the inception is genuine and not his pos the most likely candidate for one of the two alleged astrologers is Illus’s the philosopher, astrologer, and poet Pamprepius of Panopolis played a pivotal role in his plans to gain the supreme power and ous Zeno.’ But however wisely and tactically Illus worked on establis Antioch after 481, he had to compromise with Verina, which included as emperor instead of himself. t-factum fabrication long-time confidant September 29, 440- ovember 484).'” Having belonged to Illus’s closest circles at least since 478, Pamprepiu: t his fellow Isaurian hing his position ir appointing Leontius the philosopher, astrologer, and poet Pamprepius of Panopolis (September 29, 440-
f we are to believe Anon. that the inception is genuine and not his pos the most likely candidate for one of the two alleged astrologers is Illus’s the philosopher, astrologer, and poet Pamprepius of Panopolis played a pivotal role in his plans to gain the supreme power and ous Zeno.’ But however wisely and tactically Illus worked on establis Antioch after 481, he had to compromise with Verina, which included as emperor instead of himself. t-factum fabrication long-time confidant September 29, 440- ovember 484).'” Having belonged to Illus’s closest circles at least since 478, Pamprepiu: t his fellow Isaurian hing his position ir appointing Leontius the philosopher, astrologer, and poet Pamprepius of Panopolis (September 29, 440-
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries
Subsection IILC.4.b above. In the Greek original, the interpretation is concluded with a verbatim citation frorr Dorotheus (F66a Stegemann ~ Dor. A 5.5.16-17 ~ Heph. 3.2.7-8), which may be paraphrasec as follows: «Examine the luminaries and their lords as well as whether the moon is in the ascendant or the midheaven. If the moon’s lord is in a cadent, but the moon is in an angula1 place, the beginning of the matter is favorable, but its end is not.» This inclusion makes sense here only if it is assumed that Anon. obliquely refers to the facts that the moon and her lord Mars, are in the degree-wise 4th and 12th places, respectively; see the table below anc Subsection III.C.4.b above. Mars, are in the degree-wise 4th and 12th places, respectively; see the table below an
Subsection IILC.4.b above. In the Greek original, the interpretation is concluded with a verbatim citation frorr Dorotheus (F66a Stegemann ~ Dor. A 5.5.16-17 ~ Heph. 3.2.7-8), which may be paraphrasec as follows: «Examine the luminaries and their lords as well as whether the moon is in the ascendant or the midheaven. If the moon’s lord is in a cadent, but the moon is in an angula1 place, the beginning of the matter is favorable, but its end is not.» This inclusion makes sense here only if it is assumed that Anon. obliquely refers to the facts that the moon and her lord Mars, are in the degree-wise 4th and 12th places, respectively; see the table below anc Subsection III.C.4.b above. Mars, are in the degree-wise 4th and 12th places, respectively; see the table below an
The examination of t plausibly—Aquarius 17 (BD), Constantinople, assuming tha corresponding ascendant for undoubtedly wrong. On the o he midheaven, which is located at Aquarius 7 (H) or—mor: offers a more definite conclusion. If one calculates fo t the astrologer interpolated the values for zones 5 and 6, th the midheaven at Aquarius 7 should be at Gemini 3, which i ther hand, if the midheaven is taken as being at Aquarius 17 the ascendant should be at Gemini 14, which is the value in H. Therefore, the moon’s positiot must be set at Libra 22, and the moment of the inception is about 8 am local apparent time must be set at Libra 22, and the moment of the inception is about 8 am local apparent time. remain: either the “coronation” or the “city” or both must be understood in a broader sense. VY
The examination of t plausibly—Aquarius 17 (BD), Constantinople, assuming tha corresponding ascendant for undoubtedly wrong. On the o he midheaven, which is located at Aquarius 7 (H) or—mor: offers a more definite conclusion. If one calculates fo t the astrologer interpolated the values for zones 5 and 6, th the midheaven at Aquarius 7 should be at Gemini 3, which i ther hand, if the midheaven is taken as being at Aquarius 17 the ascendant should be at Gemini 14, which is the value in H. Therefore, the moon’s positiot must be set at Libra 22, and the moment of the inception is about 8 am local apparent time must be set at Libra 22, and the moment of the inception is about 8 am local apparent time. remain: either the “coronation” or the “city” or both must be understood in a broader sense. VY
Figure 17. The chart of Case VI in modern format c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries
Figure 17. The chart of Case VI in modern format c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries
The table for comparison: Although Theodorus’s name appears only in the present horoscope, the primary sources These events date back at least to 482 when the emperor acknowledged Peter III Mongus as the Patriarch of Alexandria. Although Mongus had been the candidate of the Miaphysite party, his election played a part in Zeno’s maneuvers to ease the growing tension between the Chalcedonians and Miaphysites of Egypt. As a sign of the newly restored community between the Mongus and the Chalcedonian Patriarch of Constantinople, Acacius, a non-legal document known as the Henoticon was issued by Zeno, in which the disputed questions of Christ’s nature were deliberately downplayed. As an unforeseen consequence of the Henoticon, an internal opposition of radical Miaphysites was formed against Mongus, and eventually, the patriarch began to try and get rid of these Aposchists with the aid of state authorities. In response to their persecution, the Aposchists sent the monk Nephalius to Constantinople to appeal to the emperor, who would dispatch the spatharius Cosmas as his special envoy to Alexandria to mediate between the parties. However, the situation had escalated the Aposchists; so Cosmas and the pr a meeting between Mongus and to the point that it threatened with an open revolt by efect of the city—most probably, Theodorus—arranged his opposition, which resulted in Mongus publicly condemning the decrees of the Council of Chalcedon. Not only was this move obviously against the emperor’s intentions, bu t a faction of the Aposchists was also still uncontented
The table for comparison: Although Theodorus’s name appears only in the present horoscope, the primary sources These events date back at least to 482 when the emperor acknowledged Peter III Mongus as the Patriarch of Alexandria. Although Mongus had been the candidate of the Miaphysite party, his election played a part in Zeno’s maneuvers to ease the growing tension between the Chalcedonians and Miaphysites of Egypt. As a sign of the newly restored community between the Mongus and the Chalcedonian Patriarch of Constantinople, Acacius, a non-legal document known as the Henoticon was issued by Zeno, in which the disputed questions of Christ’s nature were deliberately downplayed. As an unforeseen consequence of the Henoticon, an internal opposition of radical Miaphysites was formed against Mongus, and eventually, the patriarch began to try and get rid of these Aposchists with the aid of state authorities. In response to their persecution, the Aposchists sent the monk Nephalius to Constantinople to appeal to the emperor, who would dispatch the spatharius Cosmas as his special envoy to Alexandria to mediate between the parties. However, the situation had escalated the Aposchists; so Cosmas and the pr a meeting between Mongus and to the point that it threatened with an open revolt by efect of the city—most probably, Theodorus—arranged his opposition, which resulted in Mongus publicly condemning the decrees of the Council of Chalcedon. Not only was this move obviously against the emperor’s intentions, bu t a faction of the Aposchists was also still uncontented
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries olnce Arsenius Must Nave replaced | neodorus, the latter S GoOwntIall was very 11kely not independent of his failure to reach a viable compromise between the competing parties. especially as an imperial emissary had also (12.16.4, ed. Charles F. Pazdernik in Frier 20 ce events, which cannot be dated apart from already a praepositus sacri cubiculi, which indi favor. Thus, I find it entirely possible that th Theodorus’s a been sent to 16, 2852), we cates that he help. From the Codex of Justinian know that sometime after the ppointment in 486, Cosmas was did not fall out of the emperor’s e scandal lead ing to Theodorus’s removal was his inability to enforce the emperor’s religious policy, for which he was alone blamed and punished.’ Aries 21 and 25), and in trigons with Jupiter (in Leo) and Saturn (in Sagittarius). Venus (at Pisces 2) and the lot of Fortune (at Aquarius 27) were in the (degree-wise") 11th place. Jupiter
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries olnce Arsenius Must Nave replaced | neodorus, the latter S GoOwntIall was very 11kely not independent of his failure to reach a viable compromise between the competing parties. especially as an imperial emissary had also (12.16.4, ed. Charles F. Pazdernik in Frier 20 ce events, which cannot be dated apart from already a praepositus sacri cubiculi, which indi favor. Thus, I find it entirely possible that th Theodorus’s a been sent to 16, 2852), we cates that he help. From the Codex of Justinian know that sometime after the ppointment in 486, Cosmas was did not fall out of the emperor’s e scandal lead ing to Theodorus’s removal was his inability to enforce the emperor’s religious policy, for which he was alone blamed and punished.’ Aries 21 and 25), and in trigons with Jupiter (in Leo) and Saturn (in Sagittarius). Venus (at Pisces 2) and the lot of Fortune (at Aquarius 27) were in the (degree-wise") 11th place. Jupiter
the 12th place. In the table below, the places are calculated per the various methods: degree-wise calculation again because according to the sign-place method, she should be ir n §3, it is said 2nd place. InE, as though Jupi noroscope, no that Jupiter and Venus are in the succeden ord of the city” is also said to be in the same place. In §4d, t planet is found in the 2nd place, the prob t of the ascendant, which is th they are called “the lords of the city” (ot kUpiot tig mé6AEWs), while in F, “th he same information is repeatec ter and Venus “of the city” are in the 2nd place. Since in the presen em can only be resolved if we suppose that by invoking the city—by which, certainly Alexandria is meant—Anon. refers t« Alexandria’s nativity preserved in Le,, in which Venus and—erroneously—Jupiter are bot} in Taurus, which constitutes the 10th place there while being the 2nd place of the presen horoscope, conforming to Anon.’s statement.
the 12th place. In the table below, the places are calculated per the various methods: degree-wise calculation again because according to the sign-place method, she should be ir n §3, it is said 2nd place. InE, as though Jupi noroscope, no that Jupiter and Venus are in the succeden ord of the city” is also said to be in the same place. In §4d, t planet is found in the 2nd place, the prob t of the ascendant, which is th they are called “the lords of the city” (ot kUpiot tig mé6AEWs), while in F, “th he same information is repeatec ter and Venus “of the city” are in the 2nd place. Since in the presen em can only be resolved if we suppose that by invoking the city—by which, certainly Alexandria is meant—Anon. refers t« Alexandria’s nativity preserved in Le,, in which Venus and—erroneously—Jupiter are bot} in Taurus, which constitutes the 10th place there while being the 2nd place of the presen horoscope, conforming to Anon.’s statement.
170 + and 6 is taken for Constantinople;’” in fact, the ascendant should be at Sagittarius 8;56. departure, Caesarea—most probably, Caesarea Maritima on the coastline of Palestine.’® However, as it is indicated in the table below, the midheaven of Virgo 22 given by “Balchus” corresponds neither with Sagittarius 6 of the same “Balchus” nor Sagittarius 5 and 8 recorded in the Arabic D and H, respectively, provided that for Caesarea, we take the mean between the data for zones 3 and 4, just as in Cases II, IV, and VI, the mean between zones 5 and 6 is taken for Constantinople;'” in fact, the ascendant should be at Sagittarius 8;56.
170 + and 6 is taken for Constantinople;’” in fact, the ascendant should be at Sagittarius 8;56. departure, Caesarea—most probably, Caesarea Maritima on the coastline of Palestine.’® However, as it is indicated in the table below, the midheaven of Virgo 22 given by “Balchus” corresponds neither with Sagittarius 6 of the same “Balchus” nor Sagittarius 5 and 8 recorded in the Arabic D and H, respectively, provided that for Caesarea, we take the mean between the data for zones 3 and 4, just as in Cases II, IV, and VI, the mean between zones 5 and 6 is taken for Constantinople;'” in fact, the ascendant should be at Sagittarius 8;56.
It was Neugebauer-van Hoesen 1959, 142 n. 1a who first assumed Caesarea Maritima as the place of embarkment; see also ibid. 143 for the somewhat hasty conclusion, based on modern latitude data— which should be 40;12 precisely—that the locality of the horoscope was Abydus. According to Ptol. geogr. 5.2.3, Abydus has the latitude of 41;15, only little higher than zone 5, and for zone 5, the midheavens corresponding to ascendants of Sagittarius 5, 6, and 8 are Virgo 22;11, 23;29, and 26;16, respectively. Nevertheless, there is no reason why Abydus should be considered for the locality. ° According to Ptol. geogr. 5.16.2, Caesarea lies on 32;30 geographical latitude, nearly precisely between 30:22 and 36:0, the latitudes associated with zones 3 and 4.
It was Neugebauer-van Hoesen 1959, 142 n. 1a who first assumed Caesarea Maritima as the place of embarkment; see also ibid. 143 for the somewhat hasty conclusion, based on modern latitude data— which should be 40;12 precisely—that the locality of the horoscope was Abydus. According to Ptol. geogr. 5.2.3, Abydus has the latitude of 41;15, only little higher than zone 5, and for zone 5, the midheavens corresponding to ascendants of Sagittarius 5, 6, and 8 are Virgo 22;11, 23;29, and 26;16, respectively. Nevertheless, there is no reason why Abydus should be considered for the locality. ° According to Ptol. geogr. 5.16.2, Caesarea lies on 32;30 geographical latitude, nearly precisely between 30:22 and 36:0, the latitudes associated with zones 3 and 4.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries ’° The Arabic version confounds this and the previous signal but does not provide an indication.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries ’° The Arabic version confounds this and the previous signal but does not provide an indication.
The table for comparison: The ship must have been a large freight vessel, which was capable of transporting camels—dromedaries, to be precise. It also carried luxury items suitable for banqueting— curtains (xoptivat), frontlets (ppovtéAia), and tablecloths (adxovBntéA1a)—silverware (EpyouovKia dpyupa) and litters (Baotépvia). The dromedaries were from Africa, probably from Cyrenaica, and the luxury items were likely collected in Alexandria during a stopover. The ship then probably took a direct open sea route toward Athens via Rhodes. After a delay of about 15 days, during which the ship was in danger—due to this, a part of the cargo had to be jettisoned, causing financial loss—it finally arrived when, the sun already having entered Leo, the moon reached Sagittarius; that is, on July 29. According to Dagron and Rougé’s estimation, the crossing should have taken about 15 days, which puts the departure from Alexandria at about June 29. It is then understandable why the querent became worried about two days following the expected arrival.
The table for comparison: The ship must have been a large freight vessel, which was capable of transporting camels—dromedaries, to be precise. It also carried luxury items suitable for banqueting— curtains (xoptivat), frontlets (ppovtéAia), and tablecloths (adxovBntéA1a)—silverware (EpyouovKia dpyupa) and litters (Baotépvia). The dromedaries were from Africa, probably from Cyrenaica, and the luxury items were likely collected in Alexandria during a stopover. The ship then probably took a direct open sea route toward Athens via Rhodes. After a delay of about 15 days, during which the ship was in danger—due to this, a part of the cargo had to be jettisoned, causing financial loss—it finally arrived when, the sun already having entered Leo, the moon reached Sagittarius; that is, on July 29. According to Dagron and Rougé’s estimation, the crossing should have taken about 15 days, which puts the departure from Alexandria at about June 29. It is then understandable why the querent became worried about two days following the expected arrival.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries “? The Arabic gives the same interpretation to this signal as the following one’s.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries “? The Arabic gives the same interpretation to this signal as the following one’s.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries Sagittarius, and Saturn and Mars in Virgo).—They would change ships.
c. An astrological paraphrase with technical commentaries Sagittarius, and Saturn and Mars in Virgo).—They would change ships.
examines the moon’s sign and terms. As the comparison with the witnesses of Dorotheus’s “8° Presumably in order to avoid repetition, it is called the “receiver” (bnodeEapevos) of lot’s lord; but This latter solution also reveals Anon.’s reconstructible method: having discoverec how many planets—including the ascendant—there were in common signs, he connectec the loose ends by wonder why not, t finding what they ruled and thus claiming them importance. One might hen, state that they would not change ships because the moon, the lord: of the ascendant and the lot of Fortune, Mercury and Jupiter, and the midheaven were all ir fixed signs? Perha ps a satisfactory answer could be given or could not, but in any case, it suggests that Anon. was more eager to confirm his initial hypotheses with further evidence than to try and dis prove them with potential counter-evidence. than to try and disprove them with potential counter-evidence.
examines the moon’s sign and terms. As the comparison with the witnesses of Dorotheus’s “8° Presumably in order to avoid repetition, it is called the “receiver” (bnodeEapevos) of lot’s lord; but This latter solution also reveals Anon.’s reconstructible method: having discoverec how many planets—including the ascendant—there were in common signs, he connectec the loose ends by wonder why not, t finding what they ruled and thus claiming them importance. One might hen, state that they would not change ships because the moon, the lord: of the ascendant and the lot of Fortune, Mercury and Jupiter, and the midheaven were all ir fixed signs? Perha ps a satisfactory answer could be given or could not, but in any case, it suggests that Anon. was more eager to confirm his initial hypotheses with further evidence than to try and dis prove them with potential counter-evidence. than to try and disprove them with potential counter-evidence.
The introduction of the co-rising constellations (napavatéAAovta) into astrology i:
The introduction of the co-rising constellations (napavatéAAovta) into astrology i:
Let us examine them closer, beginning with Pamprepius’s nativity. all calculated with Ptolemaic data. In a tabular format:'”
Let us examine them closer, beginning with Pamprepius’s nativity. all calculated with Ptolemaic data. In a tabular format:'”
taken. We are provided plenty of biographical details and astrological reasoning, which need ’ For the sake of completeness, I anticipate the results of the following investigations.
taken. We are provided plenty of biographical details and astrological reasoning, which need ’ For the sake of completeness, I anticipate the results of the following investigations.
Even if not a king’s, the nativity that constitutes Rev. Expl. 28a on f. 25r of Pay, editec by Cumont in CCAG 8.4, 224-225 and then in Pingree 1976c, 146-148, is certainly related Titled “A birth of a non-viable (child)” (Téveoig &tpdqov), it belongs to “an emperor’s son’ (téxvov BaotAgws), who was born on April 25, 179 Diocletian (= 463 CE) in the 7th diurna hour and died in Constantinople at the age of 5 months and 5 days—that is, on September 3¢ of the same year. The emperor was certainly Leo I (reigned 457-474), and one source—Life 0 Daniel the Stylite 38—indeed records that he and his wife, Verina, had a son. The positions ot the lots of Fortune and Daimon ensure that the recorded ascendant, Leo 26, is correct, but for Constantinople, which lies between zones 5 and 6, the midheaven should more precisely be at Taurus 18 than at Taurus 17, as it is given. Otherwise, the data are correct for about 12h 50m local apparent time for Constantinople, which was within the 7th diurnal hour. The data: 12h 50m local apparent time for Constantinople, which was within the 7th diurnal hour. The
Even if not a king’s, the nativity that constitutes Rev. Expl. 28a on f. 25r of Pay, editec by Cumont in CCAG 8.4, 224-225 and then in Pingree 1976c, 146-148, is certainly related Titled “A birth of a non-viable (child)” (Téveoig &tpdqov), it belongs to “an emperor’s son’ (téxvov BaotAgws), who was born on April 25, 179 Diocletian (= 463 CE) in the 7th diurna hour and died in Constantinople at the age of 5 months and 5 days—that is, on September 3¢ of the same year. The emperor was certainly Leo I (reigned 457-474), and one source—Life 0 Daniel the Stylite 38—indeed records that he and his wife, Verina, had a son. The positions ot the lots of Fortune and Daimon ensure that the recorded ascendant, Leo 26, is correct, but for Constantinople, which lies between zones 5 and 6, the midheaven should more precisely be at Taurus 18 than at Taurus 17, as it is given. Otherwise, the data are correct for about 12h 50m local apparent time for Constantinople, which was within the 7th diurnal hour. The data: 12h 50m local apparent time for Constantinople, which was within the 7th diurnal hour. The
Figure 22. The chart of the nativity of the emperor Leo I’s unnamed son in modern format The interpretation is exceptionally brief, which implies that the editor severel\ abridged it; it reads, “the trigonal rulers of the hour-marker and the light in-party declinec while they were contrary to themselves and beheld by Ares” (oi tptywvodeondétat toi @POOKOTOU Kal TOD aipEeTIKOD PwTOG aNEKAIVAV EvavTLOUHEVOL EAUTOIG Kal UMNO "ApEw Sewpovpevor; ed. Pingree 1976c, 141.8-9 =Cumont in CCAG 8.4, 225.4-5). However, thi statement is valid only for the triplicity lords of the governing luminary, the sun; they ar Venus and the moon (see below). Venus was together with Mars in her detriment—literally “contrariety” (E€vavttwya)—in Aries, and the moon was also in her detriment, in Capricorn in a square with Mars. Therefore, the reference to the hour-marker should be deleted, anc one should read oi tp1ywvodeondtat {tod WpooKdrov Kai} tod aipetiKod Pwtds KTA. instead one should read oi tp1rywvodeondétat {tod WpooKdrov Kai} Tob aipetiKod Pwtdc KTA. instead
Figure 22. The chart of the nativity of the emperor Leo I’s unnamed son in modern format The interpretation is exceptionally brief, which implies that the editor severel\ abridged it; it reads, “the trigonal rulers of the hour-marker and the light in-party declinec while they were contrary to themselves and beheld by Ares” (oi tptywvodeondétat toi @POOKOTOU Kal TOD aipEeTIKOD PwTOG aNEKAIVAV EvavTLOUHEVOL EAUTOIG Kal UMNO "ApEw Sewpovpevor; ed. Pingree 1976c, 141.8-9 =Cumont in CCAG 8.4, 225.4-5). However, thi statement is valid only for the triplicity lords of the governing luminary, the sun; they ar Venus and the moon (see below). Venus was together with Mars in her detriment—literally “contrariety” (E€vavttwya)—in Aries, and the moon was also in her detriment, in Capricorn in a square with Mars. Therefore, the reference to the hour-marker should be deleted, anc one should read oi tp1ywvodeondtat {tod WpooKdrov Kai} tod aipetiKod Pwtds KTA. instead one should read oi tp1rywvodeondétat {tod WpooKdrov Kai} Tob aipetiKod Pwtdc KTA. instead
Like the previous one, this is a nativity of a non-viable child, although the chapter where we should learn more about the doctrines is lost. However, the similarity of the subject and the presentation of the data both suggest Anon.’s authorship, which is further strengthened by the use of the expression “receiver” (bnodeEcuevoc, ed. 240.22) in the sense of “a planet receiving another planet in its own domicile, terms, triplicity, or exaltation,” which is attes ted not only in Case X.4 but also—apart from Paul. 24 (ed. Boer 1958, 72.8) and Olymp. 11 (ed. Boer 1962, 19.19)—in Expl. 5.66 (ed. Cumont in CCAG 8.4, 105.7), 82 (ed. 209.3), 84 (ed. 214.15 , and 85 (ed. 214.20). The data: apparent time, which was the 10th diurnal hour.
Like the previous one, this is a nativity of a non-viable child, although the chapter where we should learn more about the doctrines is lost. However, the similarity of the subject and the presentation of the data both suggest Anon.’s authorship, which is further strengthened by the use of the expression “receiver” (bnodeEcuevoc, ed. 240.22) in the sense of “a planet receiving another planet in its own domicile, terms, triplicity, or exaltation,” which is attes ted not only in Case X.4 but also—apart from Paul. 24 (ed. Boer 1958, 72.8) and Olymp. 11 (ed. Boer 1962, 19.19)—in Expl. 5.66 (ed. Cumont in CCAG 8.4, 105.7), 82 (ed. 209.3), 84 (ed. 214.15 , and 85 (ed. 214.20). The data: apparent time, which was the 10th diurnal hour.
3:37, is repeated, which must be corrected to 2;47. The data with this correction *asteriskec indeed. The data are recorded very carefully, but for the midheaven, Mercury’s longitude,
3:37, is repeated, which must be corrected to 2;47. The data with this correction *asteriskec indeed. The data are recorded very carefully, but for the midheaven, Mercury’s longitude,
In the table below, I append the computation for both possible dates. In the first chapter of the additament to Valens’s Collected Works, the anonymous
In the table below, I append the computation for both possible dates. In the first chapter of the additament to Valens’s Collected Works, the anonymous
We have seen links between Anon.’s inceptions, certain and likely nativities, and th compendium that was composed around 504, which implies that the compendium and th cases were authored by Anon. The fact that the nativity of 428 appears in another collection where all the twelve nativities, including five 4th or 5th-century nativities, are analyzed it the same fashion, suggests that this collection may also have been edited by Anon., whicl means that he re-used cases from Dorotheus as well. Nonetheless, the nativity o Valentinian III may only be associated with him because of the date, the use of Ptolemai: parameters, and since we know that the compendium contained imperial births—for whicl a version of Hadrian’s nativity originating from Antigonus is also a candidate—but it is a least instructive that this birth is transmitted in a recension of Valens that is often cited by the compendium’s author (see Subsection VI.A.17.b below), and that the death of the nativ. of 431 is foretold to occur in 504, the likely year of composition for the compendium. and one day; in other words, it is foretold that he would die on September 10, 504. The data
We have seen links between Anon.’s inceptions, certain and likely nativities, and th compendium that was composed around 504, which implies that the compendium and th cases were authored by Anon. The fact that the nativity of 428 appears in another collection where all the twelve nativities, including five 4th or 5th-century nativities, are analyzed it the same fashion, suggests that this collection may also have been edited by Anon., whicl means that he re-used cases from Dorotheus as well. Nonetheless, the nativity o Valentinian III may only be associated with him because of the date, the use of Ptolemai: parameters, and since we know that the compendium contained imperial births—for whicl a version of Hadrian’s nativity originating from Antigonus is also a candidate—but it is a least instructive that this birth is transmitted in a recension of Valens that is often cited by the compendium’s author (see Subsection VI.A.17.b below), and that the death of the nativ. of 431 is foretold to occur in 504, the likely year of composition for the compendium. and one day; in other words, it is foretold that he would die on September 10, 504. The data
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