Timaeus Pt 1

Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Jowett. Part two. Jowett. Part two. Jowett. Part two. Timaeus. Timaeus. Timaeus. Let me tell you then why the creator Let me tell you then why the creator Let me tell you then why the creator made this world of generation. He was made this world of generation. He was made this world of generation. He was good, and the good can never have any good, and the good can never have any good, and the good can never have any jealousy of anything. And being free jealousy of anything. And being free jealousy of anything. And being free from jealousy, he desired that all from jealousy, he desired that all from jealousy, he desired that all things should be as like himself as they things should be as like himself as they things should be as like himself as they could be. could be. could be. This is, in the truest sense, the origin This is, in the truest sense, the origin This is, in the truest sense, the origin of creation and of the world, as we of creation and of the world, as we of creation and of the world, as we shall do well in believing on the shall do well in believing on the shall do well in believing on the testimony of wise men. testimony of wise men. testimony of wise men. God desired that all things should be God desired that all things should be God desired that all things should be good and nothing bad, so far as this was good and nothing bad, so far as this was good and nothing bad, so far as this was attainable. attainable. attainable. Wherefore also, finding the whole Wherefore also, finding the whole Wherefore also, finding the whole visible sphere not at rest, but moving visible sphere not at rest, but moving visible sphere not at rest, but moving in an irregular and disorderly fashion, in an irregular and disorderly fashion, in an irregular and disorderly fashion, out of disorder he brought order, out of disorder he brought order, out of disorder he brought order, considering that this was in every way considering that this was in every way considering that this was in every way better than the other. better than the other. better than the other. Now, the deeds of the best could never Now, the deeds of the best could never Now, the deeds of the best could never be or have been other than the fairest. be or have been other than the fairest. be or have been other than the fairest. And the creator, reflecting on the And the creator, reflecting on the And the creator, reflecting on the things which are by nature visible, things which are by nature visible, things which are by nature visible, found that no unintelligent creature, found that no unintelligent creature, found that no unintelligent creature, taken as a whole, was fairer than the taken as a whole, was fairer than the taken as a whole, was fairer than the intelligent taken as a whole.

intelligent taken as a whole. intelligent taken as a whole. And that intelligence could not be And that intelligence could not be And that intelligence could not be present in anything which was devoid of present in anything which was devoid of present in anything which was devoid of soul. soul. soul. For which reason, when he was framing For which reason, when he was framing For which reason, when he was framing the universe, he put intelligence in the universe, he put intelligence in the universe, he put intelligence in soul and soul in body, that he might be soul and soul in body, that he might be soul and soul in body, that he might be the creator of a work which was by the creator of a work which was by the creator of a work which was by nature fairest and best. nature fairest and best. nature fairest and best. Wherefore, using the language of Wherefore, using the language of Wherefore, using the language of probability, we may say that the world probability, we may say that the world probability, we may say that the world became a living creature, truly endowed became a living creature, truly endowed became a living creature, truly endowed with soul and intelligence, by the with soul and intelligence, by the with soul and intelligence, by the providence of God. providence of God. providence of God. This being supposed, let us proceed to This being supposed, let us proceed to This being supposed, let us proceed to the next stage. In the likeness of what the next stage. In the likeness of what the next stage. In the likeness of what animal did the creator make the world? animal did the creator make the world? animal did the creator make the world? It would be an unworthy thing to liken It would be an unworthy thing to liken It would be an unworthy thing to liken it to any nature which exists as a part it to any nature which exists as a part it to any nature which exists as a part only. only. only. For nothing can be beautiful which is For nothing can be beautiful which is For nothing can be beautiful which is like any imperfect thing. like any imperfect thing. like any imperfect thing. But let us suppose the world to be the But let us suppose the world to be the But let us suppose the world to be the very image of that whole of which all very image of that whole of which all very image of that whole of which all other animals, both individually and in other animals, both individually and in other animals, both individually and in their tribes, are portions. their tribes, are portions. their tribes, are portions. For the original of the universe For the original of the universe For the original of the universe contains in itself all intelligible contains in itself all intelligible contains in itself all intelligible beings, just as this world comprehends beings, just as this world comprehends beings, just as this world comprehends us and all other visible creatures.

us and all other visible creatures. us and all other visible creatures. For the deity, intending to make this For the deity, intending to make this For the deity, intending to make this world like the fairest and most perfect world like the fairest and most perfect world like the fairest and most perfect of intelligible beings, of intelligible beings, of intelligible beings, framed one visible animal, comprehending framed one visible animal, comprehending framed one visible animal, comprehending within itself all other animals of a within itself all other animals of a within itself all other animals of a kindred nature. kindred nature. kindred nature. Are we right in saying that there is one Are we right in saying that there is one Are we right in saying that there is one world, or that they are many and world, or that they are many and world, or that they are many and infinite? infinite? infinite? There must be one only if the created There must be one only if the created There must be one only if the created copy is to accord with the original. copy is to accord with the original. copy is to accord with the original. For that which includes all other For that which includes all other For that which includes all other intelligible creatures cannot have a intelligible creatures cannot have a intelligible creatures cannot have a second or companion. second or companion. second or companion. In that case, there would be need of In that case, there would be need of In that case, there would be need of another living being which would include another living being which would include another living being which would include both, and of which they would be parts, both, and of which they would be parts, both, and of which they would be parts, and the likeness would be more truly and the likeness would be more truly and the likeness would be more truly said to resemble not them, but that said to resemble not them, but that said to resemble not them, but that other which included them. other which included them. other which included them. In order then that the world might be In order then that the world might be In order then that the world might be solitary, like the perfect animal, the solitary, like the perfect animal, the solitary, like the perfect animal, the creator made not two worlds or an creator made not two worlds or an creator made not two worlds or an infinite number of them, but there is infinite number of them, but there is infinite number of them, but there is and ever will be one only, begotten and and ever will be one only, begotten and and ever will be one only, begotten and created heaven. created heaven. created heaven. Now, that which is created is of Now, that which is created is of Now, that which is created is of necessity corporeal and also visible and necessity corporeal and also visible and necessity corporeal and also visible and tangible.

tangible. tangible. And nothing is visible where there is no And nothing is visible where there is no And nothing is visible where there is no fire, or tangible which has no solidity, fire, or tangible which has no solidity, fire, or tangible which has no solidity, and nothing is solid without earth. and nothing is solid without earth. and nothing is solid without earth. Wherefore also God in the beginning of Wherefore also God in the beginning of Wherefore also God in the beginning of creation made the body of the universe creation made the body of the universe creation made the body of the universe to consist of fire and earth. to consist of fire and earth. to consist of fire and earth. But two things cannot be rightly put But two things cannot be rightly put But two things cannot be rightly put together without a third. There must be together without a third. There must be together without a third. There must be some bond of union between them. some bond of union between them. some bond of union between them. And the fairest bond is that which makes And the fairest bond is that which makes And the fairest bond is that which makes the most complete fusion of itself and the most complete fusion of itself and the most complete fusion of itself and the things which it combines. the things which it combines. the things which it combines. And proportion is best adapted to affect And proportion is best adapted to affect And proportion is best adapted to affect such a union. such a union. such a union. For whenever in any three numbers, For whenever in any three numbers, For whenever in any three numbers, whether cube or square, there is a mean whether cube or square, there is a mean whether cube or square, there is a mean which is to the last term what the first which is to the last term what the first which is to the last term what the first term is to it, and again, when the mean term is to it, and again, when the mean term is to it, and again, when the mean is to the first term as the last term is is to the first term as the last term is is to the first term as the last term is to the mean, to the mean, to the mean, then the mean becoming first and last, then the mean becoming first and last, then the mean becoming first and last, and the first and last both becoming and the first and last both becoming and the first and last both becoming means, they will all of them of means, they will all of them of means, they will all of them of necessity come to be the same, and necessity come to be the same, and necessity come to be the same, and having become the same with one another, having become the same with one another, having become the same with one another, will be all one. will be all one. will be all one. If the universal frame had been created If the universal frame had been created If the universal frame had been created a surface only, and having no depth, a a surface only, and having no depth, a a surface only, and having no depth, a single mean would have sufficed to bind single mean would have sufficed to bind single mean would have sufficed to bind together itself and the other terms. But together itself and the other terms. But together itself and the other terms. But now, as the world must be solid, and now, as the world must be solid, and now, as the world must be solid, and solid bodies are always compacted not by solid bodies are always compacted not by solid bodies are always compacted not by one mean, but by two, one mean, but by two, one mean, but by two, God placed water and air in the mean God placed water and air in the mean God placed water and air in the mean between fire and earth, and made them to between fire and earth, and made them to between fire and earth, and made them to have the same proportion, so far as was have the same proportion, so far as was have the same proportion, so far as was possible, possible, possible, as fire is to air, so is air to water, as fire is to air, so is air to water, as fire is to air, so is air to water, and as air is to water, so is water to

and as air is to water, so is water to and as air is to water, so is water to earth. earth. earth. And thus he bound and put together a And thus he bound and put together a And thus he bound and put together a visible and tangible heaven. visible and tangible heaven. visible and tangible heaven. And for these reasons, and out of such And for these reasons, and out of such And for these reasons, and out of such elements, which are in number four, the elements, which are in number four, the elements, which are in number four, the body of the world was created, and it body of the world was created, and it body of the world was created, and it was harmonized by proportion, and was harmonized by proportion, and was harmonized by proportion, and therefore has the spirit of friendship, therefore has the spirit of friendship, therefore has the spirit of friendship, and having been reconciled to itself, it and having been reconciled to itself, it and having been reconciled to itself, it was indissoluble by the hand of any was indissoluble by the hand of any was indissoluble by the hand of any other than the framer. other than the framer. other than the framer. Now, the creation took up the whole of Now, the creation took up the whole of Now, the creation took up the whole of each of the four elements, for the each of the four elements, for the each of the four elements, for the creator compounded the world out of all creator compounded the world out of all creator compounded the world out of all the fire, and all the water, and all the the fire, and all the water, and all the the fire, and all the water, and all the air, and all the earth, leaving no part air, and all the earth, leaving no part air, and all the earth, leaving no part of any of them, nor any power of them of any of them, nor any power of them of any of them, nor any power of them outside. outside. outside. His intention was, in the first place, His intention was, in the first place, His intention was, in the first place, that the animal should be, as far as that the animal should be, as far as that the animal should be, as far as possible, a perfect whole, and of possible, a perfect whole, and of possible, a perfect whole, and of perfect parts. perfect parts. perfect parts. Secondly, that it should be one, leaving Secondly, that it should be one, leaving Secondly, that it should be one, leaving no remnants out of which another such no remnants out of which another such no remnants out of which another such world might be created, and also that it world might be created, and also that it world might be created, and also that it should be free from old age and should be free from old age and should be free from old age and unaffected by disease. unaffected by disease. unaffected by disease. Considering that if heat and cold and Considering that if heat and cold and Considering that if heat and cold and other powerful forces which unite bodies other powerful forces which unite bodies other powerful forces which unite bodies surround and attack them from without surround and attack them from without surround and attack them from without when they are unprepared, they decompose when they are unprepared, they decompose when they are unprepared, they decompose them, and by bringing diseases and old them, and by bringing diseases and old them, and by bringing diseases and old age upon them make them waste away.

age upon them make them waste away. age upon them make them waste away. For this cause and on these grounds, he For this cause and on these grounds, he For this cause and on these grounds, he made the world one whole, having every made the world one whole, having every made the world one whole, having every part entire, and being therefore perfect part entire, and being therefore perfect part entire, and being therefore perfect and not liable to old age and disease. and not liable to old age and disease. and not liable to old age and disease. And he gave to the world the figure And he gave to the world the figure And he gave to the world the figure which was suitable and also natural. which was suitable and also natural. which was suitable and also natural. Now, to the animal which was to Now, to the animal which was to Now, to the animal which was to comprehend all animals, that figure was comprehend all animals, that figure was comprehend all animals, that figure was suitable which comprehends within itself suitable which comprehends within itself suitable which comprehends within itself all other figures. all other figures. all other figures. Wherefore, he made the world in the form Wherefore, he made the world in the form Wherefore, he made the world in the form of a globe, round as from a lathe, of a globe, round as from a lathe, of a globe, round as from a lathe, having its extremes in every direction having its extremes in every direction having its extremes in every direction equidistant from the center, the most equidistant from the center, the most equidistant from the center, the most perfect and the most like itself of all perfect and the most like itself of all perfect and the most like itself of all figures. figures. figures. For he considered that the like is For he considered that the like is For he considered that the like is infinitely fairer than the unlike. infinitely fairer than the unlike. infinitely fairer than the unlike. This he finished off, making the surface This he finished off, making the surface This he finished off, making the surface smooth all round for many reasons. In smooth all round for many reasons. In smooth all round for many reasons. In the first place, because the living the first place, because the living the first place, because the living being had no need of eyes when there was being had no need of eyes when there was being had no need of eyes when there was nothing remaining outside him to be nothing remaining outside him to be nothing remaining outside him to be seen, nor of ears when there was nothing seen, nor of ears when there was nothing seen, nor of ears when there was nothing to be heard, and there was no to be heard, and there was no to be heard, and there was no surrounding atmosphere to be breathed, surrounding atmosphere to be breathed, surrounding atmosphere to be breathed, nor would there have been any use of nor would there have been any use of nor would there have been any use of organs by the help of which he might organs by the help of which he might organs by the help of which he might receive his food or get rid of what it receive his food or get rid of what it receive his food or get rid of what it already digested, since there was already digested, since there was already digested, since there was nothing which went from him or came into nothing which went from him or came into nothing which went from him or came into him, for there was nothing beside him.

him, for there was nothing beside him. him, for there was nothing beside him. Of design, he was created thus, his own Of design, he was created thus, his own Of design, he was created thus, his own waste providing his own food, and all waste providing his own food, and all waste providing his own food, and all that he did or suffered taking place in that he did or suffered taking place in that he did or suffered taking place in and by himself. and by himself. and by himself. For the creator conceived that a being For the creator conceived that a being For the creator conceived that a being which was self-sufficient would be far which was self-sufficient would be far which was self-sufficient would be far more excellent than one which lacked more excellent than one which lacked more excellent than one which lacked anything. anything. anything. And, as he had no need to take anything And, as he had no need to take anything And, as he had no need to take anything or defend himself against anyone, the or defend himself against anyone, the or defend himself against anyone, the creator did not think it necessary to creator did not think it necessary to creator did not think it necessary to bestow upon him hands, bestow upon him hands, bestow upon him hands, nor had he any need of feet, nor of the nor had he any need of feet, nor of the nor had he any need of feet, nor of the whole apparatus of walking, but the whole apparatus of walking, but the whole apparatus of walking, but the movement suited to a spherical form was movement suited to a spherical form was movement suited to a spherical form was assigned to him, being of all the seven assigned to him, being of all the seven assigned to him, being of all the seven that which is most appropriate to mind that which is most appropriate to mind that which is most appropriate to mind and intelligence. and intelligence. and intelligence. And he was made to move in the same And he was made to move in the same And he was made to move in the same manner and on the same spot, within his manner and on the same spot, within his manner and on the same spot, within his own limits, revolving in a circle. own limits, revolving in a circle. own limits, revolving in a circle. All the other six motions were taken All the other six motions were taken All the other six motions were taken away from him, and he was made not to away from him, and he was made not to away from him, and he was made not to partake of their deviations. partake of their deviations. partake of their deviations. And as this circular movement required And as this circular movement required And as this circular movement required no feet, the universe was created no feet, the universe was created no feet, the universe was created without legs and without feet.

without legs and without feet. without legs and without feet. Such was the whole plan of the eternal Such was the whole plan of the eternal Such was the whole plan of the eternal God about the God that was to be, to God about the God that was to be, to God about the God that was to be, to whom for this reason he gave a body whom for this reason he gave a body whom for this reason he gave a body smooth and even, having a surface in smooth and even, having a surface in smooth and even, having a surface in every direction equidistant from the every direction equidistant from the every direction equidistant from the center, a body entire and perfect, and center, a body entire and perfect, and center, a body entire and perfect, and formed out of perfect bodies. formed out of perfect bodies. formed out of perfect bodies. And in the center he put the soul, which And in the center he put the soul, which And in the center he put the soul, which he diffused throughout the body, making he diffused throughout the body, making he diffused throughout the body, making it also to be the exterior environment it also to be the exterior environment it also to be the exterior environment of it. And he made the universe a circle of it. And he made the universe a circle of it. And he made the universe a circle moving in a circle, one and solitary, moving in a circle, one and solitary, moving in a circle, one and solitary, yet by reason of its excellence able to yet by reason of its excellence able to yet by reason of its excellence able to converse with itself, and needing no converse with itself, and needing no converse with itself, and needing no other friendship or acquaintance. other friendship or acquaintance. other friendship or acquaintance. Having these purposes in view, he Having these purposes in view, he Having these purposes in view, he created the world a blessed God. created the world a blessed God. created the world a blessed God. Now, God did not make the soul after the Now, God did not make the soul after the Now, God did not make the soul after the body, although we are speaking of them body, although we are speaking of them body, although we are speaking of them in this order, for having brought them in this order, for having brought them in this order, for having brought them together, he would never have allowed together, he would never have allowed together, he would never have allowed that the elder should be ruled by the that the elder should be ruled by the that the elder should be ruled by the younger. But this is a random manner of younger. But this is a random manner of younger. But this is a random manner of speaking which we have because somehow speaking which we have because somehow speaking which we have because somehow we ourselves too are very much under we ourselves too are very much under we ourselves too are very much under dominion of chance, dominion of chance, dominion of chance, whereas he made the soul in origin and whereas he made the soul in origin and whereas he made the soul in origin and excellence prior to and older than the excellence prior to and older than the excellence prior to and older than the body, to be the ruler and mistress of body, to be the ruler and mistress of body, to be the ruler and mistress of whom the body was to be the subject. And whom the body was to be the subject. And whom the body was to be the subject. And he made her out of the following he made her out of the following he made her out of the following elements and on this wise: elements and on this wise: elements and on this wise: out of the indivisible and unchangeable, out of the indivisible and unchangeable, out of the indivisible and unchangeable, and also out of that which is divisible and also out of that which is divisible and also out of that which is divisible and has to do with material bodies, he and has to do with material bodies, he and has to do with material bodies, he compounded a third, an intermediate kind compounded a third, an intermediate kind compounded a third, an intermediate kind of essence, partaking of the nature of of essence, partaking of the nature of of essence, partaking of the nature of the same and of the other, and this the same and of the other, and this the same and of the other, and this compound he placed accordingly in a mean compound he placed accordingly in a mean compound he placed accordingly in a mean between the indivisible and divisible

between the indivisible and divisible between the indivisible and divisible and material. and material. and material. He took the three elements of the same, He took the three elements of the same, He took the three elements of the same, the other, and the essence, and mingled the other, and the essence, and mingled the other, and the essence, and mingled them into one form, compressing by force them into one form, compressing by force them into one form, compressing by force the reluctant and unsociable nature of the reluctant and unsociable nature of the reluctant and unsociable nature of the other into the same. the other into the same. the other into the same. When he had mingled them with the When he had mingled them with the When he had mingled them with the essence and out of three made one, essence and out of three made one, essence and out of three made one, he again divided this whole into as many he again divided this whole into as many he again divided this whole into as many portions as was fitting. portions as was fitting. portions as was fitting. Each portion being a compound of the Each portion being a compound of the Each portion being a compound of the same, the other, and the essence. same, the other, and the essence. same, the other, and the essence. And he proceeded to divide after this And he proceeded to divide after this And he proceeded to divide after this manner. manner. manner. First of all, he took away one part of First of all, he took away one part of First of all, he took away one part of the whole, one, the whole, one, the whole, one, and then he separated a second part, and then he separated a second part, and then he separated a second part, which was double the first, two, which was double the first, two, which was double the first, two, and then he took away a third part, and then he took away a third part, and then he took away a third part, which was half as much again as the which was half as much again as the which was half as much again as the second, and three times as much as the second, and three times as much as the second, and three times as much as the first, first, first, three, three, three, and then he took a fourth part, which and then he took a fourth part, which and then he took a fourth part, which was twice as much as the second, was twice as much as the second, was twice as much as the second, four, four, four, and a fifth part, which was three times and a fifth part, which was three times and a fifth part, which was three times the third, the third, the third, nine, nine, nine, and a sixth part, which was eight times and a sixth part, which was eight times and a sixth part, which was eight times the first, the first, the first, eight, eight, eight, and a seventh part, which was 27 times and a seventh part, which was 27 times and a seventh part, which was 27 times the first, the first, the first, 27.

27. 27. After this, he filled up the double After this, he filled up the double After this, he filled up the double intervals, that is, between one, two, intervals, that is, between one, two, intervals, that is, between one, two, four, and eight, and the triple, that four, and eight, and the triple, that four, and eight, and the triple, that is, between one, three, nine, 27. is, between one, three, nine, 27. is, between one, three, nine, 27. Cutting off yet other portions from the Cutting off yet other portions from the Cutting off yet other portions from the mixture and placing them in the mixture and placing them in the mixture and placing them in the intervals, so that in each interval intervals, so that in each interval intervals, so that in each interval there were two kinds of means, there were two kinds of means, there were two kinds of means, the one exceeding and exceeded by equal the one exceeding and exceeded by equal the one exceeding and exceeded by equal parts of its extremes, as for example, parts of its extremes, as for example, parts of its extremes, as for example, one, 4/3, two, in which the mean 4/3 is one, 4/3, two, in which the mean 4/3 is one, 4/3, two, in which the mean 4/3 is 1/3 of one more than one, and 1/3 of two 1/3 of one more than one, and 1/3 of two 1/3 of one more than one, and 1/3 of two less than two. less than two. less than two. The other being that kind of mean which The other being that kind of mean which The other being that kind of mean which exceeds and is exceeded by an equal exceeds and is exceeded by an equal exceeds and is exceeded by an equal number. number. number. Where there were intervals of three Where there were intervals of three Where there were intervals of three halves and of four thirds and of nine halves and of four thirds and of nine halves and of four thirds and of nine eighths made by the connecting terms in eighths made by the connecting terms in eighths made by the connecting terms in the former intervals, he filled up all the former intervals, he filled up all the former intervals, he filled up all the intervals of four thirds with the the intervals of four thirds with the the intervals of four thirds with the interval of nine eighths leaving a interval of nine eighths leaving a interval of nine eighths leaving a fraction over and the interval which fraction over and the interval which fraction over and the interval which this fraction expressed was in a ratio this fraction expressed was in a ratio this fraction expressed was in a ratio of 256 of 256 of 256 to 243.

to 243. to 243. And thus the whole mixture out of which And thus the whole mixture out of which And thus the whole mixture out of which he cut these portions was all exhausted he cut these portions was all exhausted he cut these portions was all exhausted by him. by him. by him. This entire compound he divided This entire compound he divided This entire compound he divided lengthways into two parts which he lengthways into two parts which he lengthways into two parts which he joined to one another at the center like joined to one another at the center like joined to one another at the center like the letter X and bent them into a the letter X and bent them into a the letter X and bent them into a circular form connecting them with circular form connecting them with circular form connecting them with themselves and each other at the point themselves and each other at the point themselves and each other at the point opposite to their original meeting point opposite to their original meeting point opposite to their original meeting point and comprehending them in a uniform and comprehending them in a uniform and comprehending them in a uniform revolution upon the same axis, he made revolution upon the same axis, he made revolution upon the same axis, he made the one the outer and the other the the one the outer and the other the the one the outer and the other the inner circle. inner circle. inner circle. Now, the motion of the outer circle he Now, the motion of the outer circle he Now, the motion of the outer circle he called the motion of the same and the called the motion of the same and the called the motion of the same and the motion of the inner circle the motion of motion of the inner circle the motion of motion of the inner circle the motion of the other or diverse. the other or diverse. the other or diverse. The motion of the same he carried round The motion of the same he carried round The motion of the same he carried round by the side, that is of the rectangular by the side, that is of the rectangular by the side, that is of the rectangular figure supposed to be inscribed in the figure supposed to be inscribed in the figure supposed to be inscribed in the circle of the same, to the right and the circle of the same, to the right and the circle of the same, to the right and the motion of the diverse diagonally, that motion of the diverse diagonally, that motion of the diverse diagonally, that is across the rectangular figure from is across the rectangular figure from is across the rectangular figure from corner to corner to the left. And he corner to corner to the left. And he corner to corner to the left. And he gave dominion to the motion of the same gave dominion to the motion of the same gave dominion to the motion of the same and like for that he left single and and like for that he left single and and like for that he left single and undivided, but the inner motion he undivided, but the inner motion he undivided, but the inner motion he divided in six places and made seven divided in six places and made seven divided in six places and made seven unequal circles having their intervals unequal circles having their intervals unequal circles having their intervals in ratios of two and three, three of in ratios of two and three, three of in ratios of two and three, three of each, and made the orbits proceed in a each, and made the orbits proceed in a each, and made the orbits proceed in a direction opposite to one another. And direction opposite to one another. And direction opposite to one another. And three, Sun, Mercury, Venus, he made to three, Sun, Mercury, Venus, he made to three, Sun, Mercury, Venus, he made to move with equal swiftness and the move with equal swiftness and the move with equal swiftness and the remaining four, Moon, Saturn, Mars, remaining four, Moon, Saturn, Mars, remaining four, Moon, Saturn, Mars, Jupiter, to move with unequal swiftness Jupiter, to move with unequal swiftness Jupiter, to move with unequal swiftness to the three and to one another, but in to the three and to one another, but in to the three and to one another, but in due proportion.

due proportion. due proportion. Now, when the creator had framed the Now, when the creator had framed the Now, when the creator had framed the soul according to his will, he formed soul according to his will, he formed soul according to his will, he formed within her the corporeal universe and within her the corporeal universe and within her the corporeal universe and brought the two together, and joining of brought the two together, and joining of brought the two together, and joining of them center to center. them center to center. them center to center. The soul interfused everywhere from the The soul interfused everywhere from the The soul interfused everywhere from the center to the circumference of heaven, center to the circumference of heaven, center to the circumference of heaven, of which also she is the external of which also she is the external of which also she is the external envelopment, herself turning in herself, envelopment, herself turning in herself, envelopment, herself turning in herself, began a divine beginning of began a divine beginning of began a divine beginning of never-ceasing and rational life enduring never-ceasing and rational life enduring never-ceasing and rational life enduring throughout all time. throughout all time. throughout all time. The body of heaven is visible, but the The body of heaven is visible, but the The body of heaven is visible, but the soul is invisible and partakes of reason soul is invisible and partakes of reason soul is invisible and partakes of reason and harmony, and being made by the best and harmony, and being made by the best and harmony, and being made by the best of intellectual and everlasting natures of intellectual and everlasting natures of intellectual and everlasting natures is the best of things created. is the best of things created. is the best of things created. And because she is composed of the same And because she is composed of the same And because she is composed of the same and of the other and of the essence, and of the other and of the essence, and of the other and of the essence, these three, and is divided and united these three, and is divided and united these three, and is divided and united in due proportion and in her revolutions in due proportion and in her revolutions in due proportion and in her revolutions returns upon herself, returns upon herself, returns upon herself, the soul, when touching anything which the soul, when touching anything which the soul, when touching anything which has essence, whether dispersed in parts has essence, whether dispersed in parts has essence, whether dispersed in parts or undivided, is stirred through all her or undivided, is stirred through all her or undivided, is stirred through all her powers to declare the sameness or powers to declare the sameness or powers to declare the sameness or difference of that thing and some other, difference of that thing and some other, difference of that thing and some other, and to what individuals are related and and to what individuals are related and and to what individuals are related and by what affected and in what way and how by what affected and in what way and how by what affected and in what way and how and when, both in the world of and when, both in the world of and when, both in the world of generation and in the world of immutable generation and in the world of immutable generation and in the world of immutable being.

being. being. And when reason, which works with equal And when reason, which works with equal And when reason, which works with equal truth, whether she be in the circle of truth, whether she be in the circle of truth, whether she be in the circle of the diverse or of the same, the diverse or of the same, the diverse or of the same, in voiceless silence holding her onward in voiceless silence holding her onward in voiceless silence holding her onward course in the sphere of the self-moved, course in the sphere of the self-moved, course in the sphere of the self-moved, when reason, I say, is hovering around when reason, I say, is hovering around when reason, I say, is hovering around the sensible world, and when the circle the sensible world, and when the circle the sensible world, and when the circle of the diverse, also moving, truly of the diverse, also moving, truly of the diverse, also moving, truly imparts the intimations of sense to the imparts the intimations of sense to the imparts the intimations of sense to the whole soul, whole soul, whole soul, then arise opinions and beliefs, sure then arise opinions and beliefs, sure then arise opinions and beliefs, sure and certain. and certain. and certain. But when reason is concerned with the But when reason is concerned with the But when reason is concerned with the rational and the circle of the same, rational and the circle of the same, rational and the circle of the same, moving smoothly, declares it, moving smoothly, declares it, moving smoothly, declares it, then intelligence and knowledge are then intelligence and knowledge are then intelligence and knowledge are necessarily perfected. necessarily perfected. necessarily perfected. And if anyone affirms that in which And if anyone affirms that in which And if anyone affirms that in which these two are found to be other than the these two are found to be other than the these two are found to be other than the soul, he will say the very opposite of soul, he will say the very opposite of soul, he will say the very opposite of the truth. the truth. the truth. When the father and creator saw the When the father and creator saw the When the father and creator saw the creature which he had made moving and creature which he had made moving and creature which he had made moving and living, living, living, the created image of the eternal gods, the created image of the eternal gods, the created image of the eternal gods, he rejoiced and in his joy determined to he rejoiced and in his joy determined to he rejoiced and in his joy determined to make the copy still more like the make the copy still more like the make the copy still more like the original. original. original. And as this was eternal, he sought to And as this was eternal, he sought to And as this was eternal, he sought to make the universe eternal so far as make the universe eternal so far as make the universe eternal so far as might be.

might be. might be. Now, the nature of the ideal being was Now, the nature of the ideal being was Now, the nature of the ideal being was everlasting, but to bestow this everlasting, but to bestow this everlasting, but to bestow this attribute in its fullness upon a attribute in its fullness upon a attribute in its fullness upon a creature was impossible. creature was impossible. creature was impossible. Wherefore, he resolved to have a moving Wherefore, he resolved to have a moving Wherefore, he resolved to have a moving image of eternity, and when he set in image of eternity, and when he set in image of eternity, and when he set in order the heaven, he made this image order the heaven, he made this image order the heaven, he made this image eternal, but moving according to number, eternal, but moving according to number, eternal, but moving according to number, while eternity itself rests in unity. while eternity itself rests in unity. while eternity itself rests in unity. And this image we call time. And this image we call time. And this image we call time. For there were no days and nights and For there were no days and nights and For there were no days and nights and months and years before the heaven was months and years before the heaven was months and years before the heaven was created, but when he constructed the created, but when he constructed the created, but when he constructed the heaven, he created them also. heaven, he created them also. heaven, he created them also. They are all parts of time, and the past They are all parts of time, and the past They are all parts of time, and the past and future are created species of time, and future are created species of time, and future are created species of time, which we unconsciously, but wrongly, which we unconsciously, but wrongly, which we unconsciously, but wrongly, transfer to the eternal essence. transfer to the eternal essence. transfer to the eternal essence. For we say that he was, he is, he will For we say that he was, he is, he will For we say that he was, he is, he will be. But the truth is that is alone is be. But the truth is that is alone is be. But the truth is that is alone is properly attributed to him, and that was properly attributed to him, and that was properly attributed to him, and that was and will be are only to be spoken of and will be are only to be spoken of and will be are only to be spoken of becoming in time, for they are motions, becoming in time, for they are motions, becoming in time, for they are motions, but that which is immovably the same but that which is immovably the same but that which is immovably the same cannot become older or younger by time, cannot become older or younger by time, cannot become older or younger by time, nor ever did or has become or hereafter nor ever did or has become or hereafter nor ever did or has become or hereafter will be older or younger, will be older or younger, will be older or younger, nor is subject at all to any of those nor is subject at all to any of those nor is subject at all to any of those states which affect moving and sensible states which affect moving and sensible states which affect moving and sensible things and of which generation is the things and of which generation is the things and of which generation is the cause.

cause. cause. These are the forms of time which These are the forms of time which These are the forms of time which imitates eternity and revolves according imitates eternity and revolves according imitates eternity and revolves according to a law of number. to a law of number. to a law of number. Moreover, when we say that what has Moreover, when we say that what has Moreover, when we say that what has become is become, and what becomes is become is become, and what becomes is become is become, and what becomes is becoming, and that what will become is becoming, and that what will become is becoming, and that what will become is about to become, and that the about to become, and that the about to become, and that the non-existent is non-existent, non-existent is non-existent, non-existent is non-existent, all these are inaccurate modes of all these are inaccurate modes of all these are inaccurate modes of expression. Compare Parmen. expression. Compare Parmen. expression. Compare Parmen. But perhaps this whole subject will be But perhaps this whole subject will be But perhaps this whole subject will be more suitably discussed on some other more suitably discussed on some other more suitably discussed on some other occasion. occasion. occasion. Time then and the heaven came into being Time then and the heaven came into being Time then and the heaven came into being at the same instant in order that, at the same instant in order that, at the same instant in order that, having been created together, if ever having been created together, if ever having been created together, if ever there was to be a dissolution of them, there was to be a dissolution of them, there was to be a dissolution of them, they might be dissolved together. they might be dissolved together. they might be dissolved together. It was framed after the pattern of the It was framed after the pattern of the It was framed after the pattern of the eternal nature, that it might resemble eternal nature, that it might resemble eternal nature, that it might resemble this as far as was possible. this as far as was possible. this as far as was possible. For the pattern exists from eternity, For the pattern exists from eternity, For the pattern exists from eternity, and the created heaven has been and is and the created heaven has been and is and the created heaven has been and is and will be in all time. and will be in all time. and will be in all time. Such was the mind and thought of God in Such was the mind and thought of God in Such was the mind and thought of God in the creation of time. the creation of time. the creation of time. The sun and moon and five other stars, The sun and moon and five other stars, The sun and moon and five other stars, which are called the planets, were which are called the planets, were which are called the planets, were created by him in order to distinguish created by him in order to distinguish created by him in order to distinguish and preserve the numbers of time.

and preserve the numbers of time. and preserve the numbers of time. And when he had made their several And when he had made their several And when he had made their several bodies, he placed them in the orbits in bodies, he placed them in the orbits in bodies, he placed them in the orbits in which the circle of the other was which the circle of the other was which the circle of the other was revolving. revolving. revolving. In seven orbits, seven stars. In seven orbits, seven stars. In seven orbits, seven stars. First, there was the moon in the orbit First, there was the moon in the orbit First, there was the moon in the orbit nearest the earth. And next, the sun in nearest the earth. And next, the sun in nearest the earth. And next, the sun in the second orbit above the earth. the second orbit above the earth. the second orbit above the earth. Then came the morning star and the star Then came the morning star and the star Then came the morning star and the star sacred to Hermes, moving in orbits which sacred to Hermes, moving in orbits which sacred to Hermes, moving in orbits which have an equal swiftness with the sun, have an equal swiftness with the sun, have an equal swiftness with the sun, but in an opposite direction. but in an opposite direction. but in an opposite direction. And this is the reason why the sun and And this is the reason why the sun and And this is the reason why the sun and Hermes and Lucifer overtake and are Hermes and Lucifer overtake and are Hermes and Lucifer overtake and are overtaken by each other. overtaken by each other. overtaken by each other. To enumerate the places which he To enumerate the places which he To enumerate the places which he assigned to the other stars, and to give assigned to the other stars, and to give assigned to the other stars, and to give all the reasons why he assigned them, all the reasons why he assigned them, all the reasons why he assigned them, although a secondary matter, would give although a secondary matter, would give although a secondary matter, would give more trouble than the primary. more trouble than the primary. more trouble than the primary. These things at some future time, when These things at some future time, when These things at some future time, when we are at leisure, may have the we are at leisure, may have the we are at leisure, may have the consideration which they deserve, but consideration which they deserve, but consideration which they deserve, but not at present. not at present. not at present. Now, when all the stars which were Now, when all the stars which were Now, when all the stars which were necessary to the creation of necessary to the creation of necessary to the creation of had attained a motion suitable to them, had attained a motion suitable to them, had attained a motion suitable to them, and had become living creatures having and had become living creatures having and had become living creatures having bodies fastened by vital chains, and bodies fastened by vital chains, and bodies fastened by vital chains, and learned their appointed task, moving in learned their appointed task, moving in learned their appointed task, moving in the motion of the diverse, which is the motion of the diverse, which is the motion of the diverse, which is diagonal, and passes through and is diagonal, and passes through and is diagonal, and passes through and is governed by the motion of the same.

governed by the motion of the same. governed by the motion of the same. They revolved, some in a larger and some They revolved, some in a larger and some They revolved, some in a larger and some in a lesser orbit, those which had a in a lesser orbit, those which had a in a lesser orbit, those which had a lesser orbit revolving faster, and those lesser orbit revolving faster, and those lesser orbit revolving faster, and those which had a larger more slowly. which had a larger more slowly. which had a larger more slowly. Now, by reason of the motion of the Now, by reason of the motion of the Now, by reason of the motion of the same, those which revolved fastest same, those which revolved fastest same, those which revolved fastest appear to be overtaken by those which appear to be overtaken by those which appear to be overtaken by those which moved slower, although they really moved slower, although they really moved slower, although they really overtook them. overtook them. overtook them. For the motion of the same made them all For the motion of the same made them all For the motion of the same made them all turn in a spiral, turn in a spiral, turn in a spiral, and because some went one way and some and because some went one way and some and because some went one way and some another, that which receded most slowly another, that which receded most slowly another, that which receded most slowly from the sphere of the same, which was from the sphere of the same, which was from the sphere of the same, which was the swiftest, appeared to follow it most the swiftest, appeared to follow it most the swiftest, appeared to follow it most nearly. nearly. nearly. That there might be some visible measure That there might be some visible measure That there might be some visible measure of their relative swiftness and slowness of their relative swiftness and slowness of their relative swiftness and slowness as they proceeded in their eight as they proceeded in their eight as they proceeded in their eight courses, courses, courses, God lighted a fire, which we now call God lighted a fire, which we now call God lighted a fire, which we now call the sun, in the second from the earth of the sun, in the second from the earth of the sun, in the second from the earth of these orbits, that it might give light these orbits, that it might give light these orbits, that it might give light to the whole of heaven, and that the to the whole of heaven, and that the to the whole of heaven, and that the animals, as many as nature intended, animals, as many as nature intended, animals, as many as nature intended, might participate in number, learning might participate in number, learning might participate in number, learning arithmetic from the revolution of the arithmetic from the revolution of the arithmetic from the revolution of the same and alike. same and alike. same and alike. Thus then, and for this reason, the Thus then, and for this reason, the Thus then, and for this reason, the night and the day were created, being night and the day were created, being night and the day were created, being the period of the one most intelligent the period of the one most intelligent the period of the one most intelligent revolution.

revolution. revolution. And the month is accomplished when the And the month is accomplished when the And the month is accomplished when the moon has completed her orbit and moon has completed her orbit and moon has completed her orbit and overtaken the sun. overtaken the sun. overtaken the sun. And the year when the sun has completed And the year when the sun has completed And the year when the sun has completed his own orbit. his own orbit. his own orbit. Mankind, with hardly an exception, have Mankind, with hardly an exception, have Mankind, with hardly an exception, have not remarked the periods of the other not remarked the periods of the other not remarked the periods of the other stars, and they have no name for them, stars, and they have no name for them, stars, and they have no name for them, and do not measure them against one and do not measure them against one and do not measure them against one another by the help of number, and hence another by the help of number, and hence another by the help of number, and hence they can scarcely be said to know that they can scarcely be said to know that they can scarcely be said to know that their wanderings, being infinite in their wanderings, being infinite in their wanderings, being infinite in number and admirable for their variety, number and admirable for their variety, number and admirable for their variety, make up time. make up time. make up time. And yet there is no difficulty in seeing And yet there is no difficulty in seeing And yet there is no difficulty in seeing that the perfect number of time fulfills that the perfect number of time fulfills that the perfect number of time fulfills the perfect year when all the eight the perfect year when all the eight the perfect year when all the eight revolutions, having their relative revolutions, having their relative revolutions, having their relative degrees of swiftness, are accomplished degrees of swiftness, are accomplished degrees of swiftness, are accomplished together and attain their completion at together and attain their completion at together and attain their completion at the same time, measured by the rotation the same time, measured by the rotation the same time, measured by the rotation of the same and equally moving. of the same and equally moving. of the same and equally moving. After this manner and for these reasons After this manner and for these reasons After this manner and for these reasons came into being such of the stars as in came into being such of the stars as in came into being such of the stars as in their heavenly progress received their heavenly progress received their heavenly progress received reversals of motion to the end that the reversals of motion to the end that the reversals of motion to the end that the created heaven might imitate the eternal created heaven might imitate the eternal created heaven might imitate the eternal nature and be as like as possible to the nature and be as like as possible to the nature and be as like as possible to the perfect and intelligible animal.

perfect and intelligible animal. perfect and intelligible animal. Thus far and until the birth of time, Thus far and until the birth of time, Thus far and until the birth of time, the created universe was made in the the created universe was made in the the created universe was made in the likeness of the original, likeness of the original, likeness of the original, but inasmuch as all animals were not yet but inasmuch as all animals were not yet but inasmuch as all animals were not yet comprehended therein, it was still comprehended therein, it was still comprehended therein, it was still unlike. unlike. unlike. What remained, the creator then What remained, the creator then What remained, the creator then proceeded to fashion after the nature of proceeded to fashion after the nature of proceeded to fashion after the nature of the pattern. the pattern. the pattern. Now, as in the ideal animal, the mind Now, as in the ideal animal, the mind Now, as in the ideal animal, the mind perceives ideas or species of a certain perceives ideas or species of a certain perceives ideas or species of a certain nature and number, he thought that this nature and number, he thought that this nature and number, he thought that this created animal ought to have species of created animal ought to have species of created animal ought to have species of a like nature and number. a like nature and number. a like nature and number. There are four such. One of them is the There are four such. One of them is the There are four such. One of them is the heavenly race of the gods, another the heavenly race of the gods, another the heavenly race of the gods, another the race of birds whose way is in the air, race of birds whose way is in the air, race of birds whose way is in the air, the third, the watery species, and the the third, the watery species, and the the third, the watery species, and the fourth, the pedestrian and land fourth, the pedestrian and land fourth, the pedestrian and land creatures. creatures. creatures. Of the heavenly and divine, he created Of the heavenly and divine, he created Of the heavenly and divine, he created the greater part out of fire that they the greater part out of fire that they the greater part out of fire that they might be the brightest of all things and might be the brightest of all things and might be the brightest of all things and fairest to behold, and he fashioned them fairest to behold, and he fashioned them fairest to behold, and he fashioned them after the likeness of the universe in after the likeness of the universe in after the likeness of the universe in the figure of a circle and made them the figure of a circle and made them the figure of a circle and made them follow the intelligent motion of the follow the intelligent motion of the follow the intelligent motion of the supreme, distributing them over the supreme, distributing them over the supreme, distributing them over the whole circumference of heaven, which was whole circumference of heaven, which was whole circumference of heaven, which was to be a true cosmos or glorious world to be a true cosmos or glorious world to be a true cosmos or glorious world spangled with them all over. And he gave spangled with them all over. And he gave spangled with them all over. And he gave to each of them two movements. The to each of them two movements. The to each of them two movements. The first, a movement on the same spot after first, a movement on the same spot after first, a movement on the same spot after the same manner, whereby they ever the same manner, whereby they ever the same manner, whereby they ever continue to think consistently the same continue to think consistently the same continue to think consistently the same thoughts about the same things.

thoughts about the same things. thoughts about the same things. The second, a forward movement in which The second, a forward movement in which The second, a forward movement in which they are controlled by the revolution of they are controlled by the revolution of they are controlled by the revolution of the same and alike, the same and alike, the same and alike, but by the other five motions they were but by the other five motions they were but by the other five motions they were unaffected in order that each of them unaffected in order that each of them unaffected in order that each of them might attain the highest perfection. And might attain the highest perfection. And might attain the highest perfection. And for this reason, the fixed stars were for this reason, the fixed stars were for this reason, the fixed stars were created to be divine and eternal created to be divine and eternal created to be divine and eternal animals, ever abiding and revolving animals, ever abiding and revolving animals, ever abiding and revolving after the same manner and on the same after the same manner and on the same after the same manner and on the same spot. spot. spot. And the other stars, which reverse their And the other stars, which reverse their And the other stars, which reverse their motion and are subject to deviations of motion and are subject to deviations of motion and are subject to deviations of this kind, were created in the manner this kind, were created in the manner this kind, were created in the manner already described. already described. already described. The earth, which is our nurse, clinging The earth, which is our nurse, clinging The earth, which is our nurse, clinging or circling around the pole which is or circling around the pole which is or circling around the pole which is extended through the universe, he framed extended through the universe, he framed extended through the universe, he framed to be the guardian and artificer of to be the guardian and artificer of to be the guardian and artificer of night and day, night and day, night and day, first and eldest of gods that are in the first and eldest of gods that are in the first and eldest of gods that are in the interior of heaven. interior of heaven. interior of heaven. Vain would be the attempt to tell all Vain would be the attempt to tell all Vain would be the attempt to tell all the figures of them circling as in the figures of them circling as in the figures of them circling as in dance, and their juxtapositions, and the dance, and their juxtapositions, and the dance, and their juxtapositions, and the return of them in their revolutions upon return of them in their revolutions upon return of them in their revolutions upon themselves, and their approximations, themselves, and their approximations, themselves, and their approximations, and to say which of these deities in and to say which of these deities in and to say which of these deities in their conjunctions meet, and which of their conjunctions meet, and which of their conjunctions meet, and which of them are in opposition, and in what them are in opposition, and in what them are in opposition, and in what order they get behind and before one order they get behind and before one order they get behind and before one another, and when they are severally another, and when they are severally another, and when they are severally eclipsed to our sight, and again eclipsed to our sight, and again eclipsed to our sight, and again reappear, sending terrors and reappear, sending terrors and reappear, sending terrors and intimations of the future to those who intimations of the future to those who intimations of the future to those who cannot calculate their movements.

cannot calculate their movements. cannot calculate their movements. To attempt to tell of all this without a To attempt to tell of all this without a To attempt to tell of all this without a visible representation of the heavenly visible representation of the heavenly visible representation of the heavenly system would be labor in vain. system would be labor in vain. system would be labor in vain. Enough on this head. Enough on this head. Enough on this head. And now let what we have said about the And now let what we have said about the And now let what we have said about the nature of the created and visible gods nature of the created and visible gods nature of the created and visible gods have an end. have an end. have an end. End of part two. Part three of Timaeus. This is a Part three of Timaeus. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox LibriVox recording. All LibriVox LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For recordings are in the public domain. For recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please more information or to volunteer, please more information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna Simon. Simon. Simon. Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Jowett. Part three. Jowett. Part three. Jowett. Part three. Timaeus continues. Timaeus continues. Timaeus continues. To know or tell the origin of the other To know or tell the origin of the other To know or tell the origin of the other divinities is beyond us, and we must divinities is beyond us, and we must divinities is beyond us, and we must accept the traditions of the men of old accept the traditions of the men of old accept the traditions of the men of old time, who affirm themselves to be the time, who affirm themselves to be the time, who affirm themselves to be the offspring of the gods. That is what they offspring of the gods. That is what they offspring of the gods. That is what they say. And they must surely have known say. And they must surely have known say. And they must surely have known their own ancestors. their own ancestors. their own ancestors. How can we doubt the word of the How can we doubt the word of the How can we doubt the word of the children of the gods?

children of the gods? children of the gods? Although they give no probable or Although they give no probable or Although they give no probable or certain proofs, still, as they declare certain proofs, still, as they declare certain proofs, still, as they declare that they are speaking of what took that they are speaking of what took that they are speaking of what took place in their own family, we must place in their own family, we must place in their own family, we must conform to custom and believe them. conform to custom and believe them. conform to custom and believe them. In this manner, then, according to them, In this manner, then, according to them, In this manner, then, according to them, the genealogy of these gods is to be the genealogy of these gods is to be the genealogy of these gods is to be received and so forth. received and so forth. received and so forth. Oceanus and Tethys were the children of Oceanus and Tethys were the children of Oceanus and Tethys were the children of Earth and Heaven, and from these sprang Earth and Heaven, and from these sprang Earth and Heaven, and from these sprang Forces and Cronus and Rhea and all that Forces and Cronus and Rhea and all that Forces and Cronus and Rhea and all that generation. generation. generation. And from Cronus and Rhea sprang Zeus and And from Cronus and Rhea sprang Zeus and And from Cronus and Rhea sprang Zeus and Hera Hera Hera and all those who are said to be their and all those who are said to be their and all those who are said to be their brethren and others who were the brethren and others who were the brethren and others who were the children of these. children of these. children of these. Now, when all of them, both those who Now, when all of them, both those who Now, when all of them, both those who visibly appear in their evolutions as visibly appear in their evolutions as visibly appear in their evolutions as well as those other gods who are of a well as those other gods who are of a well as those other gods who are of a more retiring nature, had come into more retiring nature, had come into more retiring nature, had come into being, the creator of the universe being, the creator of the universe being, the creator of the universe addressed them in these words, addressed them in these words, addressed them in these words, "Gods, children of gods, who are my "Gods, children of gods, who are my "Gods, children of gods, who are my works and of who I am the artificer and works and of who I am the artificer and works and of who I am the artificer and father, my creations are indissoluble, father, my creations are indissoluble, father, my creations are indissoluble, if so I will.

if so I will. if so I will. All that is bound may be undone, but All that is bound may be undone, but All that is bound may be undone, but only an evil being would wish to undo only an evil being would wish to undo only an evil being would wish to undo that which is harmonious and happy. that which is harmonious and happy. that which is harmonious and happy. Wherefore, since you are but creatures, Wherefore, since you are but creatures, Wherefore, since you are but creatures, you are not altogether immortal and you are not altogether immortal and you are not altogether immortal and indissoluble, but you shall certainly indissoluble, but you shall certainly indissoluble, but you shall certainly not be dissolved nor be liable to the not be dissolved nor be liable to the not be dissolved nor be liable to the fate of death, having in my will a fate of death, having in my will a fate of death, having in my will a greater and mightier bond than those greater and mightier bond than those greater and mightier bond than those with which you were bound at the time of with which you were bound at the time of with which you were bound at the time of your birth. your birth. your birth. And now listen to my instructions. And now listen to my instructions. And now listen to my instructions. Three tribes of mortal beings remain to Three tribes of mortal beings remain to Three tribes of mortal beings remain to be created. Without them, the universe be created. Without them, the universe be created. Without them, the universe will be incomplete, for it will not will be incomplete, for it will not will be incomplete, for it will not contain every kind of animal which it contain every kind of animal which it contain every kind of animal which it ought to contain if it is to be perfect. ought to contain if it is to be perfect. ought to contain if it is to be perfect. On the other hand, if they were created On the other hand, if they were created On the other hand, if they were created by me and received life at my hands, by me and received life at my hands, by me and received life at my hands, they would be on an equality with the they would be on an equality with the they would be on an equality with the gods. gods. gods. In order, then, that they may be mortal, In order, then, that they may be mortal, In order, then, that they may be mortal, and that this universe may be truly and that this universe may be truly and that this universe may be truly universal, do ye, according to your universal, do ye, according to your universal, do ye, according to your natures, betake yourselves to the natures, betake yourselves to the natures, betake yourselves to the formation of animals, imitating the formation of animals, imitating the formation of animals, imitating the power which was shown by me in creating power which was shown by me in creating power which was shown by me in creating you.

you. you. The part of them worthy of the name The part of them worthy of the name The part of them worthy of the name immortal, which is called divine and is immortal, which is called divine and is immortal, which is called divine and is the guiding principle of those who are the guiding principle of those who are the guiding principle of those who are willing to follow justice, and you, willing to follow justice, and you, willing to follow justice, and you, of that divine part I will myself sow of that divine part I will myself sow of that divine part I will myself sow the seed, and having made a beginning, I the seed, and having made a beginning, I the seed, and having made a beginning, I will hand the work over to you. will hand the work over to you. will hand the work over to you. And do ye then interweave the mortal And do ye then interweave the mortal And do ye then interweave the mortal with the immortal, and make and beget with the immortal, and make and beget with the immortal, and make and beget living creatures, and give them food, living creatures, and give them food, living creatures, and give them food, and make them to grow, and receive them and make them to grow, and receive them and make them to grow, and receive them again in death. again in death. again in death. Thus he spake, and once more into the Thus he spake, and once more into the Thus he spake, and once more into the cup in which he had previously mingled cup in which he had previously mingled cup in which he had previously mingled the soul of the universe, he poured the the soul of the universe, he poured the the soul of the universe, he poured the remains of the elements, and mingled remains of the elements, and mingled remains of the elements, and mingled them in much the same manner. them in much the same manner. them in much the same manner. They were not, however, pure as before, They were not, however, pure as before, They were not, however, pure as before, but diluted to the second and third but diluted to the second and third but diluted to the second and third degree. degree. degree. And having made it, he divided the whole And having made it, he divided the whole And having made it, he divided the whole mixture into souls equal in number to mixture into souls equal in number to mixture into souls equal in number to the stars, and assigned each soul to a the stars, and assigned each soul to a the stars, and assigned each soul to a star. star. star. And having there placed them as in a And having there placed them as in a And having there placed them as in a chariot, he showed them the nature of chariot, he showed them the nature of chariot, he showed them the nature of the universe, and declared to them the the universe, and declared to them the the universe, and declared to them the laws of destiny, according to which laws of destiny, according to which laws of destiny, according to which their first birth would be one and the their first birth would be one and the their first birth would be one and the same for all.

same for all. same for all. No one should suffer a disadvantage at No one should suffer a disadvantage at No one should suffer a disadvantage at his hands. They were to be sown in the his hands. They were to be sown in the his hands. They were to be sown in the instruments of time and severally instruments of time and severally instruments of time and severally adapted to them, and to come forth the adapted to them, and to come forth the adapted to them, and to come forth the most religious of animals. And as human most religious of animals. And as human most religious of animals. And as human nature was of two kinds, the superior nature was of two kinds, the superior nature was of two kinds, the superior race would hereafter be called man. race would hereafter be called man. race would hereafter be called man. Now, when they should be implanted in Now, when they should be implanted in Now, when they should be implanted in bodies by necessity, and be always bodies by necessity, and be always bodies by necessity, and be always gaining or losing some part of their gaining or losing some part of their gaining or losing some part of their bodily substance, then, in the first bodily substance, then, in the first bodily substance, then, in the first place, it would be necessary that they place, it would be necessary that they place, it would be necessary that they should all have in them one and the same should all have in them one and the same should all have in them one and the same faculty of sensation, arising out of faculty of sensation, arising out of faculty of sensation, arising out of irresistible impressions. irresistible impressions. irresistible impressions. In the second place, they must have In the second place, they must have In the second place, they must have love, in which pleasure and pain mingle, love, in which pleasure and pain mingle, love, in which pleasure and pain mingle, also fear and anger, and the feelings also fear and anger, and the feelings also fear and anger, and the feelings which are akin or opposite to them. which are akin or opposite to them. which are akin or opposite to them. If they conquered these, they would live If they conquered these, they would live If they conquered these, they would live righteously, and if they were conquered righteously, and if they were conquered righteously, and if they were conquered by them, unrighteously. by them, unrighteously. by them, unrighteously. He who lived well during his appointed He who lived well during his appointed He who lived well during his appointed time was to return and dwell in his time was to return and dwell in his time was to return and dwell in his native star, and there he would have a native star, and there he would have a native star, and there he would have a blessed and congenial existence. blessed and congenial existence. blessed and congenial existence. But if he failed in attaining this, at But if he failed in attaining this, at But if he failed in attaining this, at the second birth, he would pass into a the second birth, he would pass into a the second birth, he would pass into a woman. And if, when in that state of woman. And if, when in that state of woman. And if, when in that state of being, he did not desist from evil, he being, he did not desist from evil, he being, he did not desist from evil, he would continually be changed into some would continually be changed into some would continually be changed into some brute who resembled him in the evil brute who resembled him in the evil brute who resembled him in the evil nature which he had acquired, and would nature which he had acquired, and would nature which he had acquired, and would not cease from his toils and not cease from his toils and not cease from his toils and transformations until he followed the transformations until he followed the transformations until he followed the revolution of the same and the like revolution of the same and the like revolution of the same and the like within him, and overcame by the help of within him, and overcame by the help of within him, and overcame by the help of reason the turbulent and irrational mob reason the turbulent and irrational mob reason the turbulent and irrational mob of later accretions made up of fire and of later accretions made up of fire and of later accretions made up of fire and air and water and earth, and returned to air and water and earth, and returned to air and water and earth, and returned to the form of his first and better state.

the form of his first and better state. the form of his first and better state. Having given all these laws to his Having given all these laws to his Having given all these laws to his creatures that he might be guiltless of creatures that he might be guiltless of creatures that he might be guiltless of future evil in any of them, the creator future evil in any of them, the creator future evil in any of them, the creator sowed some of them in the earth and some sowed some of them in the earth and some sowed some of them in the earth and some in the moon and some in the other in the moon and some in the other in the moon and some in the other instruments of time. instruments of time. instruments of time. And when he had sown them, he committed And when he had sown them, he committed And when he had sown them, he committed to the younger gods the fashioning of to the younger gods the fashioning of to the younger gods the fashioning of their mortal bodies and desired them to their mortal bodies and desired them to their mortal bodies and desired them to furnish what was still lacking to the furnish what was still lacking to the furnish what was still lacking to the human soul. human soul. human soul. And having made all the suitable And having made all the suitable And having made all the suitable additions to rule over them and to pilot additions to rule over them and to pilot additions to rule over them and to pilot the mortal animal in the best and wisest the mortal animal in the best and wisest the mortal animal in the best and wisest manner which they could, and avert from manner which they could, and avert from manner which they could, and avert from him all but self-inflicted evils. him all but self-inflicted evils. him all but self-inflicted evils. When the creator had made all these When the creator had made all these When the creator had made all these ordinances, he remained in his own ordinances, he remained in his own ordinances, he remained in his own accustomed nature, and his children accustomed nature, and his children accustomed nature, and his children heard and were obedient to their heard and were obedient to their heard and were obedient to their father's word, and receiving from him father's word, and receiving from him father's word, and receiving from him the immortal principle of a mortal the immortal principle of a mortal the immortal principle of a mortal creature, in imitation of their own creature, in imitation of their own creature, in imitation of their own creator, they borrowed portions of fire creator, they borrowed portions of fire creator, they borrowed portions of fire and earth and water and air from the and earth and water and air from the and earth and water and air from the world which were hereafter to be world which were hereafter to be world which were hereafter to be restored. restored. restored. These they took and welded them These they took and welded them These they took and welded them together, not with the indissoluble together, not with the indissoluble together, not with the indissoluble chains by which they were themselves chains by which they were themselves chains by which they were themselves bound, but with little pegs too small to bound, but with little pegs too small to bound, but with little pegs too small to be visible, making up out of all the be visible, making up out of all the be visible, making up out of all the four elements each separate body, and four elements each separate body, and four elements each separate body, and fastening the courses of the immortal fastening the courses of the immortal fastening the courses of the immortal soul in a body which was in a state of soul in a body which was in a state of soul in a body which was in a state of perpetual influx and efflux.

perpetual influx and efflux. perpetual influx and efflux. Now, these courses, detained as in a Now, these courses, detained as in a Now, these courses, detained as in a vast river, neither overcame nor were vast river, neither overcame nor were vast river, neither overcame nor were overcome, but were hurrying and hurried overcome, but were hurrying and hurried overcome, but were hurrying and hurried to and fro, so that the whole animal was to and fro, so that the whole animal was to and fro, so that the whole animal was moved and progressed, irregularly, moved and progressed, irregularly, moved and progressed, irregularly, however, and irrationally, and anyhow, however, and irrationally, and anyhow, however, and irrationally, and anyhow, in all the six directions of motion, in all the six directions of motion, in all the six directions of motion, wandering backwards and forwards, and wandering backwards and forwards, and wandering backwards and forwards, and right and left, and up and down, and in right and left, and up and down, and in right and left, and up and down, and in all the six directions. all the six directions. all the six directions. For great as was the advancing and For great as was the advancing and For great as was the advancing and retiring flood which provided retiring flood which provided retiring flood which provided nourishment, the affections produced by nourishment, the affections produced by nourishment, the affections produced by external contact caused still greater external contact caused still greater external contact caused still greater tumult. When the body of anyone met and tumult. When the body of anyone met and tumult. When the body of anyone met and came into collision with some external came into collision with some external came into collision with some external fire, or with the solid earth, or the fire, or with the solid earth, or the fire, or with the solid earth, or the gliding waters, or was caught in the gliding waters, or was caught in the gliding waters, or was caught in the tempest born on the air, and the motions tempest born on the air, and the motions tempest born on the air, and the motions produced by any of these impulses were produced by any of these impulses were produced by any of these impulses were carried through the body to the soul. carried through the body to the soul. carried through the body to the soul. All such motions have consequently All such motions have consequently All such motions have consequently received the general name of sensations, received the general name of sensations, received the general name of sensations, which they still retain. which they still retain. which they still retain. And they did in fact at that time create And they did in fact at that time create And they did in fact at that time create a very great and mighty movement, a very great and mighty movement, a very great and mighty movement, uniting with the ever-flowing stream in uniting with the ever-flowing stream in uniting with the ever-flowing stream in stirring up and violently shaking the stirring up and violently shaking the stirring up and violently shaking the courses of the soul. They completely courses of the soul. They completely courses of the soul. They completely stopped the revolution of the same by stopped the revolution of the same by stopped the revolution of the same by their opposing current, and hindered it their opposing current, and hindered it their opposing current, and hindered it from predominating and advancing.

from predominating and advancing. from predominating and advancing. And they so disturbed the nature of the And they so disturbed the nature of the And they so disturbed the nature of the other or diverse that the three double other or diverse that the three double other or diverse that the three double intervals, that is, between 1 2 4 8, and intervals, that is, between 1 2 4 8, and intervals, that is, between 1 2 4 8, and the three triple intervals, that is, the three triple intervals, that is, the three triple intervals, that is, between 1 3 9 27, together with the mean between 1 3 9 27, together with the mean between 1 3 9 27, together with the mean terms and connecting links which are terms and connecting links which are terms and connecting links which are expressed by the ratios of 3 to 2 and 4 expressed by the ratios of 3 to 2 and 4 expressed by the ratios of 3 to 2 and 4 to 3 and of 9 to 8. to 3 and of 9 to 8. to 3 and of 9 to 8. These, although they cannot be wholly These, although they cannot be wholly These, although they cannot be wholly undone except by him who united them, undone except by him who united them, undone except by him who united them, were twisted by them in all sorts of were twisted by them in all sorts of were twisted by them in all sorts of ways, and the circles were broken and ways, and the circles were broken and ways, and the circles were broken and disordered in every possible manner, so disordered in every possible manner, so disordered in every possible manner, so that when they moved, they were tumbling that when they moved, they were tumbling that when they moved, they were tumbling to pieces and moved irrationally, to pieces and moved irrationally, to pieces and moved irrationally, at one time in a reversed direction, and at one time in a reversed direction, and at one time in a reversed direction, and then again obliquely, and then upside then again obliquely, and then upside then again obliquely, and then upside down, as you might imagine a person who down, as you might imagine a person who down, as you might imagine a person who is upside down and has his head leaning is upside down and has his head leaning is upside down and has his head leaning upon the ground and his feet up against upon the ground and his feet up against upon the ground and his feet up against something in the air. something in the air. something in the air. And when he is in such a position, both And when he is in such a position, both And when he is in such a position, both he and the spectator fancy that the he and the spectator fancy that the he and the spectator fancy that the right of either is his left and the left right of either is his left and the left right of either is his left and the left right.

right. right. If, when powerfully experiencing these If, when powerfully experiencing these If, when powerfully experiencing these and similar effects, the revolutions of and similar effects, the revolutions of and similar effects, the revolutions of the soul come in contact with some the soul come in contact with some the soul come in contact with some external thing, either of the class of external thing, either of the class of external thing, either of the class of the same or of the other, the same or of the other, the same or of the other, they speak of the same or of the other they speak of the same or of the other they speak of the same or of the other in a manner the very opposite of the in a manner the very opposite of the in a manner the very opposite of the truth, truth, truth, and they become false and foolish, and and they become false and foolish, and and they become false and foolish, and there is no cause or revolution in them there is no cause or revolution in them there is no cause or revolution in them which has a guiding or directing power. which has a guiding or directing power. which has a guiding or directing power. And if again any sensations enter in And if again any sensations enter in And if again any sensations enter in violently from without and drag after violently from without and drag after violently from without and drag after them the whole vessel of the soul, then them the whole vessel of the soul, then them the whole vessel of the soul, then the courses of the soul, though they the courses of the soul, though they the courses of the soul, though they seem to conquer, are really conquered. seem to conquer, are really conquered. seem to conquer, are really conquered. And by reason of all these affections, And by reason of all these affections, And by reason of all these affections, the soul, when encased in a mortal body, the soul, when encased in a mortal body, the soul, when encased in a mortal body, now as in the beginning, is at first now as in the beginning, is at first now as in the beginning, is at first without intelligence, without intelligence, without intelligence, but when the flood of growth and but when the flood of growth and but when the flood of growth and nutriment abates, and the courses of the nutriment abates, and the courses of the nutriment abates, and the courses of the soul calming down go their own way and soul calming down go their own way and soul calming down go their own way and become steadier as time goes on, then become steadier as time goes on, then become steadier as time goes on, then the several circles return to their the several circles return to their the several circles return to their natural form, and their revolutions are natural form, and their revolutions are natural form, and their revolutions are corrected, and they call the same and corrected, and they call the same and corrected, and they call the same and the other by their right names, and make the other by their right names, and make the other by their right names, and make the possessor of them to become a the possessor of them to become a the possessor of them to become a rational being.

rational being. rational being. And if these combine in him with any And if these combine in him with any And if these combine in him with any true nurture or education, true nurture or education, true nurture or education, he attains the fullness and health of he attains the fullness and health of he attains the fullness and health of the perfect man and escapes the worst the perfect man and escapes the worst the perfect man and escapes the worst disease of all. disease of all. disease of all. But, if he neglects education, he walks But, if he neglects education, he walks But, if he neglects education, he walks lame to the end of his life, and returns lame to the end of his life, and returns lame to the end of his life, and returns imperfect and good-for-nothing to the imperfect and good-for-nothing to the imperfect and good-for-nothing to the world below. world below. world below. This, however, is a later stage. At This, however, is a later stage. At This, however, is a later stage. At present, we must treat more exactly the present, we must treat more exactly the present, we must treat more exactly the subject before us, which involves a subject before us, which involves a subject before us, which involves a preliminary inquiry into the generation preliminary inquiry into the generation preliminary inquiry into the generation of the body and its members, and as to of the body and its members, and as to of the body and its members, and as to how the soul was created. how the soul was created. how the soul was created. For what reason and by what providence For what reason and by what providence For what reason and by what providence of the gods, and holding fast to of the gods, and holding fast to of the gods, and holding fast to probability, we must pursue our way. probability, we must pursue our way. probability, we must pursue our way. First, then, the gods, imitating the First, then, the gods, imitating the First, then, the gods, imitating the spherical shape of the universe, spherical shape of the universe, spherical shape of the universe, enclosed the two divine causes in a enclosed the two divine causes in a enclosed the two divine causes in a spherical body, that namely, which we spherical body, that namely, which we spherical body, that namely, which we now term the head, being the most divine now term the head, being the most divine now term the head, being the most divine part of us, and the lord of all that is part of us, and the lord of all that is part of us, and the lord of all that is in us. in us. in us. To this, the gods, when they put To this, the gods, when they put To this, the gods, when they put together the body, gave all the other together the body, gave all the other together the body, gave all the other members to be servants, considering that members to be servants, considering that members to be servants, considering that it partook of every sort of motion.

it partook of every sort of motion. it partook of every sort of motion. In order, then, that it might not tumble In order, then, that it might not tumble In order, then, that it might not tumble about among the high and deep places of about among the high and deep places of about among the high and deep places of the earth, but might be able to get over the earth, but might be able to get over the earth, but might be able to get over the one and out of the other, they the one and out of the other, they the one and out of the other, they provided the body to be its vehicle and provided the body to be its vehicle and provided the body to be its vehicle and means of locomotion, which, means of locomotion, which, means of locomotion, which, consequently, had length and was consequently, had length and was consequently, had length and was furnished with four limbs extended and furnished with four limbs extended and furnished with four limbs extended and flexible. flexible. flexible. These God contrived to be instruments of These God contrived to be instruments of These God contrived to be instruments of locomotion, with which it might take locomotion, with which it might take locomotion, with which it might take hold and find support, and so be able to hold and find support, and so be able to hold and find support, and so be able to pass through all places, carrying on pass through all places, carrying on pass through all places, carrying on high the dwelling place of the most high the dwelling place of the most high the dwelling place of the most sacred and divine part of us. sacred and divine part of us. sacred and divine part of us. Such was the origin of legs and hands, Such was the origin of legs and hands, Such was the origin of legs and hands, which for this reason were attached to which for this reason were attached to which for this reason were attached to every man. And the gods, deeming the every man. And the gods, deeming the every man. And the gods, deeming the front part of man to be more honorable front part of man to be more honorable front part of man to be more honorable and more fit to command than the hinder and more fit to command than the hinder and more fit to command than the hinder part, made us to move mostly in a part, made us to move mostly in a part, made us to move mostly in a forward direction. forward direction. forward direction. Therefore, man must needs have his front Therefore, man must needs have his front Therefore, man must needs have his front part unlike and distinguished from the part unlike and distinguished from the part unlike and distinguished from the rest of his body. rest of his body. rest of his body. And so, in the vessel of the head, they And so, in the vessel of the head, they And so, in the vessel of the head, they first of all put a face, in which they first of all put a face, in which they first of all put a face, in which they inserted organs to minister in all inserted organs to minister in all inserted organs to minister in all things to the providence of the soul.

things to the providence of the soul. things to the providence of the soul. And they appointed this part, which has And they appointed this part, which has And they appointed this part, which has authority, to be by nature the part authority, to be by nature the part authority, to be by nature the part which is in front. which is in front. which is in front. And of the organs they first contrived And of the organs they first contrived And of the organs they first contrived the eyes to give light. the eyes to give light. the eyes to give light. And the principle according to which And the principle according to which And the principle according to which they were inserted was as follows. they were inserted was as follows. they were inserted was as follows. So much of fire as would not burn, but So much of fire as would not burn, but So much of fire as would not burn, but gave a gentle light, they formed into a gave a gentle light, they formed into a gave a gentle light, they formed into a substance akin to the light of everyday substance akin to the light of everyday substance akin to the light of everyday life. life. life. And the pure fire which is within us and And the pure fire which is within us and And the pure fire which is within us and related thereto, they made to flow related thereto, they made to flow related thereto, they made to flow through the eyes in a stream smooth and through the eyes in a stream smooth and through the eyes in a stream smooth and dense, compressing the whole eye and dense, compressing the whole eye and dense, compressing the whole eye and especially the center part, so that it especially the center part, so that it especially the center part, so that it kept out everything of a coarser nature kept out everything of a coarser nature kept out everything of a coarser nature and allowed to pass only this pure and allowed to pass only this pure and allowed to pass only this pure element. element. element. When the light of day surrounds the When the light of day surrounds the When the light of day surrounds the stream of vision, then like falls upon stream of vision, then like falls upon stream of vision, then like falls upon like and they coalesce. And one body is like and they coalesce. And one body is like and they coalesce. And one body is formed by natural affinity in the line formed by natural affinity in the line formed by natural affinity in the line of vision, wherever the light that falls of vision, wherever the light that falls of vision, wherever the light that falls from within meets with an external from within meets with an external from within meets with an external object. object. object. And the whole stream of vision, being And the whole stream of vision, being And the whole stream of vision, being similarly affected in virtue of similarly affected in virtue of similarly affected in virtue of similarity, diffuses the motions of what similarity, diffuses the motions of what similarity, diffuses the motions of what it touches or what touches it over the it touches or what touches it over the it touches or what touches it over the whole body until they reach the soul, whole body until they reach the soul, whole body until they reach the soul, causing that perception which we call causing that perception which we call causing that perception which we call sight.

sight. sight. But when night comes on and the external But when night comes on and the external But when night comes on and the external and kindred fire departs, then the and kindred fire departs, then the and kindred fire departs, then the stream of vision is cut off. For going stream of vision is cut off. For going stream of vision is cut off. For going forth to an unlike element, it is forth to an unlike element, it is forth to an unlike element, it is changed and extinguished, being no changed and extinguished, being no changed and extinguished, being no longer of one nature with the longer of one nature with the longer of one nature with the surrounding atmosphere, which is now surrounding atmosphere, which is now surrounding atmosphere, which is now deprived of fire. And so the eye no deprived of fire. And so the eye no deprived of fire. And so the eye no longer sees and we feel disposed to longer sees and we feel disposed to longer sees and we feel disposed to sleep. sleep. sleep. For when the eyelids, which the gods For when the eyelids, which the gods For when the eyelids, which the gods invented for the preservation of sight, invented for the preservation of sight, invented for the preservation of sight, are closed, they keep in the internal are closed, they keep in the internal are closed, they keep in the internal fire. And the power of the fire diffuses fire. And the power of the fire diffuses fire. And the power of the fire diffuses and equalizes the inward motions. and equalizes the inward motions. and equalizes the inward motions. When they are equalized, there is rest. When they are equalized, there is rest. When they are equalized, there is rest. And when the rest is profound, sleep And when the rest is profound, sleep And when the rest is profound, sleep comes over us, scarce disturbed by comes over us, scarce disturbed by comes over us, scarce disturbed by dreams. dreams. dreams. But where the greater motions still But where the greater motions still But where the greater motions still remain, of whatever nature and in remain, of whatever nature and in remain, of whatever nature and in whatever locality, they engender whatever locality, they engender whatever locality, they engender corresponding visions in dreams, which corresponding visions in dreams, which corresponding visions in dreams, which are remembered by us when we are awake are remembered by us when we are awake are remembered by us when we are awake and in the external world. and in the external world. and in the external world. And now there is no longer any And now there is no longer any And now there is no longer any difficulty in understanding the creation difficulty in understanding the creation difficulty in understanding the creation of images in mirrors and all smooth and of images in mirrors and all smooth and of images in mirrors and all smooth and bright surfaces.

bright surfaces. bright surfaces. For from the communion of the internal For from the communion of the internal For from the communion of the internal and external fires and again from the and external fires and again from the and external fires and again from the union of them and their numerous union of them and their numerous union of them and their numerous transformations when they meet in the transformations when they meet in the transformations when they meet in the mirror, all these appearances of mirror, all these appearances of mirror, all these appearances of necessity arise. necessity arise. necessity arise. When the fire from the face coalesces When the fire from the face coalesces When the fire from the face coalesces with the fire from the eye on the bright with the fire from the eye on the bright with the fire from the eye on the bright and smooth surface. and smooth surface. and smooth surface. And right appears left and left right And right appears left and left right And right appears left and left right because the visual rays come into because the visual rays come into because the visual rays come into contact with the rays emitted by the contact with the rays emitted by the contact with the rays emitted by the object in a manner contrary to the usual object in a manner contrary to the usual object in a manner contrary to the usual mode of meeting. mode of meeting. mode of meeting. But the right appears right and the left But the right appears right and the left But the right appears right and the left left when the position of one of the two left when the position of one of the two left when the position of one of the two concurring lights is reversed. And this concurring lights is reversed. And this concurring lights is reversed. And this happens when the mirror is concave and happens when the mirror is concave and happens when the mirror is concave and its smooth surface repels the right its smooth surface repels the right its smooth surface repels the right stream of vision to the left side and stream of vision to the left side and stream of vision to the left side and the left to the right. the left to the right. the left to the right. Or if the mirror be turned vertically, Or if the mirror be turned vertically, Or if the mirror be turned vertically, then the concavity makes the countenance then the concavity makes the countenance then the concavity makes the countenance appear to be all upside down and the appear to be all upside down and the appear to be all upside down and the lower rays are driven upwards and the lower rays are driven upwards and the lower rays are driven upwards and the upper downwards. upper downwards. upper downwards. All these are to be reckoned among the All these are to be reckoned among the All these are to be reckoned among the second and cooperative causes which God, second and cooperative causes which God, second and cooperative causes which God, carrying into execution the idea of the carrying into execution the idea of the carrying into execution the idea of the best as far as possible, uses as his best as far as possible, uses as his best as far as possible, uses as his ministers.

ministers. ministers. They are thought by most men not to be They are thought by most men not to be They are thought by most men not to be the second but the prime causes of all the second but the prime causes of all the second but the prime causes of all things because they freeze and heat and things because they freeze and heat and things because they freeze and heat and contract and dilate and the like. contract and dilate and the like. contract and dilate and the like. But they are not so for they are But they are not so for they are But they are not so for they are incapable of reason or intellect. The incapable of reason or intellect. The incapable of reason or intellect. The only being which can properly have mind only being which can properly have mind only being which can properly have mind is the invisible soul, whereas fire and is the invisible soul, whereas fire and is the invisible soul, whereas fire and water and earth and air are all of them water and earth and air are all of them water and earth and air are all of them visible bodies. visible bodies. visible bodies. The lover of intellect and knowledge The lover of intellect and knowledge The lover of intellect and knowledge ought to explore causes of intelligent ought to explore causes of intelligent ought to explore causes of intelligent nature first of all and secondly of nature first of all and secondly of nature first of all and secondly of those things which, being moved by those things which, being moved by those things which, being moved by others, are compelled to move others. others, are compelled to move others. others, are compelled to move others. And this is what we two must do. Both And this is what we two must do. Both And this is what we two must do. Both kinds of causes should be acknowledged kinds of causes should be acknowledged kinds of causes should be acknowledged by us, but a distinction should be made by us, but a distinction should be made by us, but a distinction should be made between those which are endowed with between those which are endowed with between those which are endowed with mind and are the workers of things fair mind and are the workers of things fair mind and are the workers of things fair and good, and those which are deprived and good, and those which are deprived and good, and those which are deprived of intelligence and always produce of intelligence and always produce of intelligence and always produce chance effects without order or design. chance effects without order or design. chance effects without order or design. Of the second or cooperative causes of Of the second or cooperative causes of Of the second or cooperative causes of sight, which help to give to the eyes sight, which help to give to the eyes sight, which help to give to the eyes the power which they now possess, enough the power which they now possess, enough the power which they now possess, enough has been said.

has been said. has been said. I will therefore now proceed to speak of I will therefore now proceed to speak of I will therefore now proceed to speak of the higher use and purpose for which God the higher use and purpose for which God the higher use and purpose for which God has given them to us. has given them to us. has given them to us. The sight, in my opinion, is the source The sight, in my opinion, is the source The sight, in my opinion, is the source of the greatest benefit to us. For had of the greatest benefit to us. For had of the greatest benefit to us. For had we never seen the stars and the sun and we never seen the stars and the sun and we never seen the stars and the sun and the heaven, none of the words which we the heaven, none of the words which we the heaven, none of the words which we have spoken about the universe would have spoken about the universe would have spoken about the universe would ever have been uttered. ever have been uttered. ever have been uttered. But now the sight of day and night and But now the sight of day and night and But now the sight of day and night and the months and the revolutions of the the months and the revolutions of the the months and the revolutions of the years have created number and have given years have created number and have given years have created number and have given us a conception of time and the power of us a conception of time and the power of us a conception of time and the power of inquiring about the nature of the inquiring about the nature of the inquiring about the nature of the universe. universe. universe. And from this source we have derived And from this source we have derived And from this source we have derived philosophy, than which no greater good philosophy, than which no greater good philosophy, than which no greater good ever was or will be given by the gods to ever was or will be given by the gods to ever was or will be given by the gods to mortal man. mortal man. mortal man. This is the greatest boon of sight. This is the greatest boon of sight. This is the greatest boon of sight. And of the lesser benefits, why should I And of the lesser benefits, why should I And of the lesser benefits, why should I speak? Even the ordinary man, if he were speak? Even the ordinary man, if he were speak? Even the ordinary man, if he were deprived of them, would bewail his loss, deprived of them, would bewail his loss, deprived of them, would bewail his loss, but in vain. but in vain. but in vain. Thus much let me say, however, Thus much let me say, however, Thus much let me say, however, God invented and gave us sight to the God invented and gave us sight to the God invented and gave us sight to the end that we might behold the courses of end that we might behold the courses of end that we might behold the courses of intelligence in the heaven and apply intelligence in the heaven and apply intelligence in the heaven and apply them to the courses of our own them to the courses of our own them to the courses of our own intelligence, which are akin to them, intelligence, which are akin to them, intelligence, which are akin to them, the unperturbed to the perturbed, and the unperturbed to the perturbed, and the unperturbed to the perturbed, and that we, learning them and partaking of that we, learning them and partaking of that we, learning them and partaking of the natural truth of reason, might the natural truth of reason, might the natural truth of reason, might imitate the absolutely unerring courses imitate the absolutely unerring courses imitate the absolutely unerring courses of God and regulate our own vagaries.

of God and regulate our own vagaries. of God and regulate our own vagaries. The same may be affirmed of speech and The same may be affirmed of speech and The same may be affirmed of speech and hearing. They have been given by the hearing. They have been given by the hearing. They have been given by the gods to the same end and for a like gods to the same end and for a like gods to the same end and for a like reason. reason. reason. For this is the principal end of speech For this is the principal end of speech For this is the principal end of speech whereto it most contributes. whereto it most contributes. whereto it most contributes. Moreover, so much of music as is adapted Moreover, so much of music as is adapted Moreover, so much of music as is adapted to the sound of the voice and to the to the sound of the voice and to the to the sound of the voice and to the sense of hearing is granted to us for sense of hearing is granted to us for sense of hearing is granted to us for the sake of harmony. the sake of harmony. the sake of harmony. And harmony, which has motions akin to And harmony, which has motions akin to And harmony, which has motions akin to the revolutions of our souls, is not the revolutions of our souls, is not the revolutions of our souls, is not regarded by the intelligent votary of regarded by the intelligent votary of regarded by the intelligent votary of the Muses as given by them with a view the Muses as given by them with a view the Muses as given by them with a view to irrational pleasure, which is deemed to irrational pleasure, which is deemed to irrational pleasure, which is deemed to be the purpose of it in our day, but to be the purpose of it in our day, but to be the purpose of it in our day, but is meant to correct any discord which is meant to correct any discord which is meant to correct any discord which may have arisen in the courses of the may have arisen in the courses of the may have arisen in the courses of the soul and to be our ally in bringing her soul and to be our ally in bringing her soul and to be our ally in bringing her into harmony and agreement with herself. into harmony and agreement with herself. into harmony and agreement with herself. And rhythm, too, was given by them for And rhythm, too, was given by them for And rhythm, too, was given by them for the same reason on account of the the same reason on account of the the same reason on account of the irregular and graceless ways which irregular and graceless ways which irregular and graceless ways which prevail among mankind generally and to prevail among mankind generally and to prevail among mankind generally and to help us against them. help us against them. help us against them. End of Part 3.

Part 4 of Timaeus. This is a LibriVox Part 4 of Timaeus. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are recording. All LibriVox recordings are recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more in the public domain. For more in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please information or to volunteer, please information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna Simon. Simon. Simon. Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Jowett. Part 4. Timaeus continues. Jowett. Part 4. Timaeus continues. Jowett. Part 4. Timaeus continues. Thus far in what we've been saying, with Thus far in what we've been saying, with Thus far in what we've been saying, with small exception, the works of small exception, the works of small exception, the works of intelligence have been set forth. And intelligence have been set forth. And intelligence have been set forth. And now we must place by the side of them in now we must place by the side of them in now we must place by the side of them in our discourse the things which come into our discourse the things which come into our discourse the things which come into being through necessity. being through necessity. being through necessity. For the creation is mixed, being made up For the creation is mixed, being made up For the creation is mixed, being made up of necessity and mind. of necessity and mind. of necessity and mind. Mind, the ruling power, persuaded Mind, the ruling power, persuaded Mind, the ruling power, persuaded necessity to bring the greater part of necessity to bring the greater part of necessity to bring the greater part of created things to perfection. And thus, created things to perfection. And thus, created things to perfection. And thus, and after this manner, in the beginning, and after this manner, in the beginning, and after this manner, in the beginning, when the influence of reason got the when the influence of reason got the when the influence of reason got the better of necessity, the universe was better of necessity, the universe was better of necessity, the universe was created. created. created. But if a person will truly tell of the But if a person will truly tell of the But if a person will truly tell of the way in which the work was accomplished, way in which the work was accomplished, way in which the work was accomplished, he must include the other influence of he must include the other influence of he must include the other influence of the variable cause as well. the variable cause as well. the variable cause as well. Wherefore, we must return again and find Wherefore, we must return again and find Wherefore, we must return again and find another suitable beginning, as about the another suitable beginning, as about the another suitable beginning, as about the former matters, so also about these.

former matters, so also about these. former matters, so also about these. To which end we must consider the nature To which end we must consider the nature To which end we must consider the nature of fire and water and air and earth, of fire and water and air and earth, of fire and water and air and earth, such as they were prior to the creation such as they were prior to the creation such as they were prior to the creation of the heaven, of the heaven, of the heaven, and what was happening to them in this and what was happening to them in this and what was happening to them in this previous state. previous state. previous state. For no one has as yet explained the For no one has as yet explained the For no one has as yet explained the manner of their generation, manner of their generation, manner of their generation, but we speak of fire and the rest of but we speak of fire and the rest of but we speak of fire and the rest of them, whatever they mean, as though men them, whatever they mean, as though men them, whatever they mean, as though men knew their natures, and we maintain them knew their natures, and we maintain them knew their natures, and we maintain them to be the first principles and letters to be the first principles and letters to be the first principles and letters or elements of the whole, or elements of the whole, or elements of the whole, when they cannot reasonably be compared when they cannot reasonably be compared when they cannot reasonably be compared by a man of any sense even to syllables by a man of any sense even to syllables by a man of any sense even to syllables or first compounds. or first compounds. or first compounds. And let me say thus much, I will not now And let me say thus much, I will not now And let me say thus much, I will not now speak of the first principle or speak of the first principle or speak of the first principle or principles of all things, or by whatever principles of all things, or by whatever principles of all things, or by whatever name they are to be called, for this name they are to be called, for this name they are to be called, for this reason, reason, reason, because it is difficult to set forth my because it is difficult to set forth my because it is difficult to set forth my opinion according to the method of opinion according to the method of opinion according to the method of discussion which we are at present discussion which we are at present discussion which we are at present employing. employing. employing. Do not imagine, any more than I can Do not imagine, any more than I can Do not imagine, any more than I can bring myself to imagine, that I should bring myself to imagine, that I should bring myself to imagine, that I should be right in undertaking so great and be right in undertaking so great and be right in undertaking so great and difficult a task. Remembering what I difficult a task. Remembering what I difficult a task. Remembering what I said at first about probability, I will said at first about probability, I will said at first about probability, I will do my best to give as probable an do my best to give as probable an do my best to give as probable an explanation as any other, or rather more explanation as any other, or rather more explanation as any other, or rather more probable, probable, probable, and I will first go back to the and I will first go back to the and I will first go back to the beginning and try to speak of each thing beginning and try to speak of each thing beginning and try to speak of each thing and of all.

and of all. and of all. Once more then, at the commencement of Once more then, at the commencement of Once more then, at the commencement of my discourse, I call upon God and beg my discourse, I call upon God and beg my discourse, I call upon God and beg him to be our savior out of a strange him to be our savior out of a strange him to be our savior out of a strange and unwanted inquiry, and to bring us to and unwanted inquiry, and to bring us to and unwanted inquiry, and to bring us to the haven of probability. the haven of probability. the haven of probability. So now let us begin again. So now let us begin again. So now let us begin again. This new beginning of our discussion of This new beginning of our discussion of This new beginning of our discussion of the universe requires a fuller division the universe requires a fuller division the universe requires a fuller division than the former. than the former. than the former. For then we made two classes, now a For then we made two classes, now a For then we made two classes, now a third must be revealed. third must be revealed. third must be revealed. The two sufficed for the former The two sufficed for the former The two sufficed for the former discussion, one which we assumed was a discussion, one which we assumed was a discussion, one which we assumed was a pattern intelligible and always the pattern intelligible and always the pattern intelligible and always the same, and the second was only the same, and the second was only the same, and the second was only the imitation of the pattern, generated and imitation of the pattern, generated and imitation of the pattern, generated and visible. visible. visible. There is also a third kind which we did There is also a third kind which we did There is also a third kind which we did not distinguish at the time, conceiving not distinguish at the time, conceiving not distinguish at the time, conceiving that the two would be enough. that the two would be enough. that the two would be enough. But now, the argument seems to require But now, the argument seems to require But now, the argument seems to require that we should set forth in words that we should set forth in words that we should set forth in words another kind, which is difficult of another kind, which is difficult of another kind, which is difficult of explanation and dimly seen. explanation and dimly seen. explanation and dimly seen. What nature are we to attribute to this What nature are we to attribute to this What nature are we to attribute to this new kind of being? new kind of being? new kind of being? We reply that it is the receptacle and We reply that it is the receptacle and We reply that it is the receptacle and in a manner the nurse of all generation.

in a manner the nurse of all generation. in a manner the nurse of all generation. I have spoken the truth, but I must I have spoken the truth, but I must I have spoken the truth, but I must express myself in clearer language, and express myself in clearer language, and express myself in clearer language, and this will be an arduous task for many this will be an arduous task for many this will be an arduous task for many reasons, and in particular because I reasons, and in particular because I reasons, and in particular because I must first raise questions concerning must first raise questions concerning must first raise questions concerning fire and the other elements, and fire and the other elements, and fire and the other elements, and determine what each of them is. determine what each of them is. determine what each of them is. For to say with any probability or For to say with any probability or For to say with any probability or certitude which of them should be called certitude which of them should be called certitude which of them should be called water rather than fire, and which should water rather than fire, and which should water rather than fire, and which should be called any of them rather than all or be called any of them rather than all or be called any of them rather than all or some one of them, is a difficult matter. some one of them, is a difficult matter. some one of them, is a difficult matter. How then shall we settle this point? And How then shall we settle this point? And How then shall we settle this point? And what questions about the elements may be what questions about the elements may be what questions about the elements may be fairly raised? fairly raised? fairly raised? In the first place, we see that what we In the first place, we see that what we In the first place, we see that what we just now called water, by condensation I just now called water, by condensation I just now called water, by condensation I suppose, becomes stone and earth. suppose, becomes stone and earth. suppose, becomes stone and earth. And this same element, when melted and And this same element, when melted and And this same element, when melted and dispersed, passes into vapor and air. dispersed, passes into vapor and air. dispersed, passes into vapor and air. Air again, when inflamed, becomes fire. Air again, when inflamed, becomes fire. Air again, when inflamed, becomes fire. And again, fire, when condensed and And again, fire, when condensed and And again, fire, when condensed and extinguished, passes once more into the extinguished, passes once more into the extinguished, passes once more into the form of air. form of air. form of air. And once more, air, when collected and And once more, air, when collected and And once more, air, when collected and condensed, produces cloud and mist. And condensed, produces cloud and mist. And condensed, produces cloud and mist. And from these, when still more compressed, from these, when still more compressed, from these, when still more compressed, comes flowing water. And from water comes flowing water. And from water comes flowing water. And from water comes earth and stones once more.

comes earth and stones once more. comes earth and stones once more. And thus, generation appears to be And thus, generation appears to be And thus, generation appears to be transmitted from one to the other in a transmitted from one to the other in a transmitted from one to the other in a circle. circle. circle. Thus then, as the several elements never Thus then, as the several elements never Thus then, as the several elements never present themselves in the same form, how present themselves in the same form, how present themselves in the same form, how can anyone have the assurance to assert can anyone have the assurance to assert can anyone have the assurance to assert positively that any of them, whatever it positively that any of them, whatever it positively that any of them, whatever it may be, is one thing rather than may be, is one thing rather than may be, is one thing rather than another? another? another? No one can. No one can. No one can. But much the safest plan is to speak of But much the safest plan is to speak of But much the safest plan is to speak of them as follows. them as follows. them as follows. Anything which we see to be continually Anything which we see to be continually Anything which we see to be continually changing, as for example, fire, we must changing, as for example, fire, we must changing, as for example, fire, we must not call this or that, but rather say not call this or that, but rather say not call this or that, but rather say that it is of such a nature. that it is of such a nature. that it is of such a nature. Nor let us speak of water as this, but Nor let us speak of water as this, but Nor let us speak of water as this, but always as such. always as such. always as such. Nor must we imply that there is any Nor must we imply that there is any Nor must we imply that there is any stability in any of those things which stability in any of those things which stability in any of those things which we indicate by the use of the words this we indicate by the use of the words this we indicate by the use of the words this and that, supposing ourselves to signify and that, supposing ourselves to signify and that, supposing ourselves to signify something thereby. something thereby. something thereby. For they are too volatile to be detained For they are too volatile to be detained For they are too volatile to be detained in any such expressions as this or that, in any such expressions as this or that, in any such expressions as this or that, or relative to this, or any other mode or relative to this, or any other mode or relative to this, or any other mode of speaking which represents them as of speaking which represents them as of speaking which represents them as permanent. permanent. permanent. We ought not to apply this to any of We ought not to apply this to any of We ought not to apply this to any of them, but rather the word such, them, but rather the word such, them, but rather the word such, which expresses the similar principle which expresses the similar principle which expresses the similar principle circulating in each and all of them.

circulating in each and all of them. circulating in each and all of them. For example, that should be called fire For example, that should be called fire For example, that should be called fire which is of such a nature always, and so which is of such a nature always, and so which is of such a nature always, and so of everything that has generation. of everything that has generation. of everything that has generation. That in which the elements severally That in which the elements severally That in which the elements severally grow up and appear and decay is alone to grow up and appear and decay is alone to grow up and appear and decay is alone to be called by the name this or that. be called by the name this or that. be called by the name this or that. But that which is of a certain nature, But that which is of a certain nature, But that which is of a certain nature, hot or white, or anything which admits hot or white, or anything which admits hot or white, or anything which admits of opposite qualities, and all things of opposite qualities, and all things of opposite qualities, and all things that are compounded of them ought not to that are compounded of them ought not to that are compounded of them ought not to be so denominated. be so denominated. be so denominated. Let me make another attempt to explain Let me make another attempt to explain Let me make another attempt to explain my meaning more clearly. my meaning more clearly. my meaning more clearly. Suppose a person to make all kinds of Suppose a person to make all kinds of Suppose a person to make all kinds of figures of gold, and to be always figures of gold, and to be always figures of gold, and to be always transmuting one form into all the rest. transmuting one form into all the rest. transmuting one form into all the rest. Somebody points to one of them and asks Somebody points to one of them and asks Somebody points to one of them and asks what it is. what it is. what it is. By far the safest and truest answer is, By far the safest and truest answer is, By far the safest and truest answer is, that is gold, and not to call the that is gold, and not to call the that is gold, and not to call the triangle or any other figures which are triangle or any other figures which are triangle or any other figures which are formed in the gold these, as though they formed in the gold these, as though they formed in the gold these, as though they had existence, since they are in process had existence, since they are in process had existence, since they are in process of change while he is making the of change while he is making the of change while he is making the assertion. assertion. assertion. But if the questioner be willing to take But if the questioner be willing to take But if the questioner be willing to take the safe and indefinite expression such, the safe and indefinite expression such, the safe and indefinite expression such, we should be satisfied. we should be satisfied. we should be satisfied. And the same argument applies to the And the same argument applies to the And the same argument applies to the universal nature which receives all universal nature which receives all universal nature which receives all bodies.

bodies. bodies. That must be always called the same. That must be always called the same. That must be always called the same. For while receiving all things, she For while receiving all things, she For while receiving all things, she never departs at all from her own never departs at all from her own never departs at all from her own nature, and never in any way or at any nature, and never in any way or at any nature, and never in any way or at any time assumes a form like that of any of time assumes a form like that of any of time assumes a form like that of any of the things which enter into her. the things which enter into her. the things which enter into her. She is the natural recipient of all She is the natural recipient of all She is the natural recipient of all impressions and is turned and informed impressions and is turned and informed impressions and is turned and informed by them and appears different from time by them and appears different from time by them and appears different from time to time by reason of them. to time by reason of them. to time by reason of them. But the forms which enter into and go But the forms which enter into and go But the forms which enter into and go out of her are the likenesses of real out of her are the likenesses of real out of her are the likenesses of real existences modeled after their patterns existences modeled after their patterns existences modeled after their patterns in a wonderful and inexplicable manner in a wonderful and inexplicable manner in a wonderful and inexplicable manner which we will hereafter investigate. which we will hereafter investigate. which we will hereafter investigate. For the present, we have only to For the present, we have only to For the present, we have only to conceive of three natures. First, that conceive of three natures. First, that conceive of three natures. First, that which is in process of generation. which is in process of generation. which is in process of generation. Secondly, that in which the generation Secondly, that in which the generation Secondly, that in which the generation takes place. And thirdly, that of which takes place. And thirdly, that of which takes place. And thirdly, that of which the thing generated is a resemblance. the thing generated is a resemblance. the thing generated is a resemblance. And we may liken the receiving principle And we may liken the receiving principle And we may liken the receiving principle to a mother and the source or spring to to a mother and the source or spring to to a mother and the source or spring to a father and the intermediate nature to a father and the intermediate nature to a father and the intermediate nature to a child. And may remark further that if a child. And may remark further that if a child. And may remark further that if the model is to take every variety of the model is to take every variety of the model is to take every variety of form, then the matter in which the model form, then the matter in which the model form, then the matter in which the model is fashioned will not be duly prepared is fashioned will not be duly prepared is fashioned will not be duly prepared unless it is formless and free from the unless it is formless and free from the unless it is formless and free from the impress of any of those shapes which it impress of any of those shapes which it impress of any of those shapes which it is hereafter to receive from without.

is hereafter to receive from without. is hereafter to receive from without. For if the matter were like any of the For if the matter were like any of the For if the matter were like any of the supervening forms, then whenever any supervening forms, then whenever any supervening forms, then whenever any opposite or entirely different nature opposite or entirely different nature opposite or entirely different nature was stamped upon its surface, it would was stamped upon its surface, it would was stamped upon its surface, it would take the impression badly because it take the impression badly because it take the impression badly because it would intrude its own shape. would intrude its own shape. would intrude its own shape. Wherefore, that which is to receive all Wherefore, that which is to receive all Wherefore, that which is to receive all forms should have no form. As in making forms should have no form. As in making forms should have no form. As in making perfumes, they first contrive that the perfumes, they first contrive that the perfumes, they first contrive that the liquid substance which is to receive the liquid substance which is to receive the liquid substance which is to receive the scent shall be as inodorous as possible. scent shall be as inodorous as possible. scent shall be as inodorous as possible. Or as those who wish to impress figures Or as those who wish to impress figures Or as those who wish to impress figures on soft substances do not allow any on soft substances do not allow any on soft substances do not allow any previous impression to remain, but begin previous impression to remain, but begin previous impression to remain, but begin by making the surface as even and smooth by making the surface as even and smooth by making the surface as even and smooth as possible. as possible. as possible. In the same way, that which is to In the same way, that which is to In the same way, that which is to receive perpetually and through its receive perpetually and through its receive perpetually and through its whole extent the resemblances of all whole extent the resemblances of all whole extent the resemblances of all eternal beings ought to be devoid of any eternal beings ought to be devoid of any eternal beings ought to be devoid of any particular form. particular form. particular form. Wherefore, the mother and receptacle of Wherefore, the mother and receptacle of Wherefore, the mother and receptacle of all created and visible and in any way all created and visible and in any way all created and visible and in any way sensible things, is not to be termed sensible things, is not to be termed sensible things, is not to be termed earth, or air, or fire, or water, or any earth, or air, or fire, or water, or any earth, or air, or fire, or water, or any of their compounds, or any of the of their compounds, or any of the of their compounds, or any of the elements from which these are derived, elements from which these are derived, elements from which these are derived, but is an invisible and formless being but is an invisible and formless being but is an invisible and formless being which receives all things, and in some which receives all things, and in some which receives all things, and in some mysterious way partakes of the mysterious way partakes of the mysterious way partakes of the intelligible, and is most intelligible, and is most intelligible, and is most incomprehensible.

incomprehensible. incomprehensible. In saying this, we shall not be far In saying this, we shall not be far In saying this, we shall not be far wrong. As far, however, as we can attain wrong. As far, however, as we can attain wrong. As far, however, as we can attain to a knowledge of her from the previous to a knowledge of her from the previous to a knowledge of her from the previous considerations, we may truly say that considerations, we may truly say that considerations, we may truly say that fire is that part of her nature which fire is that part of her nature which fire is that part of her nature which from time to time is inflamed, and water from time to time is inflamed, and water from time to time is inflamed, and water that which is moistened, and that the that which is moistened, and that the that which is moistened, and that the mother substance becomes earth and air mother substance becomes earth and air mother substance becomes earth and air in so far as she receives the in so far as she receives the in so far as she receives the impressions of them. impressions of them. impressions of them. Let us consider this question more Let us consider this question more Let us consider this question more precisely. precisely. precisely. Is there any self-existent fire? And do Is there any self-existent fire? And do Is there any self-existent fire? And do all those things which we call all those things which we call all those things which we call self-existent exist, self-existent exist, self-existent exist, or are only those things which we see, or are only those things which we see, or are only those things which we see, or in some way perceive through the or in some way perceive through the or in some way perceive through the bodily organs, truly existent, and bodily organs, truly existent, and bodily organs, truly existent, and nothing whatever besides them? nothing whatever besides them? nothing whatever besides them? And is all that which we call an And is all that which we call an And is all that which we call an intelligible essence nothing at all, and intelligible essence nothing at all, and intelligible essence nothing at all, and only a name? only a name? only a name? Here is a question which we must not Here is a question which we must not Here is a question which we must not leave unexamined or undetermined, nor leave unexamined or undetermined, nor leave unexamined or undetermined, nor must we affirm too confidently that must we affirm too confidently that must we affirm too confidently that there can be no decision. there can be no decision. there can be no decision. Neither must we interpolate in our Neither must we interpolate in our Neither must we interpolate in our present long discourse a digression present long discourse a digression present long discourse a digression equally long. But if it is possible to equally long. But if it is possible to equally long. But if it is possible to set forth a great principle in a few set forth a great principle in a few set forth a great principle in a few words, that is just what we want.

words, that is just what we want. words, that is just what we want. Thus, I state my view. Thus, I state my view. Thus, I state my view. If mind and true opinion are two If mind and true opinion are two If mind and true opinion are two distinct classes, distinct classes, distinct classes, then I say that there certainly are then I say that there certainly are then I say that there certainly are these self-existent ideas unperceived by these self-existent ideas unperceived by these self-existent ideas unperceived by sense and apprehended only by the mind. sense and apprehended only by the mind. sense and apprehended only by the mind. If, however, as some say, true opinion If, however, as some say, true opinion If, however, as some say, true opinion differs in no respect from mind, differs in no respect from mind, differs in no respect from mind, then everything that we perceive through then everything that we perceive through then everything that we perceive through the body is to be regarded as most real the body is to be regarded as most real the body is to be regarded as most real and certain. and certain. and certain. But we must affirm them to be distinct, But we must affirm them to be distinct, But we must affirm them to be distinct, for they have a distinct origin and are for they have a distinct origin and are for they have a distinct origin and are of a different nature. of a different nature. of a different nature. The one is implanted in us by The one is implanted in us by The one is implanted in us by instruction, the other by persuasion. instruction, the other by persuasion. instruction, the other by persuasion. The one is always accompanied by true The one is always accompanied by true The one is always accompanied by true reason, the other is without reason. reason, the other is without reason. reason, the other is without reason. The one cannot be overcome by The one cannot be overcome by The one cannot be overcome by persuasion, but the other can. persuasion, but the other can. persuasion, but the other can. And lastly, every man may be said to And lastly, every man may be said to And lastly, every man may be said to share in true opinion, but mind is the share in true opinion, but mind is the share in true opinion, but mind is the attribute of the gods and of very few attribute of the gods and of very few attribute of the gods and of very few men. men. men. Wherefore also we must acknowledge that Wherefore also we must acknowledge that Wherefore also we must acknowledge that there is one kind of being which is there is one kind of being which is there is one kind of being which is always the same, uncreated and always the same, uncreated and always the same, uncreated and indestructible, never receiving anything indestructible, never receiving anything indestructible, never receiving anything into itself from without, nor itself into itself from without, nor itself into itself from without, nor itself going out to any other, but invisible going out to any other, but invisible going out to any other, but invisible and imperceptible by any sense, and of and imperceptible by any sense, and of and imperceptible by any sense, and of which the contemplation is granted to which the contemplation is granted to which the contemplation is granted to intelligence only.

intelligence only. intelligence only. And there is another nature of the same And there is another nature of the same And there is another nature of the same name with it and like to it, perceived name with it and like to it, perceived name with it and like to it, perceived by sense, created, always in motion, by sense, created, always in motion, by sense, created, always in motion, becoming in place and again vanishing becoming in place and again vanishing becoming in place and again vanishing out of place, which is apprehended by out of place, which is apprehended by out of place, which is apprehended by opinion and sense. opinion and sense. opinion and sense. And there is a third nature, which is And there is a third nature, which is And there is a third nature, which is space and is eternal and admits not of space and is eternal and admits not of space and is eternal and admits not of destruction and provides a home for all destruction and provides a home for all destruction and provides a home for all created things and is apprehended created things and is apprehended created things and is apprehended without the help of sense by a kind of without the help of sense by a kind of without the help of sense by a kind of spurious reason and is hardly real, spurious reason and is hardly real, spurious reason and is hardly real, which we beholding as in a dream say of which we beholding as in a dream say of which we beholding as in a dream say of all existence that it must of necessity all existence that it must of necessity all existence that it must of necessity be in some place and occupy a space, but be in some place and occupy a space, but be in some place and occupy a space, but that what is neither in heaven nor in that what is neither in heaven nor in that what is neither in heaven nor in earth has no existence. earth has no existence. earth has no existence. Of these and other things of the same Of these and other things of the same Of these and other things of the same kind relating to the true and waking kind relating to the true and waking kind relating to the true and waking reality of nature, we have only this reality of nature, we have only this reality of nature, we have only this dream-like sense and we are unable to dream-like sense and we are unable to dream-like sense and we are unable to cast off sleep and determine the truth cast off sleep and determine the truth cast off sleep and determine the truth about them. about them. about them. For an image, since the reality after For an image, since the reality after For an image, since the reality after which it is modeled does not belong to which it is modeled does not belong to which it is modeled does not belong to it and it exists ever as the fleeting it and it exists ever as the fleeting it and it exists ever as the fleeting shadow of some other, shadow of some other, shadow of some other, must be inferred to be in another, that must be inferred to be in another, that must be inferred to be in another, that is, in space, is, in space, is, in space, grasping existence in some way or other, grasping existence in some way or other, grasping existence in some way or other, or it could not be at all.

or it could not be at all. or it could not be at all. But true and exact reason vindicating But true and exact reason vindicating But true and exact reason vindicating the nature of true being maintains that the nature of true being maintains that the nature of true being maintains that while two things, that is, the image and while two things, that is, the image and while two things, that is, the image and space are different, they cannot exist space are different, they cannot exist space are different, they cannot exist one of them in the other, and so be one one of them in the other, and so be one one of them in the other, and so be one and also two at the same time. and also two at the same time. and also two at the same time. Thus have I concisely given the result Thus have I concisely given the result Thus have I concisely given the result of my thoughts, and my verdict is that of my thoughts, and my verdict is that of my thoughts, and my verdict is that being and space and generation, these being and space and generation, these being and space and generation, these three existed in their three ways before three existed in their three ways before three existed in their three ways before the heaven, and that the nurse of the heaven, and that the nurse of the heaven, and that the nurse of generation, moistened by water and generation, moistened by water and generation, moistened by water and inflamed by fire, and receiving the inflamed by fire, and receiving the inflamed by fire, and receiving the forms of earth and air, forms of earth and air, forms of earth and air, and experiencing all the affections and experiencing all the affections and experiencing all the affections which accompany these, presented a which accompany these, presented a which accompany these, presented a strange variety of appearances, strange variety of appearances, strange variety of appearances, and being full of powers which were and being full of powers which were and being full of powers which were neither similar nor equally balanced, neither similar nor equally balanced, neither similar nor equally balanced, was never in any part in a state of was never in any part in a state of was never in any part in a state of equipoise, but swaying unevenly hither equipoise, but swaying unevenly hither equipoise, but swaying unevenly hither and thither, was shaken by them, and by and thither, was shaken by them, and by and thither, was shaken by them, and by its motion again shook them. And the its motion again shook them. And the its motion again shook them. And the elements, when moved, were separated and elements, when moved, were separated and elements, when moved, were separated and carried continually, some one way, some carried continually, some one way, some carried continually, some one way, some another, as when grain is shaken and another, as when grain is shaken and another, as when grain is shaken and winnowed by fans and other instruments winnowed by fans and other instruments winnowed by fans and other instruments used in the threshing of corn, the close used in the threshing of corn, the close used in the threshing of corn, the close and heavy particles are borne away and and heavy particles are borne away and and heavy particles are borne away and settle in one direction, and the loose settle in one direction, and the loose settle in one direction, and the loose and light particles in another.

and light particles in another. and light particles in another. In this manner, the four kinds or In this manner, the four kinds or In this manner, the four kinds or elements were then shaken by the elements were then shaken by the elements were then shaken by the receiving vessel, which, moving like a receiving vessel, which, moving like a receiving vessel, which, moving like a winnowing machine, scattered far away winnowing machine, scattered far away winnowing machine, scattered far away from one another the elements most from one another the elements most from one another the elements most unlike and forced the most similar unlike and forced the most similar unlike and forced the most similar elements into close contact. elements into close contact. elements into close contact. Wherefore also the various elements had Wherefore also the various elements had Wherefore also the various elements had different places before they were different places before they were different places before they were arranged so as to form the universe. arranged so as to form the universe. arranged so as to form the universe. At first, they were all without reason At first, they were all without reason At first, they were all without reason and measure, and measure, and measure, but when the world began to get into but when the world began to get into but when the world began to get into order, fire and water and earth and air order, fire and water and earth and air order, fire and water and earth and air had only certain faint traces of had only certain faint traces of had only certain faint traces of themselves, and were altogether such as themselves, and were altogether such as themselves, and were altogether such as everything might be expected to be in everything might be expected to be in everything might be expected to be in the absence of God. the absence of God. the absence of God. This, I say, was their nature at that This, I say, was their nature at that This, I say, was their nature at that time, and God fashioned them by form and time, and God fashioned them by form and time, and God fashioned them by form and number. number. number. Let it be consistently maintained by us Let it be consistently maintained by us Let it be consistently maintained by us in all that we say that God made them, in all that we say that God made them, in all that we say that God made them, as far as possible, the fairest and best as far as possible, the fairest and best as far as possible, the fairest and best out of things which were not fair and out of things which were not fair and out of things which were not fair and good. good. good. And now I will endeavor to show you the And now I will endeavor to show you the And now I will endeavor to show you the disposition and generation of them by an disposition and generation of them by an disposition and generation of them by an unaccustomed argument, which I am unaccustomed argument, which I am unaccustomed argument, which I am compelled to use. But I believe that you compelled to use. But I believe that you compelled to use. But I believe that you will be able to follow me, for your will be able to follow me, for your will be able to follow me, for your education has made you familiar with the education has made you familiar with the education has made you familiar with the methods of science.

methods of science. methods of science. In the first place, then, as is evident In the first place, then, as is evident In the first place, then, as is evident to all, fire and earth and water and air to all, fire and earth and water and air to all, fire and earth and water and air are bodies. And every sort of body are bodies. And every sort of body are bodies. And every sort of body possesses solidity, and every solid must possesses solidity, and every solid must possesses solidity, and every solid must necessarily be contained in planes. necessarily be contained in planes. necessarily be contained in planes. And every plane rectilinear figure is And every plane rectilinear figure is And every plane rectilinear figure is composed of triangles. And all triangles composed of triangles. And all triangles composed of triangles. And all triangles are originally of two kinds, both of are originally of two kinds, both of are originally of two kinds, both of which are made up of one right and two which are made up of one right and two which are made up of one right and two acute angles. One of them has at either acute angles. One of them has at either acute angles. One of them has at either end of the base the half of the divided end of the base the half of the divided end of the base the half of the divided right angle, having equal sides, while right angle, having equal sides, while right angle, having equal sides, while on the other the right angle is divided on the other the right angle is divided on the other the right angle is divided into unequal parts, having unequal into unequal parts, having unequal into unequal parts, having unequal sides. sides. sides. These, then, proceeding by a combination These, then, proceeding by a combination These, then, proceeding by a combination of probability with demonstration, we of probability with demonstration, we of probability with demonstration, we assume to be the original elements of assume to be the original elements of assume to be the original elements of fire and the other bodies. fire and the other bodies. fire and the other bodies. But the principles which are prior to But the principles which are prior to But the principles which are prior to these God only knows, and he of men who these God only knows, and he of men who these God only knows, and he of men who is the friend of God. is the friend of God. is the friend of God. And next we have to determine what are And next we have to determine what are And next we have to determine what are the four most beautiful bodies which are the four most beautiful bodies which are the four most beautiful bodies which are unlike one another, and of which some unlike one another, and of which some unlike one another, and of which some are capable of resolution into one are capable of resolution into one are capable of resolution into one another.

another. another. For having discovered thus much, we For having discovered thus much, we For having discovered thus much, we shall know the true origin of earth and shall know the true origin of earth and shall know the true origin of earth and fire and of the proportionate and fire and of the proportionate and fire and of the proportionate and intermediate elements. intermediate elements. intermediate elements. And then we shall not be willing to And then we shall not be willing to And then we shall not be willing to allow that there are any distinct kinds allow that there are any distinct kinds allow that there are any distinct kinds of visible bodies fairer than these. of visible bodies fairer than these. of visible bodies fairer than these. Wherefore we must endeavor to construct Wherefore we must endeavor to construct Wherefore we must endeavor to construct the four forms of bodies which excel in the four forms of bodies which excel in the four forms of bodies which excel in beauty, and then we shall be able to say beauty, and then we shall be able to say beauty, and then we shall be able to say that we have sufficiently apprehended that we have sufficiently apprehended that we have sufficiently apprehended their nature. their nature. their nature. Now, of the two triangles, the isosceles Now, of the two triangles, the isosceles Now, of the two triangles, the isosceles has one form only. The scalene, or has one form only. The scalene, or has one form only. The scalene, or unequal-sided, has an infinite number. unequal-sided, has an infinite number. unequal-sided, has an infinite number. Of the infinite forms, we must select Of the infinite forms, we must select Of the infinite forms, we must select the most beautiful if we are to proceed the most beautiful if we are to proceed the most beautiful if we are to proceed in due order. And anyone who can point in due order. And anyone who can point in due order. And anyone who can point out a more beautiful form than ours for out a more beautiful form than ours for out a more beautiful form than ours for the construction of these bodies shall the construction of these bodies shall the construction of these bodies shall carry off the palm, not as an enemy, but carry off the palm, not as an enemy, but carry off the palm, not as an enemy, but as a friend. as a friend. as a friend. Now, the one which we maintain to be the Now, the one which we maintain to be the Now, the one which we maintain to be the most beautiful of all the many most beautiful of all the many most beautiful of all the many triangles, and we need not speak of the triangles, and we need not speak of the triangles, and we need not speak of the others, is that of which the double others, is that of which the double others, is that of which the double forms a third triangle which is forms a third triangle which is forms a third triangle which is equilateral.

equilateral. equilateral. The reason of this would be long to The reason of this would be long to The reason of this would be long to tell. He who disproves what we are tell. He who disproves what we are tell. He who disproves what we are saying and shows that we are mistaken saying and shows that we are mistaken saying and shows that we are mistaken may claim a friendly victory. may claim a friendly victory. may claim a friendly victory. Then, let us choose two triangles out of Then, let us choose two triangles out of Then, let us choose two triangles out of which fire and the other elements have which fire and the other elements have which fire and the other elements have been constructed. been constructed. been constructed. One isosceles, the other having the One isosceles, the other having the One isosceles, the other having the square of the longer side equal to three square of the longer side equal to three square of the longer side equal to three times the square of the lesser side. times the square of the lesser side. times the square of the lesser side. Now is the time to explain what was Now is the time to explain what was Now is the time to explain what was before obscurely said. before obscurely said. before obscurely said. There was an error in imagining that all There was an error in imagining that all There was an error in imagining that all the four elements might be generated by the four elements might be generated by the four elements might be generated by and into one another. and into one another. and into one another. This, I say, was an erroneous This, I say, was an erroneous This, I say, was an erroneous supposition. For they are generated from supposition. For they are generated from supposition. For they are generated from the triangles which we have selected, the triangles which we have selected, the triangles which we have selected, four kinds. Three from the one which has four kinds. Three from the one which has four kinds. Three from the one which has the sides unequal, the fourth alone is the sides unequal, the fourth alone is the sides unequal, the fourth alone is framed out of the isosceles triangle. framed out of the isosceles triangle. framed out of the isosceles triangle. Hence, they cannot all be solved into Hence, they cannot all be solved into Hence, they cannot all be solved into one another, a great number of small one another, a great number of small one another, a great number of small bodies being combined into a few large bodies being combined into a few large bodies being combined into a few large ones or the converse. ones or the converse. ones or the converse. But three of them can be thus resolved But three of them can be thus resolved But three of them can be thus resolved and compounded, for they all spring from and compounded, for they all spring from and compounded, for they all spring from one. And when the greater bodies are one. And when the greater bodies are one. And when the greater bodies are broken up, many small bodies will spring broken up, many small bodies will spring broken up, many small bodies will spring up out of them and take their own proper up out of them and take their own proper up out of them and take their own proper figures.

figures. figures. Or, again, when many small bodies are Or, again, when many small bodies are Or, again, when many small bodies are dissolved into their triangles, if they dissolved into their triangles, if they dissolved into their triangles, if they become one, they will form one large become one, they will form one large become one, they will form one large mass of another kind. mass of another kind. mass of another kind. So much for their passage into one So much for their passage into one So much for their passage into one another. another. another. I have now to speak of their several I have now to speak of their several I have now to speak of their several kinds and show out of what combinations kinds and show out of what combinations kinds and show out of what combinations of numbers each of them was formed. of numbers each of them was formed. of numbers each of them was formed. The first will be the simplest and The first will be the simplest and The first will be the simplest and smallest construction, and its element smallest construction, and its element smallest construction, and its element is that triangle which has its is that triangle which has its is that triangle which has its hypotenuse twice the lesser side. hypotenuse twice the lesser side. hypotenuse twice the lesser side. When two such triangles are joined at When two such triangles are joined at When two such triangles are joined at the diagonal, and this is repeated three the diagonal, and this is repeated three the diagonal, and this is repeated three times, and the triangles rest their times, and the triangles rest their times, and the triangles rest their diagonals and show two sides on the same diagonals and show two sides on the same diagonals and show two sides on the same point as a center, a single equilateral point as a center, a single equilateral point as a center, a single equilateral triangle is formed out of six triangles. triangle is formed out of six triangles. triangle is formed out of six triangles. And four equilateral triangles, if put And four equilateral triangles, if put And four equilateral triangles, if put together, make out of every three plain together, make out of every three plain together, make out of every three plain angles one solid angle, being that which angles one solid angle, being that which angles one solid angle, being that which is nearest to the most obtuse of plain is nearest to the most obtuse of plain is nearest to the most obtuse of plain angles. angles. angles. And out of the combination of these four And out of the combination of these four And out of the combination of these four angles arises the first solid form which angles arises the first solid form which angles arises the first solid form which distributes into equal and similar parts distributes into equal and similar parts distributes into equal and similar parts the whole circle in which it is the whole circle in which it is the whole circle in which it is inscribed.

inscribed. inscribed. The second species of solid is formed The second species of solid is formed The second species of solid is formed out of the same triangles which unite as out of the same triangles which unite as out of the same triangles which unite as eight equilateral triangles and form one eight equilateral triangles and form one eight equilateral triangles and form one solid angle out of four plain angles, solid angle out of four plain angles, solid angle out of four plain angles, and out of six such angles the second and out of six such angles the second and out of six such angles the second body is completed. body is completed. body is completed. And the third body is made up of 120 And the third body is made up of 120 And the third body is made up of 120 triangular elements forming 12 solid triangular elements forming 12 solid triangular elements forming 12 solid angles, each of them included in five angles, each of them included in five angles, each of them included in five plain equilateral triangles having plain equilateral triangles having plain equilateral triangles having altogether 20 bases, each of which is an altogether 20 bases, each of which is an altogether 20 bases, each of which is an equilateral triangle. equilateral triangle. equilateral triangle. The one element, that is, the triangle The one element, that is, the triangle The one element, that is, the triangle which has its hypotenuse twice the which has its hypotenuse twice the which has its hypotenuse twice the lesser side, having generated these lesser side, having generated these lesser side, having generated these figures, generated no more. figures, generated no more. figures, generated no more. But the isosceles triangle produced the But the isosceles triangle produced the But the isosceles triangle produced the fourth elementary figure, which is fourth elementary figure, which is fourth elementary figure, which is compounded of four such triangles compounded of four such triangles compounded of four such triangles joining their right angles in a center joining their right angles in a center joining their right angles in a center and forming one equilateral quadrangle. and forming one equilateral quadrangle. and forming one equilateral quadrangle. Six of these united form eight solid Six of these united form eight solid Six of these united form eight solid angles, each of which is made by the angles, each of which is made by the angles, each of which is made by the combination of three plain right angles. combination of three plain right angles. combination of three plain right angles. The figure of the body thus composed is The figure of the body thus composed is The figure of the body thus composed is a cube having six plain quadrangular a cube having six plain quadrangular a cube having six plain quadrangular equilateral bases.

equilateral bases. equilateral bases. There was yet a fifth combination which There was yet a fifth combination which There was yet a fifth combination which God used in the delineation of the God used in the delineation of the God used in the delineation of the universe. universe. universe. Now, he who duly reflecting on all this Now, he who duly reflecting on all this Now, he who duly reflecting on all this inquires whether the worlds are to be inquires whether the worlds are to be inquires whether the worlds are to be regarded as indefinite or definite in regarded as indefinite or definite in regarded as indefinite or definite in number, will be of opinion that the number, will be of opinion that the number, will be of opinion that the notion of their indefiniteness is notion of their indefiniteness is notion of their indefiniteness is characteristic of a sadly indefinite and characteristic of a sadly indefinite and characteristic of a sadly indefinite and ignorant mind. He, however, who raises ignorant mind. He, however, who raises ignorant mind. He, however, who raises the question whether they are to be the question whether they are to be the question whether they are to be truly regarded as one or five, takes up truly regarded as one or five, takes up truly regarded as one or five, takes up a more reasonable position. a more reasonable position. a more reasonable position. Arguing from probabilities, I am of Arguing from probabilities, I am of Arguing from probabilities, I am of opinion that they are one. Another, opinion that they are one. Another, opinion that they are one. Another, regarding the question from another regarding the question from another regarding the question from another point of view, will be of another mind. point of view, will be of another mind. point of view, will be of another mind. But, leaving this inquiry, let us But, leaving this inquiry, let us But, leaving this inquiry, let us proceed to distribute the elementary proceed to distribute the elementary proceed to distribute the elementary forms which have now been created in forms which have now been created in forms which have now been created in idea among the four elements. idea among the four elements. idea among the four elements. To earth, then, let us assign the To earth, then, let us assign the To earth, then, let us assign the cubical form. cubical form. cubical form. For earth is the most immovable of the For earth is the most immovable of the For earth is the most immovable of the four and the most plastic of all bodies, four and the most plastic of all bodies, four and the most plastic of all bodies, and that which has the most stable basis and that which has the most stable basis and that which has the most stable basis must of necessity be of such a nature.

must of necessity be of such a nature. must of necessity be of such a nature. Now, of the triangles which we assumed Now, of the triangles which we assumed Now, of the triangles which we assumed at first, that which has two equal sides at first, that which has two equal sides at first, that which has two equal sides is by nature more firmly based than that is by nature more firmly based than that is by nature more firmly based than that which has unequal sides. And of the which has unequal sides. And of the which has unequal sides. And of the compound figures which are formed out of compound figures which are formed out of compound figures which are formed out of either, the plain equilateral quadrangle either, the plain equilateral quadrangle either, the plain equilateral quadrangle has necessarily a more stable base than has necessarily a more stable base than has necessarily a more stable base than the equilateral triangle, both in the the equilateral triangle, both in the the equilateral triangle, both in the whole and in the parts. whole and in the parts. whole and in the parts. Wherefore, in assigning this figure to Wherefore, in assigning this figure to Wherefore, in assigning this figure to earth, we adhere to probability. earth, we adhere to probability. earth, we adhere to probability. And to water we assign that one of the And to water we assign that one of the And to water we assign that one of the remaining forms which is the least remaining forms which is the least remaining forms which is the least movable, and the most movable of them to movable, and the most movable of them to movable, and the most movable of them to fire, and to air that which is fire, and to air that which is fire, and to air that which is intermediate. intermediate. intermediate. Also, we assign the smallest body to Also, we assign the smallest body to Also, we assign the smallest body to fire and the greatest to water, and the fire and the greatest to water, and the fire and the greatest to water, and the intermediate in size to air. intermediate in size to air. intermediate in size to air. And again, the acutest body to fire, and And again, the acutest body to fire, and And again, the acutest body to fire, and the next in acuteness to air, and the the next in acuteness to air, and the the next in acuteness to air, and the third to water. third to water. third to water. Of all these elements, that which has Of all these elements, that which has Of all these elements, that which has the fewest bases must necessarily be the the fewest bases must necessarily be the the fewest bases must necessarily be the most movable, for it must be the acutest most movable, for it must be the acutest most movable, for it must be the acutest and most penetrating in every way, and and most penetrating in every way, and and most penetrating in every way, and also the lightest, as being composed of also the lightest, as being composed of also the lightest, as being composed of the smallest number of similar the smallest number of similar the smallest number of similar particles.

particles. particles. And the second body has similar And the second body has similar And the second body has similar properties in a second degree, and the properties in a second degree, and the properties in a second degree, and the third body in the third degree. third body in the third degree. third body in the third degree. Let it be agreed, then, both according Let it be agreed, then, both according Let it be agreed, then, both according to strict reason and according to to strict reason and according to to strict reason and according to probability, that the pyramid is the probability, that the pyramid is the probability, that the pyramid is the solid which is the original element and solid which is the original element and solid which is the original element and seed of fire. seed of fire. seed of fire. And let us assign the element which was And let us assign the element which was And let us assign the element which was next in the order of generation to air, next in the order of generation to air, next in the order of generation to air, and the third to water. and the third to water. and the third to water. We must imagine all these to be so small We must imagine all these to be so small We must imagine all these to be so small that no single particle of any of the that no single particle of any of the that no single particle of any of the four kinds is seen by us on account of four kinds is seen by us on account of four kinds is seen by us on account of their smallness. their smallness. their smallness. But when many of them are collected But when many of them are collected But when many of them are collected together, their aggregates are seen. together, their aggregates are seen. together, their aggregates are seen. And the ratios of their numbers, And the ratios of their numbers, And the ratios of their numbers, motions, properties everywhere God, as motions, properties everywhere God, as motions, properties everywhere God, as far as necessity allowed or gave far as necessity allowed or gave far as necessity allowed or gave consent, has exactly perfected and consent, has exactly perfected and consent, has exactly perfected and harmonized in due proportion. harmonized in due proportion. harmonized in due proportion. From all that we have just been saying From all that we have just been saying From all that we have just been saying about the elements or kinds, the most about the elements or kinds, the most about the elements or kinds, the most probable conclusion is as follows: probable conclusion is as follows: probable conclusion is as follows: Earth, when meeting with fire and Earth, when meeting with fire and Earth, when meeting with fire and dissolved by its sharpness, whether the dissolved by its sharpness, whether the dissolved by its sharpness, whether the dissolution take place in the fire dissolution take place in the fire dissolution take place in the fire itself, or perhaps in some mass of air itself, or perhaps in some mass of air itself, or perhaps in some mass of air or water, is borne hither and thither or water, is borne hither and thither or water, is borne hither and thither until its parts meeting together and until its parts meeting together and until its parts meeting together and mutually harmonizing again become earth.

mutually harmonizing again become earth. mutually harmonizing again become earth. For they can never take any other form. For they can never take any other form. For they can never take any other form. But water, when divided by fire or by But water, when divided by fire or by But water, when divided by fire or by air, on reforming, may become one part air, on reforming, may become one part air, on reforming, may become one part fire and two parts air. fire and two parts air. fire and two parts air. And a single volume of air divided And a single volume of air divided And a single volume of air divided becomes two of fire. becomes two of fire. becomes two of fire. Again, when a small body of fire is Again, when a small body of fire is Again, when a small body of fire is contained in in larger body of air or contained in in larger body of air or contained in in larger body of air or water or earth and both are moving and water or earth and both are moving and water or earth and both are moving and the fire struggling is overcome and the fire struggling is overcome and the fire struggling is overcome and broken up then two volumes of fire form broken up then two volumes of fire form broken up then two volumes of fire form one volume of air one volume of air one volume of air and when air is overcome and cut up into and when air is overcome and cut up into and when air is overcome and cut up into small pieces small pieces small pieces two and a half parts of air are two and a half parts of air are two and a half parts of air are condensed into one part of water. condensed into one part of water. condensed into one part of water. Let us consider the matter in another Let us consider the matter in another Let us consider the matter in another way. way. way. When one of the other elements is When one of the other elements is When one of the other elements is fastened upon by fire and is cut by the fastened upon by fire and is cut by the fastened upon by fire and is cut by the sharpness of its angles and sides sharpness of its angles and sides sharpness of its angles and sides it coalesces with the fire and then it coalesces with the fire and then it coalesces with the fire and then ceases to be cut by them any longer ceases to be cut by them any longer ceases to be cut by them any longer for no element which is one and the same for no element which is one and the same for no element which is one and the same with itself can be changed by or change with itself can be changed by or change with itself can be changed by or change another of the same kind and in the same another of the same kind and in the same another of the same kind and in the same state.

state. state. But so long as in the process of But so long as in the process of But so long as in the process of transition the weaker is fighting transition the weaker is fighting transition the weaker is fighting against the stronger the dissolution against the stronger the dissolution against the stronger the dissolution continues. continues. continues. Again, when a few small particles Again, when a few small particles Again, when a few small particles enclosed in many larger ones are in enclosed in many larger ones are in enclosed in many larger ones are in process of decomposition and extinction process of decomposition and extinction process of decomposition and extinction they only cease from their tendency to they only cease from their tendency to they only cease from their tendency to extinction when they consent to pass extinction when they consent to pass extinction when they consent to pass into the conquering nature and fire into the conquering nature and fire into the conquering nature and fire becomes air and air water. becomes air and air water. becomes air and air water. But if bodies of another kind go and But if bodies of another kind go and But if bodies of another kind go and attack them that is the small particles attack them that is the small particles attack them that is the small particles the latter continue to be dissolved the latter continue to be dissolved the latter continue to be dissolved until being completely forced back and until being completely forced back and until being completely forced back and dispersed they make their escape to dispersed they make their escape to dispersed they make their escape to their own kindred or else being overcome their own kindred or else being overcome their own kindred or else being overcome and assimilated to the conquering power and assimilated to the conquering power and assimilated to the conquering power they remain where they are and dwell they remain where they are and dwell they remain where they are and dwell with their victors and from being many with their victors and from being many with their victors and from being many become one. become one. become one. And owing to these affections all things And owing to these affections all things And owing to these affections all things are changing their place for by the are changing their place for by the are changing their place for by the motion of the receiving vessel the bulk motion of the receiving vessel the bulk motion of the receiving vessel the bulk of each class is distributed into its of each class is distributed into its of each class is distributed into its proper place. proper place. proper place. But those things which become unlike But those things which become unlike But those things which become unlike themselves and like other things themselves and like other things themselves and like other things are hurried by the shaking into the are hurried by the shaking into the are hurried by the shaking into the place of the things to which they grow place of the things to which they grow place of the things to which they grow like.

like. like. Now all unmixed and primary bodies are Now all unmixed and primary bodies are Now all unmixed and primary bodies are produced by such causes as these. produced by such causes as these. produced by such causes as these. As to the subordinate species which are As to the subordinate species which are As to the subordinate species which are included in the greater kinds, included in the greater kinds, included in the greater kinds, they are to be attributed to the they are to be attributed to the they are to be attributed to the varieties in the structure of the two varieties in the structure of the two varieties in the structure of the two original triangles. original triangles. original triangles. For either structure did not originally For either structure did not originally For either structure did not originally produce the triangle of one size only, produce the triangle of one size only, produce the triangle of one size only, but some larger and some smaller. but some larger and some smaller. but some larger and some smaller. And there are as many sizes as there are And there are as many sizes as there are And there are as many sizes as there are species of the four elements. species of the four elements. species of the four elements. Hence, when they are mingled with Hence, when they are mingled with Hence, when they are mingled with themselves and with one another, there themselves and with one another, there themselves and with one another, there is an endless variety of them. Which is an endless variety of them. Which is an endless variety of them. Which those who would arrive at the probable those who would arrive at the probable those who would arrive at the probable truth of nature ought duly to consider. truth of nature ought duly to consider. truth of nature ought duly to consider. End of part four. Part five of Timaeus. This is a LibriVox Part five of Timaeus. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are recording. All LibriVox recordings are recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more in the public domain. For more in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please information or to volunteer, please information or to volunteer, please visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna visit librivox.org. Recording by Anna Simon. Simon. Simon. Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Timaeus by Plato, translated by Benjamin Jowett. Part five.

Jowett. Part five. Jowett. Part five. Timaeus continues. Timaeus continues. Timaeus continues. Unless a person comes to an Unless a person comes to an Unless a person comes to an understanding about the nature and understanding about the nature and understanding about the nature and conditions of rest and motion, he will conditions of rest and motion, he will conditions of rest and motion, he will meet with many difficulties in the meet with many difficulties in the meet with many difficulties in the discussion which follows. discussion which follows. discussion which follows. Something has been said of this matter Something has been said of this matter Something has been said of this matter already, and something more remains to already, and something more remains to already, and something more remains to be said, which is that motion never be said, which is that motion never be said, which is that motion never exists in what is uniform. exists in what is uniform. exists in what is uniform. For to conceive that anything can be For to conceive that anything can be For to conceive that anything can be moved without a mover is hard or indeed moved without a mover is hard or indeed moved without a mover is hard or indeed impossible. And equally impossible that impossible. And equally impossible that impossible. And equally impossible that there can be a mover unless there be there can be a mover unless there be there can be a mover unless there be something which can be moved. something which can be moved. something which can be moved. Motion cannot exist where either of Motion cannot exist where either of Motion cannot exist where either of these are wanting. And for these to be these are wanting. And for these to be these are wanting. And for these to be uniform is impossible. uniform is impossible. uniform is impossible. Wherefore, we must assign rest to Wherefore, we must assign rest to Wherefore, we must assign rest to uniformity and motion to the want of uniformity and motion to the want of uniformity and motion to the want of uniformity. uniformity. uniformity. Now, inequality is the cause of the Now, inequality is the cause of the Now, inequality is the cause of the nature which is wanting in uniformity. nature which is wanting in uniformity. nature which is wanting in uniformity. And of this we have already And of this we have already And of this we have already the origin. the origin. the origin. But, there still remains the further But, there still remains the further But, there still remains the further point, why things, when divided after point, why things, when divided after point, why things, when divided after their kinds, do not cease to pass their kinds, do not cease to pass their kinds, do not cease to pass through one another and to change their through one another and to change their through one another and to change their place, which we will now proceed to place, which we will now proceed to place, which we will now proceed to explain.

explain. explain. In the revolution of the universe, are In the revolution of the universe, are In the revolution of the universe, are comprehended all the four elements, and comprehended all the four elements, and comprehended all the four elements, and this being circular and having a this being circular and having a this being circular and having a tendency to come together, compresses tendency to come together, compresses tendency to come together, compresses everything and will not allow any place everything and will not allow any place everything and will not allow any place to be left void. to be left void. to be left void. Wherefore, also, fire, above all things, Wherefore, also, fire, above all things, Wherefore, also, fire, above all things, penetrates everywhere, and air next, as penetrates everywhere, and air next, as penetrates everywhere, and air next, as being next in rarity of the elements. being next in rarity of the elements. being next in rarity of the elements. And the two other elements, in like And the two other elements, in like And the two other elements, in like manner, penetrate according to their manner, penetrate according to their manner, penetrate according to their degrees of rarity. degrees of rarity. degrees of rarity. For those things which are composed of For those things which are composed of For those things which are composed of the largest particles have the largest the largest particles have the largest the largest particles have the largest void left in their compositions, and void left in their compositions, and void left in their compositions, and those which are composed of the smallest those which are composed of the smallest those which are composed of the smallest particles have the least. particles have the least. particles have the least. And the contraction caused by the And the contraction caused by the And the contraction caused by the compression thrusts the smaller compression thrusts the smaller compression thrusts the smaller particles into the interstices of the particles into the interstices of the particles into the interstices of the larger. larger. larger. And thus, when the small parts are And thus, when the small parts are And thus, when the small parts are placed side by side with the larger, and placed side by side with the larger, and placed side by side with the larger, and the lesser divide the greater, and the the lesser divide the greater, and the the lesser divide the greater, and the greater unite the lesser, all the greater unite the lesser, all the greater unite the lesser, all the elements are borne up and down, and elements are borne up and down, and elements are borne up and down, and hither and thither, towards their own hither and thither, towards their own hither and thither, towards their own places. places. places. For the change in the size of each For the change in the size of each For the change in the size of each changes its position in space.

changes its position in space. changes its position in space. And these causes generate an inequality, And these causes generate an inequality, And these causes generate an inequality, which is always maintained and is which is always maintained and is which is always maintained and is continually creating a perpetual motion continually creating a perpetual motion continually creating a perpetual motion of the elements in all time. of the elements in all time. of the elements in all time. In the next place, we have to consider In the next place, we have to consider In the next place, we have to consider that there are diverse kinds of fire. that there are diverse kinds of fire. that there are diverse kinds of fire. There are, for example, first, flame, There are, for example, first, flame, There are, for example, first, flame, and secondly, those emanations of flame and secondly, those emanations of flame and secondly, those emanations of flame which do not burn, but only give light which do not burn, but only give light which do not burn, but only give light to the eyes. Thirdly, the remains of to the eyes. Thirdly, the remains of to the eyes. Thirdly, the remains of fire, which are seen in red-hot embers fire, which are seen in red-hot embers fire, which are seen in red-hot embers after the flame has been extinguished. after the flame has been extinguished. after the flame has been extinguished. There are similar differences in the There are similar differences in the There are similar differences in the air, of which the brightest part is air, of which the brightest part is air, of which the brightest part is called the ether, and the most turbid called the ether, and the most turbid called the ether, and the most turbid sort, mist and darkness. And there are sort, mist and darkness. And there are sort, mist and darkness. And there are various other nameless kinds which arise various other nameless kinds which arise various other nameless kinds which arise from the inequality of the triangles. from the inequality of the triangles. from the inequality of the triangles. Water again admits in the first place of Water again admits in the first place of Water again admits in the first place of a division into two kinds, the one a division into two kinds, the one a division into two kinds, the one liquid and the other fusile. liquid and the other fusile. liquid and the other fusile. The liquid kind is composed of the small The liquid kind is composed of the small The liquid kind is composed of the small and unequal particles of water, and and unequal particles of water, and and unequal particles of water, and moves itself and is moved by other moves itself and is moved by other moves itself and is moved by other bodies owing to the want of uniformity bodies owing to the want of uniformity bodies owing to the want of uniformity and the shape of its particles.

and the shape of its particles. and the shape of its particles. Whereas the fusile kind, being formed of Whereas the fusile kind, being formed of Whereas the fusile kind, being formed of large and uniform particles, is more large and uniform particles, is more large and uniform particles, is more stable than the other and is heavy and stable than the other and is heavy and stable than the other and is heavy and compact by reason of its uniformity. compact by reason of its uniformity. compact by reason of its uniformity. But when fire gets in and dissolves the But when fire gets in and dissolves the But when fire gets in and dissolves the particles and destroys the uniformity, particles and destroys the uniformity, particles and destroys the uniformity, it has greater mobility and becoming it has greater mobility and becoming it has greater mobility and becoming fluid is thrust forth by the neighboring fluid is thrust forth by the neighboring fluid is thrust forth by the neighboring air and spreads upon the earth. air and spreads upon the earth. air and spreads upon the earth. And this dissolution of the solid masses And this dissolution of the solid masses And this dissolution of the solid masses is called melting, and their spreading is called melting, and their spreading is called melting, and their spreading out upon the earth, flowing. out upon the earth, flowing. out upon the earth, flowing. Again, when the fire goes out of the Again, when the fire goes out of the Again, when the fire goes out of the fusile substance, it does not pass into fusile substance, it does not pass into fusile substance, it does not pass into a vacuum but into the neighboring air. a vacuum but into the neighboring air. a vacuum but into the neighboring air. And the air which is displaced forces And the air which is displaced forces And the air which is displaced forces together the liquid and still movable together the liquid and still movable together the liquid and still movable mass into the place which was occupied mass into the place which was occupied mass into the place which was occupied by the fire and unites it with itself. by the fire and unites it with itself. by the fire and unites it with itself. Thus compressed, the mass resumes its Thus compressed, the mass resumes its Thus compressed, the mass resumes its equability and is again at unity with equability and is again at unity with equability and is again at unity with itself because the fire which was the itself because the fire which was the itself because the fire which was the author of the inequality has retreated. author of the inequality has retreated. author of the inequality has retreated. And this departure of the fire is called And this departure of the fire is called And this departure of the fire is called cooling, and the coming together which cooling, and the coming together which cooling, and the coming together which follows upon it is termed congealment.

follows upon it is termed congealment. follows upon it is termed congealment. Of all the kinds termed fusile, that Of all the kinds termed fusile, that Of all the kinds termed fusile, that which is the densest and is formed out which is the densest and is formed out which is the densest and is formed out of the finest and most uniform parts is of the finest and most uniform parts is of the finest and most uniform parts is that most precious possession called that most precious possession called that most precious possession called gold, which is hardened by filtration gold, which is hardened by filtration gold, which is hardened by filtration through rock. through rock. through rock. This is unique in kind and has both a This is unique in kind and has both a This is unique in kind and has both a glittering and a yellow color. glittering and a yellow color. glittering and a yellow color. A shoot of gold which is so dense as to A shoot of gold which is so dense as to A shoot of gold which is so dense as to be very hard, and takes a black color, be very hard, and takes a black color, be very hard, and takes a black color, is termed adamant. is termed adamant. is termed adamant. There is also another kind which has There is also another kind which has There is also another kind which has parts nearly like gold, and of which parts nearly like gold, and of which parts nearly like gold, and of which there are several species. there are several species. there are several species. It is denser than gold, and it contains It is denser than gold, and it contains It is denser than gold, and it contains a small and fine portion of earth, and a small and fine portion of earth, and a small and fine portion of earth, and is therefore harder, yet also lighter is therefore harder, yet also lighter is therefore harder, yet also lighter because of the great interstices which because of the great interstices which because of the great interstices which it has within itself. it has within itself. it has within itself. And this substance, which is one of the And this substance, which is one of the And this substance, which is one of the bright and denser kinds of water, when bright and denser kinds of water, when bright and denser kinds of water, when solidified is called copper. solidified is called copper. solidified is called copper. There is an alloy of earth mingled with There is an alloy of earth mingled with There is an alloy of earth mingled with it, which, when the two parts grow old it, which, when the two parts grow old it, which, when the two parts grow old and are disunited, shows itself and are disunited, shows itself and are disunited, shows itself separately and is called rust.

separately and is called rust. separately and is called rust. The remaining phenomena of the same kind The remaining phenomena of the same kind The remaining phenomena of the same kind there will be no difficulty in reasoning there will be no difficulty in reasoning there will be no difficulty in reasoning out by the method of probabilities. out by the method of probabilities. out by the method of probabilities. A man may sometimes set aside A man may sometimes set aside A man may sometimes set aside meditations about eternal things, and meditations about eternal things, and meditations about eternal things, and for recreation turn to consider the for recreation turn to consider the for recreation turn to consider the truth of generation, which are probable truth of generation, which are probable truth of generation, which are probable only. He will thus gain a pleasure not only. He will thus gain a pleasure not only. He will thus gain a pleasure not to be repented of, and secure for to be repented of, and secure for to be repented of, and secure for himself, while he lives, a wise and himself, while he lives, a wise and himself, while he lives, a wise and moderate pastime. moderate pastime. moderate pastime. Let us grant ourselves this indulgence, Let us grant ourselves this indulgence, Let us grant ourselves this indulgence, and go through the probabilities and go through the probabilities and go through the probabilities relating to the same subjects which relating to the same subjects which relating to the same subjects which follow next in order. follow next in order. follow next in order. Water, which is mingled with fire, so Water, which is mingled with fire, so Water, which is mingled with fire, so much as is fine and liquid, being so much as is fine and liquid, being so much as is fine and liquid, being so called by reason of its motion and the called by reason of its motion and the called by reason of its motion and the way in which it rolls along the ground, way in which it rolls along the ground, way in which it rolls along the ground, and soft because its bases give way and and soft because its bases give way and and soft because its bases give way and are less stable than those of earth, are less stable than those of earth, are less stable than those of earth, when separated from fire and air and when separated from fire and air and when separated from fire and air and isolated, becomes more uniform, and by isolated, becomes more uniform, and by isolated, becomes more uniform, and by their retirement is compressed into their retirement is compressed into their retirement is compressed into itself. itself. itself. And if the condensation it be very And if the condensation it be very And if the condensation it be very great, the water above the earth becomes great, the water above the earth becomes great, the water above the earth becomes hail, but on the earth, ice.

hail, but on the earth, ice. hail, but on the earth, ice. And that which is congealed in a less And that which is congealed in a less And that which is congealed in a less degree, and is only half solid, when degree, and is only half solid, when degree, and is only half solid, when above the earth is called snow, above the earth is called snow, above the earth is called snow, and when upon the earth and condensed and when upon the earth and condensed and when upon the earth and condensed from dew, hoarfrost. from dew, hoarfrost. from dew, hoarfrost. Then again, there are the numerous kinds Then again, there are the numerous kinds Then again, there are the numerous kinds of water which have been mingled with of water which have been mingled with of water which have been mingled with one another and are distilled through one another and are distilled through one another and are distilled through plants which grow in the earth. plants which grow in the earth. plants which grow in the earth. And this whole class is called by the And this whole class is called by the And this whole class is called by the name of juices or saps. name of juices or saps. name of juices or saps. The unequal admixture of these fluids The unequal admixture of these fluids The unequal admixture of these fluids creates a variety of species. Most of creates a variety of species. Most of creates a variety of species. Most of them are nameless, but four which are of them are nameless, but four which are of them are nameless, but four which are of a fiery nature are clearly distinguished a fiery nature are clearly distinguished a fiery nature are clearly distinguished and have names. and have names. and have names. First, there is wine, which warms the First, there is wine, which warms the First, there is wine, which warms the soul as well as the body. Secondly, soul as well as the body. Secondly, soul as well as the body. Secondly, there is the oily nature, which is there is the oily nature, which is there is the oily nature, which is smooth and divides the visual ray and smooth and divides the visual ray and smooth and divides the visual ray and for this reason is bright and shining for this reason is bright and shining for this reason is bright and shining and of a glistening appearance, and of a glistening appearance, and of a glistening appearance, including pitch, the juice of the castor including pitch, the juice of the castor including pitch, the juice of the castor berry, oil itself, and other things of a berry, oil itself, and other things of a berry, oil itself, and other things of a like kind. like kind. like kind. Thirdly, there is the class of Thirdly, there is the class of Thirdly, there is the class of substances which expand the contracted substances which expand the contracted substances which expand the contracted parts of the mouth until they return to parts of the mouth until they return to parts of the mouth until they return to their natural state and by reason of their natural state and by reason of their natural state and by reason of this property create sweetness.

this property create sweetness. this property create sweetness. These are included under the general These are included under the general These are included under the general name of honey. name of honey. name of honey. And lastly, there is a frothy nature, And lastly, there is a frothy nature, And lastly, there is a frothy nature, which differs from all juices having a which differs from all juices having a which differs from all juices having a burning quality which dissolves the burning quality which dissolves the burning quality which dissolves the flesh. It is called opos, a vegetable flesh. It is called opos, a vegetable flesh. It is called opos, a vegetable acid. acid. acid. As to the kinds of earth, that which is As to the kinds of earth, that which is As to the kinds of earth, that which is filtered through water passes into stone filtered through water passes into stone filtered through water passes into stone in the following manner. in the following manner. in the following manner. The water which mixes with the earth and The water which mixes with the earth and The water which mixes with the earth and is broken up in the process changes into is broken up in the process changes into is broken up in the process changes into air and taking this form mounts into its air and taking this form mounts into its air and taking this form mounts into its own place. own place. own place. But as there is no surrounding vacuum, But as there is no surrounding vacuum, But as there is no surrounding vacuum, it thrusts away the neighboring air and it thrusts away the neighboring air and it thrusts away the neighboring air and this being rendered heavy and when it is this being rendered heavy and when it is this being rendered heavy and when it is displaced, having been poured around the displaced, having been poured around the displaced, having been poured around the mass of earth, forcibly compresses it mass of earth, forcibly compresses it mass of earth, forcibly compresses it and drives it into the vacant space and drives it into the vacant space and drives it into the vacant space whence the new air had come up. And the whence the new air had come up. And the whence the new air had come up. And the earth, when compressed by the air into earth, when compressed by the air into earth, when compressed by the air into an indissoluble union with water, an indissoluble union with water, an indissoluble union with water, becomes rock. becomes rock. becomes rock. The fairer sort is that which is made up The fairer sort is that which is made up The fairer sort is that which is made up of equal and similar parts and is of equal and similar parts and is of equal and similar parts and is transparent. That which has the opposite transparent. That which has the opposite transparent. That which has the opposite qualities is inferior.

qualities is inferior. qualities is inferior. But when all the watery part is suddenly But when all the watery part is suddenly But when all the watery part is suddenly drawn out by fire, a more brittle drawn out by fire, a more brittle drawn out by fire, a more brittle substance is formed, to which we give substance is formed, to which we give substance is formed, to which we give the name of pottery. the name of pottery. the name of pottery. Sometimes also, moisture may remain, and Sometimes also, moisture may remain, and Sometimes also, moisture may remain, and the earth which has been fused by fire the earth which has been fused by fire the earth which has been fused by fire becomes, when cool, a certain stone of a becomes, when cool, a certain stone of a becomes, when cool, a certain stone of a black color. black color. black color. A like separation of the water which had A like separation of the water which had A like separation of the water which had been copiously mingled with them may been copiously mingled with them may been copiously mingled with them may occur in two substances composed of occur in two substances composed of occur in two substances composed of finer particles of earth and of a briny finer particles of earth and of a briny finer particles of earth and of a briny nature. nature. nature. Out of either of them, a half-solid body Out of either of them, a half-solid body Out of either of them, a half-solid body is then formed, soluble in water. The is then formed, soluble in water. The is then formed, soluble in water. The one, soda, which is used for purging one, soda, which is used for purging one, soda, which is used for purging away oil and earth. The other, salt, away oil and earth. The other, salt, away oil and earth. The other, salt, which harmonizes so well in combinations which harmonizes so well in combinations which harmonizes so well in combinations pleasing to the palate, and is, as the pleasing to the palate, and is, as the pleasing to the palate, and is, as the law testifies, a substance dear to the law testifies, a substance dear to the law testifies, a substance dear to the gods. gods. gods. The compounds of earth and water are not The compounds of earth and water are not The compounds of earth and water are not soluble by water, but by fire only, and soluble by water, but by fire only, and soluble by water, but by fire only, and for this reason, for this reason, for this reason, neither fire nor air melt masses of neither fire nor air melt masses of neither fire nor air melt masses of earth, for their particles being smaller earth, for their particles being smaller earth, for their particles being smaller than the interstices in its structure, than the interstices in its structure, than the interstices in its structure, have plenty of room to move without have plenty of room to move without have plenty of room to move without forcing their way, and so they leave the forcing their way, and so they leave the forcing their way, and so they leave the earth unmelted and undissolved.

earth unmelted and undissolved. earth unmelted and undissolved. But particles of water, which are But particles of water, which are But particles of water, which are larger, force a passage and dissolve and larger, force a passage and dissolve and larger, force a passage and dissolve and melt the earth. melt the earth. melt the earth. Wherefore earth, when not consolidated Wherefore earth, when not consolidated Wherefore earth, when not consolidated by force, is dissolved by water only. by force, is dissolved by water only. by force, is dissolved by water only. When consolidated by nothing but fire, When consolidated by nothing but fire, When consolidated by nothing but fire, for this is the only body which can find for this is the only body which can find for this is the only body which can find an entrance. an entrance. an entrance. The cohesion of water again, when very The cohesion of water again, when very The cohesion of water again, when very strong, is dissolved by fire only. When strong, is dissolved by fire only. When strong, is dissolved by fire only. When weaker, then either by air or fire. weaker, then either by air or fire. weaker, then either by air or fire. The former entering the interstices, and The former entering the interstices, and The former entering the interstices, and the latter penetrating even the the latter penetrating even the the latter penetrating even the triangles. triangles. triangles. But nothing can dissolve air when But nothing can dissolve air when But nothing can dissolve air when strongly condensed, which does not reach strongly condensed, which does not reach strongly condensed, which does not reach the elements or triangles. the elements or triangles. the elements or triangles. Or if not strongly condensed, then only Or if not strongly condensed, then only Or if not strongly condensed, then only fire can dissolve it. fire can dissolve it. fire can dissolve it. As to bodies is of earth and water, As to bodies is of earth and water, As to bodies is of earth and water, while the water occupies the vacant while the water occupies the vacant while the water occupies the vacant interstices of the earth in them, which interstices of the earth in them, which interstices of the earth in them, which are compressed by force, the particles are compressed by force, the particles are compressed by force, the particles of water which approach them from of water which approach them from of water which approach them from without, finding no entrance, flow without, finding no entrance, flow without, finding no entrance, flow around the entire mass and leave it around the entire mass and leave it around the entire mass and leave it undissolved. But the particles of fire, undissolved. But the particles of fire, undissolved. But the particles of fire, entering into the interstices of the entering into the interstices of the entering into the interstices of the water, do to the water what water does water, do to the water what water does water, do to the water what water does to earth and fire to air.

to earth and fire to air. to earth and fire to air. Side note, the text seems to be corrupt. Side note, the text seems to be corrupt. Side note, the text seems to be corrupt. End side note. End side note. End side note. And are the sole causes of the compound And are the sole causes of the compound And are the sole causes of the compound body of earth and water liquefying and body of earth and water liquefying and body of earth and water liquefying and becoming fluid. becoming fluid. becoming fluid. Now, these bodies are of two kinds. Some Now, these bodies are of two kinds. Some Now, these bodies are of two kinds. Some of them, such as glass and the fusible of them, such as glass and the fusible of them, such as glass and the fusible sort of stones, have less water than sort of stones, have less water than sort of stones, have less water than they have earth. On the other hand, they have earth. On the other hand, they have earth. On the other hand, substances of the nature of wax and substances of the nature of wax and substances of the nature of wax and incense have more of water entering into incense have more of water entering into incense have more of water entering into their composition. their composition. their composition. I have thus shown the various classes of I have thus shown the various classes of I have thus shown the various classes of bodies as they are diversified by their bodies as they are diversified by their bodies as they are diversified by their forms and combinations and changes into forms and combinations and changes into forms and combinations and changes into one another. one another. one another. And now I must endeavor to set forth And now I must endeavor to set forth And now I must endeavor to set forth their affections and the causes of them. their affections and the causes of them. their affections and the causes of them. In the first place, the bodies which I In the first place, the bodies which I In the first place, the bodies which I have been describing are necessarily have been describing are necessarily have been describing are necessarily objects of sense. But we have not yet objects of sense. But we have not yet objects of sense. But we have not yet considered the origin of flesh or what considered the origin of flesh or what considered the origin of flesh or what belongs to flesh or of that part of the belongs to flesh or of that part of the belongs to flesh or of that part of the soul which is mortal. And these things soul which is mortal. And these things soul which is mortal. And these things cannot be adequately explained without cannot be adequately explained without cannot be adequately explained without also explaining the affections which are also explaining the affections which are also explaining the affections which are concerned with sensation nor the latter concerned with sensation nor the latter concerned with sensation nor the latter without the former.

without the former. without the former. And yet to explain them together is And yet to explain them together is And yet to explain them together is hardly possible. hardly possible. hardly possible. For which reason we must assume first For which reason we must assume first For which reason we must assume first one or the other and afterwards examine one or the other and afterwards examine one or the other and afterwards examine the nature of our hypothesis. the nature of our hypothesis. the nature of our hypothesis. In order then that the affections may In order then that the affections may In order then that the affections may follow regularly after the elements, let follow regularly after the elements, let follow regularly after the elements, let us presuppose the existence of body and us presuppose the existence of body and us presuppose the existence of body and soul. soul. soul. First, let us inquire what we mean by First, let us inquire what we mean by First, let us inquire what we mean by saying that fire is hot. And about this saying that fire is hot. And about this saying that fire is hot. And about this we may reason from the dividing or we may reason from the dividing or we may reason from the dividing or cutting power which it exercises on our cutting power which it exercises on our cutting power which it exercises on our bodies. bodies. bodies. We all of us feel that fire is sharp, We all of us feel that fire is sharp, We all of us feel that fire is sharp, and we may further consider the fineness and we may further consider the fineness and we may further consider the fineness of the sides and the sharpness of the of the sides and the sharpness of the of the sides and the sharpness of the angles and the smallness of the angles and the smallness of the angles and the smallness of the particles and the swiftness of the particles and the swiftness of the particles and the swiftness of the motion. motion. motion. All this makes the action of fire All this makes the action of fire All this makes the action of fire violent and sharp, so that it cuts violent and sharp, so that it cuts violent and sharp, so that it cuts whatever it meets. whatever it meets. whatever it meets. And we must not forget that the original And we must not forget that the original And we must not forget that the original figure of fire, that is, the pyramid, figure of fire, that is, the pyramid, figure of fire, that is, the pyramid, more than any other form has a dividing more than any other form has a dividing more than any other form has a dividing power which cuts our bodies into small power which cuts our bodies into small power which cuts our bodies into small pieces. pieces. pieces. kept matizae kept matizae kept matizae And thus naturally produces that And thus naturally produces that And thus naturally produces that affection which we call heat, and hence affection which we call heat, and hence affection which we call heat, and hence the origin of the name.

the origin of the name. the origin of the name. tapmos kepma tapmos kepma tapmos kepma Now, the opposite of this is Now, the opposite of this is Now, the opposite of this is sufficiently manifest. Nevertheless, we sufficiently manifest. Nevertheless, we sufficiently manifest. Nevertheless, we will not fail to describe it. will not fail to describe it. will not fail to describe it. For the larger particles of moisture For the larger particles of moisture For the larger particles of moisture which surround the body, entering in and which surround the body, entering in and which surround the body, entering in and driving out the lesser, but not being driving out the lesser, but not being driving out the lesser, but not being able to take their places, compress the able to take their places, compress the able to take their places, compress the moist principle in us. moist principle in us. moist principle in us. And this, from being unequal and And this, from being unequal and And this, from being unequal and disturbed, is forced by them into a disturbed, is forced by them into a disturbed, is forced by them into a state of rest, which is due to state of rest, which is due to state of rest, which is due to equability and compression. equability and compression. equability and compression. But things which are contracted contrary But things which are contracted contrary But things which are contracted contrary to nature are by nature at war, and to nature are by nature at war, and to nature are by nature at war, and force themselves apart. And to this war force themselves apart. And to this war force themselves apart. And to this war and convulsion, the name of shivering and convulsion, the name of shivering and convulsion, the name of shivering and trembling is given. And the whole and trembling is given. And the whole and trembling is given. And the whole affection and the cause of the affection affection and the cause of the affection affection and the cause of the affection are both termed cold. are both termed cold. are both termed cold. That is called hard to which our flesh That is called hard to which our flesh That is called hard to which our flesh yields, and soft which yields to our yields, and soft which yields to our yields, and soft which yields to our flesh. And things are also termed hard flesh. And things are also termed hard flesh. And things are also termed hard and soft relatively to one another. and soft relatively to one another. and soft relatively to one another. That which yields has a small base, but That which yields has a small base, but That which yields has a small base, but that which rests on quadrangular bases that which rests on quadrangular bases that which rests on quadrangular bases is firmly posed and belongs to the class is firmly posed and belongs to the class is firmly posed and belongs to the class which offers the greatest resistance. So which offers the greatest resistance. So which offers the greatest resistance. So too does that which is the most compact too does that which is the most compact too does that which is the most compact and therefore most repellent.

and therefore most repellent. and therefore most repellent. The nature of the light and the heavy The nature of the light and the heavy The nature of the light and the heavy will be best understood when examined in will be best understood when examined in will be best understood when examined in connection with our notions of above and connection with our notions of above and connection with our notions of above and below. below. below. For it is quite a mistake to suppose For it is quite a mistake to suppose For it is quite a mistake to suppose that the universe is parted into two that the universe is parted into two that the universe is parted into two regions, separate from and opposite to regions, separate from and opposite to regions, separate from and opposite to each other. each other. each other. The one a lower, to which all things The one a lower, to which all things The one a lower, to which all things tend which have any bulk, and an upper, tend which have any bulk, and an upper, tend which have any bulk, and an upper, to which things only ascend against to which things only ascend against to which things only ascend against their will. their will. their will. For as the universe is in the form of a For as the universe is in the form of a For as the universe is in the form of a sphere, all the extremities being sphere, all the extremities being sphere, all the extremities being equidistant from the center, are equally equidistant from the center, are equally equidistant from the center, are equally extremities. And the center, which is extremities. And the center, which is extremities. And the center, which is equidistant from them, is equally to be equidistant from them, is equally to be equidistant from them, is equally to be regarded as the opposite of them all. regarded as the opposite of them all. regarded as the opposite of them all. Such being the nature of the world, when Such being the nature of the world, when Such being the nature of the world, when a person says that any of these points a person says that any of these points a person says that any of these points is above or below, is above or below, is above or below, may he not be justly charged with using may he not be justly charged with using may he not be justly charged with using an improper expression? an improper expression? an improper expression? For the center of the world cannot be For the center of the world cannot be For the center of the world cannot be rightly called either above or below, rightly called either above or below, rightly called either above or below, but is the center and nothing else. but is the center and nothing else. but is the center and nothing else. And the circumference is not the center, And the circumference is not the center, And the circumference is not the center, and has in no one part of itself a and has in no one part of itself a and has in no one part of itself a different relation to the center from different relation to the center from different relation to the center from what it has in any of the opposite what it has in any of the opposite what it has in any of the opposite parts.

parts. parts. Indeed, when it is in every direction Indeed, when it is in every direction Indeed, when it is in every direction similar, how can one rightly give to it similar, how can one rightly give to it similar, how can one rightly give to it names which imply opposition? names which imply opposition? names which imply opposition? For if there were any solid body in For if there were any solid body in For if there were any solid body in equipoise at the center of the universe, equipoise at the center of the universe, equipoise at the center of the universe, there would be nothing to draw it to there would be nothing to draw it to there would be nothing to draw it to this extreme rather than to that, for this extreme rather than to that, for this extreme rather than to that, for they are all perfectly similar. And if a they are all perfectly similar. And if a they are all perfectly similar. And if a person were to go round the world in a person were to go round the world in a person were to go round the world in a circle, he would often, when standing at circle, he would often, when standing at circle, he would often, when standing at the antipodes of his former position, the antipodes of his former position, the antipodes of his former position, speak of the same point as above and speak of the same point as above and speak of the same point as above and below. below. below. For as I was saying just now, to speak For as I was saying just now, to speak For as I was saying just now, to speak of the whole which is in the form of a of the whole which is in the form of a of the whole which is in the form of a globe as having one part above and globe as having one part above and globe as having one part above and another below is not like a sensible another below is not like a sensible another below is not like a sensible man. man. man. The reason why these names are used, and The reason why these names are used, and The reason why these names are used, and the circumstances under which they are the circumstances under which they are the circumstances under which they are ordinarily applied by us to the division ordinarily applied by us to the division ordinarily applied by us to the division of the heavens, may be elucidated by the of the heavens, may be elucidated by the of the heavens, may be elucidated by the following supposition. following supposition. following supposition. If a person were to stand in that part If a person were to stand in that part If a person were to stand in that part of the universe which is the appointed of the universe which is the appointed of the universe which is the appointed place of fire and where there is the place of fire and where there is the place of fire and where there is the great mass of fire to which fiery bodies great mass of fire to which fiery bodies great mass of fire to which fiery bodies gather, gather, gather, if I say he were to ascend thither, and if I say he were to ascend thither, and if I say he were to ascend thither, and having the power to do this, were to having the power to do this, were to having the power to do this, were to abstract particles of fire and put them abstract particles of fire and put them abstract particles of fire and put them in scales and weigh them, and then, in scales and weigh them, and then, in scales and weigh them, and then, raising the balance, were to draw the raising the balance, were to draw the raising the balance, were to draw the fire by force towards the uncongenial fire by force towards the uncongenial fire by force towards the uncongenial element of the air, it would be very element of the air, it would be very element of the air, it would be very evident that he could compel the smaller evident that he could compel the smaller evident that he could compel the smaller mass more readily than the larger. For mass more readily than the larger. For mass more readily than the larger. For when two things are simultaneously when two things are simultaneously when two things are simultaneously raised by one and the same power, the raised by one and the same power, the raised by one and the same power, the smaller body must necessarily yield to

smaller body must necessarily yield to smaller body must necessarily yield to the superior power with less reluctance the superior power with less reluctance the superior power with less reluctance than the larger. than the larger. than the larger. And the larger body is called heavy and And the larger body is called heavy and And the larger body is called heavy and said to tend downwards, and the smaller said to tend downwards, and the smaller said to tend downwards, and the smaller body is called light and said to tend body is called light and said to tend body is called light and said to tend upwards. upwards. upwards. And we may detect ourselves, who are And we may detect ourselves, who are And we may detect ourselves, who are upon the earth, doing precisely the same upon the earth, doing precisely the same upon the earth, doing precisely the same thing. thing. thing. For we often separate earthy natures, For we often separate earthy natures, For we often separate earthy natures, and sometimes earth itself, and draw and sometimes earth itself, and draw and sometimes earth itself, and draw them into the uncongenial element of air them into the uncongenial element of air them into the uncongenial element of air by force and contrary to nature, both by force and contrary to nature, both by force and contrary to nature, both clinging to their kindred elements. clinging to their kindred elements. clinging to their kindred elements. But that which is smaller yields to the But that which is smaller yields to the But that which is smaller yields to the impulse given by us towards the impulse given by us towards the impulse given by us towards the dissimilar element more easily than the dissimilar element more easily than the dissimilar element more easily than the larger. And so we call the former light, larger. And so we call the former light, larger. And so we call the former light, and the place towards which it is and the place towards which it is and the place towards which it is impelled we call above, and the contrary impelled we call above, and the contrary impelled we call above, and the contrary state and place we call heavy and below state and place we call heavy and below state and place we call heavy and below respectively. respectively. respectively. Now, the relations of these must Now, the relations of these must Now, the relations of these must necessarily vary because the principal necessarily vary because the principal necessarily vary because the principal masses of the different elements hold masses of the different elements hold masses of the different elements hold opposite positions. opposite positions. opposite positions. For that which is light, heavy, below, For that which is light, heavy, below, For that which is light, heavy, below, or above in one place will be found to or above in one place will be found to or above in one place will be found to be and become contrary and transverse be and become contrary and transverse be and become contrary and transverse and every way diverse in relation to and every way diverse in relation to and every way diverse in relation to that which is light, heavy, below, or that which is light, heavy, below, or that which is light, heavy, below, or above in an opposite place.

above in an opposite place. above in an opposite place. And about all of them this has to be And about all of them this has to be And about all of them this has to be considered, considered, considered, that the tendency of each towards its that the tendency of each towards its that the tendency of each towards its kindred element makes the body which is kindred element makes the body which is kindred element makes the body which is moved heavy, and the place towards which moved heavy, and the place towards which moved heavy, and the place towards which the motion tends below, but things which the motion tends below, but things which the motion tends below, but things which have an opposite tendency we call by an have an opposite tendency we call by an have an opposite tendency we call by an opposite name. opposite name. opposite name. Such are the causes which we assign to Such are the causes which we assign to Such are the causes which we assign to these phenomena. these phenomena. these phenomena. As to the smooth and the rough, anyone As to the smooth and the rough, anyone As to the smooth and the rough, anyone who sees them can explain the reason of who sees them can explain the reason of who sees them can explain the reason of them to another. them to another. them to another. For roughness is hardness mingled with For roughness is hardness mingled with For roughness is hardness mingled with irregularity, and smoothness is produced irregularity, and smoothness is produced irregularity, and smoothness is produced by the joint effect of uniformity and by the joint effect of uniformity and by the joint effect of uniformity and density. density. density. End of part five.