Illuminations & Reflections
Explore ideas and discoveries inspired by the texts and traditions preserved by the Ancient Wisdom Trust.
AI and the Preservation of Wisdom
By making the source texts accessible to AI, and use AI to make source texts engaging to people.
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De Mysteriis
A cultural revival took shape as ancient Greek texts were translated and returned to circulation.
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Unread Worlds - How Knowledge Gaps Define Us
How much of humanity’s knowledge remains unread because it has never been digitized or translated?
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De Mysteriis
De Mysteriis, by Iamblichus, translated by Marsilio Ficino in 1497, is a Neoplatonic text defending theurgy, rituals for divine union. It outlines a cosmic hierarchy and sacred symbols, influencing Renaissance Hermeticism.
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Kavyamimansa
A foundational Sanskrit text on poetics, offering sharp reflections on the nature of poetry, criticism, and literary creation within the medieval Indian tradition.
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Biological Leaflets
Concise pamphlets examining natural history and biological observations in an accessible format.
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Historia: von dem Leben und Wandel der heyligen Barlaam dess Einsidels, unnd Josaphat dess König in Indien Sohn
A German retelling of Barlaam and Josaphat. Josaphat, an Indian prince, is sheltered by his pagan father to prevent his conversion to Christianity.
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Tractatus Two. On the Nature of the Elements. On the Fifth Essence
A probing inquiry into the classical elements and the elusive quinta essentia, merging mechanical insight with alchemical speculation.
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On Presages, Divination, and Astrological and Astronomical
Writings explore cosmic influences on earth, interpreting natural omens, celestial patterns, and divine signs to predict events, blending astrology and divination with spiritual insight.
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Novum lumen chymicum
A key alchemical text exploring matter, metals, and the philosopher’s stone. It introduces the "food of life" in air (linked to oxygen) and "central nitre," blending practical chemistry with mysticism. Widely influential, it shaped early modern science.
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