description: The four elements-Fire, Earth, Air, Water-prevail as a major theme in Western magic. It was Empedocles, the Greek poet and philosopher, who conceived the idea that all matter consists of only four forms. The classic simplicity of his doctrine flows through mystic history. Astrology divides the elements among the zodiac signs, thereby determining the character of each. Countless charms, spells, rituals, and sacred rites draw inspiration from the fourfold theory advanced over 2,500 years ago. Something in each one of us responds in a profound way to a particular element. The old adage of "like seeks like" applies. A Fiery soul takes pleasure in candlelight; tending a garden brings joy to an Earthling; Airy ones are thrilled by wind song; Water souls enjoy a rainy day. Magical customs and traditions in the West reflect the nature, quality and variety of the four elements.
language: English
title: The Rites of Fire, Earth, Air, Water: The Magic of Elemental Identity
titlecomplete: The Rites of Fire, Earth, Air, Water: The Magic of Elemental Identity
publisher: Consortium