2

Let it be noted then that this world, which is called the "macrocosm,"

enters our souls, which are called the "microcosm," through the doors of

the five senses, according to the apprehension, delectation, and judgment

of sensible things themselves. This is apparent as follows: In the world

some things are generating, some generated, some governing the former and

the latter. The generating are simple bodies, celestial bodies, and the

four elements. For from the elements, by virtue of the light which

reconciles the contrariety of elements in mixtures, there can be generated

and produced whatsoever things are generated and produced through the

operation of a natural power. But the generated are bodies composed of the

elements, like minerals, vegetables, sensible things, and human bodies. The

rulers of the former and the latter are spiritual substances, either

conjoined entirely, as are the animal souls; or conjoined though separable,

as are the rational spirits; or entirely separated, as are the celestial

spirits, which philosophers call "intelligences," but we "angels." These,

according to the philosophers, move the celestial bodies; and thus there is

attributed to them the administration of the universe by taking over from

the First Cause, that is God, their active influence, which they pour out

in accordance with the work of governing, which looks to the natural

harmony of things. According to the theologians, however, there is

attributed to them the rule of the universe in accordance with the power of

the supreme God with respect to the work of reparation, wherefore they are

called "ministering spirits," sent to minister to them who shall receive

the inheritance of salvation [Hebr., 1, 14].