cabalistic, alchemical and astrological works, studied as sacred by the Egyptian priests. Many
spurious works have been put forward as Hermetic writings. Theories and philosophics
peculiar to the Hermetic writings are characterized as hermetical. (3) A minor planet, or
asteroid discovered photographically at Heidelberg on Oct. 28, 1940 by the German
astronomer Reinmuth. As it was moving rapidly in its apparent course in the sky only a few
observations were secured, hence the orbit determinations are only approximate. Since then
the asteroid has passed beyond telescopic reach. The noteworthy feature of Hermes is the
nearness of part of its orbit to that of the Earth-about 362,000 Miles, only 110,000 miles
farther from the Earth than the Moon's greatest distance. This breaks the record of Eros for
the close approach of a heavenly body to the Earth. First known as the Reinmuth Object, the
asteroid was given the designation 1937 UB. Later the discoverer gave it the name Hermes.
Calculations give it a diameter of about ½ mile. When nearest the Earth it was in the
constellation Delphinus, corresponding to an astrological position of approx. 12º Aquarius.
Esoteric writers have long applied the name to Mercury - with a mystical significance
implying wisdom.
Hermetic. An alchemist.
Herschel. The British name for the planet discovered by Sir Wm. Herschel; otherwise,
Uranus, or Georgium Sidus.
Hexagon. The sextile aspect. (v. Aspect.)
Hindu Astrology. This is apparently based upon a fixed zodiac, determined by taking a birth
year, subtracting 498, multiplying by 50 1/3" per year, reducing the product to Arc and
subtracting it from all positions computed according to a Geocentric Ephemeris. The
equivalent names of the elements in Sanskrit are:
Aries - Mesham
Taurus - Vrishabham
Germimi - Mithuna
Cancer - Katakam
Leo - Simha
Virgo - Kanya
Libra - Tulam