The Metaphysical and Corporeal Makeup of Plants

When we examine a plant from the constitutive point of view, we recognize distinct principles in action:

1. A matter formed of vegetative Water
   
   
2. A matrix composed of intellective Earth
   
   
3. A form comprised of concupiscent Fire
   
   
4. A soul formed of subtle Air
   
   
5. A universal and primitive quintessence, or indelible mixed body, formed of the four elements, which determines the four phases of physical and metaphysical motion: Fermentation, Putrefaction, Formation, and Growth

When we examine a plant from the generative point of view, we discover distinct forces in action:

1. A matter formed of light and darkness (or a chaotic and vegetative water)- the occult exhalation of the Earth by which plants are enabled to grow
   
   
2. A form, which is an active agent or fire.
   
   
3. A link between the two preceding forces.
   
   
4. A resultant motion, the result of the agent or patient. This motion is propagated by the four elements and manifests in the four phases of motion above listed, as determined by the mixed body.

These preliminary occult actions give rise to three visible outgrowths:

1. The Corporeal, or physical body of the plant
   
   
2. The Organized Spirit- that is, the astral body of the plant
   
   
3. The Soul of the plant- or the vital force which passes from the roots to the stem, then through to the leaves, flowers, and seeds (and causes the latter to produce new vegetal organisms).