The famous, “first” Arab philosopher, al-Kindi (ca. 801-870 AD) wrote many
instructional letters and works on astrology and the universe. The Forty Chapters is on horary and electional astrology: answering questions and choosing auspicious times to act.

The Forty Chapters was used extensively by later medieval and Renaissance
astrologers such as ‘Ali al-Rijal (Haly Abenragel) and the great William Lilly.
Beginning with an introduction to astrological principles and types of perfection (how planets indicate success or failure), al-Kindi addresses how to interpret and cast charts pertaining to legal conflicts, missing objects, thefts and fugitives, travel, attaining honors, treason and sieges, war and peace, wealth, real estate, ships and commerce, marriage and pregnancy, friendships, medicine, weather, and more.

Al-Kindi also provides valuable general information on desigining elections
and chart interpretation. With commentary and a detailed Introduction by the
translator, Dr. Benjamin Dykes, it is essential for traditional astrologers.