For many of us, the name Merlin conjures images of powerful magic and legendary tales. Yet, beyond the beloved fantasy figure lies the voice of a profound prophet, whose wisdom was once a guiding light. A new translation, “The Prophecies of Merlin,” by John Matthews and Maarten Haverkamp, invites us to reconnect with Merlin as he was understood centuries ago: a serious prophetic presence whose insights were meticulously recorded and studied. This remarkable work brings forth the first English version in over 500 years of a 15th-century text, meticulously compiled by a Franciscan scribe from even earlier sources.

Imagine sitting with Merlin himself, as he dictates his visions through riddles of rising seas, mythical dragons, and the ebb and flow of kingdoms. The original text, a dialogue between Merlin and his scribes, is rich in coded language, a true challenge for any seeker. This is where the profound dedication of the authors shines. Maarten Haverkamp, a devoted collector of medieval books, poured five years into this translation, while Arthurian scholar John Matthews built an essential framework around it, illuminating the historical context and deeper meanings of each prophetic passage. This isn’t a book for a quick read; it’s an invitation to a slow, thoughtful journey, akin to unraveling ancient mysteries or meditating on sacred texts. Engaging with it passage by passage, alongside the insightful commentary, allows one to truly absorb the profound symbolism and unlock layers of ancient wisdom.

The true treasure here lies in the rich scholarly apparatus that connects Merlin’s prophecies to earlier Welsh Myrddin poems and even Kabbalistic dragon imagery. For those deeply engaged with Merlin as a profound oracular guide, rather than merely a folkloric character, this book offers a substantial foundation. It is a testament to the enduring power of ancient wisdom, brought to us through a labor of love that spanned decades. As we turn these pages, we also honor the legacy of Maarten Haverkamp, whose passion for rare medieval texts culminated in this precious gift, allowing Merlin’s sacred voice to resonate once more.