FuI thought a discussion of the first principles and underlying axioms the grimoires seem to have might be usefull. One idea which might be worth exploring would be to try to work from these alone rather than the specific grimoires themeselves, some things suggest this would be quite usefull.
1. All magical power comes from God. This seems to be the most fundamental.
2.To work magic, a certain amount of holiness, of being set apart is neccasary. Hence the extensive cleansing rites, confessions, universal neccessity to go a time without sin before the operation, etc.
3.The emphasis seems to be on basically being an exorcist, in all the grimoires one acts towards the spirit summoned in such a manner.
4. There seems an association between magic and the gift of Wisdom-the biblical book of Wisdom, with it's association with Solomon, prayers for Wisdom, mentioning the virtues of wisdom including such things as it allowing one to know "the organisation of elements in the universe, "knowing the thoughts of men", etc could be seen as one of the root sources of the whole grimoiric tradition. One also notes that John Dee's prayers included very similair, which could be seen as an underlying link between the Solomnic cycle and enochian magic. The fact Michael mentions to Dee that he was "with Solomon", giving him a design for Solomons ring, etc supports this. The gift of Wisdom is associated with gaining a true knowledge of spiritual and usneen things traditionally.
5. Somewhat related to four, certain names-particularly names of God, geometrical figures such as the circle and triangle, herbs etc are viewed to have an 'inwards and occult virtue' allowing efficacy in spiritual matters. The most reasonable conclusions of the source of such would seem to be information given by spirits, intellectual philosophy mixed with insight and direct knowledge via the gift of Wisdom.
Just a few, there are likely more and these seem rather obvious but this is a good start for such a discussion I think. Hopefully this doesn't come across as and sound completely idiotic, but... anyones thoughts on the above, elaborations and other fundamental principles which can be noted cross-grimoire?
Sincerely, CatSeekingAin
Peace, Love, Anarchy