Alchemy 101 A YOGAPUNX Podcast and Full Briefing

Briefing Document: Alchemy and Mystical Transformation

I. Core Alchemical Concepts & Processes

• The Great Work (Magnum Opus): Alchemy is not solely about transmuting base metals into gold, but also about the spiritual transformation of the alchemist themselves. This transformation is often referred to as the “Great Work” which is the ultimate goal. As stated in the document, the alchemist’s goal is a medicine universal, both for prolonging life and curing all diseases.
• “He who hath once, by the blessing of God, perfectly attained this Art…he may by this Art make precious stones and gems, such as cannot be paralleled in Nature for goodness and greatness. Thirdly and lastly, he hath a Medicine Universal, both for prolonging life and curing of all diseases” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)
• Transmutation: Metals are seen as being in a state of progression towards gold, the perfect metal, and the alchemist seeks to accelerate this process.
• “all other metals are on the way towards eventually becoming gold; thus the alchemist merely does by art what nature does slowly through the years.” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)
• The Philosophers’ Stone: The ultimate goal of the Great Work and the agent of transmutation and healing.
• “Know that this matter I call the stone, but it is also named the feminine of magnesia, or the hen, or the white spittle, or the volatile milk, the incombustible oil… which I have nevertheless signified to the wise by one only epithet, viz., the Philosophers’ Stone.” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)
• Key Operations: There are seven major operations in the alchemical process: Calcination, Dissolution, Separation, Conjunction, Fermentation, Distillation, and Coagulation (Dictionary of Alchemy). These are processes in both the material and spiritual realms, with the spiritual often taking primacy.
• The Three Principles: Alchemists saw the elements as manifestations of three underlying principles: Salt, Sulphur, and Mercury. These principles also have symbolic meanings in spiritual development.
• “”The disposition sought after by the philosophers, O Son, is but one in our egg, but this in the hen’s egg is much less to be found…Know, therefore, that in the hen’s egg is the greatest help with respect to the proximity and relationship of the matter in nature for in it there is a spirituality and conjunction of elements, and an earth which is golden in its tincture.” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)
• “There were two which were superficial… and the third essential to Sol and Luna only, not to the Stone; for nature would produce these two out of it by artificial decoction… [These distinctions depend on ignorance, after throwing off which the individual is one with the highest.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Planetary Correspondences: Each of the seven traditional metals is associated with a planet: Gold (Sun), Silver (Moon), Mercury (Mercury), Tin (Jupiter), Iron (Mars), Copper (Venus), and Lead (Saturn). These associations are symbolic and indicate different energies and qualities.
• “Thus Gold is termed the Sun, Silver ” Moon, Mercury ” Mercury, Tin ” Jupiter, Iron ” Mars, Copper ” Venus, Lead ” Saturn.” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)
• The Prima Materia: The starting material for the Great Work, often described as formless and containing all possibilities, but it is a mystery as to what this actual substance may be. It is also sometimes referred to as urine.
• “The prima materia is also called urine.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Incest: Often found in alchemical texts, particularly during the stage of conjunction. This symbolizes the union of opposites, of the internal world, and the external world in order to create something new.
• “…and regulate your work well, and marry consanguineous matter with masses acting consanguineously….” [Incest.] (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)

II. Symbolism and Interpretation

• Symbolic Language: Alchemists employed a highly symbolic language to conceal their secrets and to convey deeper spiritual meanings.
• “It is a peculiarity of the alchemistic authors to use interchangeably” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Dream and Myth Interpretation: Dreams and myths are seen as valuable sources of symbolic insight into the unconscious and the inner processes of transformation.
• “The earth trembles at their attempts to free themselves. Thus the titanic forces of the soul strive powerfully upward. And as they may not live in the light of consciousness they rave in darkness. They take the main part in the procreation of dreams, produce in some cases hysterical symptoms, compulsion ideas and acts, anxiety neuroses, etc. The examination of these psychic disturbances is not without importance for our later researches.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Psychological Interpretations: Alchemical processes and symbols can be understood as metaphors for psychological processes, particularly those related to individuation and the integration of the shadow self. The unconscious is a place of hidden potential that can drive human behavior if left unattended.
• “The innermost lies in ourselves and is only fashioned and exercised upon persons of the external world.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• “We must sublimate our impulses.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Rebirth: The concept of the death and rebirth is a key idea in alchemy. This represents the transformation of the alchemist as they go through the Great Work. This often includes the imagery of being inside a monstrous being, and then breaking out of it.
• “In cases where the uterus is represented by the body cavity of a monster the rebirth occurs most frequently by a spitting forth. Also the breaking forth by means of tearing apart the uterus occurs, and in every case it has the significance of a“powerfully [316] tearing of oneself away,” the burning of bridges behind one, the final victory over the mother.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Opposites: The union of opposites (e.g., Sun and Moon, male and female) is a central theme, reflecting the alchemical goal of integration.
• “the masculine is truly the heaven of the feminine, and the feminine is the earth of the masculine.” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)

III. Spiritual and Mystical Dimensions

• The Divine Within: Alchemy emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge and the discovery of the divine spark within. It is from within that an individual is able to realize the Great Work.
• “Therefore let the high inquirers and searchers into the deep mysteries of nature learn first to know what they have in themselves, and by the divine power within them let them first heal themselves and transmute their own souls, … if that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee, thou wilt never find it without thee.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Introversion: The process of introversion, turning inward, is essential for spiritual transformation, allowing one to access the inner world. Introversion is not only seen as a personal experience, but one that is vital for understanding larger concepts.
• “The term“ introversion” comes from C. G. Jung. It means sinking into one’s own soul; the withdrawal of interest from the outer world; the seeking for joys that can be afforded by the inner world. The psychology of the neuroses has led to the concept of introversion, a province, therefore, which principally treats of morbid forms and functions of introversion.” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• Union with the Divine (Unio Mystica): The alchemical process culminates in a mystical union with the divine, transcending duality and achieving a state of wholeness. The goal of transformation is union with God.
• “So that the spirit clearly bore witness and gave me to understand that nothing could make me worthy of this marriage with the Lamb [unio mystica] except an absolute death, since he wedded only the maidenly spirit, to be one flesh with him, [H in H, F against F, etc.] and by so doing changed it into his own pure manhood. [Humanity.]” (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)
• The Importance of Silence and Secrecy: Alchemists often emphasize the importance of keeping their secrets from the unworthy, emphasizing that the pursuit is not one that is for those whose goal is wealth.
• “Above all thou must enter a bond of silence and vow to reveal it to no one outside of your fellow learners, who are called together near and with you, to work at this very art. (Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts)

IV. Key Figures

• Hermes Trismegistus: A legendary figure associated with esoteric wisdom and the author of the Emerald Tablet. He is a central figure to many alchemical texts, as they are meant to reflect a part of his wisdom.
• “And because of this they have called me Hermes Tristmegistus since I have the three parts of the wisdom and Philsosphy of the whole universe.” (Emerald Tablets of Hermes)
• Basilius Valentinus: A Benedictine monk and influential alchemist, considered a father of modern chemistry. He emphasized the spiritual component of alchemy and left behind a collection of writing on his practices.
• “Whatever his identity, Basil Valentine was undoubtedly a great chemist, and the originator of many chemical preparations of the first importance.” (Alchemy-Rediscovered-And-Restored)
• Paracelsus: A physician and alchemist who emphasized the importance of observation and the interconnectedness of microcosm and macrocosm. He also focused on the application of alchemy to healing.
• “Paracelsus’s great legacy in the history of medicine was the promotion of the direct study of nature to observe and learn in contrast to the old approach of only consulting traditional texts of authorities.” (Dictionary of Alchemy)
• C.G. Jung: A Swiss psychiatrist who explored the psychological symbolism of alchemy, seeing it as a map of the individuation process.
• “Jung’s work on alchemical symbolism has significantly influenced modern understanding of its psychological depth and its relevance to the process of personal growth and transformation.” (Dictionary of Alchemy)

V. The Emerald Tablet

• Core Principles: The tablet’s famous maxim, “As above, so below,” emphasizes the correspondence between the macrocosm and the microcosm. This establishes that the universe and a person have a related understanding of life. The tablet also states that all things come from the One.
• “And since all things exist in and eminate from the ONE Who is the ultimate Cause, so all things are born after their kind from this ONE.” (Emerald Tablets of Hermes)
• The Process: The Emerald Tablet outlines a process of separation, purification, and reunification, which serves both on a material level and a spiritual one. The tablet speaks to the importance of separating the earth from fire, and the need to have a connection between the above and below, thus creating a unity.
• “Seperate thou ye earth from ye fire, ye subtile from the gross sweetly wth great indoustry.” (Emerald Tablets of Hermes)
• “It ascends from ye earth to ye heaven again it desends to ye earth and receives ye force of things superior inferior.” (Emerald Tablets of Hermes)

VI. Key Themes and Observations

• Inner Transformation: The primary focus of alchemy is on inner transformation and spiritual growth, rather than solely on material gain.
• Dual Nature of Reality: The alchemical process highlights the dual nature of reality, with an emphasis on balancing and integrating opposites.
• The Power of Symbolism: Symbols are seen as keys to unlocking deeper levels of understanding and facilitating transformation.
• The Interconnectedness of All Things: The idea that everything is connected, from the cosmos to the human being, and that a change in one area has impact in another, is important. This is most explicitly stated in the Emerald Tablet.
• The Power of Introspection: The process of looking into oneself is vital for personal transformation, allowing one to have a better understanding of their place in the world, and their goals.

Conclusion:

These sources paint a rich picture of alchemy, not just as a precursor to modern chemistry, but as a profound spiritual discipline focused on the transformation of the individual and the realization of the divine within. It is about the journey into the inner self as much as it is about the external world and the materials used in practices. The core alchemical processes and concepts are highly symbolic, intended to unlock the depths of the unconscious mind and bring about spiritual evolution.

Alchemy – A Journey of Transformation

Key Themes:

• Spiritual Transformation as Core Goal: The most significant theme is that alchemy’s primary aim is not literal transmutation of base metals into gold, but the spiritual transformation of the self. As the text states, “In the alchemical allegory the lead represents our ordinary, undeveloped consciousness which can be transformed into gold, the fully realized and enlightened Soul”. The material processes are a metaphor for inner change.
• Microcosm and Macrocosm: The concept of “As above, so below” is fundamental. Alchemists believed that operations on the microcosm (the human being) could affect the macrocosm (the universe), reflecting a deeply interconnected view of reality. The Arcanum Experiment embodies this, seeking to “explain both microcosmic and macrocosmic events”.
• The Great Work (Magnum Opus): The alchemical journey is referred to as the “Great Work” or “Magnum Opus,” a process of working with the Prima Materia to achieve enlightenment symbolized by the Philosopher’s Stone. This process is broken down into four main phases:
• Nigredo (Blackening): The initial stage, often associated with chaos, confronting the shadow self, and the “destruction of the Ego” as part of the Calcination process. It is a necessary period of self-reflection where we acknowledge the impurities of our being.
• Albedo (Whitening): Following Nigredo, this is the stage of purification and washing away the impurities of the Mind and Ego. It involves a separation into opposites that will later be integrated. “To experience the stage known as Albe-do, one must first have been fully immersed in Nigredo, having looked deep within themselves.”
• Citrinitas (Yellowing): The transmutation of silver into gold, marked by clarity and a unity of aspects. “This may be a euphoric experience for the alchemist, as new energies and knowledge not previously experi-enced come into play.”
• Rubedo (Reddening): The final stage, where spirit enters the soul and solidifies in one’s life. The ultimate goal, resulting in the formation of the “diamond body”.
• The Seven Operations: Beyond the four phases, the process is further detailed as seven operations, each representing a specific stage of spiritual development:
• Calcination: Destruction of the Ego and attachment.
• Dissolution: Breaking down the artificial structures of the psyche to access the unconscious. “Now dissolution is not death, but dissolution of a com-pound; it is dissolved not so that it may be destroyed, but that it may become renewed.”
• Separation: Rediscovering the true essence and discarding rejected parts of oneself.
• Conjunction: Recombination of saved elements and empowerment of true self.
• Fermentation: Decay and resurrection to a new level of being.
• Distillation: Purification of the unborn Self, raising the life force to the brain.
• Coagulation: Incarnating the Ultima Materia of the soul (the Philosopher’s Stone). “Psychologically, Coagulation is first experienced as a new con-fidence that is beyond all things, or a Second Body of light, a per-manent vehicle of consciousness that embodies the highest aspi-rations and evolution of mind.”
• Duality and Unity: Alchemy recognizes the dual nature of the world (e.g., Sun/Moon, Sulphur/Mercury) as opposing forces seeking balance and union. The Hermaphrodite symbolizes this union and the concept of “oneness, completeness and freedom from the world’s duality”. The alchemist aims to reconcile these polarities within themselves.
• The Three Primes (Tria Prima): Everything is composed of three essential principles:
• Sulphur:
• Mercury: The fluid connection between the high and low, the feminine principle.
• Salt: The base matter, the body, the reconciliation of the two.
• The Four Elements: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire correspond to the physical states of matter and aspects of human consciousness (body, emotions, intellect, will/life force). They are essential building blocks, with Fire being tied to the spirit.

Important Figures and Concepts:

• Thoth: The Egyptian god considered the first alchemist and credited with numerous advancements in science, religion, mathematics, and more.
• Hermes Trismegistus: Author of the Emerald Tablet, a fundamental text of alchemy.
• Paracelsus: A key figure in bringing alchemy into the age of medical chemistry and who saw the harmony of microcosm and macrocosm as vital to health.
• Isaac Newton: While known for physics and mathematics, he was also a passionate alchemist who wrote extensively on the subject.
• Carl Jung: He helped revive interest in alchemy through his exploration of its imagery in relation to the human psyche. He identified parallels between the four stages of the Great Work with archetypes of the unconscious.
• Philosopher’s Stone: The goal of the Great Work, a symbol of an enlightened soul and a permanent vessel of gold, representing perfection on any level.
• Prima Materia: The formless, base matter from which all things are formed, considered the chaos from which creation arises.

Symbolism:

• Metals: Each of the seven metals (Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Tin, Mercury, Lead) correspond to planets, phases of alchemical work and have symbolic importance. Lead, for instance, represents the unawakened mind, while gold represents enlightenment.
• Planets: Each planet is associated with metals, body parts, and influences. For example, Mars with Iron and violent energy, Venus with copper and love.
• Ankh: Ancient Egyptian hieroglyph of life; symbolism of spirit over material.
• Ouroboros: The serpent eating its own tail, signifying eternity and the cyclical nature of the universe.

Conclusion:

These excerpts provide a foundation for understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of alchemy. It is not simply a historical pursuit, but a framework for understanding the self and the interconnectedness of existence. The alchemical journey is portrayed as a quest for inner transformation and the integration of all aspects of the self, a journey toward achieving the perfection symbolized by the Philosopher’s Stone. The emphasis is on spiritual growth through the symbolic transformation of matter.

Top of Form

FAQ on Alchemy

1. What is the core purpose of alchemy, and how does it go beyond literal chemistry? While alchemy does involve chemistry, its primary focus is spiritual transformation. The widely known concept of turning lead into gold is a metaphor for the transmutation of one’s ordinary, undeveloped consciousness (represented by lead) into a fully realized and enlightened soul (represented by gold). It is ultimately about the transmutation of energies and therefore the transmutation of self. Alchemy operates on the principle that processes in the microcosm (the individual) mirror those in the macrocosm (the universe).
2. Who are some key figures associated with alchemy, and what were their contributions? Several key figures shaped the tradition of alchemy. Thoth, an ancient Egyptian god, is often considered the first alchemist and is credited with various sciences and arts. Paracelsus was a pioneer in medical chemistry and saw a strong correlation between the microcosm and macrocosm. Isaac Newton, though known for his contributions to physics and mathematics, was also a passionate alchemist. Carl Jung’s work on archetypes helped revive interest in alchemy, showing its relevance to psychology.
3. What are the ‘Four Elements’ and their significance in alchemy? The four elements—Earth, Water, Air, and Fire—are fundamental in alchemy. Earth represents the body and material plane; Water symbolizes emotions and their fluidity; Air embodies the intellect; and Fire represents will and the life force or Chi/Qi. These elements correspond to our current scientific understanding of solids, liquids, gasses, and plasma. They also align with the four phases of the Great Work.
4. What is the ‘Great Work’ or Magnum Opus, and what are its main phases? The Magnum Opus, or Great Work, is the alchemical journey of transforming the prima materia (the formless base of all matter) to achieve enlightenment or find the Philosopher’s Stone. It is an experience that occurs on psychological, chemical, societal, and planetary levels. This process has four main phases: Nigredo (blackening), a chaotic stage of introspection; Albedo (whitening), a purification stage; Citrinitas (yellowing), the stage of clarity and integration; and Rubedo (reddening), the final stage of spiritual solidification.
5. What is the symbolic significance of the Hermaphrodite in alchemy? The hermaphrodite, or androgyne, represents the union of opposites, such as the masculine and feminine principles (Sun and Moon, Sulfur and Mercury). It symbolizes completeness, oneness, and freedom from the world’s duality. This imagery signifies a reconciliation of inner polarities within the alchemist’s psyche.
6. What are the seven operations of alchemical transformation, and how do they contribute to the overall process? The seven operations are Calcination (destruction of ego), Dissolution (breaking down psychic structures), Separation (rediscovering one’s essence by discarding that which is not necessary), Conjunction (recombining and empowering a new state), Fermentation (death and resurrection of old self into a new level), Distillation (purification of the unborn self), and Coagulation (incarnating the ultimate matter of the soul). Each operation is important in the transformation and represents an aspect of purifying the psyche, body, and spirit.
7. What are the Tria Prima, and what roles do they play in alchemy? The Tria Prima are the three fundamental principles: Sulfur, Mercury, and Salt. Sulfur represents the omnipresent spirit of life; Mercury embodies the fluid connection between the high and low realms; and Salt is the base matter or body. All things contain these three, corresponding to the law of the triangle which holds that when two forces come together, the third is born.
8. What is the Philosopher’s Stone, and is it a literal stone? The Philosopher’s Stone is not a literal stone, but rather the end goal of the Alchemist’s Great Work, representing an enlightened soul, or a perfected consciousness. It is a permanent vessel of gold. It can also be seen as a key to understand alchemical imagery and describe our relationship between the physical and spiritual realms. It is a symbol that one can be viewed as a divine being working in the material realm.

Bottom of Form

Alchemy Study Guide

Quiz

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

1. Who is considered the first alchemist, and what were they credited with?
2. What is the alchemical meaning of the concept of turning lead into gold?
3. Describe the alchemical operation of Calcination, and what does it signify in the transformation of the self?
4. What are the four elements in alchemical thought, and what do they represent in human experience?
5. What is the Elixir, and how does it relate to the Philosopher’s Stone?
6. Explain the concept of duality in alchemy, providing an example of this concept.
7. What is the significance of the Hermaphrodite in alchemy?
8. Describe the alchemical operation of Distillation, and how does it purify the self?
9. What is the Prima Materia, and how does it relate to creation?
10. What are the Tria Prima, and how do they interact in the alchemical process?

Quiz Answer Key

1. Thoth, the ancient Egyptian god of writing and knowledge, is considered the first alchemist and is credited with authoring mathematics, religion, medicine, and other fields.
2. In alchemy, the concept of turning lead into gold is not literal; rather, it represents the transformation of ordinary, undeveloped consciousness (lead) into a fully realized and enlightened soul (gold).
3. Calcination, the first of the seven major operations, involves the destruction of the Ego and material attachments, a humbling process that occurs as one overcomes life’s trials and purifies the self.
4. The four elements are earth, water, air, and fire. They represent, respectively, matter/body, emotions, intellect, and will/life-force within human experience.
5. The Elixir is a liquid version of the Philosopher’s Stone, which has the ability to perfect any substance. When applied to the human body it is said to cure disease and restore youth.
6. Duality is a central concept in alchemy represented by opposing forces like Sun and Moon or male and female. It represents the necessity for these opposites to seek balance and harmony.
7. The Hermaphrodite, or androgyne, symbolizes the union of masculine and feminine, spirit and matter, and represents wholeness and freedom from the world’s duality.
8. Distillation involves the boiling and condensation of fermented solutions, and psychologically it represents the purification of the self and the raising of psychic forces to their highest potential.
9. Prima Materia is the primitive, formless base of all matter, similar to chaos, and is the essential substance that when impressed with “form”, creates the four elements.
10. The Tria Prima are Sulfur, representing spirit; Mercury, representing the connection between the high and low; and Salt, representing the base matter or body. These are the forces of creation, and all things which exist contain these three principles.

Essay Questions

Instructions: Answer the following questions in a well-organized essay format.

1. Discuss the relationship between alchemical processes and personal psychological transformation, using specific alchemical operations to illustrate your points.
2. Explain how the concept of “As Above, So Below” is reflected in alchemical thought and practice, drawing connections between the microcosm and macrocosm.
3. Explore the symbolic significance of the metals in alchemy, detailing their planetary associations and their roles in the alchemical process.
4. Analyze the four phases of the Magnum Opus (Nigredo, Albedo, Citrinitas, and Rubedo) and explain how they contribute to the overall alchemical transformation.
5. Compare and contrast alchemical and modern scientific perspectives on the nature of matter and its transformation, focusing on the historical context and philosophical implications.

Glossary of Key Terms

Alchemical and Occult Studies Review

Quiz

1. According to Silberer, what role do repressed desires play in the creation of dreams and psychological disturbances?
2. How does Silberer interpret the act of “grinding” in the context of alchemical symbolism and folklore?
3. Explain the symbolic meaning of the emasculation of Uranus by Kronos in relation to the idea of separated primal parents.
4. According to Valentinus (as quoted in the second source), what are some of the powers associated with the Philosopher’s Stone?
5. How are metals associated with planetary influences in alchemical traditions?
6. Explain the concept of the “Spirit of Mercury” as described by Basilius Valentinus.
7. In the context of the Emerald Tablets, what is the significance of the statement “As above, so below”?
8. What does Hermes mean by the phrase “the wind carried it in its belly,” according to different alchemical commentators?
9. Briefly describe the relationship between the Sun and Moon as described in the Emerald Tablets.
10. According to the Dictionary of Alchemy, what does lead symbolize in the alchemical tradition?

Quiz Answer Key

1. Silberer suggests that repressed desires act like the Titans in Tartarus; they are not dead but strive powerfully upward from the depths of the soul and, because they cannot live in the light of consciousness, “rave in darkness” by influencing the creation of dreams, hysterical symptoms, compulsions, and anxiety neuroses.
2. Silberer explains that the mill, in symbolic language, signifies the female organ, and the act of grinding represents coitus, using examples from folklore and the writings of Petronius and Theocritus. He suggests that in this symbolic sense, every man is a miller and every woman a mill, implying that marriage is a form of “milling.”
3. The emasculation of Uranus by Kronos represents the separation of primal parents, an archetype seen in myths. According to Silberer, castration is often depicted in myths as the tearing out of a limb or dismemberment, which also connects to the motive of the sleeping primal father.
4. According to Valentinus, the Philosopher’s Stone grants the adept the ability to transmute base metals into gold and silver, create precious stones, and provide a universal medicine for prolonging life and curing all diseases. It also bestows a state of contentment, and frees one from worldly desires.
5. In alchemical traditions, metals are seen as the physical manifestation of planetary energies. Each metal is associated with a particular planet, for example, gold with the sun, silver with the moon, and lead with Saturn, inheriting qualities and characteristics associated with these celestial bodies.
6. According to Valentinus, the Spirit of Mercury is the basis of all tangible things, a spiritual essence that can be captured and made corporeal. When this is done, it becomes a pure, clear water that has the power to resolve metals, renew the age of man, and offer longevity, and is the “Master-Key” to the art of alchemy.
7. The phrase “As above, so below” in the Emerald Tablets signifies the interconnectedness between the celestial and terrestrial realms. This principle suggests that the macrocosm (the universe) mirrors the microcosm (the individual), meaning that the same patterns and principles manifest across different levels of existence and can be understood through the lens of correspondence.
8. According to various alchemical commentators, Hermes’s phrase “the wind carried it in its belly” is interpreted symbolically. Albertus Magnus considers it the levitation or thinning of the material. Some connect the wind to the spirit, some to the vapor, and some to a mix of the volatile and solid in alchemical work. Each suggests a different phase of change in the alchemical process.
9. In the Emerald Tablets, the Sun is referred to as the father and the Moon as the mother, which represents the interplay of masculine and feminine principles in creation. The Sun is associated with active force and the Moon with receptive nurturing, indicating a duality that must be combined and resolved to achieve alchemical change.
10. In alchemical tradition, lead symbolizes the ordinary, unawakened Mind. It is considered the first and oldest of the seven metals and is associated with the alchemical operation of calcination, suggesting that transformation and purification are needed to awaken and refine the mind and spirit.

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the recurring motif of the separation of primal parents in Silberer’s text, and discuss how it relates to both psychological and alchemical themes.
2. Compare and contrast the symbolic roles of the Sun and Moon in both the Emerald Tablets and in Silberer’s analysis of alchemical traditions.
3. Discuss the significance of the concept of “introversion” in Silberer’s work, and its connection to the process of alchemical transformation.
4. Based on all the source materials provided, explore the interconnectedness between the physical, mental, and spiritual realms as described by alchemists and occultists.
5. How does Basilius Valentinus’s descriptions of the Philosopher’s Stone and its powers align with and differ from those described in Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy by Silberer and the Emerald Tablets of Hermes?

Glossary of Key Terms

• Albedo: The third phase of the Magnum Opus, characterized by a whitening or purification process.

• Alchemy: A philosophical and protoscientific tradition focused on the transmutation of base metals into gold, the discovery of the elixir of life, and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment through the transformation of the self.
• Anagogic: Relating to or characterized by a spiritual or mystical interpretation of a text or symbol.
• Ankh: An ancient Egyptian hieroglyph representing “life” or “living,” symbolizing the spirit over the material.
• Arcanum Experiment: Early alchemists’ attempt to combine chemicals to demonstrate archetypal forces and evolution of the universe.
• Calcination: The first operation in alchemy, involving the reduction of a substance to ashes or powder through fire, symbolizing purification and the breaking down of old forms.
• Chakras: Seven major centers of spiritual energy in the human body.
• Citrinitas: The second of four phases in the Magnum Opus, characterized by a yellowing or xanthosis.
• Coagulation: The final operation of alchemical transformation, where the Philosopher’s Stone is attained.
• Conjunction: A key operation in alchemy, representing the union of opposites, often depicted as a marriage or the combining of male and female energies to create a new, unified substance.
• Distillation: The sixth operation of alchemical transformation, the purification of the self.
• Dissolution: The second operation of alchemical transformation, involving breaking down structures of the psyche.
• Duality: The concept of opposing forces in balance and harmony, such as male/female, light/dark, active/passive.
• Elements (Four): Earth, water, air, and fire; fundamental substances associated with matter, emotion, intellect, and will, respectively.
• Elixir: A liquid form of the Philosopher’s Stone with the power to perfect substances and cure diseases.

• Emerald Tablets: A series of ancient texts attributed to Hermes Trismegistus that outlines the principles of alchemy and contains the famous dictum “As above, so below.”
• Fermentation: An operation in alchemy which is symbolic of decay and change, or death and rebirth of the spirit in its vessel. The fifth operation of alchemical transformation, involves decay and resurrection to a new level of being.
• Fire: One of the four elements, representing the masculine, will, life-force.
• Gnosis: Mystical knowledge experienced rather than theoretical knowledge.
• Gold: The most perfect of metals, representing the perfection of matter, including mind, spirit, and soul.
• Great Work (Magnum Opus): The alchemical journey to create the Philosopher’s Stone and achieve spiritual transformation.
• Hermaphrodite: Symbolizing oneness and the union of opposites, the child born when the masculine and feminine unite.

• Hermes Trismegistus: A legendary figure associated with wisdom, writing, and alchemy in both Hellenistic and Egyptian traditions.
• Hieros Gamos: The sacred marriage, a mystical union of opposites often used to symbolize the union of the soul with the divine, or of dualities to create one.
• Introversion: A psychological term used by C.G. Jung and adopted by Silberer to describe the turning of the libido or psychic energy inward, towards the self, which is vital for the process of spiritual development and alchemical transformation.
• Iron: One of the seven metals of alchemy, associated with separation and the planet Mars.
• Jung, Carl: Swiss psychiatrist who revived interest in alchemy as a psychological study.
• Kabbalah: An esoteric method, discipline, and school of thought that originated in Judaism.
• King: In alchemy represents man, solar consciousness, or Sulfur.
• Libido: In psychoanalysis, the instinctual drive or energy, often associated with sexual desire, but which can be sublimated into other creative and spiritual pursuits.
• Lead: The first and oldest of the seven metals, representing unawakened consciousness.
• Maat: Ancient Egyptian goddess, representing spirit, and the unification of matter and spirit.
• Magnum Opus: See Great Work.
• Mercury: Both a planet and a metal in alchemy, often symbolic of the mind, communication, transformation, and the active mediating principle between opposites. The Philosopher’s Mercury is seen as the primary substance of the Philosopher’s Stone, and the starting point of the alchemical process.
• Natura Naturans/Natura Naturata: A philosophical distinction used in alchemy; natura naturans refers to the creative principle or activity of nature, while natura naturata refers to the created or passive aspect of nature.
• Nigredo: The first phase of the Magnum Opus, characterized by blackening or chaos.
• Newton, Isaac: Physicist and mathematician who was also a passionate alchemist.
• One, The: The all. The creative force encompassing all that is and is not, and the Prima Materia.
• Ouroboros: The serpent eating its own tail, symbolizing the eternal principle of “All Is One”.
• Paracelsus: An alchemist who pioneered the use of chemicals and minerals to treat ailments.

• Philosopher’s Stone: A mythical substance sought after by alchemists believed to be capable of transmuting base metals into gold and granting immortality, and is often interpreted as a symbol of spiritual and personal transformation.
• Prima Materia: The first matter or primary substance of creation from which all things are believed to be made, and the starting point of alchemical work.
• Queen: In alchemy, symbolizes woman and Mercury.

• Quintessence: The fifth element, or the refined, purest essence of a substance, often associated with vital energy or spirit, particularly in reference to the etheric forces in the air that are available through conscious breathing.
• Rubedo: The final stage of alchemical work, symbolizing the attainment of enlightenment and spiritual wholeness, often associated with the color red and the achievement of the Philosopher’s Stone.
• Salt: In alchemical symbolism, salt is associated with the body or the material substance and serves to bind the other elements of mercury and sulfur.
• Saturn: The planet associated with lead in alchemy, it symbolizes restriction, melancholy, the unconscious mind, and the process of death and decay that precedes rebirth.
• Separation: The third operation of alchemical transformation, involving the rediscovery of one’s essence.
• Seven Major Operations: Calcination, Dissolution, Separation, Conjunction, Fermentation, Distillation, Coagulation.
• Seven Metals: Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Tin, Mercury, and Lead, each associated with a planet and alchemical process.
• Silver: One of the seven metals of alchemy associated with the moon.
• Spirit: The essence of all life, binds creation together, strives toward perfection.
• Sublimation: A term that describes the redirection of instinctual desires or energies into socially acceptable or spiritually uplifting actions. In alchemy, the process of refining and purifying substances.
• Sulfur: A symbolic term in alchemy which signifies the active, fiery, masculine principle or the soul. The omnipresent spirit of life, the masculine principle.
• Thoth: Ancient Egyptian god of writing and knowledge, considered the first alchemist.
• Titans: In mythology, a race of powerful deities who were overcome by the Olympian gods; in Silberer’s text, they represent repressed desires within the unconscious that seek to break through to conscious awareness.
• Tria Prima: The Three Primes: Sulfur, Mercury, and Salt.

• Tree of Life: A central symbol of Kabbalah, expressing the universal force that spreads out in manifestation.
• Unio Mystica: A mystical concept referring to the union of the soul with the divine or the ultimate reality, often described in mystical experiences and alchemical literature.
• Venus: The planet that influences herbalism, magick, arts, music, and love.
• Water: One of the four elements, representing emotions.
• Zodiac: The stars which must find expression on earth and in mankind according to the Doctrine of Correspondences.