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Azoth emerges from the mystical world of alchemy. It represents a universal panacea or potent solvent sought by alchemists for transmutation. Azoth is often likened to alkahest, a substance also believed to have extraordinary transformative properties. READ: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Pseudo-Geber: Medieval Alchemy Jabir ibn Hayyan: Alchemy of Islam Zodiac, Astrology & Jungian Psychology Sylvia Rose Books Above, the Lion and Eagle Snakes represent union of sulfur and mercury. Azoth is symbolized by the Caduceus, the double snake staff of Mercury, embodying the alchemist's aspiration for inner enlightenment and the union of opposing forces or unity of opposites . Originally deep in mystery, the concept of Azoth is directly associated with the elusive Philosopher's Stone. This mysterious "stone" can grant immortality, heal all illness and drive the transmutation of lead into gold. Alchemy of Islam: Medieval Golden Age Emerald Tablet - Sacred Alchemy Text Egyptian Blue Lotus: Visionary Beauty Sylvia Rose Books After the 9th century AD the Islamic alchemists reject the notion of a Philosopher's Stone, but it continues to gather adherents in the West. Over time, the definition of Azoth evolves. READ: World of Alchemy: A Little History The term is eventually an artistic or poetic reference to the element mercury, reflecting the fluid and transformative nature of this mystical substance. A member of the tria prima with sulfur and salt, mercury is the cool but volatile beauty, and sulfur hot and combustible. Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Mercury: Miracle Metal of Madness Sylvia Rose Books While modern science dismisses the existence of Azoth as a tangible entity, the allure of the substance is further fueled by esoteric beliefs and mystical practices embraced by alchemists, who combine empirical observations with spiritual insights. Azoth, rooted in the history of alchemy, symbolizes transformative powers. In the realm of ancient alchemy, it's the essence of change, a mysterious element capable of catalyzing metamorphosis. Women Scientists of the Ancient World Cleopatra the Alchemist of Alexandria Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth Sylvia Rose Books Early alchemists, such as Zosimos, Olympiodorus, and Jābir ibn Hayyān (Geber), view Azoth as synonymous with mercury. They perceive it as the fundamental spirit permeating all matter, invoking and facilitating metamorphosis. The concept of Azoth is a spiritual as well a chemical goal, seen from the early days as a metaphor for the inner journey of the practitioner. Azoth represents the quest for spiritual enlightenment, self-transformation and the alchemical process of purification and refinement. Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Alchemy & Psychology: Hidden Meanings Unus Mundus One World: Psychology Sylvia Rose Books As a symbol of unity and transmutation, Azoth encapsulates the alchemical journey towards enlightenment, the fusion or unity of opposites. Azoth holds a profound significance that extending beyond the realms of alchemy. The influence of Azoth is felt in various mystical and spiritual practices. In the context of Renaissance magic, Azoth is a substance or a symbol connected to spiritual enlightenment and the purification of the soul. Golden Ages of Alchemy: Renaissance Classic Elements & Concept of the One Chrysopoeia - Turning Lead into Gold Sylvia Rose Books The association of Azoth with mercury and its fluid, transformative nature is symbolic of adaptability and change resonating on a broader scale. In philosophical contexts, Azoth's link to mercury incorporates fluidity of existence and perpetual nature of transformation. Highlighting the inherent adaptability required to navigate the complexities of life, its fluidity symbolizes the ability to embrace change. At the same time it has the capacity to evolve and grow in response to the ever-shifting circumstances of existence. Archetypes - Personality & the Persona Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Sylvia Rose Books The mystical connections of Azoth appear in the Hebrew Kabbalah. Azoth finds resonance with Ein Soph, often called 'the Endless One'. This association exemplifies the boundless and infinite nature of Azoth, aligning it with the concept of ultimate and limitless divine potential. Within mystical beliefs, Azoth is perceived as a potent representation of the internal metamorphosis required to ascend to a heightened state of awareness. It embodies the concept of transmuting base human qualities into divine virtues. The Igigi - Why Humans are Created Ouroboros Glyph: Snake Eating its Tail Herbs & Natural Remedies - Ancient Egypt Sylvia Rose Books The spiritual interpretation of Azoth is pivotal in shaping Hermeticism and other ideologies, just as it is spiritually a substance of change. Azoth continues to solidify its enduring importance within Western mystical traditions. Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Pseudo-Geber is a mysterious figure or collective identity linked to a corpus of alchemy texts from the late Middle Ages. The writings are initially ascribed to Jabir ibn Hayyan, or Geber, who lives c. 9th century AD during the Islamic Golden Age. READ: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Jabir ibn Hayyan: Alchemy of Islam Zodiac, Astrology & Jungian Psychology Alchemy of Islam: Medieval Golden Age Sylvia Rose Books Referencing Geber seems an attempt to apply credibility and authority to the texts. He's highly respected in the field of alchemy and more. Pseudo-Geber covers a wide range of alchemical topics, including transmutation, the philosopher's stone, and the nature of matter. Mention of the Philosopher's Stone is significant as the Islamic alchemists reject the idea by c. 9th century AD. It continues in the West even to the present day, if only in popular culture. Colors of Alchemy: Rubedo Magnum Opus Alchemy: Red King & White Queen Red Ocher (Ochre) Ancient Pigments Sylvia Rose Books The appearance of Pseudo-Geber is ironic in that the existence of Geber, or Jabir ibn Hayyan, as an individual is dubious. Many scholars today attribute his mind-boggling proliferation of works to be produced by an anonymous group of Shi'ite practitioners. READ: World of Alchemy: A Little History Overall, the writings of Pseudo-Geber play a significant role in shaping medieval and later alchemical practices and theories. Scholars use these texts to unravel the complexities of medieval alchemy and its influence on later scientific developments. Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Alchemy & Psychology: Hidden Meanings Sylvia Rose Books The emergence of Pseudo-Geber's works raises questions about authorship, transmission of knowledge, and the cultural context in which these texts were produced. By studying the writings, researchers gain insights into the intellectual landscape of the medieval era. Latin pseudo-Geber's most significant contribution is the Summa perfectionis magisterii ("The Height of the Perfection of Mastery"), written c. 1310. It's one of the earliest works to discuss aqua regia , concentrated nitric and hydrochloric acids able to dissolve gold. Lead White & Minium Red: Colors to Die For Gold - Precious Metal of the Sun Quest for Immortality - Qin Shi Huang Sylvia Rose Books The work also mentions aqua fortis or "strong water", nitric acid. This text has notable impact on alchemy and metallurgy in late medieval Europe, presenting experimental evidence of the corpuscular nature of matter, still referenced by chemists in the 17th century. Discussion surrounding the reliance of the corpus on authentic Islamic sources has sparked significant scholarly debate within the field of alchemy. Scholars describe "new and original facts" seemingly divergent from traditional Islamic alchemical knowledge. Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Emerald Tablet - Sacred Alchemy Text Egyptian Blue Lotus: Visionary Beauty Sylvia Rose Books Pseudo-Geber refers to substances like nitric acid and aqua regia. Others include oil of vitriol (sulfuric acid). Its name comes from the appearance of dense oil, and it's derived from green vitriol or ferrus sulphate, which is used today to treat iron deficiency. Sulfuric acid has a wide range of uses and cautions. It destroys the metals iron, aluminum, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and nickel. Lead, gold and tungsten are impervious. It bonds easily with water and is the cause of acid rain in modern times. The Pauli Effect - Quarks or Quacks? Khaos: Primal Goddess of Greek Myth Mythic Fire Gods: Hephaestus of the Greek Sylvia Rose Books Another substance mentioned is silver nitrate, not commonly found in Islamic alchemical texts. Silver nitrate is an inorganic compound with chemical formula AgNO. In the past, silver nitrate is also called lunar caustic , from ancient association of silver with the moon. The alchemical symbol for silver is a crescent moon ☽ , which also means moon. The crescent can face either way. Alchemy and the Art of Gold-Making Spiritual Alchemy: Key Elements to Growth Sacred Marriage: Hieros Gamos in Alchemy Sylvia Rose Books The introduction of such elements raises questions about the origins and influences shaping the pseudo-Geber corpus. Researchers explore possible connections to external sources or the emergence of new alchemical practices within specific historical contexts. Despite the claim of pseudo-Geber being "new and original" compared to medieval Islamic alchemy, some scholars consider (his) works directly derived from Islamic writers. Others believe them to be products of an "occidental" mind, although the writer can read Arabic. Xanthosis, the Yellowing: Spiritual Alchemy Alchemy & New Thought in Ancient Alexandria Quintessence: Elemental Life Force Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

In alchemy the Red King and White Queen are vibrant with meaning. Their union or sacred wedding, hieros gamos , reflects alchemical elements and processes leading to creation of the Philosopher's Stone . White and red are also phases in the alchemical opus. Quintessence: Elemental Life Force Sacred Marriage: Hieros Gamos in Alchemy Colors of Alchemy: Rubedo Magnum Opus Sylvia Rose Books The heiros gamos is performed in many cultures as a sexual and fertility ritual involving the King and a priestess / Goddess or the Queen with a priest / God. God and Goddess may be acted out by the King and Queen themselves. This is meant to ensure fertility of the land. READ: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy "Join the male and the female, and you will find what is sought." Mary the Jewess aka Maria Prophetissa, first alchemist (bet. 1st & 3rd century BCE) The Red King and White Queen also represent stages in the hieros gamos . They may appear clothed, first meeting; or unclothed, ready to unite. They often stand on their celestial symbols. In terms of alchemy the Red King is sulfur , relating to the Sun and gold. Colors of Alchemy: White Albedo Purification Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Gold - Precious Metal of the Sun Sylvia Rose Books He also embodies elemental fire, while the Queen's element is water. The six-point star is a symbol made of the upward pointing triangle (man, fire) and the down-pointing triangle, (woman, water), representing their harmonious union. READ: World of Alchemy: A Little History "One becomes two, two becomes three, and out of the third comes the one as the fourth." - Axiom of Maria Traits of mercury (quicksilver) are attributed to the White Queen. She represents the Moon and silver . Her symbol can be a crescent or full moon. The crescent moon in Egyptian lore is a time of increased fertility of land, people and livestock, given by moon god Khonsu . Mercury: Miracle Metal of Madness Khonsu - Moon God of Ancient Egypt Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Sylvia Rose Books The seventeenth dictum of the Turba Philosophorum  (c. 900 AD) speaks in metaphor: O Turba of Philosophers and disciples, now hast thou spoken about making into white, but it yet remains to treat concerning the reddening! Know, all ye seekers after this Art, that unless ye whiten, ye cannot make red, because the two natures are nothing other than red and white. Whiten, therefore, the red, and redden the white! The Turba Philosophorum is one of the oldest European alchemy texts, translated from Arabic. Salt: Exalted Mineral of Alchemy Golden Ages of Alchemy: Renaissance Alchemy of Islam: Medieval Golden Age Sylvia Rose Books Albedo, the whitening stage, is associated with purification, clarity, and illumination. Rubedo, the reddening stage, signifies the final transformation and the emergence of the Philosopher's Stone. The union of Red King and White Queen symbolizes merging of opposing forces in alchemy and culmination of the alchemical process. The Red King embodies active, and fiery aspects, while the White Queen represents the intuitive and fluid qualities. Khaos: Primal Goddess of Greek Myth Anima Animus Archetypes & Sexuality Animal Archetype: Mysteries of the Unconscious Sylvia Rose Books When these two archetypal figures come together, it signifies the harmonious balance of all elements within the alchemical work. The depiction of this union as mirroring the procedures of albedo and rubedo adds another layer of complexity to the symbolism. In alchemy the Dove plays a crucial role as mediator between body and soul. The dove is a sign of harmony between the divine aspects. A unifying element between two lovers, the dove eases resolution of contrasting elements, nurturing a holistic, integrated sense of self. Archetypes, Stereotypes & Prototypes Active Imagination: Creative Therapy Synchronicity: Psychology of Coincidence Sylvia Rose Books Also called the alchemical union or chemical marriage, joining of the Red King and White Queen in alchemy represents harmonious fusion of opposites. Masculine and feminine energies integrate in the convergence of conscious and unconscious parts of the psyche. The Red King embodies the fiery, active, and masculine principle, while the White Queen represents the cool, receptive, and feminine principle. Portrayed in various ways in alchemical texts and illustrations, union of Red King and White Queen is a sacred process. Unity of Opposites: Spiritual Alchemy Unus Mundus One World: Psychology Mandalas: Psychology & Art Therapy Sylvia Rose Books Sulfur and mercury are crucial elements in the alchemical mix. Touted by ancient Greek philosophers as composing all things, the theory of chrysopoeia or changing metals to gold becomes a possibility. One simply changes the ratio of mercury / sulfur in the subject. The Red King and White Queen in unity are visual representations of the alchemical goal of achieving wholeness and spiritual transformation. Their union culminates in creation of the Rebis or divine child. Chrysopoeia - Turning Lead into Gold Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Sylvia Rose Books In the tree is the spirit Mercurius as dragon. "Dragon" is also one of many names given the alchemist's goal, the prima materia or substance of the Philosopher's stone. " ... When the alchemist speaks of Mercurius, on the face of it he means quicksilver (mercury), but inwardly he means the world-creating spirit concealed or imprisoned in matter. The dragon is probably the oldest pictoral symbol in alchemy of which we have documentary evidence." ~ Carl Jung, founder of analytical psychology Myth & Metallurgy - Metals of Antiquity Agathodaemon: Snake God Alexandria Ouroboros Glyph: Snake Eating its Tail Sylvia Rose Books Rebis is a hermaphrodite. In alchemy, where junction of male and female, the resolution of opposites or unity of opposites is a significant goal, a hermaphroditic being is seen as having special gifts or powers. Through the hieros gamos , alchemists seek the Great Work able to grant immortality and transmute base metals into gold. The union of opposites is a physical process but also a spiritual and psychological integration of opposing forces within the Self. Rasayana: Alchemy & Health of India Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Sylvia Rose Books Two-headed figures appear often in alchemical symbolism. They're also found in ancient art, though they might not be male/female. A common conjunction in art is that of two goddesses, sharing a body but with two heads and four breasts. The carved sculpture below comes from a Neolithic archaeology site, Çayönü Tepesi , a c. 9500 BCE settlement in today's Turkey. "Double Goddesses" are found world-wide. They often represent the intrinsic duality of all things, a popular theme in alchemy and spirituality. Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Chinese Alchemy: Mind Body Spirit Çayönü Tepesi: Blood of the Earth Sylvia Rose Books In alchemy the unification of the Red King and White Queen signifies the harmonious balance of all elements within the alchemical work. The depiction of this union as mirroring the procedures of albedo and rubedo adds another layer of complexity to the symbolism. Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Creating mandalas can promote well-being and reduce anxiety. The word mandala literally means “ circle ” although many shapes are used. Symbols of the ideal Whole, or a message from the unconscious, mandalas are also aids to meditation or introspection. Unus Mundus One World: Psychology Alchemy & Psychology: Hidden Meanings Unity of Opposites: Spiritual Alchemy Sylvia Rose Books Originating in Buddhism , mandalas have also been adopted by Hinduism, New Age Spirituality, and other religious beliefs. The mandala is a universal symbol appearing appeared consistently throughout history, representing the unity of the Self. A mandala is a geometric pattern made of symbols. It can consist of a square enclosed by circles or have circles superimposed on it. Another frequent design element is the lotus shape.  Booklet: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Allegory of the Cave: Vision and Truth Sylvia Rose Books Across different spiritual practices, mandalas serve multiple purposes such as concentrating the attention of practitioners and experts, acting as a tool for spiritual guidance, creating a sacred environment, and aiding in meditation and trance induction. In the Eastern religions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Shinto it is used as a map representing deities, or especially in the case of Shinto, paradises, kami or actual shrines. Rose windows are a type of mandala in some religious architecture. Psychology: the Personal Unconscious Spagyria: Botanical Science of Alchemy Spiritual Alchemy: Concept of Tria Prima Sylvia Rose Books Overall a mandala is created on five main elements: symmetry geometry color number intention By understanding and purposefully combining these aspects, one can use mandalas to enhance and energize spaces. They have a positive effect in the environment and on people who engage with them. What is the Philosopher's Stone? Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Booklet: World of Alchemy: A Little History Sylvia Rose Books Within mandala art , an outer circle of fire typically represents wisdom. A ring of eight charnel grounds is a chthonic reminder to be mindful of death and the impermanence inherent in samsara (birth/death/rebirth cycle). Within the circles are the walls of the mandala palace itself, a realm inhabited by deities and Buddhas. In therapy, mandalas symbolize a form of fresh alignment. They can reflect longing for organization, equilibrium, and completeness. Sylvia Rose Books According to Jung, mandalas as psychological symbols tend to emerge particularly during tumultuous mental phases of confusion or distress. When a mandala appears in dreams or recurringly in conscious vision it's a sign the person is ready to move forward. In analytic psychology, the mandala is a symbol of the unconscious self in the concept of the universal Whole. Jung integrates mandalas into therapy sessions and encourages patients to make their own. Sylvia Rose Books Mandalas have been used for centuries as powerful tools in therapeutic practices, The intricate geometric designs serve as a focal point for meditation. In making a mandala, complexity of design is not required. It can be as simple or elaborate as desired, keeping balance in mind. Colors have various meanings and again, one or two colors, or many can be used. The process of creating or simply gazing upon mandalas gives a sense of calmness and clarity. Sylvia Rose Books The creator is mindful of balance and harmony. The mandala becomes a personal and unique expression. Creation of mandalas can be a meditative and therapeutic practice in itself. It allows artistic expression, and communication with the unconscious mind. Drawing, painting or coloring mandalas stimulates self-awareness and emotional release. The technique focusses on process rather than end result. It offers a creative outlet for self-expression and a calming experience of being present in the moment. The practitioner is encouraged to contemplate the mandala quietly for a few minutes when finished. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Active imagination is a therapeutic process of communication between the conscious and unconscious parts of the mind. Often invoked in meditation, it can be a powerful tool of self-awareness. Everyone has an active imagination. Now is the time to use it. Booklet: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Mandalas: Psychology & Art Therapy Synchronicity: Psychology of Coincidence Collective Unconscious: Seeking the Whole Sylvia Rose Books Active Imagination forms a mystic arc between the conscious and unconscious segments of the human psyche or personality. The personality based on the Jungian concept is created by the interaction of: ego (the conscious self) personal unconscious (repressed or forgotten memories or facets of Self) collective unconscious (compendium of human understanding and knowledge shared by all) Rasayana: Alchemy & Health of India Anima & Animus: Gender Archetypes Unus Mundus One World: Psychology Sylvia Rose Books A depth therapy technique , active imagination translates contents of the unconscious mind into images, stories, or giving them human-like qualities. It functions as a connection between the conscious "ego" and the unconscious mind. Booklet: World of Alchemy: A Little History Prize-winning chemist August Kekulé discovers the ring shape of the benzene molecule after having a reverie or day-dream of a snake seizing its own tail, or ouroboros , an ancient protective or alchemical symbol. Alchemy is the predecessor of modern chemistry. Ouroboros Glyph: Snake Eating its Tail Alchemy & Psychology: Hidden Meanings Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Sylvia Rose Books It's important to chronicle the experience afterward, especially if it's done in a trance, meditation or vision quest. Images are vivid and memorable. Dreams can be interpreted through the active imagination, in auto writing or depth therapy. Use of imagination and fantasy nurture creativity. The essence of active imagination lies in freedom of the unconscious from the conscious mind's control of manifested internal images. This is why lucid dreaming cannot work as an active imagination technique. Unity of Opposites: Spiritual Alchemy Chinese Alchemy: Mind Body Spirit Spiritual Alchemy: Touching the Divine Sylvia Rose Books Meditation (speaking from experience) is an excellent way to tap into this vibrant communication medium. The practitioner simply gets into deep meditation state and allows the mind to wander, while also assuming the role of objective observer. Meditation is only one of several techniques for deciphering unconscious issues by letting them act themselves out. Active imagination can be experienced by visualization (a method used by Jung), which can be similar in technique to shamanic journeying. Individuation: Process and Philosophy Spiritual Alchemy: Alchemical History Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Sylvia Rose Books Active imagination can also be practiced through automatic writing or other artistic expression like dance, music, painting, sculpting, ceramics, crafts and mathematics. Using these methods, the practitioner achieves creative independence from the overthinking ego. The process allows the unconscious thought forms, or inner "self", as well as the entirety of the psyche, to express the messages they're trying to convey to the conscious mind. It provides an opening for communication. Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Archetypes: Psychology of the Shadow Honey Mead: Most Ancient Ambrosia Sylvia Rose Books For instance, if someone describes a visualized scene or object from a dream, the method encourages the individual to simply observe the scene, note any changes, and describe them without imposing deliberate alterations. This is also a good exercise for writers. The individual reacts authentically ie intuitively to the changes and documents any subsequent developments in the scene. This approach ensures that the unconscious content can manifest itself without interference from the conscious mind. Mercury: Miracle Metal of Madness Solnitsata - Neolithic Salt Trade Town Tria Prima of Paracelsus: Three Primes Sylvia Rose Books Nonetheless, Jung emphasizes the necessity of engaging actively in the process of active imagination, stating "You yourself must enter into the process with your personal reactions: ... as if the drama unfolding before your eyes were real." Jung associates active imagination with alchemical processes, as both aim to achieve unity and interconnectedness among fragmented and disconnected elements. Jung's exploration of this process is documented in his Red Book . Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Emerald Tablet - Sacred Alchemy Text Allegory of the Cave: Vision and Truth Sylvia Rose Books Active imagination promotes communication between conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche or personality. The multi-tiered psyche is continually busy with inter-dynamics of the personal and collective unconscious. Jung acknowledges potential pitfalls of active imagination: "... the method is not entirely without danger, because it may carry the patient too far away from reality". Depth Psychology: Search for Meaning Psychology: the Conscious Ego (Self) Spagyria: Botanical Science of Alchemy Sylvia Rose Books Jung describes his imaginative or visionary endeavors in the early 20th century as "the most challenging experiment" he undertook. This experiment involves a deliberate encounter with the unconscious. Starting December 1913, he continues with the same method: intentionally conjuring up a fantasy ("fancy") while awake and then immersing himself in it as if it were a stage play. These fantasies are a form of thinking portrayed in visual images. World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Colors of Alchemy: Citrinitas Solar Yellow Asclepius: Greek Medicine Snake God Sylvia Rose Books Jung initially records his activities, which he calls visions, fantasies, or imaginations in a series of private journals. In a dream or visionary state, he questions people he encounters, and doesn't let a person leave his sphere of being until he learns why that person is there. Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

The Animal is an archetype described by Carl Jung as sublime. It's a clue to one's connection with primordial nature, based on instinct and the senses. The Animal awakens a primitive part of the mind, both terrestrial and divine. READ: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Archetypes - Personality & the Persona Quintessence: Elemental Life Force Active Imagination: Creative Therapy Sylvia Rose Books The Animal archetype is a collection or pattern of characteristics relating to the deeper self. It goes back to time before humans and appears at human emergence, when people have a strong spiritual connection with the environment and natural elements. This archetype embodies a complex existential duality. Animals are often associated with primal instincts, raw emotions and unexplored wilderness. They connect to rhythms of the Earth and the source of life. Allegory of the Cave: Vision and Truth Archetypes, Stereotypes & Prototypes Archetypes: Psychology of the Shadow Sylvia Rose Books This aspect of the Animal archetype reflects one's innate connection to the natural world, a reminder of profound instinctual drives and basic survival senses. Animals also symbolize qualities such as loyalty, companionship and protection. READ: World of Alchemy: A Little History Ancient cultures and societies revere certain animals as symbols of strength, wisdom, and guidance. This facet of the Animal archetype bespeaks a desire for companionship, community, and bonds formed with other living beings. Psychology: the Conscious Ego (Self) Rasayana: Alchemy & Health of India Archetypes, Stereotypes & Prototypes Sylvia Rose Books This archetype reaches out with feeling rather than intellect. Driven by deep emotions and instincts, the Animal helps one negotiate the ups and downs of life, become aware of the nature of the beast and using this awareness for grounding. In the 20th century psychologist Jung examines the relationships of humans, animals and archetypes. According to his theories, animals are not only manifestations of the natural world but portals to realms of wisdom and instinctual knowledge eluding the conscious mind. Agathodaemon: Snake God Alexandria Chinese Alchemy: Mind Body Spirit Synchronicity: Psychology of Coincidence Sylvia Rose Books Animals, with primal instincts and intuitive senses, are more attuned to the complexities of the unconscious mind than humans, who are further removed from the natural world. They have a unique connection to a more primal order of existence. By exploring the symbolic meanings and mythic dimensions of animals, Jung seeks to illuminate hidden aspects of the human psyche - his own, as well as those of his patients. The animal archetype is internal to the mortal mind and exists as data, not a living creature. Alchemy Symbols: Circle, Snake, Lion Psychology: the Conscious Ego (Self) Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Sylvia Rose Books Snake, lion and dog are common manifestations. But, as the animal archetype speaks in symbols, these might not be animals at all. The Animal archetype can also correspond to the blurred boundaries between the civilized and the wild within each individual. The Master of Animals  or Mistress of Animals (Potnia Theron) motif appears before c. 5000 BCE. It's found especially in Egyptian, near eastern and later Greek and Roman cultures. Owl - Death, Memory, Mystic Wisdom Ancient Wild Predators - Eurasian Lion Great Bear - Nature, Spirituality & Lore Sylvia Rose Books The Master of Animals motif in ancient art depicts a human grasping two confronted animals. This signifies control of wild instincts, with a secondary meaning of caring for the welfare of the animals. In Greece, Potnia Theron means Mistress of Animals. The Animal archetype highlights constant interplay of rational, civilized self and primal, instinctual urges. This duality arises from the psychic depths, giving a person insight into human nature and the constant negotiation of primal instincts and societal conditioning. Numinous: Beholding the Divine Psychology: Understanding Archetypes Unus Mundus One World: Psychology Sylvia Rose Books The Animal forms the fiber of mortal existence. We are all animals, after all. This archetype encourages integration of the diverse aspects of human nature to achieve a more balanced and harmonious sense of the Whole. Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Simply put, the animus is the male part of a woman, and the anima the female part of a man. Beyond this, there's nothing simple about the anima or animus. As archetypes they can have profound effects on self-image, self-expression and sexuality. READ: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Sacred Marriage: Hieros Gamos in Alchemy Psychology: Understanding Archetypes Animal Archetype: Mysteries of the Unconscious Sylvia Rose Books The concept of animus represents the masculine aspects within a person who identifies as a woman. It's connected with left-brain or practical activities. The animus plays a significant role in shaping the psyche and influencing personal development. The anima and animus as non-gender-specific and biologically distinctive. A gay man has an anima and a lesbian has an animus. However, if a person in a man's body identifies as female, she may have an animus. Research is pending. Individuation: Process and Philosophy Hermes Trismegistus: Alchemy & the Occult Semen - Life & Death in the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books It's not yet known whether anima and animus can reside in one person. Whether straight or many shades of gay, the person develops an anima or animus of opposite gender to that of the biological self. It evolves differently in all people and varies widely in manifestation. READ: World of Alchemy: A Little History What happens when two animas come together in a gay relationship? The gender of the anima / animus is not as important as how it functions in the whole of being, and how its activities affect the person. It can be explored in several ways including depth psychology . Depth Psychology: Search for Meaning Victorian Health: Sea Water Hydrotherapy Psychoid: Secrets of the Unconscious   Sylvia Rose Books The anima, in a person who identifies as a man, symbolizes feminine principle. It may be strongly developed or weak and oppressed. The anima corresponds to emotional depth, compassion, intuition and creativity. Anima taps into right brain functions. For any gender, creative expression such as in Active Imagination can reveal hidden inner conflicts and enhance emotional balance. Active Imagination: Creative Therapy Numinous: Beholding the Divine Quintessence: Elemental Life Force Sylvia Rose Books While the concept of a person being left-brained or right-brained went out with the last millennium, the two sides of the brain have certain qualities, traditionally associated with characteristics deemed to be male-like or female-like. They exist in all people and include: Right Side of Brain (male) logic linear thinking sequencing computing thinking in words facts Pure Form, Archetypes & Alchemy Collective Unconscious: Seeking the Whole Synchronicity: Psychology of Coincidence Sylvia Rose Books Left Side of Brain (female) imagination intuition arts visual cues holistic thinking visualization daydreams underlying rhythms or currents As archetypes, anima and animu s dwell in the collective unconscious, the limitless shared reservoir of memories, concepts, thoughts and feelings intrinsic to the human species. Their symbolic manifestations in dreams, visions or daily life can cause conflicting feelings. Allegory of the Cave: Vision and Truth Drude: Germanic Demon of Darkness Psychology: the Conscious Ego (Self)   Sylvia Rose Books It's crucial to recognize effects of both nature and society to the shaping of an individual's identity, even before birth. The people affected might see awareness of the anima / animus as weakness in themselves. These archetypal energies can manifest in positive ways, such as fostering creativity, intuition, and emotional depth. They also have a shadow side that brings about irrationality, moodiness, or destructive behaviors if not acknowledged and integrated properly. Parabalani: Medics & Murderous Mobs Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Winter Tales - 4 Novellas Sylvia Rose Books In dreams, they can adopt a wide array of personas and forms. In this way the anima / animus has room for creative expression. Or, the animus / anima is an archetypal symbol, using the persona archetype to interact with the world, leaving little room for the true Self. These symbols serve as a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind. They offer insights into a person's innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires. These in turn may be suppressed if failing to coordinate with sense of Self perception of how Self is viewed by others sense of Self in intimate relationships Chinese Alchemy: Mind Body Spirit Archetypes, Stereotypes & Prototypes Archetypes - Personality & the Persona Sylvia Rose Books In dreams, the anima and animus can manifest as mysterious figures, guiding the dreamer on a transcendental journey. The animus / anima archetype is a dynamic force, evolving and growing with the physical person. Life experiences mold development and sense of self. A person who doesn't fit stereotyped images (and who does?) might spend years trying to live up to the real and perceived expectations of others. This shapes life from the core of being, for every cause has an effect and every effect is a cause. Mandalas: Psychology & Art Therapy Chrysopoeia - Turning Lead into Gold Rasayana: Alchemy & Health of India Sylvia Rose Books Conversely sexual appetites might increase as a person cannot be satisfied. Sexuality might be associated with dangerous thrills or risks, extremes of sexual desire or dissolve into a non-persona, repressed to the point one believes it doesn't exist. The animus/anima archetype plays a vital role in the emotional and psychological composition of a person. Gender archetypes not fully integrated into the ego can lead to bad relationships, low self-esteem and sexual trauma or dysfunction. The Sex Demons - Incubus & Succubus Wandering Womb - Ancient Medicine Agathodaemon: Snake God Alexandria Sylvia Rose Books When a person becomes overly identified with the animus or anima, it can lead to a psychic imbalance. Jung suggests integrating these archetypal aspects, the anima and animus, into the persona. Personas are created by the egocentric self and can draw qualities of other archetypes upon themselves. Revealing certain traits of a person, they hide or downplay others. This is done by the conscious mind, and the human might not even notice. Horse in Dreams - Meaning of Horses Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Ruby, Rubies: Passion, Blood and Fire Sylvia Rose Books The anima / animus is a bridge between the conscious and unconscious aspects of a person's psyche. It influences emotional responses and can dominate interpersonal relationships. Like all archetypes, the anima has light and dark sides. Dark aspects emerge due to suppression of the animus/anima, consciously or not. Expectations and stereotypes assigned to gender roles can limit expression of innate qualities of the Self. Spagyria: Botanical Science of Alchemy Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Spiritual Alchemy: Process & Philosophy Sylvia Rose Books A man recognizing the anima might name her succubus . A woman, aware of the male principle, assigns him traits of an incubus . Although these aren't accurate descriptions the anima / animus takes on qualities deemed "negative" or harmful. This leads to a disconnect between the true Self and societal expectations. Understanding and accepting the archetype can encourage more authentic expressions of emotions and creativity, fostering psychological well-being and productive interpersonal connections. Mugwort (Wormwood) Herbal Lore Psychology: the Conscious Ego (Self) Unity of Opposites: Spiritual Alchemy Sylvia Rose Books Anima and animus are integral to human internal structure and harmony. Learning to recognize the manifestations of the archetype begins with awareness. By understanding both positive and negative qualities of animus or anima, one can achieve a more harmonious relationship with these inner forces. Creativity and self-expression shines, as the person enjoys greater self-awareness and personal growth. World of Alchemy: A Little History Golden Ages of Alchemy: Renaissance Archetypes: Psychology of the Shadow Sylvia Rose Books Animus and anima are powerful forces. With clarity one sees a pathway to self-awareness, layers of emotional depth and genuine, satisfying connections. Acknowledging and exploring complexities of the mind, individuals can achieve self-understanding and divine connection. Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

" Lead is the ancestor of all metals. For gold is not a metal, gold is light. Lead requires only four periods of two hundred years each, to pass in succession from the state of lead, to the state of red arsenic, from red arsenic to tin, from tin to silver. Are not these facts?" ~ Victor Hugo, Hunchback of Notre Dame, 1831 AD Lead: Death Metal of Metallurgy Gold - Precious Metal of the Sun Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Sylvia Rose Books Gold-making or chrysopoeia in the West is mentioned in the first or second century AD. At the same time, gold-faking is a growing concern, with recipes for counterfeiting gold or silver to fool even experts. This power is not always used for evil, as it takes forays into gold-plating or ornamentation and affordable jewelry. In ancient China, however, making fake gold gets the death penalty by 144 BCE. Alchemists explain their attempts to make real gold by making fake gold first. Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Feast of Fools - A Lora Ley Adventure Chrysopoeia - Turning Lead into Gold Sylvia Rose Books Gold leaf and gold foil are popular, from gilding statues to home decor. Recipes for gold coloring on such items as ornaments, paper and metals such as copper are plentiful through the ages. "Take mercury and make it solid with the body of magnēsia, or with the body of Italian stibnite, or with unburnt sulphur, or with moon foam, or with roasted lime, or with alum from Melos, or with orpiment, or according to your knowledge. When it [i.e. mercury] turns white, put it on copper, and you will have ‘shadowless’ copper. [When the mercury turns] yellow, put it on silver and you will have gold; on gold, and it will be solid gold coral." ~ Pseudo Democritus (1st century AD) Orpiment - Painter's Golden Poison Hermeticism & Alchemy in Alexandria Mad Honey - What's the Buzz? Sylvia Rose Books Gold leaf is recorded in Egypt c. 2800 BCE. The exceptional strength and flexibility of gold is appreciated by Egyptian craftsmen, pioneers of goldbeating and gilding. The crafter uses a circular stone to hammer gold into the thinnest sheets possible. From early gleanings, alchemical writings about gold-making are intentionally obscure and mention mysterious ingredients and arcane processes. Some symbols or references are known only to the alchemist, or the inner circle of alchemy. Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Cleopatra the Alchemist of Alexandria Asclepius: Greek Medicine Snake God Sylvia Rose Books Above, in the Chrysopoeia of Cleopatra the Alchemist, the ouroboros or snake-dragon surrounds the Ancient Greek script reading ἕν τὸ πᾶν ("the all is one"). The symbols and drawings are alleged to contain the secrets of gold or silver making. Also from Pseudo-Democritus: "Process pyrite until it becomes incombustible, losing its blackness: process it with vinegar and brine, or pure urine, or seawater, or honey and vinegar, or according to your knowledge; roast it until it becomes like incombustible gold-dust. And if it becomes so, mix with it unburnt sulfur, or yellow alum, or Attic ochre, or according to your knowledge. Put it on silver in order to have gold and on gold in order to have gold shell. For nature masters nature." Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Myth & Metallurgy - Metals of Antiquity Sylvia Rose Books In ancient Rome, mercury (quicksilver) is mixed with small gold pieces and applied to a substrate. Heating the object causes the mercury to evaporate, leaving a lovely and fragile gold plating. Mercury fumes are invisible, an insidious source of mercury poisoning, as mercury is also known to evaporate at room temperature. Anyone working with mercury is subject to toxic effects such as mood swings, confusion, shaking, seizures and death. Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Colors of Alchemy: Citrinitas Solar Yellow Alchemy: Processes Used by Alchemists Sylvia Rose Books According to 20th century writer André-Jean Festugière: "Greco-Egyptian alchemy was born from the meeting of a fact and a doctrine. The fact is the traditional practice in Egypt of the arts of goldsmithing. The doctrine is a mixture of Greek philosophy, borrowed especially from Plato and Aristotle, and mystical reveries." Festugière is also known for translating works attributed to Hermes Trismegistus , the legendary figure of Hermeticism. Hermes is a Greco-Egyptian fusion of the Greek Hermes (Roman Mercury) and Egyptian god Thoth . The practice of Hermeticism continues today. Thoth - Ibis Scribe Moon God of Egypt Hermes Trismegistus: Alchemy & the Occult Ouroboros Glyph: Snake Eating its Tail Sylvia Rose Books Ancient alchemy uses a diverse array of methodologies and perspectives. Each alchemist, driven by personal motivations and beliefs, approaches the pursuit of transmuting base metals to gold in a distinct manner. Zosimos of Panopolis, a Gnostic mystic c 300 AD, is credited with the oldest known alchemical writings. He collects earlier Hellenistic texts on alchemy, which later influence medieval alchemists, particularly during the Golden Age of Islam . Unus Mundus One World: Psychology Spagyria: Botanical Science of Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Sylvia Rose Books In " The True Book of Sophe ," Zosimos demonstrates obscurity of subject matter in poetically worded explorations of techniques involving lead and transmutation of metals into gold. As the sun is, so to speak, a flower of the fire and (simultaneously) the heavenly sun, the right eye of the world, so copper when it blooms—that is when it takes the color of gold, through purification—becomes a terrestrial sun, which is king of the earth, as the sun is king of heaven. Psychology: the Conscious Ego (Self) Mad Hatter's Disease: Mercury Madness Sun Goddesses of World Mythology Sylvia Rose Books While today metals like gold and tin and lead as seen as elements, early alchemists posit these metals are compounds, produced underground through the combination of simpler substances. These are a wet substance, mercury, and a dry one, sulfur. A prominent alchemist of the Islamic Golden Age is Jābir ibn Ḥayyān (721 - 815 AD). According to his philosophy, sulfur represents the fundamental mineral, while mercury stands for the essential metal, from which all other substances originate. Alchemy of Islam: Medieval Golden Age Spiritual Alchemy: Touching the Divine Sacred Marriage: Hieros Gamos in Alchemy Sylvia Rose Books By manipulating properties of a substance, it's theoretically possible to transform it using the enigmatic Philosopher's Stone or lapis philosophorium . The idea of the Philosopher's Stone persists in Islam until 9th century AD, while western philosophy still clings to the concept. " ... It is known that the things that are about to be said to you, doubling, tinctures, all operations and whatever else lead into one meaning and one work. Apprehend the mystery, child, of the widow’s drug." Pseudo-Democrites c. 1st century AD Anima Animus Archetypes & Sexuality Synchronicity: Psychology of Coincidence Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Sylvia Rose Books In a document representing the activities and gold-making desires of Egyptian Goddess Isis and her son Horus, written c. 1st century, alchemy is called hiera techne or the holy technique. The writer (as Isis) states: After a certain passing of the kairoi (time) and the necessary movement of the heavenly sphere, it happened that one of the angels who dwelt in the first firmament saw me from above and came towards me desiring to unite with me sexually. He was in a great hurry for this to happen, but I did not submit to him. I resisted, for I wished to ask him about the preparation of gold and silver. Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Wine God Liber: Liberty & Liberal Libation Sylvia Rose Books Further: When I put my question, he said he did not wish to answer me since it was such a great mystery, but said he would return next day and with him would be a greater angel, Amnaël, who would be able to answer me and solve my problem. And he told me about his sign and that he would bear on his head, and take it and show me, a ceramic vessel full of shining water. He [the other angel] wanted to tell me the truth. Lammašaga: Sumerian Angel Goddess Alchemy Symbols: Tail of the Peacock Quintessence: Elemental Life Force Sylvia Rose Books Along these lines, Zosimos says: "The ancient and divine writings say the angels became enamoured of women; and, descending, taught them all the works of nature. From them, therefore, is the first tradition, chema, concerning these arts; for they called this book chema and hence the science of chemistry takes its name." During the Renaissance, Sir Francis Bacon explains how to make gold. His method involves melting silver along with mercury and niter: " ... For the Materiall, take Silver , which is the Metall  that in Nature Symbolizeth most with Gold ; Put in also, with the Silver , a Tenth Part of Quick-silver , and Twelfth Part of Nitre , by weight." Spiritual Alchemy: the Tria Prima Mercury: Miracle Metal of Madness Women Scientists of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books In his Art of Distillation, physician John French (1616 - 1657) includes a section on the nature of gold and silver. He explains a process by which the four elements combine to create sperm with God's blessing, then enter the earth to produce a vapor. Depending on the path it takes, this miraculous vapor can transform the earth into various metals including silver, tin, copper, or gold. It's as good a theory as any. During his lifetime, French sees the emergence of chemistry from alchemy and advocates its use in medicine. Magic of the Circle: Spirituality & Lore Pentagram: Drudenfuß, Five Point Star Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Sylvia Rose Books Alchemical books are often published with wide margins around the text, for notes of the practitioner. The books are not answers. They are guides. Readers enter a dialogue with the author, making corrections or arguing about interpretations. “Reading was a huge part of alchemical practice”, says historian James Voelkel. The lack of commonality in methods among practitioners is not surprising, considering the inefficacy of gold-making techniques they employ. Through history, no two alchemists have identical approaches, goals or philosophical outlooks on the nature of metals. Ornithomancy - Prophecy by the Birds Fairy Rings, Moon & Nature Magic Alchemy: Red King & White Queen Sylvia Rose Books Arabist Paul Kraus (1904 - 1944) compiles a vast range of Islamic writings on alchemy and science. Reams of texts remain untranslated from their original Arabic. In his exploration of alchemical principles, Kraus is intrigued by the properties of lead and gold. Drawing on research and analysis, Kraus proposes lead's characteristics stand in direct opposition to those of gold. This juxtaposition displays the possibility of transmuting one substance into its exact opposite. Colors of Alchemy: Citrinitas Solar Yellow Active Imagination: Creative Therapy Mandalas: Psychology & Art Therapy Sylvia Rose Books Alchemists use complex language and symbols to protect their knowledge and reputation. The study of ancient alchemy shows a mix of ambition, secrecy, and desire for recognition. The mysterious texts reflect human ingenuity and ambition in this esoteric field. Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Notorious alchemist Dippel appears in German history and science in the 17th century. Achieving moderate success with Dippel's Animal Oil, he's known for radical theology, his famous association with Castle Frankenstein and the accidental creation of Prussian blue . Jump to: Background Alchemy Experiments Reclusion Germany: A Little 19th Century History Emerald Tablet - Sacred Alchemy Text Song of the Loreley Sylvia Rose Books Background Back to Top Johann Konrad Dippel (1673 - 1734), is a controversial figure in European history. A German Lutheran Pietist theologian, physician, alchemist and occultist, his call for dissolution of the churches incites both admiration and outrage throughout Europe. Dippel is born at Castle Frankenstein and later employed there as an alchemist. Built near Darmstadt, Germany c. 1250 , the Castle is named for the Imperial Barony of Frankenstein, established by Lord Conrad II Reiz of Breuberg. The name means "stone of the Franks". Spiritual Magic - Numbers Three & Nine Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Wild Women and Winter Tales Sylvia Rose Books Dippel studies philosophy, theology and alchemy at the University of Giessen in Hesse, and in 1693 receives a master's degree in theology. He publishes many religious works under the name Christianus Demócritus. Most are still preserved. Circa 1700, he turns to Hermetic studies and alchemy as a key to nature. Hermeticism or Hermetism is a philosophical system of religious belief based on teachings of Hermes Trismegistus , a merger of Greek god Hermes and Egyptian god Thoth . Thoth - Ibis Scribe Moon God of Egypt Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Corycian Caves, Bee Nymphs & Greek Gods Sylvia Rose Books Along with their other duties, gods Hermes and Thoth become deities of alchemy. The Hermetica , a collection of teachings, contains texts attributed to Hermes Trismegistus . They cover several centuries ( c.  300 BCE – 1200 CE) and vary in in content and scope. Alchemy Back to Top Based on ancient metallurgy and medicine, alchemy is popular in medieval Spain. Spain is already a prolific source of cinnabar (HgS), a stone made of sulfur and mercury , beloved by alchemists. In countries such as Arabia alchemy is evolving. Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Sylvia Rose Books The Greeks call it "the Egyptian art". Alchemy comes into flower at the emerald delta of the Nile during the Greco-Roman Egyptian period. Major figures such as Mary the Jewess  and Zosimos of Panopolis live and work in Alexandria. Important goals of alchemy include: chrysopoeia, the transmutation of base metals into noble metals (ie lead to gold) to create or discover an elixir of immortality to create a panacea to cure all disease. Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Vermilion - Scarlet Pigment of Death Cleopatra the Alchemist of Alexandria Sylvia Rose Books Behind the herb garden of Castle Frankenstein is a natural pond known as a fountain of youth. Legend says on the first full moon after Walpurgisnacht witches came to bathe. They undergo tests of courage. The one who succeeds becomes as young as on her wedding day. The caduceus of Hermes or Roman Mercury is fabled to come about because Hermes throws his rod at two snakes fighting, and they both wrap around it. Medieval alchemy uses the caduceus as a symbol to identify preparations containing mercury. Witches' Night - Hexennacht Mercury (Quicksilver): Miracle Metal of Alchemy Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Sylvia Rose Books Experiments Back to Top Due to his revolutionary and outspoken theology , Dippel is banned from several countries including Sweden and Russia. He also flees Giessen, where he attended University, because he kills a man in a duel. He's imprisoned for seven years for heresy. Dippel has a number of defenders and followers, though not all are satisfied. Swedish theologian Emanuel Swedenborg is his most notable supporter and, later one of his most vicious critics. Swedenborg calls him a "most vile devil ... who attempted wicked things." Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Women Scientists of the Ancient World World of Alchemy: A Little History Sylvia Rose Books In the vicinity of Castle Frankenstein, rumors abound about his strange activities, including experiments with human corpses. Alchemists, philosophers and intellectuals at the time pursue a theory of soul transference, which Dippel supports in his writings. It's not known whether Dippel really uses human corpses, or if this is an exaggeration in the telling of stories. It's known he enjoys dissecting animals, from whence his animal bone oil comes. However, dissecting animals doesn't always lead to robbing graves. German Myth - Werewolves German Myth - Headless Horseman Aufhöcker - Cursed Undead of German Myth Sylvia Rose Books Dippel creates the foul-smelling substance he calls Dippel's Oil or Dippel's Animal Oil. Also known as bone oil, it's made from the destructive distillation of bones, blood and body fluids, refined several times in a chemical heat process to decompose organic material. It's stinky, sludgy and repulsive. Nonetheless Dippel proclaims his elixir can heal typhus and holds the secret to eternal life. Like many Elixirs of Immortality it initially gives a slight buzz / stimulant effect. Dippel tries to buy Castle Frankenstein for the formula. The offer is refused. Rhododendron & the Toxic Ambrosia Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Sugar Beets, Altbier & First Newspaper Sylvia Rose Books It's effective as an insect and animal repellent. Dippel's Oil plays a role in World War II, used in chemical warfare as a harassing agent in the desert. Poured into wells it makes water undrinkable. As it's not lethal, use of it this way doesn't breach the Geneva Protocol. Dippel's most famous invention isn't really his. It's an accident. Pigment maker Diesbach uses potash or potassium carbonate, the primary ingredient in potash, to produce rich red pigment. He runs out of supply, and gives Dippel a shout. Prussian Blue - Delight of Artists & Poisoners Mad Honey - What's the Buzz? Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Sylvia Rose Books Dippel delivers the potash. Neither man knows it's contaminated, either with blood or bone oil. Instead of the rich red he expects, Diesbach beholds a deep brilliant blue, the new color Prussian Blue , aka Berlin Blue. It soon begins to appear in the palettes of painters. It's noted in a 1706 written text: “... H. Joh. Jacob Diesbach has invented a certain blue paint and luckily revealed it, which is said to surpass the famous ultramarine; this is why it is now sold under the name Prussian ultramarine or Berlin blue for a reasonable price." Orpiment - Painter's Golden Poison Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Old Prussians of the Baltic Coast Sylvia Rose Books At first, Dippel and Diesbach tell no one the formula. They can sit back and get rich. Then Dippel, in a maniacal act of self-sabotage, writes a scathing theology rant. He and Diesbach argue. Dippel reveals the pigment formula. Diesbach takes on a different partner. Reclusion and Final Years Back to Top Toward the end of his life, Dippel turns from Christianity altogether, after years of uproar and violent disputes with other Christian leaders. Calling Christ "an indifferent being", Dippel becomes more reclusive and focuses on his experiments in alchemy. Kaolinite: White Pigment with Benefits Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg German Pioneers: Father of Aviation Sylvia Rose Books He sets up a lab near Wittgenstein. It eventually becomes a pub, Dippelshof. While there, at least one local minister accuses Dippel of grave-robbing, experimenting on cadavers, and consorting with the Devil. By now Dippel avoids company. Keeping to himself and immersed in his work, a fearsome unapproachable figure in the market, he might actively perpetuate rumors of black magic and Satanist affiliations. Early Fire Gods - Vulkan of Germania Lucifer, Venus & Anti-Gods of Mythology Pentagram: Drudenfuß, Five Point Star Sylvia Rose Books His reputation as a dark sorcerer grows. With it comes a whole new audience willing to pay for his wisdom, understanding of the philosopher's stone, prophecies, advice and the elusive Elixir of Life. In 1733, Dippel proclaims he has discovered an elixir to extend his life to 135 years. He dies a year later at Castle Wittgenstein in North Rhine-Westphalia. Possible causes vary from a stroke to alchemical elixir poisoning . Anima Animus Archetypes & Sexuality Sacred Marriage: Hieros Gamos in Alchemy Alchemy: Red King & White Queen Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Spiritual alchemy uses the power of nature, psychology and metaphysical processes of alchemy to transcend the limitations of the mortal realm, tap into the collective unconscious and align with the Whole. Spiritual alchemy helps a person lead a better life. Collective Unconscious: Seeking the Whole Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Women Scientists of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books Alchemy appears thousands of years ago in early Neolithic activities such as mead brewing . As a practice it endures from the first Golden Age in Greco-Roman Alexandria to the Renaissance, and into the 20th century with analytical psychology. As a discipline traditional alchemy seeks to uncover the Philosopher's Stone , a substance needed to achieve the three major goals of alchemy: To transmute base metals into noble metals ( lead to gold ) To discover a panacea which will cure all disease To create or discover an elixir of eternal life Archetypes - Personality & the Persona Spiritual Alchemy: Key Elements to Growth Chrysopoeia - Turning Lead into Gold Sylvia Rose Books Spiritual alchemy takes these concepts and applies them to the self. Through inner growth and transformation one develops a vibrant, vital connection to the quintessence of the Self. Aims may include: To transform unwanted aspects of the self, such as bad habits or anger To heal damage to the psyche, spirit or emotions, and nurture positive qualities To develop happy, confident, fulfilling relationships with oneself and others To transcend limitations, gain wisdom and connect with the divine To live a better life Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Spiritual Alchemy - Attuning the Self Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life Sylvia Rose Books Early Islamic alchemists , specifically Jābir ibn Ḥayyān, consider mercury and sulfur the major elements of which all metals are made. During the Renaissance Golden Age Paracelsus introduces the tria prima mercury, sulfur and salt to the West. Prolonged or repeated Inhalation of sulfur can cause brain damage, nervous collapse and death. The liquid metal mercury or quicksilver fascinates scientists and laypeople with its silvery flow but it's fatal if breathed or ingested, as the first Chinese emperor discovers. What is the Philosopher's Stone? Mercury: Miracle Metal of Madness Tria Prima of Paracelsus: Three Primes Sylvia Rose Books Spiritual alchemy eliminates toxic minerals, metals, foods, plants, environments and people. Triads, threes, triangles and trios as well as number nine are significant numbers of alchemy. Adapted to modern thought the tria prima triad is fundamentally a balance of elemental energies in harmonious interaction. Spiritual alchemy takes place in the conscious or unconscious mind, physical form of the body, and soul or spirit recognized as inner divinity. Prima Materia: Elements of Alchemy Spiritual Magic - Numbers Three & Nine Sulfur - Treasure of the Underworld Sylvia Rose Books In certain aspects the trinity reflects the mind/body/spirit analogy. It's a flowing interaction constantly in a state of change, effecting other changes within the Self and the worlds of conscious, unconscious and spiritual experience and meaning. Aided by use of natural elements and practices such as meditation, the spiritual alchemist attunes to the divine energy flowing through all things. This infinite essence is a quality once attributed to quicksilver or liquid mercury. Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Hermes Trismegistus: Alchemy & the Occult Ouroboros Glyph: Snake Eating its Tail Sylvia Rose Books At one time mercury is part of the poisonous potions as early alchemists seek the Elixir of Life , and its true effects aren't well known. It appears in ancient tombs and gardens of legend. In Mesoamerica pools of quicksilver are found beneath step pyramids. Mercury is the only metal to be liquid at room temperature. The first Chinese emperor , he of the terracotta army, dies from drinking a mixture of mercury and powdered jade, which is supposed to be an immortality potion. Quest for Immortality - Qin Shi Huang Corycian Caves, Bee Nymphs & Greek Gods Gnomes: Earth Spirits of Renaissance Mythology Sylvia Rose Books The concept of the tria prima is more important than the physical manifestation. For example mercury and sulfur also apply respectively to the female/male principles, mutable/combustible, moon/sun. Salt refers to the solid or fixed element. Another fine aspect of alchemy is the ability to combine different substances or derivatives to effect changes. Alchemy, emerging from ancient metallurgy, is the philosophy from which modern chemistry evolves. Much remains unexplored. Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files World of Alchemy: A Little History Individuation: Process and Philosophy Sylvia Rose Books All natural things from rocks to humans contain a bit of gold and some stardust. All living things are all connected to infinity . The sign of eternity or infinity is the horizontal 8, a symbol with no beginning and no end. Spiritual alchemy recognizes the primordial connection, which psychologist Carl Jung calls the collective unconscious . Jung had a strong interest in alchemy, basing much work on its teachings. Cultivating spiritual and personal growth is one step closer to touching the divine. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Spiritual alchemy uses the principles of alchemy to achieve harmony and fulfillment in life. Alchemy incorporates shapes, symbols, plants, gems and elements to heighten a spiritual bond with nature and find the key to unlock the inner Philosopher's Stone . World of Alchemy: A Little History Alchemy Symbols in Psychology Individuation: Process and Philosophy Sylvia Rose Books Three and Nine Three and Nine have significant places in the realms of traditional alchemy, history, myth, and spirituality. These numbers, deeply rooted in ancient beliefs, carry symbolic meanings. As symbols they may relate to an archetype. Symbolism of three and nine can be traced back to early Neolithic art. Humans have a primal connection to the universe. Spiritual alchemy attunes to the essence of the elements. Focus is not just on physical properties but spiritual and metaphysical aspects. Spiritual Magic - Numbers Three & Nine Colors of Alchemy: Black Nigredo Putrefaction Common Archetypes & Spiritual Ascension Sylvia Rose Books Symbols and Shapes Shapes such as triangle,  circle or spiral have deep primal connections to spiritual balance and dynamic energy flow. Shapes and other symbols can be personal to the individual, intrinsic to the immediate environment or along the path of life in mortal and spiritual worlds. They arise in dreams, meditation or visions. The artist Cezanne (1839–1906) said all is made of basic shapes, circle, square, triangle. From this he extrapolates spheres, cubes, pyramids and cylinders. All have meaning if recurring in the conscious or unconscious mind. Collective Unconscious: Seeking the Whole World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Colors of Alchemy: White Albedo Purification Sylvia Rose Books Above: Still Life with a Curtain (1895) illustrates Cézanne's increasing trend towards terse compression of forms and dynamic tension between geometric figures. Alchemical Purpose In spiritual alchemy no magic potions are brewed and no weird experiments concocted in the name of science. Knowing the interconnectedness of all things, the practitioner rises above the material world to the spiritual nature of life. Alchemical practices have a rich history intertwined with that of metallurgy. The quest for transforming base metals into gold symbolizes a deeper spiritual and philosophical journey. This is where the practitioner seeks inward, sometimes tearing down to rebuild. Archetypes - Personality & the Persona Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Spiritual Alchemy: Alchemical History Sylvia Rose Books Plants, Resins and Gems Over time, alchemy evolves beyond its metallurgical roots to encompass a wide array of natural elements, including plants, resins, and gems. Alchemists of old believe these materials hold hidden properties and secrets. Alchemy has a strong medical tradition. Some alchemists specialize in the use of herbs and plants, the practice of Spagyria or botanical alchemy. Plants containing toxins are of special interest. One of the concepts of alchemy is while poison kills, a little bit of poison can heal. Wolfsbane (Aconitum) Ancient Poisons Chun Yuyan & Death of Empress Xu Archetypes: Psychology of the Shadow Sylvia Rose Books The Philosopher's Stone The Philosopher's Stone represents the ultimate goal of alchemy, embodying the alchemist's desire to transmute not just metals, but the very essence of existence. It's said the enigmatic element bestows immortality and enlightenment upon those who discover it. Alchemy arises from early metallurgy. The practice expands considerably into other parts of the natural world such as plants, resins and gems. Alchemists seek to unveil the mysteries of the universe and gain deeper understanding of the natural world. Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life Alchemy, Psychology & Archetypes Colors of Alchemy: Citrinitas Solar Yellow Sylvia Rose Books What's important  is the essence of the object and the meaning given, interpreted or perceived by the user. One might see carbon, for instance, as the life element and bond among all living things. Someone else might see/feel this substance as heavy or obstructing. How a certain component "feels" can help identify elements of unwanted stress, negativity or emotional blockage. In spiritual alchemy one transcends the ordinary and focusses on the transcendent qualities using a combination of media from tangible and intangible sources. Classic Elements & Concept of the One Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Sylvia Rose Books Metals and Stones Clear gemstones can help draw out blocking factors and energies of disturbance. Wear as jewelry or keep in the surrounding environment. It is not an instant process but subtle changes may be noticed right away. Physically, people are made up of prime or necessary ingredients .  A part of spiritual alchemy explores the relationships among interactive elements. Gold and stardust are present in all living things including humans. Rhinestones: Treasures of the Rhine Gold - Precious Metal of the Sun Alchemy: Four Elements + The One Sylvia Rose Books Other elements common to all living things include: copper   iron   oxygen carbon hydrogen nitrogen sulfur   phosphorus   arsenic   A little bit of mercury is found in people, often ingested as vapor. Some with pescatarian diets have reported symptoms of mercury poisoning. While arsenic in humans helps brain function, mercury has no clear use. As a heavy metal it can build up in the body. Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Mad Hatter's Disease: Mercury Madness Sylvia Rose Books Mercury is one of the tria prima of alchemy. Medieval Islamic alchemist  Jābir ibn Ḥayyān believes mercury and sulfur make up all metals, and changing a metal is a matter of removing or adding one or the other. In this way chrysopoeia is once considered feasible. In ancient times mercury and sulfur are important factors in the alchemical resolution of opposites. Before the tria prima , Greek nature philosophers and Alexandrian alchemists see mercury as an element representing female qualities, while sulfur is male. Golden Ages of Alchemy: Renaissance Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Sylvia Rose Books Mercury is mutable, silver, the moon, feminine principle, Sulfur is combustible, gold, the sun, masculine principle. Alchemy uses natural ingredients and alchemists use themselves as subjects, often ingesting poisons or things most foul. This concept appears in Chinese lore. Primal god Shennong is a divine healer who teaches humans herbology and farming. He eats up to 70 poisons a day and has a transparent stomach to see the effects. Chrysopoeia - Turning Lead into Gold Shennong Primordial Farmer & Healer Alchemy of Islam: Medieval Golden Age Sylvia Rose Books Colors of Alchemy nigredo  (blackness) which represents putrefaction and spiritual death albedo  (whiteness), which represents purification citrinitas  (yellowness), the solar dawn or awakening rubedo  (redness), the final and crucial stage The Colors of Alchemy refer to phases a person traverses to reach the Magnum Opus, the Great Work. Each is a journey of discovery. The practitioner is born into new awakening and emerges with confidence, compassion and spiritual connection with the beauty of the world. Seven Metals of Antiquity - Metallurgy Hypatia: Scholar & Martyr Alexandria Women Scientists of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books Fiction: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Non-Fiction: World of Alchemy: A Little History World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Back to Top

World of Alchemy Series Book One - A Little History - is an entertaining journey through the history, philosophy, key players, evolution and concepts of the marvelous mystical practice of alchemy . READ - World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Golden Ages of Alchemy: Renaissance Archetypes: Psychology of the Shadow Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic   Sylvia Rose Books Alchemy is a multi-layered discipline . It's an exploration of body, mind, spirit and nature from the earliest days. Alchemical processes are used from the times of prehistory to modern day in food, drink, beauty and cosmetics, medicine and the cutting edge of science. As a practice alchemy is over two thousand years old although alchemical knowledge extends further back, to the Egypt of 1500 BCE and prehistory. Based on natural processes and the ancient quest of knowing, alchemy morphs the Iron Age into a Golden Age. Zosimos: First Golden Age of Alchemy Ouroboros Glyph: Snake Eating its Tail Archetypes - Personality & the Persona   Sylvia Rose Books Evolving from such media as metallurgy and Greek philosophy, alchemy reaches unprecedented heights in the early years AD. Greco-Roman Alexandria is inundated with philosophers, mystics, theologians, alchemists and some who do it all.   The progress of this remarkable medium from ancient Egypt to the Alexandrian alchemy puts the knowledge into the hands of the East upon the Islamic conquest of Egypt. Islamic writers are great documenters and translators. Their work leads to the later tria prima . Alchemy of Islam: Medieval Golden Age Mercury: Miracle Metal of Madness Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld   Sylvia Rose Books The Renaissance Golden Age is the most prolific and well-recorded for alchemists, partly as they have the printing press Alexandrians did not. In China, alchemists are forbidden to make fake gold, and under of Henry IV in England they're forbidden to make real gold. While alchemy is connected strongly to chrysopoeia or gold-making, its transmutative power extends to the creation of a panacea to heal all disease, a universal goal. Eternal life also arouses world-wide interest. Spiritual alchemy aligns the soul with the Whole. Golden Ages of Alchemy: Renaissance Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files Prima Materia: Elements of Alchemy   Sylvia Rose Books Above:  Alchemical art depicting the omnipresence of the philosophical matter. "The Stone that is Mercury, is cast upon the Earth, exalted on Mountains, resides in the Air, and is nourished in the Waters." (Michael Maier's Atalanta Fugiens . 1617) Ancient places, quirky characters and a wealth of knowledge about alchemy, nature, science and history await perusal. Share these ideas with others. Release the sparkling treasures within, on an epic exploration of history, medicine, science, philosophy and magic.  World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy Colors of Alchemy: White Albedo Purification Fortune Telling - The Mystic Victorian   Sylvia Rose Books World of Alchemy is a series of quick-read books featuring historical, esoteric, spiritual alchemy and concurrent processes of analytic psychology and nature. Sylvia Rose Books " A Little History " gives an excellent grounding to the study of alchemy as an expressive tool, spiritual reference, hobby or passion. " Spiritual Alchemy " is for those seeking to lead a better life through the psychology of alchemic process. Sylvia Rose Books Fiction Books: READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top