1.0.1 Introduction to Nigredo
“The real nature of matter was unknown to the alchemist: he knew it only in hints.
In seeking to explore it he projected the unconscious into the darkness of matter
in order to illuminate it.”
Welcome to the first stage of an extraordinary journey into spiritual alchemy. This book represents the initial phase of a four-part course exploring the ancient art of inner transformation — a practice that predates and transcends religious boundaries while remaining deeply relevant to modern spiritual seekers.
Nigredo, meaning blackness or darkness, marks our entry point into genuine spiritual work. It is here, in the depths of our own Shadow, that we begin the process of transforming our consciousness through what I call spiritual alchemy — a systematic approach to hacking your own reality.
This isn’t just another book about meditation or mysticism. Rather, it’s a practical guide to understanding how religions initially form around the seed of enlightenment, though they often become preoccupied with the flower it grows into. By combining alchemical wisdom with Buddhist insights, we’ll explore how to navigate the challenging terrain of spiritual awakening.
The alchemists of old deliberately obscured their teachings, partly to avoid persecution from the church, but also because the very nature of their work defied simple explanation. They left us a cryptic map to transformation — one that becomes clearer only through dedicated study and practice.
While this book stands alone as a guide to the Dark Night of spiritual work, it is part of a larger system. The complete course follows the four classical stages of alchemical transformation: Nigredo (blackness), Albedo (whiteness), Citrinitas (yellowness), and Rubedo (redness). Each stage builds upon the previous, creating a comprehensive path to inner transformation.
I’ve structured this work to be both profound and accessible, weaving together practical exercises with deeper philosophical insights. Throughout the text, you’ll find references to Buddhist teachings, particularly the Abhidhamma, which provides a sophisticated framework for understanding consciousness and its transformation.
A word of caution: this is serious spiritual work. While I maintain a lighthearted tone, the practices and insights contained here can profoundly impact your understanding of reality. This isn’t about adopting new beliefs or following doctrine — it’s about discovering the truth of your own nature through direct experience.
What follows is my understanding of alchemy, drawn from years of study and practice. Take what resonates, question everything, and remember that this is a guide, not gospel. The real work happens in your own consciousness.
May this book serve as a reliable companion on your journey through the darkness of transformation.
Good luck
This text is excerpted from the book Nigredo: A Course in Modern Alchemy. The complete book includes additional study guides, resources, and appendices. View the full book here.