1.1.5 The Fable of Alchemy

“The opus magnum had two aims:
the rescue of the human soul and the salvation of the cosmos.”

In this chapter, we explore the deeper meaning behind alchemical mythology and its true spiritual significance. While modern science has debunked the literal interpretation of physical transmutation, the rich symbolism of alchemy points to a profound system of inner transformation. We’ll examine how the alchemist’s work with metals and materials serves as a sophisticated metaphor for spiritual development, revealing the true nature of the philosopher’s stone as a path to liberation from suffering.

We cannot ignore the findings of modern science when it comes to the primary mythos of alchemy. If we take it literally, that is. Most modern readers will know that the atomic transmutation of, say, lead into gold is possible, but not without a particle collider or supernova at hand. To achieve this using some other means is the textbook definition of magic.

It is far more likely that actual witnessed events of physical transmutation were part of a confidence or, at least, magical trick. Plating the base metal with gold might fool untrained observers, and the scope to use any chemical or physical sleight of hand lends itself to use as part of a confidence trick.

Even if physical transformation were possible, surely the focus should be much more on the actual practitioners, rather than an interest in their recipes.

Those few wise folk that were labelled alchemist were more than metallurgists or primitive chemists. Many either seemed to have other miraculous powers or were mystically spiritual. They talked of reincarnation, past lives and other realms of existence.

Such mystical folk often spoke in metaphor and riddle, frequently suffering persecution and censorship. The idea of a personal union with the divine didn’t go down too well with those intent on taxing faith. So it is hardly a stretch of the imagination to consider that the transmutation is of the self, and not the contents of a crucible.

It would be easy to dismiss physical alchemy altogether, if it wasn’t completely possible to reach spiritual enlightenment through sitting and staring at a motionless retort. Yet, this is very similar to a Buddhist (and other religions’) meditative practice where a kasina or simple visual disk is selected for prolonged consideration. So, it is entirely possible that alchemists achieved jhanic (a special form of awareness) consciousness, that then permitted insights and transmutations (of self).

The basic premise for the main alchemical process is the alchemist takes some common substance, maybe even excreta like urine, and seals it within a vessel that allows the refluxing of escaped vapours to return to the main chamber. It would be analogous to modern distilling equipment.

Then, through the careful application of a mild, but increasing heat, a certain series of processes occur that, through stages, transform the raw substance into a living one.

The process, called the Great Work, is and would be laborious. Like the retort, this process is hermetic—sealed off from outside influence. The alchemist must carefully attend to the process which must be observed continuously — for weeks and even months. Subtle changes in colour, or nature indicate important stages which if missed, ruin the whole process. Vapours and fluids are collected to be remixed at a later stage. It is important we consider the concept of analysis and synthesis (solve et coagula) — the alchemist breaks down the raw material into its elemental constituents and then remixes or synthesises something more pure (divinely pure) with these parts.

The resulting substance is described as both waxy and powdery. It is said to be reddish in colour, and when mixed—even in a tiny amount—with a base metal and heated, it catalyses a reaction, transforming the whole into gold. This same substance can be made into a tincture and consumed; here it heals or even confers immortality.

So, while the myth largely focuses on a process, the alchemist’s commitment and dedication are unmistakable. Such individuals were often successful in their own lives and more than wise enough to find unlimited wealth less attractive than loftier matters. Sure, we could all do with a bit more coin, but these individuals are unlikely to commit to such a dedicated task for just a bit more wealth.

We must therefore consider, more closely, the other claims of this manufactured substance. Firstly, it is healing. And, secondly, it confers immortality, whatever that means.

The great alchemists were deeply spiritual and mystical, often serving as natural healers who employed both herbal remedies and esoteric methods. Some were Christians and most followed a Platonic or Aristotelian model of the cosmos. Themes of healing and immortality form the backbone of these ideologies and here we find correspondences between the goals and rewards of spiritual enlightenment in these mystery religions and the goals of alchemy.

What would the ability to make gold give us? We would no longer fear material poverty. I accept that in all probability it would cause more problems than it solves, but if this is a riddle we must think laterally. Unlimited wealth could almost equate to a perfect satisfaction with the now, an elimination of mundane worries. But what about other worries, such as sickness or death?

Well, funny enough, our special substance also addresses these concerns.

So our goal through this process is a substance that, in a primitive way, eliminates suffering. Once we get access to this substance we no longer need to worry about poverty, sickness, old age or death.

Those familiar with the beginning of Gautama Buddha’s life will recall that his father sought to shield him from these very conditions. These are the things that once the Buddha experienced caused him to turn away from a royal life in search of the truth.

Now this makes much more sense. These spiritual and wise people are trying to convey an elusive and possibly heretical secret that transforms suffering, rather than a get-rich-quick scheme.

However, this secret need not be concealed, for it is hidden in plain sight. Teaching another person to perceive it is no simple task. There are many methods which all seem nonsensical to those who cannot see it, and therefore to even pursue it, one needs faith.

After studying alchemy for a reasonable period of time I am more and more convinced that hermetic western alchemy is nothing more or less than another system of spiritual enlightenment. This viewpoint is supported through a subsequent, and equally reasonable assessment of Buddhism, where there is significant correspondence. These correspondences are likewise reflected in Greek and Kabbalistic traditions.

So, with that premise we shall continue exploring my synthesis of these systems or what I’m calling modern alchemy.

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.