Alchemy

[Psychonaut]

I found this wonderful book in a cozy little used book store that described alchemy as it was practised, and I found many similarities between Wicca and Paganism and alchemy, especially because alchemists believe in a natural and symbolic unity of humanity with the cosmos. I was wondering what some of your thoughts would be about Alchemy, within or outside the context of Wicca?

[Thebs]

I'm not that well read on the subject, I have a bunch of books but haven't gotten to them yet. But as a general (speaking of the alchemy practiced in medieval times in Europe and then onward) I like the idea of striving to be a better person, to make oneself be more spiritual and more complete. On the other hand I greatly admire them for the advances they did in the science department. They paved way to many of the important discoveries in modern times.

[Psychonaut]

I do admire them as well, because they paved the way to modern chemistry and the use of the early scientific method as well as earth spirituality.
Can alchemy be considered a valid path within Wicca?

[crow]

I was under the impression that Alchemy was a key component of the Hermetic traditions, you may want to look into that. As for being part of Wicca...I would never say never, but I have honestly never heard of it being a "part" of Wicca, per se, but that's not to say you can't incorporate it into your practices.

Just what I know, I'm sure someone has a better idea about this than I do.

[Thebs]

I was under the impression that Alchemy was a key component of the Hermetic traditions, you may want to look into that. As for being part of Wicca...I would never say never, but I have honestly never heard of it being a "part" of Wicca, per se, but that's not to say you can't incorporate it into your practices.

Just what I know, I'm sure someone has a better idea about this than I do.

I think it is the Hermetic traditions that is a key component in Alchemy... But I might have gotten that one wrong.

[Psychonaut]

I think it is the Hermetic traditions that is a key component in Alchemy... But I might have gotten that one wrong.
Alchemy isn't just an early form of chemistry for Hemetics, but its a means of spiritual transformation, whereby the transmutation of lead into gold is considered a personal transformation rather than a literal one.

It's extremely fascinating, actually. If alchemy includes making essential oils and other mixtures by using a mortar and pestle, then I'd love to try and delve into alchemy! What a wonderful experience that would be.

[Crisdark]

Alchemy isn't just an early form of chemistry for Hemetics, but its a means of spiritual transformation, whereby the transmutation of lead into gold is considered a personal transformation rather than a literal one.

You took the words right out of my mouth. That's exactly what I wanted to say. I am not that well read on the subject but what I find most valid about alchemy is that it uses a variety of symbols to talk about an inner transformation of the individual rather than a transformation of the matter. The image of the base metals going into the alembic and coming out purified as gold/silver is the individual retreating into himself and coming back improved after he faced the the purifying fire.

[Psychonaut]

If you're interested in learning more about Alchemy, I highly suggest that you read a book by Francis Melville called "The Book of Alchemy". It has incredible imagery, and I draw a lot of parallels to Wicca in the pictures and symbolism. I noticed the elements, and I noticed the horned god and goddess.

[dagillus_ap_owen]

As Crow stated, Alchemy, in itself, isn't a typically included subject in Wicca, but I see no reason as to why you can't include it into your own practices. I'm also not very read on the subject myself, but I am definitely interested in the topic, considering how some of the greatest scientific minds of the past were pursuants of the Alchemical ideal :cheers: