Alchemy has origins from medieval times and comes from the Greek word khemeia which means "the art of transmuting metals". In particular the attempts were to convert base metals (impure) into gold (pure) or the universal elixir that would promise immortality and cure disease. The philosopher's stone mentioned in Harry Potter is the legendary substance equated with that. Shrouded in mystery and secrecy, it is a quest that remains both mystical and captivating to many for thousands of years. Although it is often dismissed as pseudoscience, it is in fact a forerunner of modern chemistry.
But there is a much deeper meaning to alchemy than how it is superficially defined, and the study of which is analogous to spiritual practice. The key word to look for is transmutation which is the conversion of one element to another. To expand this further. it involves a Latin expression "solve et coagula" in the alchemical process - "solve" is to decompose and separate (dissolve), while "coagula" describes the process of bringing elements back together in a new and higher form (coagulation). To put it in spiritual terminology, it is the letting go of our egos, fears and wounds that no longer serve us, deleting them and thereby implanting new beliefs that will allow us to integrate with our authentic selves. The ultimate goal of alchemy is to achieve magnum opus (the great work). Metaphorically, to create a magnum opus in life is to create an interrelationship between mind and matter or the external and internal worlds so as to experience love, joy and harmony.
Nuclear scientists have proved that the fabled transmutation of lead to gold is indeed possible. In spiritual alchemy, we obviously do not require particle accelerators and a vast input of energy. What we really need is realisation, detachment and most importantly, self-love.
No comments:
Post a Comment