Thread by @FemboyFolklore

Alchemy is an ancient practice that can be understood as a meeting of science & magic. While famed for being a predecessor of chemistry, alchemy was also undeniably spiritual in nature, believing everything, including metals, to have a spirit & be alive. 1/7 #MythologyMonday

Alchemists believed the world to be comprised of 4 elements: water, earth, air, & fire. Major goals of alchemy included creating an elixir of immortality, universal healing potion, & most famously turning metals into gold, regarded as the most perfect metal. 2/7 #MythologyMonday

Alchemical goals can be viewed both on physical & spiritual levels. While a goal would be to turn physical lead to gold, for example, this can also be viewed on spiritual terms with lead symbolizing a sinful & evil person & gold representing spiritual beauty. 3/7 #MythologyMonday

Alchemical workings were historically shrouded in secrecy, with the research and work of alchemists hidden by metaphors and mythological and historical references. These mysterious methods are part of what has enhanced modern intrigue around alchemy. 4/7 #MythologyMonday

Despite most of the physical teachings of alchemy having been proven incorrect, the spiritual teachings have continued and evolved through the years. Groups like the Rosicrucians and Freemasons have maintained an interest in alchemy even today. 5/7 #MythologyMonday

As Lawrence M. Principe explained "occultists reinterpreted alchemy as a spiritual practice, involving the self-transformation of the practitioner and only incidentally or not at all the transformation of laboratory substances." 6/7 #MythologyMonday

Whether you view alchemy as the predecessor of chemistry, a beautiful spiritual practice centered on the transmutation of the self, or whatever else, it is easy to see the profound influence alchemy has had on science, spirituality, and our imaginations. 7/7 #MythologyMonday