The Secret Tradition in Alchemy - Paperback

by Arthur Edward Waite (Author)

The Secret Tradition in Alchemy is a book written by Arthur Edward Waite, first published in 1926. The book is an exploration of the esoteric and mystical aspects of alchemy, a practice that seeks to transmute base metals into gold and achieve spiritual enlightenment. Waite delves into the history of alchemy, tracing its origins from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. He examines the symbolism and allegory used in alchemical texts, revealing the hidden meanings behind the images and metaphors. Waite also explores the spiritual and philosophical implications of alchemy, discussing its relationship to Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and other mystical traditions. The book is a comprehensive and insightful guide to the world of alchemy, offering readers a glimpse into the hidden wisdom and spiritual practices of this ancient art.Contains its development and records; with intimations of the mystical experience which underlies Hermetic Symbolism. Chapters on Alchemy and supernatural life; Modern views on the Hermetic Mystery; Further speculations on philosophical gold; Ancient hermetic books and the way of the soul therein; Alchemy in China; The testimony of Byzantine alchemy; Arabian and Syriac Alchemy; The early Latin literature; The later chain of Hermes; The myth of Flamel; The chariot of Basil Valentine; Paracelsus; Denys Zachaire and others; Famous English philosophers; Alchemy and exploitation; The new light of alchemy; The reformation and German alchemy; Thomas Vaughan; The cosmopolite; John Frederick Helvetius; An alchemist of Mitylene; The Mystic side of Alchemy; Animal magnetism; and Kabalistic alchemy.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.