What is alchemy?

Answer

In a way, alchemy serves as a precursor to modern chemistry. In ancient times, prior to our current scientific understanding, alchemists endeavored to develop a method to convert lead into gold. Alchemy also encompassed efforts to concoct potions that could heal any ailment or extend life indefinitely. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where alchemists crafted alloys, jewelry, perfumes, and substances for embalming the deceased. A resurgence of alchemy has been observed in contemporary times within the New Age movement.

Alchemy has always encompassed more than merely discovering the correct chemical combinations; from its inception, it entailed a philosophical and spiritual quest for concealed wisdom. Alchemy is frequently linked with Hermeticism, a pagan belief system that claims to possess the most ancient and coveted wisdom. Other influences on alchemy include astrology, numerology, Kabbalah, and Rosicrucianism. Alchemists were not solely early chemists and metallurgists; they were also regarded as magicians, mystics, and sorcerers.

Alchemy aimed to transmute more than just metals. It also sought spiritual metamorphosis, purifying the soul, expanding consciousness, and connecting with the divine. Alchemists strived to convert the “lead” of the human soul into the “gold” of an enlightened being. Essentially, alchemy asserts that only those who have attained a higher consciousness—those who have gained insight into the universe’s mysteries—are capable of effecting the transmutation of earthly substances.

Alchemy heavily relies on dreams, visions, and altered states of consciousness to access esoteric “wisdom.” Various symbols and talismans are believed to possess significant power. The ultimate objective of alchemy is sometimes referred to as “the philosopher’s stone,” a substance so secret that it can transform base metal into gold and, more significantly, bestow immortalit.y, enlightenment, and perfection to the possessor of the stone. The philosopher’s stone is also called “the tincture,” “the powder,” and “materia prima.” The first book of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, contains many references to alchemy.

Alchemy’s connection to sorcery, occult wisdom, and paganism should be sufficient evidence that it is unbiblical. However, there is a more fundamental reason why alchemy is incorrect—it aims to produce earthly treasures, including wealth and longevity. Jesus advised against storing up treasures on earth but encouraged storing treasures in heaven instead (Matthew 6:19-21).