The Alchemist is associated with vain attempts to turn base metals into gold, but in its highest manifestation it seeks complete spiritual transformation. You may identify with this archetype if you are interested in a path of spiritual development that is aligned to the mystery schools or the study of the laws of the universe. From this perspective, Nostradamus and Isaac Newton could both be classified as Alchemists. An Alchemist studies universal laws and applies them in the discipline of their own spirit and in all their decisions. Spiritual alchemy is the conversion of energy into matter; it is a journey of the spirit on Earth and disciplining that spirit to build a soul with such stamina that your energy takes control over matter. Managing your thoughts in present time can alter your relationship to time and space, enabling you to change the speed at which healing occurs.
How much of you is in present time and how much of you is distributed across a huge history is a question you should continuously ask yourself. Where is your spirit and who commands your spirit?—you or others? You may have the Alchemist archetype if your life is consumed by studying the mysteries of this universe and their application? It is not just a matter of being attracted to the Alchemist archetype. For the Alchemist to be one of your circle of twelve, it needs to be associated with your physical life in some significant way; perhaps your work or living situation demands that you be especially inventive or interventionist on a regular basis.
The shadow side of the Alchemist is found in the misuse of power and knowledge. In some regards, the shadow side of the Alchemist is the dark Magician. The dark Merlin was an Alchemist. You look at all those spells and you think, “Can they really make bad medicine and bad spells?” Of course they could, absolutely. Seduction and trickery brought about through magic and wizardry play on the desires of many people to transform their lives.
Film Reference: Fred MacMurray in 'The Absent Minded Professor'
How much of you is in present time and how much of you is distributed across a huge history is a question you should continuously ask yourself. Where is your spirit and who commands your spirit?—you or others? You may have the Alchemist archetype if your life is consumed by studying the mysteries of this universe and their application? It is not just a matter of being attracted to the Alchemist archetype. For the Alchemist to be one of your circle of twelve, it needs to be associated with your physical life in some significant way; perhaps your work or living situation demands that you be especially inventive or interventionist on a regular basis.
The shadow side of the Alchemist is found in the misuse of power and knowledge. In some regards, the shadow side of the Alchemist is the dark Magician. The dark Merlin was an Alchemist. You look at all those spells and you think, “Can they really make bad medicine and bad spells?” Of course they could, absolutely. Seduction and trickery brought about through magic and wizardry play on the desires of many people to transform their lives.
Film Reference: Fred MacMurray in 'The Absent Minded Professor'