QUOTE(Jenfucius @ Nov 13 2008, 01:25 AM)
So who works with plant alchemy here?
Hi Jenfucius
I do. I discovered the wet path only a couple of years ago and I have found it to be an incredible introduction and participation in the dynamics of elemental transformation.My understanding and intuitive handling of Qabala & Theurgic Ceremonial has also increased dramatically.
The medicines are astounding, both in physical and magical effect, and are also very effective when given to your loved ones-human or animal.
Just on a cautionary note, don't ingest anything unless you're absolutely certain of your Botanicals identity.Even though the tinctures are used in homeopathic concentrations, they have a profound effect on your energy system.I also feel that one should'nt experiment on others unless you really know what you are doing.As a medical technologist of over 15 years experience I still make veeeeeery sure of my herbs.Homegrown is best.
Alchemy has really helped me to tie together a lot of loose ends in my magical practice and it perfectly complements Qabala and ritual.It deepens ones meditative life and puts you in contact with the alchemical processes happening around us and inside of us.Once you experience yourself as an alchemical laboratory the effects start coming.By the way;this practice accelerates Karma, so it fits in with the self-actualizing concept of Theurgy. It brings personal emotional problems to a fore though, so get ready for a rough ride!
I find Mark Stavish the perfect beginners author. Jean Dubuis, John Read and Frater Albertus are great, though more advanced.
Another thing alchemy teaches is the power of daily prayer.I am a classical pagan,tending toward Graeco-Egyptian Theism, but my old mentor Bill Gray taught us to direct a prayer toward the Lord of the Universe as part of our daily regimen. So the concept of "Ora et Labora"-Pray and work-came as a welcome remembrance of a wonderful old Guy.May he forever walk in Light.
To sum up; I think far to little attention is given to the importance of Alchemy as part of the Hermetic way.The threefold path; Magic, Astrology and Alchemy-although complementary is a big challenge and a heck of a lot of work to do together- maybe one needs to be a verbose, Mercurial Gemini to multitask it effectively!
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