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Alchemical Works: Eirenaeus Philalethes Compiled (English and Latin Edition)

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Truly a book that needs no reviews. If you are interested in Alchemy or the history of British and American science in the 17th Century, then you need this book. Philalethes was the most important alchemist of his period, his works were studied by Robert Boyle and Isaac Newton. The only question is how well the editors have done their job. The text is reset in modern font but uses the original spelling, it includes retransciptions of prefatory material, title pages and even advertisements! Most importantly original pagination has been indicated. Thouroughly recommended. Those interested in Philalethes will also probably want to buy William Newman's Gehenical Fire, an excellent biography of George Starkey who wasmost likely Philalethes' alter ego.

Eirenaeus here reveals loads of information about Alchemy, all in a poetic, lyrical style. Methods of purification are given, and the virtues of bodily fluids are given. Discussion about all 3 kingdoms of alchemy takes place, which is a rarity in many Alchemy books, although there seems less on the Animal Kingdom. While the price is expensive, the amount of lore you get in this book makes it worth it. Buy this book!

The practice of alchemy has been perennial for all of written history, woven through one civilization and into the next, often tying them together. It is a science, a philosophy, a mystery, and a quest. The very word connotes a magic transcending our limited beliefs about the laws of nature. It was used as a tool of charlatans, who did much through their deceit to destroy the reputation of the science. Much more often it has been the field of study for great minds. C.J. Jung spent his last twenty years illustrating its value in framing the workings of the subconscious through alchemy's rich use of metaphor. Sir Issac Newton poured over Philalethes' tracts, finally preparing what he thought to be Philosophic Mercury in 1675.

The essence of alchemical writings has been consistent through the centuries, while the details have been inscrutably and defiantly deceptive. Philalethes is called the last great alchemist in print. This collection presents a treasure map for many uses.

Altho' our Gold is not so oft revealed here, for it is in many other works delineated, yet the other most secret aspects of the Work are freely, if not always clearley, given to the Sons of Art. On the Secret Fire and its preparation from the Fountain, the attendant signs are described in the Fountain of Chymical Philosophy, p. 511-513. Take heed and note that it rises as a smoke, and is a sublimed salt, not a water, tho' it is so styled, and from a water derived. Then too, the proportion between the Man and his Wife is given many times, but most so on p.217-218. Remember, it is the number of eagles made in the rectification of thy water from the fountain that determines its internal fire; and this, in turn, determines its proportion to our Gold, old Adam, which is the powder of the highest body we commonly know. To this I will add that there is a third component, oft confused, and that is the Bond of Mercury; for this, see p 348-350 which joins the dry powders of the Man and his Wife. If you know the Fountain, then you know this common universal Mercury.

Thus far have I gone, and then some, but not to the end; yet all the signs have been seen, including the Net which catches the Stars, seen in the preparation of the sublime secret fire.

If thou hast found these words, then take cheer, for all my experience hath shown me that I was guided to this point, as must be you.

This is one of the greatest 17th century works on Alchemy, Hermetic and Rosicrucian philosophy there is. But before you shell out the $450 know that the book is also available under the title The Works of Thomas Vaughn, translated by A. E. Waite. Eugenius Philalethes is the name Thomas Vaughn used in his writings. In my opinion his writing are under-rated, probably because they contains true spirituality.