The Emerald Tablet

The Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistus

The Precepts of Hermes, engraved upon the Emerald Tablet

1. Speak not fictitious things, but that which is certain and true.

2. What is below is like that which is above, and what is above is like that which is below, to accomplish the miracles of one thing.

3. And as all things were produced by the one word of one Being, so all things were produced from this one thing by adaptation.

4. Its father is the sun, its mother the moon; the wind carried it in its belly, its nurse is the earth.

5. It is the father of perfection throughout the world.

6. The power is vigorous if it be changed into earth.

7. Separate the earth from the fire, the subtle from the gross, acting prudently and with judgment.

8. Ascend with the greatest sagacity from the earth to heaven, and then again, descend to the earth, and unite together the powers of things superior and things inferior. Thus will you obtain the glory of the whole world, and obscurity will fly far away from you.

9. this has more fortitude than fortitude itself; because it conquers every subtle thing and can penetrate every solid.

10. Thus the world was formed.

11. Hence proceed wonders, which are here established.

12. Therefore, I am called Hermes Trismegistus, having three parts of the philosophy of the whole world.

13. That which I had to say concerning the operation of the sun is completed.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Herms Trismegestus/Alchemy

1. The Alchemy is the origin of the today’s science, which are metal engineering and metal chemistry. The basic idea of the Alchemy is that create new metal, such as gold, by mixing two metals. This idea of the Alchemy is base of the traditional science, chemistry. At the time, people believe that if they combine two metals, it will become silver or gold. However, early 19th century, it was discovered that the gold was not able to make from combination of other metals. The Alchemy is related with idea of the astrology. The astrology studies in relationship with star and human being. On the other hand, the alchemy studies in relationship with the object on the earth and human being. Both are based on the idea of sign from the sky and the earth. The magic is based on the idea which affect the natural event with mystic power that human being does not have. The magic is not based on the power of the god. People believe if they combine some objects, it will have a mystic power which will display or behave fantastic things. The huge difference between magic and traditional science is result. Both have a same idea that combines the objects. However, the magic come with fantastic staff, which human being is not able to do. The traditional science comes with more real staff, which wishes to become the silver or gold.

2. The origin of a word “Holistic” is “whole”. Therefore, holistic medicine considers the relationship with whole condition of the patient, which is characteristic, environment, pattern of disease, mental and physical status. The holistic medicine is the pursuit of releasing of stress and well being of patient. General idea of medicine considers the human body as “organic machine”, which is physical structure and organ system. If the machine is not working property, the doctor tries to find out the solution from material and mental level. However, the effort of understanding the human body in pure biochemical and system machine is ignore the basic idea of human life. In the Holistic medicine field, it is the important that the balance, constancy and health. Such a balance is the life energy which allows moving the human body. If the human body damaged physically, mentally and emotionally, the balance of the human body lose the balance and become illness. Human body basically tried to cure the illness by itself. However, if the human body gets serious damage or continuously feels pain, then the human body needs to get the treatment.

3. The human being always desire to live forever and is afraid to death. However, the live or die is the territory of the god. The god decided the human’s fate. However, people have been studies how to live longer. There are some of the evidences that human being’s effort to against aging and live forever. The first evidence is the aging cosmetics or plastic surgery. Women often use the wrinkle free cosmetics to reduce their wrinkle or do the removal wrinkle surgery. Men use the hair restorer to regain or keep their hair. These are effort of keeping young and against the time passing by. The second evidence is the reproduction. The human reproduction is prohibited in most, all of the countries because it violates the territory of the god. Currently only the animal reproduction has been allowed. There are reproduced dog, cow, cat, pig, sheep and goat. The human reproduction also uses same technology that animal reproduction used. However, it is not ethical thing to do. Also, the percentage of the success in reproduction is very low. These two evidences are the effort of human being fought with the death and desire to live forever.

The Emerald Tablet

1. Alchemy, which means “the art of transformation,” is neither magic nor science, but contains characteristics of both. Alchemy originated from the transformation of alloy metals into gold and silver with the use of alkahest – a hypothetical universal solvent used by alchemists (Encarta Dictionary). The process of combining various compounds to create chemical reactions and new materials would fall under the category of science. However, some Alchemists claimed that this universal solvent had magical powers and can potential rid one of disease and grant eternal life. Achieving Immortality and the cure of diseases with a single ingredient would be considered nothing short of magic or supernatural power. Alchemy falls somewhere in between magic and science because its origination dates back to a time where religion was the predominant higher education and was used to explain the unknown therefore not allowing science to be the accepted theory.

2. Holistic medicine or health refers to the idea that in order to properly cure diseases one must treat the physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional factors that may have led to the illness. Holistic medicine provides an alternative or sometimes an addendum to the modern treatments. Holistic health, similar to the second principle in The Emerald Tablet, preaches unity and a combination of factors working together as one to reach a common goal or “miracle.” Unless all the aspects are “like” each other , meaning they are interdependent and equal parts of a whole, the will not achieve the desired effect and “accomplish the miracle.”

3. It seems that throughout time human beings are searching for a way to be immortal. Other students have mentioned Botox, plastic surgery, laser surgery, but is not only limited to what’s aesthetically pleasing. Most products these days are attempting to be the contemporary “Elixir of Youth” and claim to improve health and help us live longer. Every drink is raving about antioxidants and their effect on the harmful free radicals. Most people don’t know what that means and why it will make them healthier, but buy the products anyway. Pharmaceutical companies are creating drugs that allow men and women to be sexually active well into old age. One of the biggest pursuits of immortality is cloning and stem cell research. Scientists have basically found a way to create life and rebuild organs. Although still in its relatively primitive stages, advances are occurring exponentially and it could be only a few decades before we are replacing all our body parts and living up to 200 years. (If we can afford it) A modern “Philosopher’s Stone” can be something that converts our waste and pollution into something positive and useful (The Economist March 2006). Alchemists thought of this universal solvent as solution that can take the less desired and turn it into something special. Having a product that can convert our garbage and waste into fertilizer or a substance that can help improve the environment would be invaluable.

-Alex Samusevich

please comment :-)

Hermes Trismegestus/ Alchemy

1) Alchemy differs from magic and traditional science in the fact that it is a combination of chemistry and philosophy having as a goal the transmutation of metals into gold. Also, it is its goal the discovery of the panacea and the discovery of an elixir for longevity. In the other hand, magic is an art that attempt to control or forecast natural events, effects, or forces by invoking the supernatural. Science uses the observation, identification, experimental investigation, description and theoretical explanation of phenomena.

2) Holistic medicine is know as an approach to life and health which brings together the physical, mental and spiritual aspect of a person in order to create a total sense of well being. The principle two, “What is bellow is like that which is above, and what is above is like that which is below, to accomplish the miracles of one thing,” is connected to holistic medicine based in the fact that both believe that the actions or effects of one side are direct connected or are consequences of the other side. In other words, the well or bad being of the body is a direct consequence of the mind.


3) In the medical world the spirit of the alchemy is still alive. There is a billionaire industry that exploits the idea of The Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher’s Stone. Plastic surgery, skin care products are just a few examples of that industry. Also, fitness clubs exploit that idea based in that fact that some research indicates that moderate amount of aerobic exercise can “roll back the clock” and delay many of the changes of ageing.

Friday, September 12, 2008

bfilip alchemy

1) Alchemy differs from, but incorporates, magic and traditional science. Alchemy was a preliminary form of chemistry. Therefore, “experiments” were performed with a belief in an effort to reach the goal of making Gold from other metals and creating an elixir of youth, which would cure all ailments. Through these efforts, elixirs (some of which did have great healing powers) were created. In some cases, juices were squeezed from plants and fruits. Magic depends on control through the belief in supernatural powers. Alchemists believed in the spiritual level with power and its importance, but did not think the way to control the environment was through mere spells, physical activity was required. Traditional science does not account for the spiritual level of life and the environment. It does not acknowledge the supernatural. It only concentrates on the physical world and what can be proven. Alchemy incorporates the physical, the spiritual and the supernatural.
2) Principle number two from the “Emerald Tablet” can be interpreted in many ways and on many levels including the physical and spiritual. If we consider the psychological, physical and spiritual levels together, we can relate this to holistic health. In this way, we can interpret this principle to be about the wholeness, sameness and unity of the body, mind and soul. Holistic medicine attempts to treat these all together at once recognizing how they are interdependent. Principle two states that all are the same and all are one and therefore must be treated accordingly. In this way the mind body and soul work together to promote a balanced and healthy life. We could conclude then that Holistic medicine is a form of Alchemy seeking the cure for all ailments and instead of concerning itself with only one part, the physical, for healing like traditional medicine, a combination of approaches including the physical, mental and spiritual are utilized.
3) There are many examples of modern day alchemy-like behavior. These include our current cosmetic industry, our weight loss industry, and our “Health”food/ supplement industry, which are all looking to find the combination of ingredients that will preserve youth. In the jewelry industry, in order to produce more valuable items from less valuable raw materials, “laboratory created diamonds” have been produced.
Perhaps the best case of Alchemy at this time is the recently completed Large Hadron Collider (LHC) built below the France-Swiss border. Over 2,000 physicists from countries around the globe have worked for up to 19 years to build this machine, which will send atoms crashing together. The hopes of the scientists are to find a sub-atomic component some are calling “the God Particle.” As written by Richard Ingham, AFP on the Discovery Channel website in the article Atom-Smasher Gears Up to Find 'God Particle’, “ It could shed clues on the mystery of how the universe came to be. And it may determine whether, as some physicists believe, space-time holds dimensions other than our own” It seems to me, this could be the “Philosophers Stone.”

Alchemy- Maria C

1. Alchemy refers to both an early form of investigation of nature, philosophical and spiritual discipline, combining elements of chemistry, physics, medicine, astrology and art all to help to achieve their goals. The main goals of the alchemists were the transformation of common metals into gold or silver. Alchemists use metal and alchemical substances to demonstrate magical properties that seem to pass supernatural energy. Magic differs from alchemy since is a performing art that entertains an audience by creating illusions, they use magic tricks effect to manipulate the state of mind but do not uses any science. Traditional science basically focuses in real illnesses and to find cure for it. They use medicine as part of treatment and do not believe or agree with natural medicine or supernatural divines.

2. Holistic medicine believes that if one part of the body or mind is not working properly, it is to consider that affects the whole person. Holistic focus on the whole person rather than just the illness and approaches the emotional and spiritual aspects. Holistic medicine focuses on how the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual elements of the body are interconnected to maintain wellness. It also believes that using it with conventional medicine will give us better results. I think is similar to the alchemical principle 2 since its saying that in order for you to accomplish something you need the help than more that one thing. In the holistic medicine they use their believes with conventional medicine to cure their illness.

3. In the Alchemy, The Elixir of youth basically it’s the desire of immortality. Philosopher’s stone it s the power of turning metals into gold. In today’s world we also are seeing that Scientifics are interesting in finding immortality. In Tokyo, geneticists Shinya Yamanaka recently strike on the way to convert any normal adult cell into an immortal stem cell. Both living forever and able to convert into any type of organ or tissue needing replacement in a sick or aging body. Also we are seeing that petroleum has become very expensive and probably less accessible so now they are transforming corn oil to Ethanol. People are using their knowledge to accomplish new things.

Alchemy

1. Alchemy is known from the Greek words “spagyric art” which means “separate and join together”. The best and very well known an example of Alchemy is the transmutation of common metals into gold.
Even though, magic is an illusion it is something that person can learn and there is always explanation for each trick. While science is something that people have to study and do experiments in order to learn something. In my opinion Alchemy has a little of magic and science. It was studied and for each experiment alchemists had an explanation.

2. Holistic Medicine focuses on physical, mental and spiritual elements of body. It does not concentrate only on the ill part of person’s body but on the whole body. Holistic Medicine can also involve conventional therapy but mostly stresses on lifestyle changes. For example, to reduce stomach cancer a person might quit smoking, eat more vegetables and fruits, improve oral hygiene etc. Principal 2 is very similar to Holistic Medicine. The “below is like the “above”. Each part is equal, and if we want to achieve something we must concentrate on the whole body.

3. I think that people are still looking for The Elixir of Youth. People spend a lot of money just to look beautiful, especially wealthy people. They spend thousands of dollars for operations (plastic surgery), creams… everything just to look more beautiful and young. Are they still looking for the Philosopher’s Stone” Yes. I think that oil is today’s elixir of life. I agree with my classmates that it is very valuable because it can be use for various things.

hermes trismegestus

Alchemy differs from magic and traditional science in that it fuses the two together to create a chemistry-like science that is based in magic. Alchemy is based largely in philosophy and spirituality. It bridges the two, focusing on nature and the human world. Alchemists manipulated the elements attempting to create magical items, such as the elixir of life, a remedy to cure all life’s ailments. Alchemy has many mystical features and often attempted to discover or create concoctions that would cure many of life’s ailments. Thus, as alchemy strived to be a science it was rooted largely in magic and mysticism.

Holistic medicine is founded in the belief that one cannot be physically healthy without being mentally healthy. It believes in the inter-connectedness of the mind and body and the way in which both must be in balance for one to be healthy. The alchemical principle 2 also echoes this belief. It states that what is above and what is below must be in balance, referring both to the mind and body, as well as to the heavens and the earth. It portrays a necessary balance to keep the world in order, as well as to keep one healthy. Holistic medicine replicates this sentiment in the way in which it approaches one’s health.

As humans grapple with their mortality there have always been those who have searched for ways to elude it. Alchemists sought the Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher’s stone as two items that would bring them eternal life. Although not to quite the same extent, science still attempts to address the issue of mortality. A person born in the year 2008 has an average life expectancy of 78 years old. The average life expectancy 50 years ago was 69 years old. This is due largely to the increase in technology and the advances in modern medicine. Scientists and chemists are constantly attempting to find ways to increase one’s life span and treat ailments or diseases that end it. As Western medicine attempts to prolong life through scientific methods, Eastern medicine does the same through more natural, holistic ways. Eastern medicine focuses on natural remedies and herbs that can both heal ailments and aim at eluding mortality. Through the use of natural products, as well as non-traditional practices (i.e. acupuncture) Eastern medicine also strives to discover the key to immortality.

Alchemy

1. “A branch of knowledge or study dealing with a body of facts or truths systematically arranged and showing the operation of general laws: the mathematical sciences.” This is the definition for science from the Random House Unabridged Dictionary. “The art of producing illusions as entertainment by the use of sleight of hand, deceptive devices” This is the definition of magic from Random House Unabridged Dictionary. Alchemy can be said, is a sort of mixture between the two. Alchemy is hard to define, because it did not base its studies in one concrete field. Alchemy studied the nature of substances, which can be viewed as the scientific approach. However, it also dealt with its search for the Philosopher’s Stone, which “transmuted baser metals into gold.” This is part of the definition of Random House Unabridged Dictionary. In the definition it is also included that Alchemy has to deal with philosophy as well, Alchemy was a way to find meaning to our existence, what is our role in the “big scheme of things”. Alchemy was a mixture of many things, and the search for the Philosophers Stone added a great deal of magic and mystery but that was never the only message, role, which Alchemy meant to play.

2. Holistic medicine is one in which not only the physical state is taken into account. Just because a person has no ill, meaning that there body is physically well, does not mean that there is nothing wrong with them. Holistic medicine, takes the well being of a person to a whole new level, implementing the person’s mental and emotional well being along with the physical. “2. What is below is like that which is above, and what is above is like that which is below, to accomplish the miracles of one thing.” In other words the below and above are necessary for the well being of one thing. In holistic meaning, the physical and psychological parts of a person are both needed for the well being of a person.

3. I was not sure what the Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher Stone meant so I did what any other person does, I Google. And after doing some reading I could not understand why people thing that Alchemy is “a quack hobby”, and I’ll explain why. The elixir of youth, which is a potion that can grant eternal youth, how can anyone not see this relating to us; In a world where people are running to the plastic surgeon, where skin laser technology is available, and people are running to get Botox injected into their face? Not only that but an actual pill called “Elixir of Youth” which said that if taken regularly can slow down the aging process and even fight off disease, what more proof do we need that the connected with the philosopher’s stone and today’s modern age are similar, if not the same. Although the argument that it can transmute metals into gold, is a leap. However, society is always looking for ways to increase wealth, and maybe this was the basis of looking for a philosopher’s stone in the first place. But it was also meant to “cure illnesses, prolong life, and bring about spiritual revitalization”. It seems to me that all of these results from the philosopher’s stone are still being implemented today. There are research centers which devote all of their time to finding a cure for cancer, AIDS, and many other diseases that still plague the world today. And prolonging life, the same can be said, there are scientists who spend all of their time finding ways for people to live longer, such is the case with the “Elixir of Youth” pill. The search for spiritual revitalization has been a philosophical search since the beginning of time. The methods might be different but the searches for all of the components of the Philosopher’s Stone have always been present.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Alchemy

1) Alchemy was something more spiritual and philosophical that was practiced in the Middle Ages. Alchemy is different from both magic and science although I think there is a little of science in Alchemy. Magic is more of an illusion and there is always an explanation of how the trick is done. Science is something being studied in an experiment. Alchemy is similar to science because in the Middle Ages when Alchemists were always trying to discover different techniques into transforming metal into gold, these techniques would be called experiments.

2) Holistic medicine is a treatment that involves the mind and body of a person. The only medicine for it is the mental and spiritual wellness of a person like positive attitudes, exercising, eating healthy, meditation, etc. Holistic medicine is similar to alchemy because it relates to the spirituality of an individual.

3) Alchemy isn’t common today as it was in the Middle Ages but I do see evidence that people are still seeking The Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher’s Stone. One example of the elixir of youth is Botox where men and women inject themselves to get rid of wrinkles, frown lines, brow furrows, etc. Although it is not an elixir but his would keep the person from appearing old and keep them looking young. Nowadays people don’t try to turn metal into gold, we try to find new tactics for oil. Something as natural as oil which comes from the earth is used in our everyday lives and we are trying to find ways to replace oil with solar energy or electric for the cars (hybrid cars) instead of gas.

alchemy

I would not say that alchemy differs from magic and traditional science. Alchemy seems to be harmonization of magic and science. Magic is fake, science is real. Alchemy is caught somewhere in between the two. Alchemy is unlike magic AND science in its philosophical aspects. Alchemy encompasses a number of different philosophical, scientific, and magical beliefs.

Holistic medicine concentrates on the healing process through mental and physical stimulation rather than prescriptions and drugs. The second principle of the emerald tablet agrees with the process of holistic medical treatment. The way I read it, "above" referred to the mind, and "below" referred to the body. Therefore, above and below had to work in harmony in order for the healing process to work correctly, body and mind must be one.

People today are still searching for the ""philosophers stone" and the "elixir of life" in many different ways. Cosmetic surgery is at an all time high. People today are so worried about their looks that they are willing to drastically alter themselves to look a couple of years younger. Although we may not be looking for a potable liquid to keep us young forever, we're still searching to keep us as young as we can for as long as we can. The search for the "philosophers stone" is one that I think will go on forever. Not literally, but what it represents. I think all humans should always chase enlightenment, no matter how old are educated you are.

alchemy

Alchemy is a combination of philosophy and chemistry. Alchemy was basically used to find out more about nature and the world and how it works. Alchemy was a more common practice long ago in ancient times to seek the Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher’s Stone. Since then, alchemy some how influenced magic and traditional science. However, alchemy, magic and traditional science is three distinct categories.
Magic, is basically a form of hypnosis. In other words, magic persuades and manipulates an individual’s perception of things such he/she believes in some supernatural or impossible act which in reality can be explained. On the other hand, traditional science is knowledge gained through study and is tested through scientific methods and it is concerned with the physical world.

Holistic medicine is definitely a practice which goes against the use of drugs as treatment and practical surgery. Holistic medicine tends to cling with nature and a spiritual and Supreme Being as well as the body and mind. When treating one’s illness, the body and mind as well as the spiritual being needs healing if the healing is to be complete. Similarly, alchemy principle two is really believing in the physicality of the body and the forces of natures in the world combined with the power of god to heal one’s sickness which is indeed considered to be a miracle.

Today, I do see, especially in the medical field, dermatologists and other doctors, scientists etc seeking to find the same two things that alchemists seek. For example, since 186 BCE, alchemists seek immortality such as the embalming of Lady Tal. Today, dermatologists seek to avoid signs of aging by manufacturing products such as youthful essence which is said to redefine the skin and eliminate 10 years of aging on a person’s physical body.

Alchemy

The alchemy is one early form of chemistry. As we remember from the books and movies, alchemists were trying to change base metals into gold and find the elixir of youth. The science is an antonym of magic and I think that the definition of the alchemy is somewhere in between these two words. Magic is the human’s ability to control people, animals, filings, time and other natural things. However, alchemists were trying to find a method of transforming one thing into another without magic. It was not chemistry because it was not scientific experiments and it didn’t have an explanation.

"Like cures like," was first said by German physician Samuel Hahnemann and it derives from the principle number two on the Emerald Tablet. In this principle it says that “What is bellow is corresponding with what is above, and what is above corresponding with what is below”. The principal of holistic medicine is that mental and physical treatments should be interrelated for the best result. You can not be healthy physically if you have some mental problems, and vice versa. Basically in holistic medicine as in the principal number two it says that two things should work together to “accomplish the miracle of one thing”.

There is no evidence of Alchemy today, but there are other disciplines that are searching for elixir of youth. The genetic scientists are always coming with the ways to life healthier and longer. People can use a human clone to save and prolong the life of another, but there are a lot of ethical questions. Alternative medicines are wildly used today. I have heard the stories when alternative treatments worked very well and common medicine did not work at all. However, it seems like there are no researches that have been done in terms of philosopher’s stone. It happens because there are different values today, than there were back then.

hermes "thrice greatest"

1) In the middle ages, alchemy was a form of theoretical philosophy of nature that was practiced. Magic is an illusion of devices, mainly used for entertainment rather than a form of life. Traditional science is a research done based on scientific methods to come to a conclusion. The differences between alchemy and magic/traditional methods can be seen through the process of how the information comes together. For example, magic is produced through devices that seem in the norm but are filled with escapes to perform what cannot be done. A Researcher, who follows the traditional science, that would like to answer why suicides occur in an area (city/state/country) will do research and compare statistics rather than forming a pot of spell. Alchemy is mainly just theories of how things are, which cannot be proved through research or spells. 

2) Holistic medicine is based on the mind, body and spirit. For example, a person who follows the principles of Holistic medicine would follow a nutritious diet, exercise regularly and perform yoga when stressed. The treatment that holistic medicine would provide is mainly therapy and intakes of natural supplements. These therapies may focus only on changing the patient's lifestyle. These natural supplements are similar to the conventional drugs that many people take (who are not following the holistic technique). Researchers have found that holistic medicine does have some part of a patient's recovery, but without conventional medication, it may not be effective at all. Holistic medicine can only help lower the possibility of an illness, holistic medicine does not remove the illness itself.

3) Alchemy is practice with more of a quack mentality because many people don't buy into products or theories without given proof of facts; although, some buyers would still hope that these products are as effective as they seem. One example includes the make up products sold in the market today. Products like "bare minerals" or "pure minerals" are both products aimed directly at the ability to become more youthful. These products may use vitamins or antioxidant herbs, but to determine exactly how youthful the buyer may become after the usage of these products are not known. Another example of youthful production used today to reach this goal may be through exercising or massages, but to take the statistics of the results may not be dependable.  

 

Hermes Trismegestus/ Alchemy

1. Magic entails creating illusions of scenarios that are highly impossible and lack clear explanation (such as David Copperfield making a plane disappear or walking through the Great Wall of China). The magician allows you to see only enough to make you actually believe that a feat is actually happening. Traditional science involves using experiments and trials with chemicals to test things like medicines or vaccines. Alchemy relies more or nature and the natural elements of the Earth as one power to see how it relates to spiritual and mental discipline and well being.

2. Holistic medicine is an approach to treatment involving the mental and spiritual aspects of a person in addition the physicality. The goal in holistic medicine involves wellness of the body, but also the mind and the spirit - as all three go hand in hand in a person living a fulfilling life. When a person is sick, not only is the body affected, but the mind and the spirit as well, so to only treat the physical aspect of the sickness and not the other components means that only part of the job is done. Holistic medicine insures that the body is treated as a WHOLE unit and not just the sum of its parts. Principle 2 is basically stating the physical and the mental should be treated equal as they both are components in healthier living.

3. Alchemy is not really as prevalent today, but I do think that there is some evidence that the search for the Elixir of Youth and Philosopher's Stone are still being sought out. One example of today's Elixir of Youth is stem cell research. Researchers are trying to determine how stem cells - which can renew themselves and then transform into different cell types - can be used to help in the fight against diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and diabetes - thereby possibly resulting in extended life expectancy. An example of the Philosopher's Stone is oil, both domestic and abroad. Oil is probably the most sought after resource in the world because it can be transformed and used for many different things - thereby increasing its value.

Alchemy

1) Alchemy is a philosophical and spiritual way of understanding nature and how it operates. The sun is referred to as the father, the moon as the mother, and the earth is the nurse. Alchemy’s main purpose was to transmute common, cheaper metals into gold. This practice differs from magic and traditional science because alchemy is a combination of chemistry, physics, medicine, metallurgy and spiritualism. Alchemy has some science applied to it while magic is purely about the “supernatural”; ideas that cannot be proven by science or religion. In magic, it may be believed that a person may have the phenomenal power to control the whole world, other people, or something that cannot be explained. Traditional science bases its fundamentals through evidence. Facts can be proven through experiments and rationality.


2) Holistic medicine is an approach to how treatment should be given. The practice tries to relieve the patient of not only their sickness or pain but the body as a whole. If you are free from pain or disease from your body doesn’t necessarily mean that you are healthy. The thoughts, feelings and emotions of the body are also accountable for healthiness. Some practices of holistic medicine are acupuncture and meditation. Most of these practices are placebos. This relates to principle 2 on the emerald tablet because both utilize alternative ways of curing the human body. In essence, both refer to the idea that any path you choose to take, whether it’s taking pills, meditating, acupuncture, it will lead to your body being released of what was bothering you.


3) There is no doubt that today we are still attempting to discover the same two things that Alchemists seek. In medical practice, doctors and scientists are always researching ways to prolong the human lifespan and they have been successful. Eventually, they may end up finding/creating the “elixir of life”. A couple centuries ago, the lifespan of the average human was about 50 years. The current generation or perhaps the next one is predicted to have an average lifespan of about 110-120 years. Much of this is due to the variety of healthy foods available and the advancements in medicine. As for the philosopher’s stone, people are always trying to get “something out of nothing”. For example, bottled water companies are making fortunes from selling something that is free to all of us. Bottled water brands like Smart Water and Fiji charge more than the same water (in my opinion) that Poland Spring provides. While it is cleaner than tap water (or even boiled), I find it interesting that bottled water is becoming more of a ‘necessity’ of life rather than a ‘convenience’.

Alchemy

1. Alchemy uses spiritual and philosophical approcah in explaining how and why things are the way they are. He gives answeres to questions that today might seem to have no specific answer. Alchemy explains the power of nature and the earth and today there is no way to prove something like that. However, in traditional science there is a specific reason and a specific way explaining why things are the way they are.

2. "Like cures like" was first said by a German physician Samuel Hahnemann. He believed that natural substances that produce similar symptoms in a healthy person can cure those same symptom in an ill person. The attempt is to ensure the underlying problem by own natural healthy power to cure them. Similarly Holistic Medicine looks at aspects such as emotional and spiritual well being. Holistic medicine also focuses on emotions and physical well-being to solve problems rather than uing different kinds of medicine to cure the body. The idea that "what is below is like which is above" is the same concept as holistic medicine that looks at the inner self and spiritual body to connect. Both in Tablet 2 and Holistic Medicine body and mind are connected.

3. Eventhough Alchemy today is not seen as a serious discipline However, the Elixir Youth and Philosopher's Stone look for similar things that Alchemist tried to seek. The philosophers stone is a legendary substance that is meant to turn inexpensice metal into gold. Elixir Youth also was good for life extantion as well as meant to slower the aging process, and fight of diseases. It is about the natural cure of the human body. Today we have similar approaches as the Philospher's Stone of turning inexpensive things into value. For example the continuous search for oil. If this was ones thought as very inexpensive today it is worth a lot. During Alchemist time having gold meant so much, it meant having everything and a person being rich. Similarly today a person who has a lot of oil, can be looked at as being really rich. Also similar to the Elixir Youth today scientists are trying to find natraul ways for people to live longer or even finding better medicines.

The Tablet of Hermes

1) Magic is extremely different from alchemy because magic usually deals with the "art of producing illusions" and alchemy is more of a philosophy. Magic is for entertainment and there are secrets to how the tricks are done. Any one can learn to do magic however alchemy was much more of involved with chemistry .Its a way of changing substances into another of different value. Traditional science deals with natural or laboratory experiments with scientific methods. Although magic and alchemy are both art forms they have different purposes and philosphies.

2) Holistic medicine is medicine that does not require actual prescriptions, but a natural process to fix your illness. Holistic medicines work on strengthening the mind, body and soul. This is similar to the alchemical 2 principle because it describes the connection that an individual share with God. It states that if all things below which means on earth, and all things above which is the heavens are alike both are able to create miracles. When people are cured of an illness without the use of conventional medicine it is described as a miracle. The principle has a strong belief in nature that if anything or anyone is able to cure you it is your faith in God.

3) Although alchemy isn't as commonly practiced in todays society many doctors and researchers today still study and use alternative medicine to cure illness and rehabilitate people. In the Indian culture people practice Ayurveda which is basically natural herbs, meditation and yoga to help maintain and restore health. Also in the Chinese cultures acupuncture is very commonly used for rehabiliton, skin problems, stress, and addictions. American culture have also adopted the acupuncture methods. These practices focus on strengthening the mind and body naturally without the use of chemical substances or prescription; in the belief that the mind and spirit can cure physical illness.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

the power of the mind

1. Magic isn’t all that glamorous once you obtain the knowledge and the secret on how to handle it properly. There is no special powers involved, but it does take years of practice to be good at it. Unlike magic, Alchemy uses the power of one powerful being. Being united with the force and the nature, helps people heal their bodies and minds. Believing in attractions and connections between people and earth does miracles to those who embrace them.
2. Holistic medicine is a treatment that cures people by taking care of their bodies and minds. There are no surgeries involved, only spiritual connection between the person and his mind. This type of medicine focuses on meditation, proper nutrition diet, exercising, healthy lifestyle and herbs. As in holistic medicine, alchemy focuses on the body and the mind of the individual. It doesn’t only focus on the illness itself, but also its effects on the person. By being able to connect with your mind and take your mind off of negative thoughts, helps a person feel whole and ease the pain. Connecting with the universe, helps the person to channel negative thoughts away and take in good energy.
3. There are many ways in today’s society by which doctors and physicians try to help people heal and be healthier without drugs and operations. One of the most common goals witnessed by today’s fast paced society is living a healthy lifestyle which includes: getting enough sleep each day, eating nutritious foods, exercising daily, and thinking positive. Another form of medicine that is widely used today is acupuncture. The method involves needles, a lot of needles. This form of medicine comes from the traditional Chinese medicine technique which balances out the forces like yin and yang meanwhile attracting good energy into the person’s mind and body. The person feels younger, more energetic, and full of radiance.

Hermes Trismegestus/Alchemy

1. Magic is a technique that convinces people to see only what the magician wants you to see and believe by using physical, fiction and mystical powers. The magician uses the fantasy fiction techniques to show imaginary and illusion action to appear real. The magic and alchemy have very similar practices and rules, although alchemy includes chemical, physical, medical, mystical and spiritual powers. On the other hand, the science uses only physical evidence and research to prove how the natural world operates.
2. If we are product of God and part of a perfect creation, we can make miracles and transform ourselves into a perfect creature by curing our illness. If God combining the sun and the moon and created the earth and human, we are part of God. If we are part of God we also have the power to transform ourselves.
3. It is proved that alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage and meditation help patients after surgery by enhancing the minds capacity to influence body function and symptoms. Massage and other therapies can help patients to relax recuperate faster from surgery. According to foxnew.com more and more patients are understanding and considering the use of the alternative therapies, and much more hospital are offering alternative therapies. Another example is the use of acupuncture to relieve pain. Acupuncture is recognized by the traditional medicine and has been prescribed by doctors to relieve pain. The acupuncture uses tiny needles to stimulated body functions and alters sensation of pain.
1.Alchemy differs from magic and traditional science because although they might be related in some way they are three different concepts. Magic refers to the possession of supernatural powers. Traditional science is a previously studied way to formulate laws and create knowledge. Finally, alchemy is a combination of philosophical and spiritual components that were used in the past to explain relationships.
These concepts are very dynamic in terms of their application an usage; nonetheless they might be consider nonfactual oftentimes.
2.Holistic medicine relates to the treatment of illness of diseases in the body differently as opposed treated in traditional medicine. This idea supports that treatment should consider the body as a whole; in other words, all the system of the body are interconnected and the any part affected will affect other parts. The relation establishes in the text towards holistic medicine and alchemy is the approach of integration of the being expressing the completeness instead of separateness of all parts.
3.There are other disciplines just like alchemy that search for the elixir of youth and the philosopher stone. For instance, the procedure of regeneration of cells in the medical world aims to find ways to extend life resulting from cell configuration or modification. Basically in terms of the philosopher’s stone it is seen nowadays that societies have place huge values to other metals such as steel to increase the wealth of the people.

Alchemy

1) Alchemy differs to traditional science and magic in several ways. Alchemy takes a spiritual and philosophical approach to explaining why earth and nature are the way they are. It seems that all the power is concentrated on earth. It is expressed in the emerald tablet that great powered is creates by the sun and the moon with the help of the wind. All these concepts of nature seem to embody the existence of a great power of earth. In Principle 8, it expressed how the combination of powers from pure goodness and from the inferior can create glory. These concepts of power differ to traditional science since it does not rely on exactness or on some sort of specific answer. It also differs to magic since there is some sort of logic to things instead of being unexplainable.

2) Holistic medicine deals with the view of physical and medical health being interconnected; therefore one relies upon the other for treatment. In principle 2 of the Emerald Tablet it is explained that “What is below is like that which is above, and what is above is like that which is below” this means that both above and below are the same and depend one upon the other. Both above and below symbolize what in holistic medicine what the components of physical and mental means. Holistic medicine is not itself medicine but a way of treatment being applied. In principle 2 below and above have to work together to reach a miracle, where in holistic medicine in order for treatment succeed both mental and physical components have to work together.

3) Alchemy is not really practiced today, yet there are still worldwide disciplines that are still in search for what the alchemist seek which were “The Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher's Stone”. Today scientists are in search the “Elixir of youth” and seemed to have found the break through hinges around a gene that acts as a master-switch in the aging process. When it comes to Philosophers stone, where its was said the inexpensive metals were turned into gold, we can see that actually occurring today. For example, many of the things of little value have been building to become of the most value, lie houses and antiques.

Alchemy

1. Magic is an illusion and things happen without reason, unlike magic Alchemy is a philosophical approach explaining the power of nature on the earth. It explains the great power of nature and earth itself; great power is created by the sun, the moon, the wind and the earth. This philosophical approach has reason behind it. Alchemy differs from traditional science in the way that there is no physical evidence that can prove it. Traditional science is based on rationality, evidence and a scientific approach in explaining how and why things work.
2. The concept “like cures like” is derived from the idea described in principle number two on the Emerald Tablet and was first said by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann. Holistic medicine is an alternative health practice that avoids surgery or drugs as a form of solving a health problem. They believe that all emotions are connected to the spirit and their purpose is to treat “the whole person” just like principle number two explains it (“…to accomplish the miracles of one thing”) The idea of “What is below is like that which is above, and what is above is like that which is below” is very similar to the treatment offered by holistic medicine. Its main goal is to treat the illness from the inside by triggering the body’s natural healing powers, not just controlling the superficial symptoms. Both concepts refer to the mind and body being connected.
3. Although Alchemy is not practiced these days, there are still worldwide disciplines that are still in search for “The Elixir of Youth and the Philosopher's Stone”. The Philosopher’ Stone turned inexpensive metals into gold; similarly today some things are worth a lot more than in previous decades such as oil (we never thought it would be so expensive). Stem cell research can be compared to “The Elixir of Youth”. This new medical discovery is like the elixir since the stem cell from the cloned embryo will cure previously untraceable diseases and different disorders, prolonging life.

Alchemy

1.Alchemy differs from magic and traditional science because it refers to the “one Being” who is responsible for producing the earth and other resources. While many monotheistic religions use stories of how God created earth and everything related, Alchemy borderlines towards traditional science by explaining how the sun rises or sets (line 8).

2.Holistic medicine basically treats the individual as a whole and examines any underlying reason for why the illness might occur. It also looks at the mental, spiritual, and emotional aspect of the person. In line 2 of the Emerald Tablet, it states, “What is below is like that which is above, and what is above is like that which is below, to accomplish the miracles of one thing.” The ending words “one thing” describes the statement as a whole, similar to holistic medicine, and refers to below and above as the same thing.

3.While Alchemy isn’t practiced or well known in today’s society, there are other means where the Elixir or Youth and the Philosopher’s stone are being researched today. Although it is not called these particular names, ideas such as embryonic research or cloning can be viewed as “the Elixir” to create new life. Similarly, while the philosopher’s stone was said to turn inexpensive metals into gold, drilling for oil in countries in the Middle East is an example of a quest to turn a relatively inexpensive substance into pure profit.