Posts - Page 4 of 8 - ALKEMYSTICA

Posted on 05/02/202405/02/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

Surviving 2024 – A Holistic Approach to the Apocalypse

Welcome, soul survivors, to a world torn apart by the veil of chaos and catastrophe.

Today, I’m going to guide you through a holistic approach to handling world current events in 2024, even in the face of a possible apocalypse.

I’m here to show you that there’s hope, there’s always a way forward. As people, we can overcome anything.

In these uncertain times, it’s crucial to be prepared, to be aware, and to be adaptable.

But with a twist – we’re going prepper style, esoteric style, and embracing the art of freedom. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Embrace resilience. The world may be crumbling around us, but we must remain resilient in the face of adversity. Adaptability is key to survival.

Gear up, gather your strength, and prepare to face whatever challenges come your way.

Blend in or stand out, your choice. In a world where both danger and opportunity are around every corner, it’s essential to know how to act.

Become the gray man – to blend into the background, to avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself. Keep your gear inconspicuous, your movements deliberate, and your actions discreet.

To blend in seamlessly, become the embodiment of stealth. Mastering the art of the gray man is not just a survival strategy—it’s a necessity. Fade into the tapestry of the mundane, avoiding the piercing gaze of scrutiny. Let your movements be deliberate, betraying no hint of vulnerability. Conceal your arsenal of tools and gadgets beneath a surface of normalcy, ensuring that your preparations remain clandestine.

Delve into various languages, expanding your linguistic repertoire to facilitate seamless integration into new environments.

Cultivate skills that transcend borders, laying the groundwork for potential relocation should the need arise. In the labyrinth of uncertainty, camouflage is your ally, allowing you to navigate the treacherous terrain, undetected and unscathed.

Stand out as an innovator and lead any follower with grace. Or choose to go lone star and blaze a trail.

Embrace resilience with a steadfast determination, recognizing that despite the chaos encircling us, our ability to withstand and overcome adversity defines our strength.

Adaptability serves as our life raft, enabling us to navigate the unpredictable waters of circumstances. Embrace this resilience not merely as a shield but as a catalyst for growth and transformation.

As the tempest rages, summon your inner fortitude and equip yourself with unwavering resolve, drawing upon the depths of your inner strength, to confront whatever challenges fate may throw your way.

Step 2: Join or build a community of like-minded people. In times of less stability, we must come together and support each other. All this is going to be easier with people who share most of our values and ideas, when it comes to freedom.

Whether it’s sharing resources on a voluntary basis or offering a helping hand, we’re stronger when we stand united.

Trust your instincts.

Intuition is your most valuable asset. Listen to your gut, stay alert to your surroundings, and trust your inner self to guide you safely through the darkness, and embrace the light of freedom.

Remaining vigilant to the nuances of our surroundings, we navigate with an unwavering gaze, attuned to the rhythms of the cosmos. In the darkness of uncertainty, our intuition becomes a beacon of clarity, illuminating the way forward with the radiance of conviction.

This is important both in times of peace and war.

Step 3: Embrace preparedness. Stock up on essential supplies, from food and water to medical supplies and self-defense tools. But remember, it’s not just about the gear – it’s about the skills you possess and the knowledge you carry.

As you fortify your reserves, remember that true preparedness transcends mere accumulation; it resides in the cultivation of skill sets and the accumulation of knowledge.

Equip yourself not only with tangible resources, but also with the intangible arsenal of expertise and awareness. Sharpen your survival skills, from first-aid techniques to navigation abilities through unknown lands.

Cultivate a deep understanding of your environment and its potential hazards, empowering yourself to navigate through adversity with confidence and resilience. In the pursuit of preparedness, let your actions be guided by the synthesis of practicality and prudence, ensuring that you can confront any challenge with determination and adaptability.

Step 4: Seek knowledge. Information is power, and we must arm ourselves with it. Stay informed about current events, learn new skills, and adapt to the changing landscape. Education is our greatest weapon against uncertainty.

Delve into the esoteric, venturing beyond the confines of the main narrative into the uncharted territories of hidden knowledge.

In a world where the familiar may falter, dare to explore the enigmatic realms of ancient wisdom and esoteric teachings.

Challenge the status quo, question the mainstream narrative, and seek out alternative sources of insight.

In doing so, you liberate yourself from the shackles of conformity and transcend the limitations of hive-mind thought.

The conventional narrative may fail and it is often manipulated. Seek out alternative sources of information and embrace the power of intuition, mysticism, and the unknown. From ancient wisdom and new discoveries, to hidden and suppressed knowledge.

This will also be a tool to exit the grip of rampant censorship.

The occult becomes a beacon of freedom, a sanctuary for alternative ideas and forbidden truth. It offers refuge to those who refuse to be bound by ideological dogma. Approach the esoteric not as a retreat from reality, but as a gateway to new understandings and profound transformation.

Embrace the pursuit of knowledge as a sacred journey.

Recognize that information is not merely a commodity, but a potent force that can shape destinies and empower individuals.

In the ever-shifting currents of existence, we must fortify ourselves with knowledge, wielding it as a shield against the forces that attack us, ready to fight back.

Stay vigilant amid the chaos of daily events, discerning truth from the cacophony of voices. Cultivate a thirst for learning, for it is through continuous growth and adaptation that we navigate the labyrinth of life.

And finally, step 5: Never lose hope. No matter how dire the situation may seem, we must hold onto hope.

Believe in a better future, strive for a brighter tomorrow, and never give up on the possibility of living the life you want to live.

Adapt to changing circumstances, overcome obstacles with determination, and emerge stronger on the other side.

This is a holistic approach to handling world current events in 2024, even in the face of a possible apocalypse.

By embracing Esoteric Pragmatism – the art of the free man and woman – we learn how to stay vigilant, be prepared, and walk in light and darkness.

Video version here:

Surviving 2024 – A Holistic Approach to the Apocalypse

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-couple-warrior-fantasy-8701120

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-city-hall-apocalypse-8696709

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https://pixabay.com/photos/challenge-life-death-ruthlessness-2082048

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https://pixabay.com/photos/forest-light-sun-green-moss-5211695

https://pixabay.com/photos/humanity-help-social-hope-human-2045992

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Posted on 03/28/202403/28/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

12 Stoic quotes for Pragmatic Living

Stoicism offers a wealth of wisdom through its philosophical teachings. Here are 12 of the best Stoic quotes:

“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius is highlighting the profound connection between our mental outlook and our experiences of happiness. If we cultivate positive, constructive, and empowering thoughts, we’re more likely to experience greater happiness in our lives. Conversely, if our thoughts are predominantly negative, destructive, or pessimistic, our overall happiness is likely to be diminished. Therefore, by paying attention to and improving the quality of our thoughts, we can enhance our well-being and happiness.

“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” – Epictetus

Epictetus is advocating for a shift in perspective regarding wealth. Instead of measuring wealth solely by the abundance of possessions or material wealth, true wealth is found in simplicity and contentment. When one cultivates a mindset of having few desires and being satisfied with what one already has, they can achieve a sense of inner wealth and fulfillment that transcends material possessions. This aligns with Stoic principles, which emphasize virtue, inner tranquility, and living in harmony with nature rather than being driven by external desires or circumstances.

“It is not events that disturb people, it is their judgements concerning them.” – Epictetus

Epictetus is highlighting the power of perception and interpretation in shaping our emotional responses to events. According to Stoic philosophy, external events are indifferent—they are neither inherently good nor bad. Instead, it is our reactions, interpretations, and judgments about these events that determine how we feel about them.

By recognizing that our judgments are within our control, Stoicism teaches that we can choose to adopt more rational, objective, and constructive perspectives toward the events in our lives. Rather than being disturbed by external circumstances beyond our control, we can cultivate resilience, inner peace, and emotional stability by reframing our judgments and focusing on what is within our control—our thoughts, attitudes, and responses. This quote underscores the importance of practicing mindfulness and cultivating a wise and rational approach to life’s challenges.

“The only way to happiness is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.” – Epictetus

Epictetus is advocating for a mindset shift: instead of expending energy and causing distress by worrying about things we cannot control, such as external events or other people’s behaviors, we should focus our efforts on what is within our control—our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.

By letting go of worries about things beyond our control and redirecting our attention to what we can influence, we can attain a greater sense of inner peace, contentment, and happiness. This aligns with the Stoic idea of practicing acceptance of external events while focusing on cultivating virtue, wisdom, and inner tranquility.

“The first step in becoming a philosopher is to be able to bear the sight of the world.” – Seneca

Seneca is emphasizing the importance of cultivating a certain kind of mental resilience. To “bear the sight of the world” implies being able to confront the realities of life without being overwhelmed or disheartened by its challenges, injustices, and uncertainties.

By learning to accept the world as it is, we can lay the groundwork for deeper philosophical inquiry, reflection, and ultimately, the pursuit of wisdom, virtue and freedom. This quote underscores the notion that some approaches to philosophy are not merely an intellectual exercise but also a practice rooted in cultivating a certain mindset and attitude towards life.

“The wise man will live as long as he must, not as long as he can.” – Seneca

Seneca is advocating for an acceptance of mortality and a recognition of the limits of human life. The wise person does not fear death or seek to prolong life unnaturally but rather lives in accordance with virtue and wisdom for as long as they are meant to live. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize living in harmony with nature, accepting the inevitability of death, and focusing on living a life of virtue and meaning rather than merely seeking to extend one’s lifespan.

This quote encourages individuals to prioritize the quality of their lives over the quantity, focusing on living virtuously and meaningfully rather than obsessing over extending their lifespan through any means possible.

Although I DO NOT personally and fully agree with this quote, it may help you if you do.

“No person has the power to have everything they want, but it is in their power not to want what they don’t have, and to cheerfully put to good use what they do have.” – Seneca

Seneca emphasizes the importance of making the most of what one does have. Rather than lamenting what is lacking, individuals can focus on utilizing their existing resources, talents, and opportunities in a positive and constructive manner. This involves approaching life’s challenges with resilience, optimism, and a willingness to make the best of any situation.

By recognizing and appreciating what they already have, individuals can find fulfillment and satisfaction in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for more or being consumed by dissatisfaction. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize acceptance of what is beyond one’s control and a focus on cultivating virtue, resilience, and inner tranquility.

“The whole future lies in uncertainty: live immediately.” – Seneca

Despite the uncertainty of the future, Seneca encourages living fully in the present moment. Rather than being consumed by worry or anxiety about what might happen in the future, he suggests to live life to its fullest right now.

Seneca is advocating for a mindset of embracing the present moment and making the most of the time we have. Rather than being preoccupied with concerns about what the future may hold, Seneca urges us to focus on taking action and finding meaning in the present.

This mindset allows for greater resilience, inner peace, and fulfillment, regardless of the uncertainties that lie ahead.

“If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.” – Seneca

Seneca is emphasizing the importance of setting goals, defining objectives, and having a sense of purpose in life. Without clarity about where one is headed, external circumstances or opportunities become irrelevant. This quote underscores the idea that progress and fulfillment require intentional action and direction, rather than simply waiting for favorable circumstances to arise.

By knowing one’s destination and purpose, individuals can align their efforts, make informed decisions, and navigate through life’s challenges with greater clarity.

“Don’t seek for everything to happen as you wish it would, but rather wish that everything happens as it actually will—then your life will flow well.” – Epictetus

By adopting an attitude of acceptance and aligning one’s wishes with the natural course of events, Epictetus suggests that individuals can experience greater harmony, peace, and well-being in their lives. Rather than resisting or fighting against the inevitable changes and challenges of life, one can learn to navigate them with grace and resilience.

Epictetus is advocating for a mindset shift—from attachment to specific outcomes to acceptance of whatever arises. By relinquishing the desire for control and embracing the inherent unpredictability of life, individuals can find greater inner peace and contentment. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize the importance of focusing on what is within one’s control—namely, one’s thoughts, attitudes, and actions—while accepting what is beyond their control.

“Wealth consists more in use than in possession.” – Seneca

Seneca is highlighting the importance of practical value over mere ownership. Possessing wealth in terms of material possessions is not inherently valuable unless those possessions are put to meaningful use. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize virtue, wisdom, and the pursuit of the good life over the accumulation of external wealth or status.

Seneca’s quote encourages individuals to consider how they utilize their resources—whether material or otherwise—and how those resources contribute to their well-being. It suggests that true wealth lies not just in hoarding possessions but in using them wisely and virtuously to enrich one’s life and the lives of others.

“He suffers more than necessary, who suffers before it is necessary.” – Seneca

Seneca is advising against allowing anticipation, worry, or anxiety about future events to cause unnecessary suffering in the present moment. By focusing on what is within one’s control—namely, one’s thoughts, attitudes, and responses—individuals can minimize unnecessary suffering and cultivate greater resilience and inner peace.

This quote underscores the Stoic emphasis on living in the present moment, accepting what is beyond one’s control, and approaching life’s challenges with rationality. By refraining from suffering prematurely, individuals can conserve their emotional energy and better cope with the inevitable hardships of life when they arise.

These 12 quotes encapsulate some of the core teachings of Stoicism, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and the power of perspective in leading a virtuous and fulfilling life.

What do you think about these 12 Stoic quotes? Let us know in the comment section below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

12 Stoic quotes for Pragmatic Living

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/resilience-victory-force-1697546/

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-flower-resilience-grow-8630801/

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Posted on 03/03/202403/03/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

12 Best Stoic quotes by Marcus Aurelius – Stoicism for Modern Times

Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, left behind a wealth of wisdom in his “Meditations,” a series of personal reflections and philosophical musings. Here are some of his best quotes:

1. “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”

This quote emphasizes the importance of action and personal virtue over mere theoretical debate. Marcus Aurelius suggests that rather than debating abstract concepts of goodness, individuals should focus on embodying virtuous qualities in their actions and behaviors.

2.“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

This quote highlights the Stoic idea of the dichotomy of control. Marcus Aurelius reminds us that while external events may be beyond our control, we have the power to control our thoughts, attitudes, and responses to these events. By recognizing this, we can find inner strength and resilience.

3. “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”

Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the significance of our thoughts in shaping our happiness and well-being. He suggests that cultivating positive and constructive thoughts leads to a happier life, while negative or harmful thoughts can detract from our overall happiness.

4. “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive — to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”

This quote encourages gratitude and mindfulness. Marcus Aurelius urges us to appreciate the simple yet profound joys of existence, such as the ability to breathe, think, experience joy, and love others.

5. “Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking.”

Here, Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the internal nature of happiness. He suggests that true happiness comes from within and is not dependent on external circumstances or possessions. Cultivating a positive and virtuous mindset is key to leading a happy life.

6. “The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.”

This quote advocates for responding to wrongdoing with integrity and virtue rather than seeking revenge. Marcus Aurelius suggests that the most effective way to respond to harm or injustice is to rise above it and embody qualities that contrast with the negative actions of others.

7. “The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.”

Marcus Aurelius metaphorically portrays the influence of our thoughts on our character and inner self. He suggests that our thoughts shape our soul and moral character, highlighting the importance of cultivating virtuous and noble thoughts.

8. “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”

This quote reflects the Stoic idea of transforming obstacles into opportunities. Marcus Aurelius teaches that challenges and obstacles are not to be avoided but embraced as opportunities for growth and progress. Adversity can serve as a catalyst for action and personal development.

9. “Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.”

Marcus Aurelius encourages acceptance of fate and embracing the people and circumstances that come into our lives. He advises approaching life with wholehearted acceptance and love, even in the face of adversity or hardship.

10. “Our life is what our thoughts make it.”

This quote reinforces the Stoic belief in the power of thought to shape our experiences and perceptions of life. Marcus Aurelius suggests that our thoughts ultimately determine the quality and meaning of our lives, highlighting the importance of cultivating positive and virtuous thoughts.

11. “Begin each day by telling yourself: Today I shall be meeting with interference, ingratitude, insolence, disloyalty, ill-will, and selfishness.”

This quote emphasizes the Stoic practice of negative visualization and mental preparedness. Marcus Aurelius advises acknowledging the potential challenges and difficulties that may arise each day, allowing us to approach them with resilience and equanimity.

12. “If it is not right, do not do it. If it is not true, do not say it.”

This quote underscores the importance of integrity and ethical conduct. Marcus Aurelius advises acting in accordance with what is morally right and speaking truthfully. He emphasizes the importance of aligning our actions and words with our principles and values.

These quotes reflect Marcus Aurelius’s Stoic philosophy, emphasizing principles such as acceptance of fate, the power of thought, and the importance of virtue in leading a meaningful and fulfilling life.

And you, what do you think about these quotes and Stoic philosophy by Marcus Aurelius?

Let us know in the comments below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

12 Best Stoic quotes by Marcus Aurelius – Stoicism for Modern Times

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-statue-sculpture-8474179/

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-statue-sculpture-8459691/

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Posted on 02/21/202402/21/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

Stoic teachings for Modern Times

Stoicism was a school of philosophy that originated in ancient Greece around the 3rd century BCE, but it flourished predominantly in ancient Rome. The philosophy was founded by Zeno of Citium around 300 BCE. Stoicism taught a system of ethics that emphasized personal virtue, reason, and self-control.

It offered practical guidance for navigating the challenges of daily life, political upheavals, and personal struggles. Its teachings continue to resonate today, offering timeless wisdom on how to live a meaningful and resilient life amidst adversity.

Virtue as the Highest Good: Stoicism teaches that the highest good, or the ultimate goal of life, is eudaimonia, which is often translated as “happiness,” “flourishing,” or “fulfillment.” Unlike hedonistic philosophies that equate happiness with pleasure, Stoicism emphasizes virtue as the key to eudaimonia. Virtue, according to Stoicism, consists of qualities such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. Living a virtuous life leads to inner tranquility and fulfillment, regardless of external circumstances.
Acceptance of Nature, Fate and Impermanence (The Dichotomy of Control): Central to Stoic philosophy is the idea of living in accordance with nature. This involves accepting the natural order of the universe and recognizing the interconnectedness of all things. Stoics believed in a deterministic worldview, where events are governed by fate or providence. Central to Stoic philosophy is the idea of distinguishing between things that are within our control (internal) and things that are outside our control (external). While individuals have control over their own thoughts, actions, and attitudes (the things within their “sphere of control”), they are encouraged to accept external events beyond their control (the things outside their “sphere of control”) with equanimity. Stoicism teaches acceptance of fate and the impermanence of all things. Stoics recognize that life is inherently unpredictable and that external events are subject to change. Rather than resisting or lamenting these changes, Stoics advocate for embracing them and adapting to circumstances with resilience and acceptance. By recognizing and accepting the limits of our control, Stoics aim to cultivate inner tranquility and freedom from anxiety.
Practical Wisdom and Rationality: Stoicism places a strong emphasis on reason and practical wisdom or phronesis as guides to living a virtuous life. Stoics advocate for the cultivation of rationality, critical thinking, and logical analysis in decision-making and problem-solving. By exercising reason, individuals can better understand the world around them, manage their emotions, and make ethical choices aligned with virtue.

Desire and Aversion (Indifference to External Goods): Stoicism teaches indifference to external goods such as wealth, fame, and social status. While these things may be preferred or dispreferred, they are considered indifferent in the sense that they do not inherently contribute to eudaimonia. Instead, Stoics focus on developing inner virtues and character traits, which are within their control and lead to lasting fulfillment. Stoicism teaches the discipline of desire and aversion, which involves moderating one’s desires and attachments to external things. By practicing detachment from material possessions and transient pleasures, individuals can cultivate inner tranquillity and freedom from the turmoil of excessive desire.
Self-Discipline and Endurance: Stoicism advocates for the practice of self-discipline, resilience and endurance in the face of adversity. Stoics believed that challenges and hardships are opportunities for growth and character development. By willingly enduring hardships and embracing discomfort, individuals can strengthen their resolve, cultivate resilience, and become more virtuous.
Social and Cosmopolitan Outlook: Stoicism encourages a cosmopolitan outlook, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of benevolence, justice, and compassion towards others. Stoics believed in living in harmony with fellow human beings, treating others with kindness and fairness, and contributing to the well-being of society.

These teachings and practices of Stoicism offer a comprehensive framework for leading a life of virtue, resilience, and inner peace, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty. Stoicism provides valuable guidance for navigating life’s challenges with rational wisdom.

It offers a practical mindset for living a meaningful existence grounded in reason, self-awareness, rationality, self-discipline, and acceptance of the natural order of the universe. Its teachings continue to inspire people seeking wisdom, resilience, and inner peace in today’s world.

And you, what do you think about these Stoic teachings for Modern Times? Let us know in the comments below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

Stoic Teachings for Modern Times

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/photos/seneca-philosopher-statue-8026630/

https://pixabay.com/photos/statue-stoic-markus-roman-7992124/

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Posted on 01/18/202401/18/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

Nicolas Flamel: Medieval French Alchemist, Philanthropist and Immortal

Nicolas Flamel, a figure shrouded in mystery and legend, is often remembered as one of history’s most enigmatic alchemists. Born in the 14th century in Paris, Flamel’s life and legacy have become intertwined with tales of alchemy, mystical pursuits, and the quest for the philosopher’s stone.

While much of Flamel’s life remains clouded in historical ambiguity, his contributions to alchemy and his enduring influence on literature and popular culture make him a fascinating subject of study.

Nicolas Flamel was born around 1330 into a humble family, likely in the region of Pontoise, France. Little is known about his early life.

There is no indication that the real Flamel of history was involved in alchemy, pharmacy or medicine.

According to one theory, Flamel was a real person, and he may have dabbled in alchemy, but his reputation as an author and immortal adeptcould bean invention of the seventeenth century.

The historical Flamel lived in Paris in the 14th and 15th centuries. He ran two shops and established himself as a scribe and manuscript-seller.

Flamel’s association with books and written knowledge would later play a crucial role in his alchemical pursuits. Central to his alchemical endeavors was the elusive quest for the philosopher’s stone, a legendary substance believed to have the power to transmute base metals into gold and grant immortality.

He married a lady named Perenelle in 1368. She brought the wealth of two previous husbands to the marriage.

The French Catholic couple owned several properties and contributed financially to churches, sometimes by commissioning sculptures. Later in life, they were noted for their wealth and philanthropy.

One of the most famous stories surrounding Flamel involves an encounter with a mysterious stranger who allegedly handed him a book containing the secrets of alchemy. According to texts ascribed to Flamel almost 200 years after his death, he had learned alchemical secrets from a Jewish converso on the road to Santiago de Compostela.

An alchemical book, published in Paris in 1612 as Livre des figures hiéroglyphiques and in London in 1624 as Exposition of the Hieroglyphical Figures was attributed to Flamel.

It is a collection of designs purportedly commissioned by Flamel for a tympanum at the Cimetière des Innocents in Paris, long disappeared at the time the work was published. In the publisher’s introduction, Flamel’s search for the philosopher’s stone was described.

According to that introduction, Flamel had made it his life’s work to understand the text of a mysterious 21-page book he had purchased in 1357, at the cost of two florins.

The introduction claims that, around 1378, he traveled to Spain for assistance with translation. On the way back, he reported that he met a sage, who identified Flamel’s book as being a copy of the original Book of Abramelin the Mage.

According to legend, Flamel and his wife, Pernelle, devoted themselves to deciphering the enigmatic text and, after years of study, successfully created the philosopher’s stone.

With this knowledge, over the next few years, Flamel and his wife allegedly decoded enough of the book to successfully replicate its recipe for the Lapis Philosophorum, producing first silver in 1382 and then gold.

The essence of his reputation are claims that he succeeded at the two goals of alchemy: that he made the philosopher’s stone, which turns base metals into gold, and that he and his wife, Perenelle, achieved immortality through the “Elixir of Life”.

While historical evidence for these claims is scarce, they have contributed to the enduring mystique surrounding Flamel.

Flamel lived into his 80s, and in 1410 designed his own tombstone, which was carved with the images of Jesus Christ, Saint Peter and Saint Paul. The tombstone is preserved at the Musée de Cluny in Paris.

Records show that Flamel died in 1418. He was buried in Paris at the end of the nave of the former Church of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie. His will, dated 22 November 1416, indicates that he was generous but that he did not have the extraordinary wealth of later alchemical legend.

One of Flamel’s houses still stands in Paris, at 51 rue de Montmorency. It is the oldest stone house in the city. There is an old inscription on the wall, which states, “We, plowmen and women living at the porch of this house, built in 1407, are requested to say every day an ‘Our Father’ and an ‘Ave Maria’ praying God that His grace forgive poor and dead sinners.”

As of 2008, the ground floor housed a restaurant. A Paris street near the Tour Saint-Jacques, the rue Nicolas Flamel, has been named after him; it intersects with the rue Perenelle, named after his wife.

Contrary to the stereotypical portrayal of alchemists as reclusive and secretive, Flamel was known for his philanthropy. He used his wealth, whether acquired through alchemical pursuits or other means, to fund various charitable endeavors in Paris.

Flamel established hospitals, chapels, and schools, leaving a lasting impact on the community. His charitable acts not only endeared him to the public but also served to perpetuate the legend of his alchemical success.

Flamel’s reputation transcends historical accounts, finding a prominent place in literature and popular culture. His character has been featured in numerous works, including novels, plays, and films, often portrayed as a wise and mysterious alchemist.

The concept of the philosopher’s stone and the pursuit of immortality continue to captivate the imagination of storytellers and audiences alike, with Flamel serving as a symbol of the alchemical quest for knowledge and transformation.

Nicolas Flamel’s life remains shrouded in mystery, with historical records often blending with myth and legend.

Whether or not Flamel achieved the alchemical feats attributed to him is a matter of debate, but his legacy endures through the impact of his charitable contributions and the enduring fascination with the mystical pursuit of the philosopher’s stone.

Flamel’s story serves as a testament to the human desire for knowledge, transformation, and the enduring power of myth and legend in shaping our understanding of history.

And you, what do you think about Flamel’s story and alchemy and immortals in general? Let us know in the comments below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

Nicolas Flamel – Medieval French Alchemist, Philanthropist and Immortal

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicolas_Flamel

https://alchemywebsite.com/flamel.html

Étienne François Villain, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nicolas_Flamel_Histoire_critique.jpg

Musée de Cluny, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pierre_tombale_de_Nicolas_Flamel.jpeg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:House_of_Nicolas_Flamel,_Paris_June_2005.jpg

Thiebes at English Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons