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LESSER KNOWN IMMORTALS IN HISTORY: A CROSS-CULTURAL EXPLORATION

Lesser Known Immortals In History - A Cross-Cultural Exploration

The concept of immortality has fascinated humanity since ancient times, appearing across diverse cultures, mythologies, and traditions.

From deified heroes of Greek mythology to eternally living sages in Hindu scriptures and alchemists of old, the notion of transcending death has inspired countless legends, beliefs and even historical claims of immortality.

These figures represent diverse traditions, ranging from transcendence to divine intervention and mythical quests.

As we continue to explore scientific possibilities for extending human lifespan, these ancient and historical narratives of immortality remain relevant, reminding us that the quest for eternal life is among humanity’s oldest and most persistent ambitions—one that continues to shape our understanding of existence.

This analysis examines some of the most notable immortal figures from various sources, exploring their purported paths to immortality, cultural significance, and the enduring impact of these narratives on human imagination.

Greek Deified Mortals and Immortals – Heroes Elevated to Divine Status

Ancient Greek religion featured numerous mortals who achieved immortality through various means. This transformation, termed “apotheosis,” was granted to exceptional individuals who demonstrated heroic qualities or received divine favor.

One of the most celebrated examples is Heracles (Hercules), whose remarkable labors and good deeds to mankind earned him immortality.

Archaeological discoveries have fueled speculation about a historical figure behind the Heracles myth, with archaeologists claiming evidence of his tomb in the Peloponnese area.

Asclepius represents another fascinating case of deification. This Thessalian physician possessed such exceptional healing abilities that he could supposedly resurrect the dead.

This power, transgressing natural order, provoked Zeus to strike him down with a thunderbolt. However, Asclepius’s father Apollo later recovered him from the underworld and brought him to Mount Olympus as a god. His story illustrates both the Greek belief in potential immortality and the perceived dangers of going beyond mortal limitations.

The process of achieving immortality in Greek tradition followed several pathways. Some received this gift as reward for doing good to humanity, others through marriage to Gods, and some by chance or circumstance.

In some accounts, Ariadne, a Cretan princess abandoned by Theseus on Naxos, achieved immortality through marriage to Dionysus, who brought her to Mount Olympus as his divine spouse.

Similarly, Aristaeus, who invented beekeeping and olive oil production techniques, received immortality for his contributions to human civilization.

Resurrection and Physical Immortality

Ancient Greek religious beliefs included concepts of physical resurrection and immortality that predate similar Christian doctrines. Achilles, after his death, was reportedly rescued from his funeral pyre by his divine mother Thetis and granted immortal existence in Elysium, the Islands of the Blessed.

Memnon, an Ethiopian king, was considered immortal during his life and regarded as inferior only to Achilles in warrior prowess. His death at Achilles’ hands is recounted in the lost epic Aethiopis.

Amphiaraus, a seer, experienced a distinctive transformation to immortality. When fleeing during a war, the earth opened and swallowed him. Rather than dying, he was transformed into a prophetic spirit presiding over a subterranean oracle, achieving a form of immortality through this metamorphosis into a chthonic hero.

Tithonus is a figure in Greek mythology known for being granted immortality by Zeus but not eternal youth. He was a Trojan prince, the lover of the Goddess Eos (Aurora in Roman mythology), and became cursed with perpetual old age and weakness.

Greek attitudes toward resurrection were generally ambivalent or negative, with immortality considered neither universally desirable nor possible for ordinary mortals.

The philosopher Plutarch openly scorned such beliefs, writing that deifying “creatures naturally mortal” represented “improbabilities” promoted by “fabulous writers”.

This skepticism highlights the tension between popular religious beliefs and philosophical thought regarding immortality in ancient Greece.

Hindu Immortals and Chiranjivi

Hindu scriptures describe eight notable immortals known as Chiranjivi (literally “forever living”) who continue to exist through the ages.

Unlike Greek deified mortals, these figures obtained immortality through various divine interventions, blessings, or curses, and many are believed to still walk the Earth today.

Lord Hanuman is perhaps the most widely worshipped immortal in Hindu tradition. As per Hindu scriptures, he is believed to live eternally and will survive even after the Kalpa (destruction of the universe). His immortality serves as a testament to his unwavering devotion and represents the eternal nature of true selfless service.

Historical Figures Associated With Immortality

Throughout history, various individuals have claimed immortality or had such claims attributed to them. These cases offer fascinating insights into human psychology and the enduring appeal of transcending death.

The Count of St. Germain – The Enigmatic Alchemist

One of history’s most enigmatic figures associated with immortality is the Count of St. Germain, an 18th-century European courtier, adventurer, and alleged alchemist.

Described by Voltaire as “a man who knows everything and who never dies,” he frequented 18th-century royal courts, displaying expertise in alchemy, diplomacy and languages.

Myths and legends about St. Germain proliferated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including beliefs that he possessed the “Elixir of Life” and never aged.

Contemporary accounts described his youthful appearance despite his apparent advanced age, noting that his skin “seemed not to have experienced the passage of time”.

He looked no older than 45 despite claims of having witnessed events centuries prior.

His avoidance of public meals and reliance on a mysterious “elixir” further solidified his reputation as an alchemist who had unlocked eternal life.

The mystery deepened with conflicting reports of his death. According to some official records, he died in Eckenförde, Germany in 1784, yet no tombstone bearing his name exists there.

Sightings persisted for over a century. He was reportedly seen during the French Revolution (1789), and at the Congress of Vienna (1815).

Historians attribute his longevity to skillful disguise and myth, and the lack of definitive evidence keeps the legend alive.

Qin Shi Huang’s Quest for Eternal Life

China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, is renowned for unifying China, building the Great Wall, and commissioning the Terracotta Army.

Less well-known is his obsessive pursuit of immortality.

According to legend, he dispatched his servant Xu Fudong eastward with thousands of people to discover the secret of eternal life.

This expedition never returned to China, with some legends claiming they discovered and populated Japan.

Despite his extensive efforts and the beliefs of his followers who considered him immortal, Qin Shi Huang died at age 50 in 210 BCE from a sudden illness.

His pursuit of immortality reflects the common human desire to extend life indefinitely and the lengths to which powerful individuals might go to achieve this goal.

Cartaphilus and Christian Traditions

Christian apocryphal traditions include immortal human figures cursed with physical immortality for transgressions against Christ.

One notable example is Cartaphilus (The Wandering Jew), a mythical immortal man whose legend began to spread in Europe in the 13th century. In the original legend, he was a Jew who taunted Jesus on the way to the Crucifixion and was then cursed to walk the Earth until the Second Coming.

This concept of immortality as punishment rather than reward demonstrates the complexity of eternal life as a philosophical and theological concept.

Al-Khidr

In Sufi Islamic tradition, Al-Khidr is considered an immortal prophet or servant of God. He is also described as an angel or a wali, who guards the sea and teaches secret knowledge and aids those in distress.

He is also often depicted as a guide for other prophets, teaching those who seek divine wisdom.

Mahavatar Babaji

Mahavatar Babaji is a mystical figure in Indian tradition, believed to have lived for thousands of years. He is said to have manifested in 203 BCE and continues to exist in his physical body, residing in the Himalayas. Babaji is associated with Kriya Yoga and is revered as an eternal yogi.

Nicolas Flamel – The Immortal Scribe

A real French scribe, manuscript seller and alchemist from the 14th century, Nicolas Flamel is rumored to have discovered the Philosopher’s Stone and achieved immortality. Though records show he died in 1418, legends claim sightings of him centuries later.

By the 17th century, rumors circulated that Flamel and his wife Perenelle had been sighted in India and Turkey, preserved by the Stone’s elixir.

Flamel’s association with immortality stems from his 15th-century alchemical text, Livre des figures hiéroglyphiques.

Though modern scholars dismiss it as allegorical, the work fueled speculation that he had transcended death.

Sir Galahad

According to the legend, among the knights of King Arthur’s Round Table, Sir Galahad found the Holy Grail.

He is often depicted as being taken to paradise by angels after his death, which can be interpreted as a form of mystical immortality or a higher state of existence beyond earthly life.

In some versions, he may be physically transported to another realm or his body is left behind and later buried, granting him eternal life in heaven.

Gilgamesh

He was possibly a historical king of the Sumerian city-state of Uruk, who was posthumously deified.

The Epic of Gilgamesh, the most complete account of Gilgamesh’s adventures, was composed in Akkadian during the Middle Babylonian Period.

In the epic, Gilgamesh is described as being “two thirds divine and one third mortal”.

It relates how Gilgamesh, driven by grief and fear of his own mortality, undertakes a long and perilous journey to discover the secret of eternal life, overcoming many obstacles to find the home of Utnapishtim, the sole survivor of the Great Flood, who was rewarded with immortality by the Gods.

Gilgamesh learns from him that “Life, which you look for, you will never find. For when the Gods created man, they let death be his share, and life withheld in their own hands”.

Dashi-Dorzho Itigelov – The Incorruptible Lama

A Russian Buddhist monk, Itigelov predicted his own death in 1927 and entered deep meditation before passing away.

His body was exhumed 75 years later, found remarkably preserved, seated in lotus position, with flexible joints and intact skin.

Buddhist adherents view Itigelov’s preservation as evidence of tukdam, a meditative state between life and death.

Scientists were unable to explain the phenomenon, and had documented the body’s stability under fluctuating temperatures and humidity.

Though not “immortal” in the traditional sense, Itigelov’s case challenges conventional understanding of decomposition and has been cited in studies on bioresistance.

Li Ching-Yuen: The 256-Year-Old Herbalist

Li Ching-Yuen, a Chinese herbalist, was born in 1677 and allegedly lived 256 years.

While birth records from the Qing Dynasty are unreliable, Chinese authorities reportedly documented his age in 1933, attributing his longevity to a diet of herbs like goji berries and lingzhi mushroom.

A 1928 New York Times article featured interviews with Li’s neighbors, who claimed he had outlived 23 wives.

Though modern gerontologists dismiss his age as implausible, his case underscores historical interest in extreme longevity.

Jeanne Calment: The Validated Supercentenarian

Jeanne Calment (1875–1997) holds the verified record for the longest human lifespan: 122 years and 164 days.

Unlike others on this list, Calment never claimed immortality.

Her documented age—confirmed by birth certificates, census records, and eyewitnesses—provides a scientific benchmark for human longevity.

Calment’s long life was attributed to genetics (her family members lived into their 90s), a Mediterranean diet, and regular physical activity, including fencing until the age of 85.

According to some researchers, her case dispels immortality myths while demonstrating the limits of human lifespan under optimal conditions.

The Line Between Legend and Reality

These cases reveal how historical figures leveraged mystery, science, and mysticism to cultivate an aura of immortality.

While none provide conclusive evidence of eternal life, they reflect humanity’s persistent quest to overcome mortality—whether through alchemy, meditation, or medicine. Modern science continues to explore these frontiers, with research into cryonics, telomere extension, and metabolic therapies.

The diverse traditions of immortality across cultures reveal both the universal human desire to transcend death and the varied cultural expressions of this longing.

From Greek heroes elevated to divinities, to Hindu sages blessed with eternal life, and historical figures claiming immortality, these narratives continue to captivate human imagination and inspire research.

These accounts reveal humanity’s enduring fascination with transcending mortality and what may lie beyond this plane of existence.

What do you think about Immortals and the Human Quest for Eternal Life? Let us know in the comment section and share the post!!!

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Video version with images here:

Lesser Known Immortals In History – A Cross-Cultural Exploration


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Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

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Websites:

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https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/


Links and References:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Count_of_St._Germain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashi-Dorzho_Itigilov

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li_Ching-Yuen

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

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

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

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3062986/

https://listverse.com/2013/05/28/10-notable-people-thought-to-be-immortal/


PICS:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeanne_Calment#/media/File:JeanneCalmentaged40.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apotheosis#/media/File:Veronese-Triomphe_de_Venise.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heracles#/media/File:Mosaic_with_the_Labors_of_Hercules,_3rd_century_AD,_found_in_Lliria_(Valencia),_National_Archaeological_Museum_of_Spain,_Madrid_(15457108142).jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asclepius#/media/File:Asklepios_-_Epidauros.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariadne#/media/File:Titian_Bacchus_and_Ariadne.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Malarz_francuski_XIX_wiek_-_Aristaeus_and_dead_bees_-_M.Ob.2034_MNW_-_National_Museum_in_Warsaw.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achilles#/media/File:Achilles_fighting_against_Memnon_Leiden_Rijksmuseum_voor_Oudheden.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memnon#/media/File:Eos_Memnon_Louvre_G115.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amphiaraus#/media/File:Amfiaros,_Nordisk_familjebok.png

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

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiranjivi#/media/File:A_Hanuman_sculpture_in_Singapore.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Count_of_St._Germain#/media/File:Count_of_St_Germain.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin_Shi_Huang#/media/File:QinShiHuang19century.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wandering_Jew#/media/File:Wandering_jew_-_Gustave_Dor%C3%A9.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khidr#/media/File:Khidr.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavatar_Babaji#/media/File:Babaji-transparent.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicolas_Flamel#/media/File:Nicolas_Flamel_Histoire_critique.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galahad#/media/File:Sir_Galahad_(Watts).jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gilgamesh#/media/File:Hero_lion_Dur-Sharrukin_Louvre_AO19862.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashi-Dorzho_Itigilov#/media/File:Itigelov.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li_Ching-Yuen#/media/File:Li_chingYuen.jpeg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plutarch#/media/File:Plutarch_of_Chaeronea-03_(cropped).jpg

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/hanuman-ramayana-monkey-rama-8783409

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-count-of-st-germain-7867107

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Head_of_a_member_of_the_so-called_Immortals,_the_1000_special_royal_guards._Glazed_brick._From_the_East_Gate_of_the_Palace_at_Susa,_Iran._Achaemenid_period,_521-500_BCE._British_Museum.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immortality#/media/File:Fountain_of_Eternal_Life_crop.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immortality#/media/File:Holbein_Danse_Macabre_3.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immortality#/media/File:Ankh.svg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crown_of_Immortality#/media/File:Corona_immortalitatis.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crown_of_Immortality#/media/File:Sainte_Blandine_patronne_des_servantes_(…)_bpt6k6350834v-1.jpg

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/desert-fathers-desert-monks-desert-8838926

https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2023/01/20/i-met-the-oldest-woman-in-the-worldwho-shared-her-memories-of-van-gogh-in-arles

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OCCULT SCIENCES – MEANING AND HISTORICAL INTERPRETATION

Occult Sciences - Meaning and Historical Interpretation

The occult is a category of esoteric and supernatural beliefs and practices, encompassing phenomena involving a ‘hidden’ or ‘secret’ agency, such as magic and mysticism.

It can also refer to paranormal ideas such as extra-sensory perception and parapsychology.

The Occult, from the Latin word occultus, meaning “clandestine”, “hidden”, “secret”, is defined as “knowledge of the hidden”.

In common usage, occult refers to “knowledge of the paranormal”, as opposed to “knowledge of the measurable”, usually referred to as science. The words esoteric and arcane are sometimes used to describe the occult, although they do not have the same meaning.

The term “occult sciences” is often used in a broad and sometimes vague way, and the practices and beliefs associated with it can vary widely, often concerned with knowledge that is considered beyond the scope of mainstream science or common understanding.

It was used in 16th-century Europe to refer to astrology, alchemy, and natural magic, although the concept is present all over the world since immemorial times.

The term “occultism” emerged in 19th-century France and became associated with various esoteric groups and traditions.

It generally refers to a collection of practices and beliefs that explore hidden knowledge, unseen forces and dimensions, with the three major branches traditionally being alchemy, astrology and magic.

While these sciences have long been shrouded in secrecy, they have played a profound role in shaping philosophical thought, mystical practices, and even early scientific inquiry.

Often misunderstood or dismissed as superstition, these sciences have played a significant role in human history, blending philosophy and practical wisdom.

Many occult practices are rooted in esoteric traditions, which are characterized by their focus on inner knowledge and understanding.

The 3 Main Occult Sciences:

Alchemy: The practice of transforming base metals into gold and seeking the elixir of life.

Astrology: The study of the influence of celestial bodies on human affairs and events.

Natural Magic (Magia Naturalis): The use of rituals, incantations and practices to influence events or achieve specific outcomes, harnessing the powers of nature.

Other branches of Occult sciences are:

Numerology: the belief in an occult, divine or mystical relationship between a number and one or more coinciding events.

Divination: the practice of seeking knowledge or predicting the future through various methods, such as cartomancy, scrying or palmistry.

Spiritualism: the belief in communication with the spirits of the dead.

Witchcraft: the practice of using magic, often with a focus on nature and healing.

Hermeticism: a system that emphasizes the importance of knowledge and wisdom, often associated with ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions.

Kabbalah: a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the hidden nature of the divine and the universe.

Let’s explore these concepts in detail:

1. Alchemy: The Sacred Art of Transformation

Alchemy is one of the oldest and most profound occult sciences, rooted in ancient Egypt, Greece, India and later flourishing in the Islamic Golden Age and medieval Europe. Alchemists sought to transform base metals into gold and discover the philosopher’s stone, a legendary substance believed to grant immortality.

It carried deep symbolic meanings tied to personal transformation, enlightenment and inner purification. Figures such as Paracelsus and Nicholas Flamel contributed heavily to this field, blending chemistry with mysticism.

The alchemical process mirrors the stages of inner growth: calcination (breaking down ego), dissolution (facing the unconscious), coagulation (integration of opposites).

While modern science emerged from alchemy’s experimental methods, its symbolic depth remains relevant for seekers of self-realization.

2. Astrology: Mapping the Cosmic Blueprint

Astrology traces its origins to Babylonian star charts and Jyotish Vedic Astrology, and gained prominence mostly in Mediterranean and Asian cultures.

By observing celestial bodies and their movements, astrologers believed they could predict events, understand personality traits, and guide decision-making.

The zodiac system, planetary alignments, and horoscopes are some of the enduring legacies of astrology.

Modern astrology has evolved to include psychological insights, often used for self-reflection and guidance.

3. Natural Magic (Magia Naturalis):

Natural magic deals with natural forces directly, as opposed to ceremonial magic which deals with the summoning of spirits. Natural magic makes use of physical substances from the natural world, such as stones or herbs.

It includes disciplines that we would today consider fields of natural science, such as chemistry and botany.

Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa discusses natural magic in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy (1533), where he calls it “nothing else but the highest power of natural sciences”.

Magia Naturalis (in English, Natural Magic) is a work of popular science by Giambattista della Porta first published in Naples in 1558.

Its twenty books include observations upon geology, optics, medicines, poisons, cooking, metallurgy, magnetism, cosmetics, perfumes, gunpowder and invisible writing.

Other branches are:

Numerology: The Language and Power of Numbers

Numerology is the study of numbers and their mystical significance. It suggests that numbers hold vibrational frequencies that influence life patterns, character traits, and future events. Each number is believed to have symbolic meaning, with calculations such as life path numbers or destiny numbers serving as tools for insight and guidance.

For example, the number 1 signifies independence and leadership, while 7 embodies introspection and wisdom.

Divination: The Art of Revelation and Seeking Hidden Truths

Divination is a broad category encompassing methods like tarot reading, scrying, I Ching, and runes. Practitioners use symbolic tools and intuition to uncover hidden truths or foresee potential outcomes. Tarot, in particular, has grown in popularity due to its rich imagery and capacity to offer revelations.

Each method relies on symbolic language that taps into the subconscious, offering intuitive guidance.

In Hebrew, “Nachash” means “serpent” or “snake”, and is associated with divination, and is also used to describe the serpent in the Garden of Eden.

Spiritualism

Spiritualism was popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, according to which an individual’s awareness persists after death and may be contacted by the living.

The afterlife, or “spirit world”, is seen by spiritualists not as a static place, but as one in which spirits continue to interact and evolve.

These two beliefs—that contact with spirits is possible, and that spirits are more advanced than humans—lead spiritualists to believe that spirits are capable of advising the living on moral and ethical issues and the nature of God.

Witchcraft

Witchcraft is the use of alleged supernatural powers or magic by a person called a witch.

Traditionally, “witchcraft” means the use of magic to inflict harm or misfortune on others, and this remains the most common and widespread meaning.

Many indigenous belief systems that include the concept of witchcraft likewise define witches as malevolent, and seek healers (such as medicine people and witch doctors) to ward-off and undo bewitchment.

The reality is that there are “white witches”, practitioners who focus on benevolent magic, using their abilities for healing, protection, and positive energy, and “black witches”, who are associated with harmful magic.

Hermeticism

Hermeticism is a philosophical and religious tradition based on the writings attributed to the legendary figure of Hermes Trismegistus, encompassing occultism, magic, and a search for ancient wisdom, with roots in ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions and influential during the Renaissance. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of the universe and the potential for human growth through understanding and interacting with natural laws.

The Kabbalah: Sacred Mystical Wisdom

Stemming from Jewish esotericism, it is focused on the structure of the universe, the soul’s journey and the nature of God.

Kabbalistic teachings use sacred texts like the Zohar to unlock deeper mystical truths. The Tree of Life, a core symbol in Kabbalistic practice, maps out divine energies and paths of wisdom and enlightenment.

Zahir and Sufism

Ẓāhir is an Arabic term for what is external and manifest. Certain esoteric interpretations of Islam maintain that the Quran has an exoteric or apparent meaning, known as zahir, but also an underlying esoteric meaning, known as batin, which can be interpreted only by a figure of esoteric knowledge.

In Sufism, the actions of an individual are the zahir, and the intention in the heart is the batin. Zahir is the world of bodies whereas batin is the world of souls.

The zahir (exoteric) form and the batin (esoteric) essence co-exist, in that the zahir form is the manifestation of the batin essence. The zahir (outer form) without the batin (essence) is just like a mirage or an illusion.

Throughout history, these occult sciences have influenced art, literature, scientific thought and personal growth. Renaissance thinkers merged esoteric knowledge with scientific ideas.

These principles also shaped many influential occult societies.

They have endured for centuries because they speak to the universal human desire for meaning, transformation, and connection with unseen forces.

In modern times, the occult sciences have experienced a resurgence as people seek mystical meaning outside conventional frameworks.

Whether approached as symbolic tools for introspection or as genuine systems of exploration, these disciplines continue to captivate those drawn to the mysteries of existence.

By integrating these timeless practices into your life, you can create a deeply immersive experience that offers both mystical insight and practical wisdom.

While often shrouded in mystery, they reflect a timeless quest for deeper understanding, a journey that transcends the physical world and invites seekers to explore the unseen realms of consciousness and the self.

What do you think of Occult Sciences and what do they represent to you? Do you experiment with any of them? Let us know in the comment section, subscribe and share the post!!!

Also, check our website for consultations, tarot readings, exclusive videos, courses, occult related items and more!!!


Video version here:

Occult Sciences – Meaning and Historical Interpretation


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

Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

Check our soundtrack here:
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Websites:

https://www.alkemystica.com

https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/


Links and References:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zahir_(Islam)

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

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritualism_(movement)

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

https://thonyc.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/the-demise-of-the-occult-sciences/

PICS:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes_Trismegistus#/media/File:Hermes_mercurius_trismegistus_siena_cathedral.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeticism#/media/File:HermesTrismegistusCauc.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Aurora_consurgens_zurich_044_f-21v-44_dragon-pot.jpg

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Nicolas Flamel: Medieval French Alchemist, Philanthropist and Immortal

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!!!


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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


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Alchemy and the Healing Arts – Unveiling the Mysteries of Ancient Wisdom

Alchemy and the Healing Arts

Alchemy, a mystical and ancient tradition, has captivated the human imagination for centuries. Rooted in the quest for spiritual enlightenment, material transformation, and the pursuit of the elixir of life, alchemy has a profound connection with the healing arts. It seeks to bring the body back to a whole state; a state of Oneness and harmony on a holistic level via the art of transmutation.

This condensed essay will explore the intricate relationship between alchemy and healing, shedding light on secret texts, mystic symbols, and the esoteric knowledge that intertwines these two realms.

Historical Overview

To understand the connection between alchemy and the healing arts, we must first delve into the historical roots of this enigmatic practice. Originating in ancient Egypt and later flourishing in medieval Europe, alchemy was not merely a precursor to modern chemistry; it was a holistic system that blended spiritual, philosophical, and practical elements. Alchemists sought to transmute base metals into gold, discover the philosopher’s stone, purify and elevate the human mind, body and spirit and unlock the secrets of immortality. They sought to bring the body to a perfect state of harmony and being.

Alchemy and Healing

Central to the Alchemical tradition was the belief that the transformation of base metals mirrored the inner transformation of the alchemist. This internal metamorphosis was not only spiritual but also extended to physical well-being. By harmonizing and transcending the energies within oneself, one could essentially overcome physical, mental or emotional ailments and live in a perfect, enlightened state. This is contrary to today’s modern concept of healing each individual part separately. Alchemists recognized the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit—a concept that aligns closely with holistic approaches to healing.

Secret and Ancient Texts

Alchemy was not a widely understood or openly practiced discipline. Instead, it thrived in secret societies and mystical circles. Alchemists safeguarded their knowledge through secret texts via cryptic writings and encoded symbols, sharing their insights only with those initiated into the mysteries of their craft.

In alchemical healing, one such text serves as a guide to understanding the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and spiritual health.

This revered text is the “Tabula Smaragdina” or the Emerald Tablet, attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, a legendary figure combining the traits of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth. This tablet, with its concise and cryptic verses, encapsulates the core principles of alchemy and serves as a guide to the philosopher’s stone and the transmutation of metals.

Though brief in its content, it carries profound implications for alchemical healing. Its famous maxim, “As above, so below; as within, so without,” encapsulates the essence of alchemical philosophy. In the context of healing, this principle suggests that the macrocosm of the universe mirrors the microcosm of the individual, or in other words, the inner state of the individual is reflected in their external well-being.

The tablet’s wisdom encourages practitioners to explore the subtle energies within the body and the harmonious balance necessary for well-being. Alchemists applied this principle to healing by seeking to balance the elements within the body—earth, water, air, and fire—to achieve harmony and well-being.

Of course, the Alchemists were not the first to establish the idea of balancing the elements within the body. The Ayurvedic system of medicine, originating in India over 5000 years ago, is one of the oldest systems of traditional medicine. It refers to 5 core elements, or the panchamahabhuta: earth, water, air, fire and ether and these elements make up what are called the three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha – or essentially, the combination of different elements that are in constant need of being balanced and brought into harmony. The Charak Samhita, one of the oldest surviving texts relating to Ayurveda, is a comprehensive guide relating to holistic health.

Traditional chinese medicine also dates back to an ancient time, possibly more than 3000 years ago and is known for what are called the five phases of nature: wood, fire, earth, metal and water, that must always be flowing and kept in harmonious balance. The concept of yin and yang, or female and male energy, is also central to TCM and can be found the ancient treatise Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon 黄帝内经(Huángdì Nèijīng

Another text often times used in secret societies and mystical circles was the “Ars Notoria,” meaning the “Notable Art” or “Notable Skills,”

The Ars Notoria is a medieval grimoire—a book of magical instruction—that focuses on the acquisition of divine knowledge and wisdom through prayer, meditation, and visualization. It is a part of the broader Solomonic tradition, attributed to King Solomon himself. The Ars Notoria was used as a mental training program, designed to enhance cognitive abilities and spiritual awareness. Alchemists engaged in specific rituals and prayers outlined in the Ars Notoria to expand their consciousness, opening doors to hidden realms of knowledge. This heightened state of awareness, they believed, was instrumental in deciphering the secrets of alchemy, particularly in the realm of healing.

This text was considered a powerful tool for unlocking the secrets of alchemy and enhancing one’s intellectual and spiritual capacities.

Secret Symbols in the Healing Alchemical Arts

The use of symbols in alchemy is another fascinating aspect that connects it with the healing arts. Alcehmists favoured symbology as it kept these secrets within selected circles.

On a broader scale, one symbol associated with Alchemy and healing is the Caduceus, a staff with two entwined serpents and wings at the top. While widely recognized today as a symbol of medicine, its origins trace back to ancient Greece, where it was associated with the god Hermes. The intertwined serpents and wings represent the balance and integration of opposites, symbolizing the harmonious union of dualistic forces a concept fundamental to both alchemical and healing philosophies.

The Philosopher’s Stone, a legendary substance sought by alchemists, is another potent symbol. Often depicted as a mystical, radiant gem, the Philosopher’s Stone was believed to possess the power to transmute base metals into gold and grant immortality. Beyond its material significance, the stone represented the inner transformation of the alchemist, a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment and the purification of the soul.

A third enigmatic symbol is The Ouroboros, a serpent or dragon eating its own tail, This was a symbol of cyclicality, eternity, and regeneration. In alchemical terms, it encapsulated the idea of continuous renewal and the cyclical nature of the alchemical process. The Ouroboros conveyed the interconnectedness of life and death, reflecting the alchemist’s journey towards spiritual rebirth through the dissolution and regeneration of the self.

Alchemists also used specific symbols for the four elements, the seven planetary metals, the mundane elements, the alchemical compounds and processes, or chemical operations, which could be assigned to each one of the 12 zodiacal symbols in cases where they numbered 12, and symbols for units of time.

As we will shortly see, mercury, sulfur and salt, the tria prima, were very important and their symbols were often used.

For example, The alchemical symbol for Mercury resembles an elaborate union of crescent moons and a circle. This symbol, is associated with fluidity and transformation.

The symbol for Sulfur, which represents the fiery and transformative aspect of alchemy, resembles a triangle atop a cross, symbolizing the ascent of the spiritual over the material.

Salt was also important in that in was essential to human life. Its symbol is a circle bisected by a horizontal line. Salt can be purified through a chemical process, which is similar to the purification process that the human body can undergo in Alchemy.

Paracelsus: The Maverick Alchemist

No further exploration of alchemy and the healing arts is complete without mentioning the life and teachings of Theophrastus von Hohenheim, most commonly known as Paracelsus (1493-1541), a Swiss philosopher who revolutionized medical thought. Rejecting the dogmas of his time, Paracelsus blended alchemical principles with medicine, advocating for a holistic understanding of the human body.

One particular curiousity is that he often traveled into the villages across Europe, learning various folk remedies and how the common folk handled illness. He was a strong advocate for holistic health and disagreed with the medical system at that time giving the outward impression via his comments that the medical system was corrupt.

The Four Humors Unveiled

To comprehend the departure Paracelsus made from classical medical thought, we must first understand the concept of the four humors.

The traditional four humors theory was based on the work of the Greek physician Galen,

Galen’s conception of the four humours is rooted in the ancient Greek belief in the four elements—earth, water, air, and fire—and their corresponding qualities: cold, moist, hot, and dry. These qualities, in turn, were associated with the humours.

These four humors were: blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile. Imbalances in these humors were believed to cause illness, influencing both physical and mental well-being.

Blood was associated with air and had the qualities of hot and moist. It was believed to be produced by the liver and distributed throughout the body, nourishing organs and tissues. Blood was linked to a sanguine type temperment – someone who was optimistic, full of life and sociable, but disorganised and scatterbrained.

Phlegm, was associated with water and characterized by cold and moist qualities, This is somewhat similar in Ayurvedic to kapha dosha, being a combination of water and earth and having cold and moist qualities. Phlegm was thought to be produced by the brain and the lungs and Its balance was crucial for maintaining bodily moisture. An excess of phlegm was believed to result in a phlegmatic temperament, characterized by calmness and apathy, whereas a deficiency might lead to dry skin and irritability.

Black bile, linked to the earth element and characterized by cold and dry qualities, was associated with the spleen and the gallbladder. An excess of black bile was believed to cause a melancholic temperament, marked by introspection and sensitivity. On the other hand, a deficiency might lead to an imbalance in the bodily humours, causing physical and mental distress.

The final humour, yellow bile, was connected to the element of fire and characterized by its hot and dry nature, similar to Ayurveda with Pitta dosha having the qualities of hot and dry and being connected to the elements of fire and water. It was thought to be produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. An excess of yellow bile was believed to result in a choleric temperament, characterized by impulsive behavior and irritability. Conversely, a deficiency might lead to a lack of assertiveness and drive.

Paracelsus proposed, instead that health results from a balance of three alchemical principles: sulfur (the soul), mercury (the spirit), and salt (the body). Coming from the latin tria prima”, or three primes, this concept posited that imbalances in these elements led to disease, emphasizing the importance of treating the root cause rather than merely alleviating symptoms.

Salt, the first of the Tria Prima, represents the earthly and tangible aspect of existence. In the context of alchemy, Salt embodies the physical body, the material realm, and the foundational substance from which transformation can occur. Alchemists viewed Salt as the stable and enduring element, grounding the volatile and ethereal nature of the other two primes. In the healing arts, Salt signifies the corporeal aspects of health – the body’s structure, stability, and the fundamental balance required for well-being.

Sulfur, the second prime, embodies the fiery and transformative force within alchemical philosophy. Alchemists associated Sulfur with the soul, passion, and the dynamic essence that imparts vitality. In the context of healing, Sulfur represents the energetic and transformative aspects of the human experience. It symbolizes the innate life force, the spark that ignites growth, healing, and spiritual evolution. The alchemical understanding of Sulfur in healing suggests the importance of tapping into one’s inner vitality and passion for overall well-being.

Mercury, the third of the Tria Prima, serves as the bridge between the earthly and ethereal realms. Alchemists considered Mercury a fluid and adaptable substance, representing the spirit and the transformative process. In the context of healing, Mercury symbolizes the mental and emotional aspects of well-being. It signifies the capacity for change, adaptability, and the fluid nature of thoughts and emotions. The alchemical perspective encourages individuals to cultivate a balanced and harmonious connection between the material and spiritual dimensions for holistic healing.

Paracelsus ultimately simplified the framework, emphasizing the dynamic equilibrium between sulfur, mercury, and salt. This departure marked a significant shift in medical philosophy, fostering a more nuanced understanding of the human body.

Alchemy and the Healing Arts in Action

Paracelsus’s hermetic approach to medicine laid the groundwork for the development of iatrochemistry, or chemical medicine – a branch of medicine that explored the chemical processes underlying physiological functions. This brought in the new idea that the health of the body was dependent on a specific balance of bodily fluids in the body and could be cured or balanced with chemical solutions . As chemical medicine grew, it increasingly influenced pharmaceutical practices.

Though illegal in most medicines around the western world today, there is still the practice in Ayurveda of rasashaastra, or the Science of Mercury and specifically using mercury to heal the body.

Many poisonous chemical compounds called Bhasmas, or incinerated metals are used to bring a state of balance into the body. Other metals include mercury, iron, copper, tin and sulfur as well as aresenic and diamond.

In conclusion, the intertwining of alchemy and the healing arts is a fascinating journey into the depths of ancient wisdom and mysticism. The alchemists’ quest for transformation, balance, and the elusive philosopher’s stone mirrors humanity’s eternal pursuit of healing, enlightenment, and the secrets of life. The esoteric knowledge embedded in alchemical texts and symbols continues to inspire and intrigue, connecting the past with the present and offering a profound perspective on the holistic nature of health and well-being.

What do you think about Alchemy and the Healing Arts? Let us know in the comments below and share the post!


Video version here:

Alchemy and the Healing Arts – Unveiling the Mysteries of Ancient Wisdom


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

https://www.folger.edu/blogs/shakespeare-and-beyond/the-four-humors-eating-in-the-renaissance/


https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/legacy-humoral-medicine/2002-07


https://occult-world.com/tria-prima/


https://blog.prepscholar.com/alchemy-symbols


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


http://www.esotericarchives.com/notoria/notoria.htm


The Devil’s Doctor: Paracelsus and the World of Renaissance Magic and Science by Philip Ball


Ayurvedic Principals Volume III by Vasant Lad


https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252715/


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