Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts by Herbert Silberer is an intriguing exploration into the depths of alchemy and occultism, unveiling the symbolic language that lies beneath the surface. Silberer, a renowned psychologist, delves into the intricate world of alchemical symbols, providing a captivating analysis of their significance and hidden meanings.
The book takes readers on a journey through the ancient practice of alchemy, shedding light on its origins and evolution. Silberer’s in-depth understanding of psychology enables him to shed new light on the psychological aspects of alchemy, making a compelling case for the connection between alchemical practices and the human psyche.
One of the most notable aspects of this book is the author's ability to demystify complex alchemical symbols, making them accessible to a wider audience. Silberer’s clear explanations and numerous examples not only enable readers to grasp the fundamental concepts of alchemical symbols but also encourage them to delve deeper into their personal interpretations.
Furthermore, Silberer draws intriguing parallels between alchemy and other occult arts, allowing readers to understand the interconnectedness of these esoteric practices. By exploring the symbolism present in various esoteric traditions, Silberer reveals a shared language among them, emphasizing their common goal in the search for deeper spiritual understanding.
As the book progresses, Silberer presents his theory of the "dream-like" nature of alchemy, suggesting that alchemical processes and symbols often mirror the transformative journeys experienced in dreams. This unique perspective adds a fascinating layer to the study of alchemy, providing readers with a new lens through which to explore the subject matter.
While the book offers a wealth of symbolic interpretations and thought-provoking ideas, it should be noted that it might not be suitable for those seeking a comprehensive historical account of alchemy or a step-by-step guide to understanding the occult arts. Instead, Silberer's work focuses predominantly on the exploration of symbolism and its psychological implications.
In conclusion, Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts is a captivating and thought-provoking book that will appeal to those with an interest in psychology, symbolism, and esoteric traditions. Herbert Silberer’s expertise in psychology and his insightful observations make this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the hidden layers of alchemy and the occult arts.
First Page:
Hidden Symbolism of ALCHEMY and the OCCULT ARTS
(Formerly titled: Problems of Mysticism and Its Symbolism )
by Dr. Herbert Silberer
Translated by Smith Ely Jelliffe, M.D., Ph.D.
Dover Publications, Inc.
New York
1971
CONTENTS
Translator's Preface Part I. The Parable. Section I. The Parable. Section II. Dream And Myth Interpretation. Part II. Analytic Part. Section I. Psychoanalytic Interpretation Of The Parable. Section II. Alchemy. Section III. The Hermetic Art. Section IV. Rosicrucianism And Freemasonry. Section V. The Problem Of Multiple Interpretation. Part III. Synthetic Part. Section I. Introversion And Regeneration. A. Introversion And Intro Determination. B. Effects Of Introversion. C. Regeneration. Section II. The Goal Of The Work. Section III. The Royal Art. Notes. Bibliography. Index. Footnotes
This Dover edition, first published in 1971, is an unabridged and unaltered republication of the work originally published by Moffat, Yard and Company, New York, in 1917 under the title Problems of Mysticism and its Symbolism ... Continue reading book >>
