The origins of Western alchemy can be traced back to Hellenistic Egypt, specifically the city of Alexandria. Hermes Trismegistus, also known as Hermes the Thrice-Great, is a significant figure in alchemical mythology. He is believed to have written the Hermetica, the foundation of Western alchemical philosophy and practice. Additionally, he is credited as the author of the Emerald Tablet, a tablet inscribed with the secrets of the universe.
Legends of the Emerald Tablet
The Emerald Tablet is said to be made of emerald or green stone and holds the knowledge of the universe. Its origin is surrounded by legends. According to one story, the tablet was discovered in a tomb beneath the statue of Hermes in Tyana, held by the corpse of Hermes Trismegistus himself. The creator of the Emerald Tablet is often associated with the Egyptian god Thoth, who divided his knowledge into 42 emerald plates. After the fall of the gods, Thoth hid the tablets, and only he could recover them upon his return.
Another legend suggests that Seth, the third son of Adam and Eve, wrote the tablet. Some even claim that the tablet originated from the mythical city of Atlantis. Despite these stories, there is no verifiable evidence to support any of these claims.
Spreading Stories of the Emerald Tablet
The oldest known source of the Emerald Tablet’s text is the Kitab sirr al-haliqi, an Arabic work written in the 8th century AD and attributed to ‘Balinas’ or Pseudo-Apollonius of Tyana. Balinas claimed to have discovered the Emerald Tablet in a tomb. Some believe that the tablet itself was an Arabic text written between the 6th and 8th centuries AD. However, the original document mentioned by Balinas no longer exists. It is believed to have been lost, possibly during the burning of the Library of Alexandria. Nevertheless, Balinas’ version of the text became well-known and was translated by various individuals over the centuries.
The Emerald Tablet’s Influence
The Emerald Tablet became a cornerstone of Western alchemy. It held great influence during the medieval and Renaissance periods and continues to hold significance today. Alongside translations, numerous commentaries have been written about its contents. Notable researchers of the Emerald Tablet include Isaac Newton, Roger Bacon, Albertus Magnus, John Dee, and Aleister Crowley.
Today, the knowledge of the legendary Emerald Tablet is reaching new audiences through its presence in the surreal German-language series, Dark. However, interpreting the Emerald Tablet is not a straightforward task due to its esoteric nature. One interpretation suggests that the text describes the seven stages of alchemical transformation. However, none of the interpretations claim to possess the whole truth, and readers are encouraged to interpret and uncover the hidden truths themselves.
The Emerald Tablet, believed to be written by Hermes Trismegistus, holds the secrets of the universe. While its origin remains uncertain, legends and stories have surrounded it for centuries. The tablet’s influence on Western alchemy cannot be understated, and it continues to fascinate researchers and enthusiasts to this day. Despite the various interpretations available, the true meaning of the Emerald Tablet remains elusive, leaving readers to embark on their own journey of discovery.
