Alchemy, Carl Jung, and the Realm of Psyche with MJ Dorian of Creative Codex | Mind Meld 364
Oct 12, 2023
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MJ Dorian, artist and composer, explores alchemy, Carl Jung, and the realm of psyche in his Creative Codex podcast. They discuss the significance of symbols in esoteric knowledge, the symbolism of earth and the four elements, the importance of capturing dream memories, and the connections between alchemy, psychology, and spiritual development.
Alchemy is a tactile and transformative practice that seeks to purify and connect with the divine spark within matter.
Exploring Western esoteric traditions like alchemy can lead to personal growth and a new perspective on reality by tapping into symbols and practices that have stood the test of time.
Alchemy goes beyond turning base metals into gold and instead focuses on establishing a relationship with matter to access the divine spark and undergo spiritual transformation.
Engaging with alchemy offers a unique path for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and a deeper understanding of the mysteries of the universe.
Deep dives
Alchemy as a Spiritual Practice
Alchemy is a tradition that continues to this day, both through established lineages and individual practice. It offers a unique approach to spirituality by directly engaging with matter. Alchemists believe that every piece of matter contains a spark of divinity, and their goal is to purify and transform matter to access that divine spark. This involves physical processes like heating, mixing, and fermenting substances to create tinctures and stones. The physical actions in alchemy establish a spiritual and emotional relationship with the exterior world, and the transformation of matter parallels the transformation of the alchemist themselves. Alchemy is about the doing, the tangible experience of working with matter, and the connection to something greater than ourselves.
Western Esoteric Traditions and the Value of Symbols
The Western esoteric traditions, including alchemy, are part of a lineage that seeks to address existential and philosophical questions about life. These traditions draw on symbols, rituals, and practices that have stood the test of time. While some may feel hesitant or intimidated to explore these traditions, the key is to follow your intuition and lean into the aspects that fascinate you. Symbols and practices like the tree of life in Kabbalah or the stages of alchemical transmutation have lasting significance because they tap into a deeper understanding of the human psyche and the world around us. Trusting your intuition and engaging in the physicality of these traditions can lead to personal growth and a new perspective on reality.
The Paradoxes of Alchemy
Alchemy is often misunderstood as an attempt to turn base metals into gold, but this misrepresentation misses the deeper spiritual and psychological aspects of the practice. Alchemy is about establishing a relationship with matter and recognizing the divine spark that exists within it. By manipulating and purifying matter, alchemists seek to access that divine spark and incorporate it into their own being. The paradox lies in the physical actions and processes involved in alchemy leading to spiritual transformation. Through the practice of alchemy, individuals can experience a tactile and transformative connection with both matter and their own spiritual journey.
Alchemy as a Process of Understanding
Engaging with alchemy provides an opportunity to explore the mysteries of the universe and the human condition. Following courses or practicing alchemical principles can lead to a greater understanding of the cosmos and our place within it. Each step in the alchemical process, whether it's preparing herbs or working with substances, presents a learning opportunity and a way to deepen one's connection to the world. The tangible actions involved in alchemy also lead to personal insights and a sense of participating in something greater than oneself. Through the process of exploration and practice, alchemy offers a unique path for spiritual growth and self-discovery.
Alchemy as a Spiritual and Psychological Practice
Alchemy is seen as an early form of psychology that involves spiritual and psychological development. The transformation of matter in alchemy is reflective of inner transformation. The work is intended to be reverent and spiritual, leading to personal growth. Consciousness plays a role in alchemical processes, and the state of mind and approach can influence outcomes. Sharing experiences openly can impact the work, as consciousness is involved. Alchemy and other spiritual traditions serve as a form of psychology, offering insights and self-improvement.
The Subtle Realm and Intuition
The subtle realm is associated with the feminine and holds symbolic and archetypal significance. It is where consciousness and reality interface, and where intuition and profound insights occur. The hypnagogic state, between wakefulness and sleep, is a particularly receptive time for such insights. Paying attention to dreams and capturing details upon waking can reveal hidden meanings and connections. Exploring the subtle realm develops a deeper connection to the unseen and taps into the realm of archetypes and symbolism.
Alchemy and the Psychophysical Bridge
Alchemy serves as a psychophysical bridge, connecting the psyche and the physical world. It shares similarities with phenomena like synchronicity, as it involves an unseen connection between the inner and outer realities. These connections can be experienced through strange occurrences and insights during alchemical practices. The process of alchemy invites personal transformation and is intertwined with the psychological and spiritual development of the individual. It acts as a method of connecting with the deeper aspects of consciousness and reality.
MJ Dorian is the artist, composer, and seeker behind the truly fantastic Creative Codex podcast. In it, he explores alchemy, Carl Jung, his incredible Red Book, and, numerous other bits of esoteric psycho-spiritual fare.
In this mind meld, we riff on the above and more: Alchemy, The Red Book, sacred creativity, why esoteric truths are never really lost, dreams, the realm of psyche, etcetera.
