§ 10. The Law of Analogy.
With the theories of physical Alchemy we shall deal at length in the
following chapter, but enough has been said to indicate the analogy
existing, according to the alchemistic view, between the problem of the
perfection of the metals, i.e., the transmutation of the "base"
metals into gold, and the perfection or transfiguration of spiritual
man; and it might also be added, between these problems and that of the
perfection of man considered physiologically. To the alchemistic
philosopher these three problems were one: the same problem on different
planes of being; and the solution was likewise one. He who held the key
to one problem held the key to all three, provided he understood the
analogy between matter and spirit. The point is not, be it noted,
whether these problems are in reality one and the same; the main
doctrine of analogy, which is, indeed, an essential element in all true
mystical philosophy, will, we suppose, meet with general consent; but it
will be contended (and rightly, we think) that the analogies drawn by
the alchemists are fantastic and by no means always correct, though
possibly there may be more truth in them than appears at first sight.
The point is not that these analogies are correct, but that they were
regarded as such by all true alchemists. Says the author of The
Sophic Hydrolith: ". . . the practice of this Art enables us to
understand, not merely the marvels of Nature, but the nature of God
Himself, in all its unspeakable glory. It shadows forth, in a wonderful
manner . . . all the articles of the Christian faith, and the reason why
man must pass through much tribulation and anguish, and fall
a prey to death, before he can rise again to a new life."
10 A considerable portion of this curious
alchemistic work is taken up in expounding the analogy believed to exist
between the Philosopher's Stone and "the Stone which the builders
rejected," Christ Jesus; and the writer concludes: "Thus . . . I have
briefly and simply set forth to you the perfect analogy which exists
between our earthly and chemical and the true and heavenly Stone, Jesus
Christ, whereby we may attain unto certain beatitude and perfection, not
only in earthly but also in eternal life."
11
And likewise says Peter Bonus: "I am firmly persuaded that any
unbeliever who got truly to know this Art, would straightway confess the
truth of our Blessed Religion, and believe in the Trinity and in our
Lord Jesus Christ."
12
