How is alchemy defined?
Alchemy is so multifaceted that any definition restricts alchemy to a particular view or excludes aspects that should come within the realm of the alchemical. One cannot reduce alchemy to practical laboratory work, or to interior meditative work with symbols, or to being only a spiritual pursuit. Anthropological, Jungian, esoteric, history of science, semiotic, or other interpretations, are only ways of looking at alchemy. In recent years some people have tended to use the term in a very broad sense. Definitions of alchemy tend to reflect individual’s underlying philosophical preconception. Perhaps it is best if we found our view of alchemy on the body of alchemical writings, the manuscripts and printed books that constitute and embody the alchemical tradition. This body of alchemical knowledge, preserved in many libraries throughout the world, is probably the securest foundation on which to build a view of alchemy. Those who do not found their opinions and perceptions on this body of
