decompose and fall into chaos, which subsequently leads to rebirth. 22. Red lion: Symbolizes inner energy and power. In alchemy, it often marks the stage before the climax of the Great Work when the elixir of life is attained.
23. Seven planetary metals: Each visible planet in medieval astrology corresponded to a metal (Gold–Sun, Silver–Moon, Mercury, Copper–Venus, Iron–Mars, Tin–Jupiter, Lead–Saturn).
24. Tree of Life: In alchemy, symbolizes the connection between heavens and earth and is an aspect of spiritual growth and development.
25. Mercury: A complex substance representing both material properties and spiritual aspects. It symbolizes fluidity and transience.
26. Caduceus: A staff entwined by two snakes, symbolizing balance and harmony of opposites, as well as healing and transformation. These symbols emphasize the diversity and spiritual depth of the alchemical tradition, aiming to unite the material and the spiritual.
27. Basilisk: In mythology, a creature with a deadly gaze. In alchemy, it embodies danger and transformative power requiring caution. 28. Anima Mundi: “Soul of the world,” the concept that the universe possesses an inner life force, linking all living beings into a whole. 29. Magnum Opus: The Great Work, the culmination of the alchemical process, the goal sought by alchemists — the creation of the philosopher’s stone or perfect spiritual state.
30. Vitrol: An acronym derived from a Latin phrase meaning deep self-knowledge, serving as the basis for spiritual purification and transformation.
31. Cinnabar: A red mineral used in alchemy symbolizing transformative energy and the rubedo stage — the completion of the Great Work.
32. Dragon conquering itself: A symbol of cyclicality and renewal, the dragon consuming itself embodies the process of self-knowledge and spiritual rebirth.
33. The triad of sulfur, mercury, and salt: These substances represent the basic principles of alchemy — activity (sulfur), fluidity (mercury), and stability (salt).