FERMENTATION
There are seven stages of transformation in the alchemical process which an initiate must undergo to achieve spiritual perfection. The fifth one of these stages is Fermentation:
Fermentation is a two-stepped process that begins with the putrefaction of the hermaphroditic "child" from the Conjunction resulting in its death and resurrection to a new level of being. A Fermentation phase then introduces new life into the product of Conjunction to strengthen it and insure its survival.
Psychologically, the Fermentation process starts with the inspiration of spiritual power from above that reanimates, energizes, and enlightens the alchemist. Out of the blackness of his Putrefaction comes the yellow Ferment, which appears like a golden wax flowing out of the foul matter of the Soul. Its arrival is announced by a brilliant display of colors and meaningful visions called the "Peacock’s Tail." Fermentation can be achieved through various activities that include intense prayer, desire for mystical union, breakdown of the personality, transpersonal therapy, psychedelic drugs, and deep meditation. Fermentation is living inspiration from something totally beyond us.