ALCHEMY
European alchemy is often described as the medieval forerunner of modern chemistry, yet in reality it was also a spiritual and philosophic tradition. The purpose of this tradition was the attainment of enlightenment, or spiritual perfection, through self-knowledge. The practice of alchemy was inspired by various symbols and arcane forms of knowledge, much of which are claimed to originated from ancient Middle Eastern or Far Eastern sources. Because the nature of this knowledge attracted the ire of the Christian church, alchemists evolved a complex language of symbols and enigmatic devices that were recognisable only to the initiated. This culture of secrecy is the cause of much ignorance and misinformation about the true nature of alchemy which is still practised today.