The spelling of the phrase "hermetic art" may seem confusing at first glance, but it can be better understood through phonetic transcription. The word "hermetic" is pronounced /hɜːˈmɛtɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable and the "h" being silent. This word comes from the Greek god Hermes, who was believed to have knowledge of alchemy and mysticism. "Art" is pronounced /ɑːt/ and refers to any craft or skill, often within a creative field. Combined, the phrase "hermetic art" refers to the esoteric practice of alchemy and its related arts.
Hermetic art, also known as hermeticism or esotericism, refers to a philosophical and occult tradition that originates from the teachings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, an ancient Greek-Egyptian figure associated with knowledge, magic, and alchemy. The term "hermetic" comes from the Latin "hermeticus," which is derived from the Greek word "Hermes," signifying a secret or sealed off quality.
Hermetic art encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including but not limited to astrology, alchemy, divination, and the occult sciences. It is characterized by its emphasis on hidden knowledge, spiritual transformation, and the pursuit of personal enlightenment. Practitioners of hermetic art seek to access and understand the spiritual and metaphysical realms through various esoteric practices and rituals.
This tradition is rooted in the principle of correspondence, which suggests that there is a hidden interconnectedness and harmony between the microcosm (humanity) and the macrocosm (the universe). It teaches that by studying and aligning oneself with these universal principles, one can gain profound insights, wisdom, and even mastery over natural forces.
Hermetic art often employs symbols, rituals, and metaphysical concepts as tools for understanding, personal growth, and spiritual transcendence. The practice of alchemy, for example, focuses on the transformation of material substances but also serves as a symbolic representation of the inner process of spiritual liberation and self-realization.
Overall, hermetic art is a multifaceted tradition that seeks to explore the hidden dimensions of reality, transcend mundane existence, and attain spiritual enlightenment through a combination of esoteric knowledge, mystical experiences, and practical application.
Alchemy, chemistry.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hermetic" is derived from "Hermes", the ancient Greek god associated with knowledge, wisdom, and communication. The Hermetic tradition refers to the philosophical and mystical teachings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, who was believed to be a legendary figure combining elements of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth.
The term "hermetic art" typically refers to alchemy, an ancient philosophical and protoscientific practice that aimed to transform base metals into noble ones and sought the elixir of life or the philosopher's stone. Alchemists believed that these transformative processes were secrets revealed by Hermes Trismegistus.
The etymology of the word "art" in this context comes from the Latin word "ars", which refers to a skill or a craft.