Elixir of life

Elixir of Life

The Elixir of Life, also known as the Elixir of Immortality and sometimes equated with the Philosopher's Stone, is a potion that supposedly grants the drinker eternal life and/or eternal youth. This elixir was also said to cure all diseases. Alchemists in various ages and cultures sought the means of formulating the elixir.

History

The concept of an elixir of life was originated in the ancient times of Egypt, China, and India. The term elixir was not strictly used for medicine, but for a substance that can be consumed. The elixir of life was also a common topic among alchemists. It was often connected with the Philosopher's Stone, a mythical substance that alchemists believed could turn lead into gold.

In Different Cultures

In Ancient China

In Ancient China, various emperors sought the fabled elixir with varying results. In the Qin Dynasty, Qin Shi Huang sent Taoist alchemist Xu Fu with 500 young men and 500 young women to the eastern seas to find the elixir, but he never returned.

In India

In India, the elixir of life is more commonly referred to as Amrita, a Sanskrit word which means "immortality". The elixir of life was also said to be able to create life.

Modern Interpretations

In modern times, the elixir of life is often associated with the Holy Grail, which is also sometimes equated with eternal life, but is much more often identified with the cup that Jesus used at the Last Supper.

See Also

• Philosopher's Stone
• Alchemy
• Qin Shi Huang
• Amrita

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  White Rabbit making elixir of immortality

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  The expedition of Xu Fu, by Utagawa Kuniyoshi

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  Mohini with amrit

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  Elixir of life