Alchemists
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Alchemists
Alchemists (pronunciation: al-kə-məsts) are individuals who practice Alchemy, an ancient branch of natural philosophy. The term "Alchemist" is derived from the Arabic word "al-kīmiyā" (الكيمياء).
Etymology
The term "Alchemist" comes from the Arabic word "al-kīmiyā" (الكيمياء), which is derived from the Greek word "khēmeía" (χημεία). The word "khēmeía" refers to the art of transmuting metals, which is a central practice in Alchemy.
Related Terms
- Alchemy: An ancient branch of natural philosophy, a philosophical and protoscientific tradition practiced throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia. It aimed to purify, mature, and perfect certain objects.
- Philosopher's Stone: A legendary alchemical substance capable of turning base metals such as mercury into gold or silver.
- Elixir of Life: A mythical potion that, when drunk from a certain cup at a certain time, supposedly grants the drinker eternal life and/or eternal youth.
- Hermeticism: A religious, philosophical, and esoteric tradition based primarily upon writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus ("thrice-greatest Hermes").
- Transmutation: The action of changing or the state of being changed into another form, often used in the context of alchemical practices.
Alchemists in History
Notable alchemists in history include figures like Isaac Newton, Jabir ibn Hayyan, and Nicholas Flamel. These individuals made significant contributions to the field of alchemy, with their works influencing various areas of science and philosophy.
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