Alchemy

IMG:p22_2.png:Chinese characters;f5- Zten tan. The mediaeval theories as to the transmutation of metals and the elixir of life exist almost in their entirety in Chinese thought. Dr. Martin and other sinologues have made a strong but not complete case for the origin of alchemy in China; Waiters thinks it had its origin in India; and Giles speaks of it as introduced from the West into China after the Han dynasty. Alchemy has been an important branch of Taoist study. Proceeding from the theory of progre ive evolution (v. Yin and Yang) it was thought that the various forms of matter (v. Five Elements) gradually changed, and that the e ence of man could similarly be modified. Hence Chinese alchemy, as in Europe, had two sections: — (1) Nei Tan ft IMG:p22_3.png:Chinese characters, or spiritual alchemy, in which by ascetic practices, spiritual exercises, communion with virgin nature and the use of natural minerals and vegetable drugs, the body and soul gradually become transformed into the substance and spirit of an ethereal being (Hsien jUl with theurgic powers. Many of the Taoist sages and saints are believed to have thus attained perfection. 23 (2) Wai IMG:p23_1.png:Chinese characters or material alchemy, which aimed at transforming inorganic matter, especially metals. The two great desires of men, — perhaps of Chinese especially, — for long life and for wealth, are thus combined. To what extent such practical knowledge of chemistry as the Chinese have may be due to the researches of alchemists is uncertain. That several Emperors were deceived by Taoist impostors and drank the Elixir vitae is a matter of history. Allegorical language similar to that employed by European alchemists abounds in Chinese books on the subject, and, as in Europe, there is a perplexing tendency to alternate the emphasis on, first, the inner or spiritual proce and, second, the outer or physical proce . Tan fior cinnabar (mercury sulphide) is largely referred to as the matrix from which gold is produced, gradually by nature or rapidly by art. Jade is also an object and material for alchemical proce es. Martin: Hanlin Papers; and Lore of Cathay; Chatley: Alchemy in China, (in Journal of the Alchemical Society). [H.C]