Hermetic Philosophy and Creative Alchemy: The Emerald Tablet, the Corpus Hermeticum, and the Journey through the Seven Spheres

by Marlene Seven Bremner

• Examines the foundational texts and principles of Hermeticism and alchemy, showing how they offer a foundation for a psycho-spiritual creative practice

• Takes the reader on a Hermetic journey through each of the seven traditional planets, offering meditative discourses that speak directly to the intuitive soul

• Provides examples from traditional alchemical art and the author’s own intricate esoteric paintings

Drawing on ancient Egyptian and Greek cosmogonies and essential Hermetic texts, such as the Corpus Hermeticum, the Emerald Tablet (Tabula Smaragdina), and the Nag Hammadi codices, Marlene Seven Bremner offers a detailed understanding of Hermetic philosophy and the art of alchemy as a foundation for a psycho-spiritual creative practice. Offering examples from traditional alchemical art and her own intricate esoteric paintings, Bremner examines the foundational principles of Hermeticism and alchemy and shows how these traditions are a direct means for accessing higher consciousness and true self-knowledge, or gnosis, as well as a way to extract the essence of one’s own creative gifts.

The author takes the reader on a Hermetic journey through each of the seven traditional planets--Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, the Sun, Venus, Mercury, and the Moon--exploring their mythological, philosophical, alchemical, Qabalistic, magical, astrological, and energetic natures and offering meditative discourses that reach past the rational mind to speak directly to the intuitive soul. She relates the seven planets to the esoteric anatomy of the human body, specifically the seven chakras, and shows how the planets can offer understanding and experience of archetypal energies and patterns in the body, in one’s life, and in the creative process.

A profound synthesis of magical and occult teachings as well as an initiation into the alchemical opus, this book reveals how to integrate and apply Hermetic and alchemical principles to awaken inner knowing, liberate the imagination, and live a mystical, creative, and truly inspired life.

Genres: Occult, Magick, Spirituality, Alchemy, Nonfiction

376 pages, Hardcover

Published September 27, 2022

Reviews

[no.stache.nietzsche · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely introductory book to this topic, very much enjoyed the reading by the author and will likely purchase a physical text in future when returning to the topic of Hermeticism specifically.

Short chapters that provide a contextual overview accessible to those just starting out on this path.. which is much needed. Trying to jump into Jung or Evola's work on alchemy can be quite a slog, but Bremner provides a breezy read. It is only an introduction, but that's just what we were looking for!

[Alicia Rae of Sunshine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been reading a lot of books on hermetic philosophy lately, and this one really seemed to cover and sum everything up, while also providing detailed insight into these secret teachings. I listened to the audio book, which was great the authors voice is pleasant and easy to understand. but I think I will also purchase this book to have a hard copy on hand to use as a reference and guide. I will also have to listen to the audiobook again because there was just so much information provided, and it's a lot to wrap your head around.

[Dodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually listened to this book and I will listen to it again. There was a lot of interesting information. The author draws on ancient Egyptian and Greek mythology and hermetic text and using spiritual alchemy. The author also takes you on a journey through the plants and Qabalistic and focuses on how that relates to one’s life and the creative process. The audible version does come with an accompanying PDF but it does not equal to the illustrations in the book.

[Olga · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly masterful and engaging book on hermetic cosmogeny and the evolution of the soul from matter to mind. The author draws from 1000s of years of history, art, mythology, and astrology to create a living picture of alchemical process as means of personal growth and attaining gnosis. One of the best books on this topic I've read on this topic. The depth of research really shines through.

[Ana Isabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a stunning book. Marlene has given us an in depth, comprehensive and detailed understanding of the founding principles of Hermeticism and the Alchemical process. For those who wish to deepen their understanding of themselves through tapping into ancients concepts, imagery and symbolism, this book is perfect.

[Cass Coste · Rating 5 out of 5]

I may not be religious, but I’ve found the words and wisdom to describe my philosophy. An absolute masterpiece.

[Mitchell Stern · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice introduction to Hermetic ideas.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very educational, and enlightening. Looking forward to the next installment

[Rudyard L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid book. The thing this one really does well which other books on the Hermetica dont is explain the 7 planetary gods. Was looking on a summary of that for years