
audiobook
by Arthur Edward Waite, Francis Barrett
LIVES OF ALCHEMYSTICAL PHILOSOPHERS.
PREFACE.
ANALYSIS OF CONTENTS.
INTRODUCTORY ESSAY
ON THE PHYSICAL THEORY AND PRACTICE OF THE MAGNUM OPUS.
LIVES OF THE ALCHEMISTS.
GEBER.
RHASIS.
ALFARABI.
AVICENNA.
A freshly edited version of a rare 19th‑century compilation brings the world of alchemical thinkers to life for modern ears. Drawing on the original 1815 collection and the author’s latest research, the work trims archaic language while preserving the depth of each philosopher’s story, from medieval mystics to Renaissance chemists. An expanded alphabetical catalogue of hermetic writings offers a handy roadmap for anyone keen to explore the hidden literature of the tradition.
Beyond biographical sketches, the volume presents a concise yet thoughtful essay on the true principles of the Magnum Opus, linking material transmutation to the notion of spiritual chemistry. Listeners will gain a clear sense of how these thinkers imagined the relationship between physical practice and inner transformation, all without the dense jargon of older texts. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned student of occult history, the book provides a compelling, well‑structured entry point into the enduring mystery of alchemy.
Full title
Lives of alchemystical philosophers To which is added a bibliography of alchemy and hermetic philosophy To which is added a bibliography of alchemy and hermetic philosophy
Language
en
Duration
~9 hours (557K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Original publisher
George Redway, 1888.
Credits
deaurider, Amber Black and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
Release date
Aug 5, 2022
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1857–1942
A key figure in modern occult literature, he wrote widely on mysticism, ceremonial magic, and secret traditions, and is best known as the co-creator of the Rider–Waite tarot deck.
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Best known for The Magus (1801), this mysterious English writer helped carry older magical and occult traditions into the modern age. Little is known about his life, which only adds to the fascination around his work.
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