The Alchemist's Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy
The Alchemist's Handbook · Praktiche Alchemie im Zwanzigstem Jahrhundert
Source entries are currently shown in Spanish; English-first entries arrive with the next cataloguing pass.
El volumen se presenta como manual de laboratorio para principiantes, y su autor acota desde el prefacio a qué se compromete y a qué no: «For the neophyte on the path, Alchemy undoubtedly represents a great quest. To help ease somewhat the commencement of its study, the contents of this book—in the author's opinion—represent an aid in the form of an essential, yet simple, outline for the pursuance of practical laboratory Alchemy» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 10». El título, dice, es el programa: «May it become what the title indicates, namely: a handbook for alchemystical novices» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 11».
La definición del objeto cabe en una frase, y el libro la repite dos veces como piedra de toque: «What, then, is Alchemy? It is “the raising of vibrations”.» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 14». De ahí sale el deslinde con la lectura solo erudita y con la promesa de oro: quien no vea sentido en esa frase, sostiene el capítulo primero, no tiene derecho a experimentar «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 15».
El reparto del arte en dos circulaciones organiza el libro entero y explica su recorte: «In Alchemy there are the lesser and greater circulations. The former pertains to the herbal kingdom and the latter to the most coveted of them all, the mineral (metallic) realm» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 14». Lo que el manual detalla paso a paso es la menor —el elixir vegetal, con su hierba, su alcohol, su extractor Soxhlet y sus cenizas—; de la mayor da la teoría, el Apéndice y las advertencias «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 30».
La filiación que declara es de práctica, no de linaje: «It represents an honest conviction based on practical experimentation in a university laboratory, as well as extensive tests and investigation in my private laboratory, originally founded on a firm belief in the truth to be discovered in the concealed teachings of the Alchemists—especially those of Paracelsus and Basilius Valentinus, and the authors of the Collectanea Chemica» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 10». El marco doctrinal que pone encima es hermético, con el axioma citado en su forma doble: «Hermetic philosophy, with its practical arcanum, repeats itself over and over again in the ancient axiom: “As above, so below. As below, so above.”» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 16».
Contra el secreto de los adeptos antiguos, el segundo prefacio hace del carácter público de la enseñanza el argumento de validez: «More than a decade of practical laboratory work taught openly with no cloak of secrecy or any oath of silence should be proof of the validity of this work» «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 13». El mismo volumen sostiene a la vez que el manto de secreto sobre los procesos alquímicos debe permanecer; las dos afirmaciones se consignan sin armonizar «Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 14».
1071 claims · 2 sources · 1 attribution
Attribution
recorded, never asserted«Frater Albertus — The Alchemist's Handbook (1974) · p. 4»
The chain of the work
the processed witness, in emeraldClaims
1071 entries — the work's own voice, with its passage«. . . out of the mists of doubt and despair emerge the twelve symbolic human types. On their way to the temple of wisdom, to receive their initiation into the mysteries, are they contemplating the new responsibilities awaiting them. It is the beginning of a new phase of life eternal is The entry into the Sanctum Sanctorum Spiritii of the Alchemists. . . .» — el pie de la lámina de apertura, *On the Way to the Temple*: doce tipos humanos simbólicos salen de la niebla de la duda camino del templo de la sabiduría, y su iniciación en los misterios se enuncia como entrada al Sanctum Sanctorum Spiritii de los alquimistas. La sintaxis del renglón central va tal cual la imprime el troceo
«This little volume has been prepared under great difficulties, due to the immense scope of the subject matter and the consequent necessity of abbreviating so much valuable material. And yet it is almost impossible to condense this presentation of arcane knowledge without running the risk of causing greater confusion in the reader's mind.» — el problema de escala con que abre el prefacio a la primera edición: la materia obliga a abreviar, y abreviar arriesga confundir más al lector
«Whoever cannot comprehend what follows, has no alternative but to forget the whole matter for the time being.» — la salida que el autor le ofrece a quien no entienda lo que sigue: dejar el asunto por ahora
«I sense the rebuff awaiting me from students of the abstract sciences, and their accusation of empiricism, for presenting this work.» — la objeción que él mismo anticipa: la acusación de empirismo por parte de los estudiosos de las ciencias abstractas
«However, this does not justify an apology on my part for what has been set forth in these pages.» — su respuesta a esa objeción: no da lugar a disculpa
«The ushering in of the Atomic Age should have made it comparatively easy to lay aside some of the prejudices which were previously held, yet they are still partially sustained by an incongruous criterion.» — lo que esperaba de la era atómica, según el prefacio, y lo que dice haber encontrado: los prejuicios siguen en pie sostenidos por un criterio incongruente
«Why is it so unreasonable to assume—casting aside the overwhelming percentage of charlatans and imposters who called themselves Alchemists—that men such as Paracelsus and Valentinus did speak the truth about their discoveries?» — la pregunta con que separa a los charlatanes de los alquimistas que tomaría en serio, Paracelso y Valentinus entre ellos
«Is it because of what may seem an absurd terminology intermixed with metaphysical symbolism?» — la causa que le atribuye al descrédito: una terminología aparentemente absurda mezclada con simbolismo metafísico
«A “Red Lion” or “Peacock's Tail” become, therefore, impossible childish nonsense, for the simple reason that, in current technical terminology, word combination such as “tetraphenylethylene dichloride”1 are standard expression in the world of science.» — el argumento de simetría que opone: el León Rojo y la Cola del Pavo Real se descartan por infantiles mientras el *tetraphenylethylene dichloride* pasa por expresión normal de la ciencia
«However, to the layman it represents only a meaningless scramble of letters and numbers. The chemical terminology, likewise, conveys no meaning to him.» — el otro lado de esa simetría: para el lego la fórmula química es un revoltijo sin sentido
«Valentinus, who, with Paracelsus, shares fame as the Father of Modern Chemistry and Medicine» — la posición que adjudica a Basilius Valentinus y a Paracelso: padres de la química y la medicina modernas
«Though I have a peculiar style in writing, which will seem strange unto many, causing strange thoughts and fancies in their brains, yet there is reason enough for me so doing; I say enough that I may remain by my own experience, not esteeming much of others prating, because it is concealed in by knowledge, seeing having alwaies the preheminence before hearing, and reason hath the praise before folly.» — lo que cita de Valentinus sobre su propio estilo: escribe raro con razón suficiente, atenido a su experiencia y no al parloteo ajeno, porque el ver tendría precedencia sobre el oír. La voz es de Valentinus, no del autor; el renglón imprime *in by knowledge* y *alwaies*, tal cual el troceo
«To the scientist, this may smack too much of empiricism and will be disparagingly discarded by him.» — lo que augura para ese pasaje en manos del científico: sabrá demasiado a empirismo
«Is it really so unreasonable to accept the symbolism and word combinations of the Alchemists of the Middle Ages in the same light that we now take for granted the assertions of science?» — la pregunta con que cierra el argumento: aceptar el simbolismo de los alquimistas medievales del mismo modo en que se dan por buenas las afirmaciones de la ciencia
«In the following pages, should my hypotheses become evident to the reader, may they represent an attempt to keep the torch gleaming in these times of Stygian darkness.» — la figura con que describe lo que intenta el libro: mantener encendida la antorcha en tiempos de oscuridad estigia
«Centuries ago this flame was lighted by Alchemists whose names eventually will be honored by the children of those now making vain efforts to ridicule them.» — el pronóstico que añade: los hijos de quienes hoy ridiculizan a los alquimistas terminarán honrando sus nombres
«It is anticipated that this handbook will not see an enormously large edition, since only a few may want to own a work on a subject which has fallen into such ill repute.» — lo que espera de la tirada: pocos querrán un libro sobre una materia tan desacreditada
«Yet, those who have tried for some time to start experimentation in their laboratories in order to discover if there really is truth to be found in Alchemy, will find welcome and perhaps valuable help in its contents.» — a quién se dirige entonces: a quienes ya llevan tiempo experimentando para averiguar si hay verdad en la alquimia
«There is no doubt in the author's mind that serious and prepared students can accomplish what is outlined in these pages.» — la garantía que da, en tercera persona: un estudiante serio y preparado puede lograr lo que el libro describe
«Many years have elapsed since the writing of the present manuscript. After due deliberation, it has been considered timely now to hand it to the printer, so that others may benefit from it.» — el dato de composición que declara: el manuscrito llevaba años escrito antes de mandarlo a la imprenta
«FRATER ALBERTUS Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.A. May 6, 1960» — la firma y la data del prefacio a la primera edición, con el nombre de orden que el volumen usa en lugar del civil
«letter and number combinations are no puzzle to one initiated into the marvels of chemistry.» — el otro lado del argumento de simetría, que sigue tras el salto de plana: para quien está iniciado en las maravillas de la química, letras y números no son enigma
«One of the aromatic halogen derivatives.» — la única nota al pie del prefacio, que aclara qué es el *tetraphenylethylene dichloride* que acaba de nombrar
«It is with thanks that acknowledgment is given to Stanley Hurbert and Percy Robert Bremer, both Paracelsus Research Society students, for their efforts to revise the first edition of “The Alchemist's Handbook.”» — el agradecimiento con que abre el prefacio a la segunda edición revisada: Stanley Hurbert y Percy Robert Bremer, alumnos de la Paracelsus Research Society, revisaron la primera
«Their help in this second edition is much appreciated since in its first appearance the book was full of typographical and grammatical error. The final proofs were read but the corrections not made before going to press. These errors have now been corrected.» — lo que declara de la primera edición: salió llena de erratas tipográficas y gramaticales porque se leyeron las pruebas y no se aplicaron las correcciones antes de imprimir
«It is to be hoped that by carefully following the instructions the practical results which may be obtained will prove of help to the serious sti dent of Alchemy with visible manifestations in the laboratory.» — lo que promete a cambio de seguir las instrucciones con cuidado: resultados prácticos con manifestación visible en el laboratorio
«That such results are obtainable is beyond question as a great number of the students who have studied practical alchemy with the Paracelsus Research Society can testify.» — la prueba que ofrece: el testimonio de los muchos alumnos que estudiaron alquimia práctica con la Paracelsus Research Society
«This applies not only to the Lesser Work with plants, but also to minerals and metals.» — el alcance que le da a ese testimonio: no solo la Obra Menor con plantas, también minerales y metales
«More than a decade of practical laboratory work taught openly with no cloak of secrecy or any oath of silence should be proof of the validity of this work.» — el argumento de validez del segundo prefacio: más de una década de laboratorio enseñado abiertamente, sin manto de secreto ni juramento de silencio
«What is Alchemy? This is the first and most vital question to be answered before a study of the following pages should be undertaken.» — la pregunta con que abre el capítulo primero, puesta como condición de todo lo que sigue
«If the reader has no previous knowledge of Alchemy and, moreover, no knowledge through conscientious study concerning mysticism, occultism, or related subjects, the answer to the above question will have little meaning.» — el requisito previo que pone: sin estudio de misticismo, ocultismo o materias afines, la respuesta no significaría nada
«For this reason it is wise not to attempt to experiment with the laboratory outlines that follow. These experiments are only for those who have spent considerable time in spagyric research and who have proven to themselves that an honest endeavor has prevailed and that this same endeavor still motivates their true search for the highest Arcana, the lapis philosophorum.» — a quién reserva los experimentos del libro: a quien lleve tiempo en investigación espagírica y se haya probado a sí mismo la honestidad de su busca
«As all students of alchemystical literature have come to realize that the exact process for the opus magnum has never been completely revealed in simple language or put into print, they will appreciate the fact that here is given a detailed description of the lesser circulation.» — lo que declara nuevo en su manual: el proceso del *opus magnum* nunca se habría revelado entero en lengua llana, y aquí se da en cambio la descripción detallada de la circulación menor
«A correct understanding, and not just knowledge, of the herbal process will open the gate to the great Arcanum.» — la relación que traza entre las dos obras: entender —no solo saber— el proceso vegetal abriría la puerta al gran Arcano
«The fact that Alchemy is a life's work will be accepted by those who have spent months and years behind books and retorts.» — lo que llama el hecho significativo: la alquimia es obra de una vida, y eso lo aceptaría quien haya pasado meses y años entre libros y retortas
«It is this significant fact which provides our spagyric art with such an armor that no materialist can pierce it.» — la función que le da a ese hecho: sería la armadura que ningún materialista atraviesa
«If it were not for the cleansing, purging, and aging of the alchemist-to-be over a great length of time, like the subjectum he is working with, how could it be kept from the profane and the unworthy?» — el argumento con que justifica el secreto: sin la limpieza y el envejecimiento largo del futuro alquimista —como el *subjectum* con que trabaja—, nada lo mantendría lejos de los indignos
«Only that which has stood the test of fire has been purified.» — la fórmula con que lo cierra: solo lo que pasó la prueba del fuego quedó purificado
«That there is still a cloak of secrecy covering alchemical processes, and that this must yet remain so will have to be accepted by all aspiring alchemists.» — lo que pide dar por sentado: el manto de secreto sobre los procesos sigue y debe seguir. Contrasta con el argumento de validez del segundo prefacio, que hace de la enseñanza abierta la prueba del método; el libro sostiene las dos cosas
«For personal greed has no place in Alchemy. The aim of all true Adepts is to help relieve a suffering mankind in its physical and spiritual misery.» — el fin que adjudica a los adeptos verdaderos, contra la codicia personal: aliviar la miseria física y espiritual de la humanidad
«My friends of the medical profession, as well as the pharmaceutical chemists, will readily disagree with me when reading what follows. This must be taken for granted and, in fact, has been so since what is presented here is so foreign to the standardized teachings in present day medical colleges.» — el desacuerdo que anticipa con médicos y químicos farmacéuticos, y la razón que le atribuye: lo que expone es ajeno a la enseñanza normalizada de las facultades
«Since I agree with them, on their terms, it is only fair to ask that they think of the contents of this book in the terms of an alchemist.» — lo que pide a cambio: que piensen el contenido del libro en términos de alquimista, ya que él les concede los suyos
«No attempt is being made here to write on allopathic therapeutics. This shall be left to those versed in this particular branch of healing.» — el deslinde que hace con la terapéutica alopática, que deja a los versados en esa rama
«Since the scope of Alchemy is so immense, one earthly incarnation in many, if not most, cases is an insufficient time for the full completion of the work.» — el marco de reencarnación con que mide el alcance del arte: una vida terrena no bastaría en la mayoría de los casos
«In climbing the alchemist's ladder, there are many tribulations to consider involving time, money, heartaches—to mention only a few of the difficult steps. The aspirant then should think long and well before undertaking such an ordeal, for if he is not prepared all will prove unsuccessful.» — el costo que enumera —tiempo, dinero, sinsabores— y la advertencia de pensarlo bien antes de empezar
«The process in both the lesser and greater circulation is basically not expensive. In fact, it is relatively insignificant.» — lo que dice del costo material del proceso mismo: básicamente barato, casi insignificante
«It is for these reasons that an urgent appeal is made not to venture rashly into Alchemy, not to see oneself sitting in perfect personal health at the end of a rainbow with the world at one's feet and with full pots of glistening gold.» — contra qué previene: la imagen de terminar con salud perfecta, el mundo a los pies y ollas de oro
«These are only illusions and will prove to be but sensational and glamorous fata morgana; they will not satisfy the soul. There is more to be gained in Alchemy than vainglory.» — cómo llama a esa imagen: ilusiones, un espejismo sensacional que no satisfaría al alma
«He who sees no meaning in this seemingly unimportant sentence has no right to attempt alchemical experimentation.» — la condición que pone para experimentar: quien no vea sentido en la frase sobre la elevación de las vibraciones no tendría derecho a intentarlo
«Such a person is like one who claims that since he knows all the letters of the alphabet he can, therefore, read any language as they are all composed of letters from the same alphabet.» — el símil con que la explica: sería como creer que sabiendo el alfabeto se lee cualquier lengua
«It is questionable whether or not historical references to Alchemists of the past have a place in these pages. There have been so many books published already that have made it their business to elaborate on the history and romance of Alchemy.» — el recorte que declara: no hará historia ni biografía de los alquimistas, materia ya tratada de sobra
«Our emphasis falls, rather, on present-day alchemystical experimentation, conducted in accordance with age-old practices.» — dónde pone el acento en cambio: experimentación alquímica de hoy, conducida según prácticas antiguas
«Our aim in these pages is to attempt to demonstrate and to reveal the truth of Alchemy in contemporary language, while still remaining in harmony with ancient rules and rituals, according to the Alchemist's Oath.» — el fin que se propone: exponer la verdad de la alquimia en lengua contemporánea sin salir de las reglas y rituales antiguos
«The practice of Alchemy, not only in earlier times but in our own day as well, should be undertaken only with the greatest solemnity.» — la solemnidad que exige a la práctica, entonces como ahora
«This can best be illustrated by the following oath from Theatrum Chemicum Britannicum (London, 1652). This oath, in only slightly modified form, is still being used by present day Adepts» — de dónde toma el juramento que reproduce: el *Theatrum Chemicum Britannicum*, Londres 1652, y su declaración de que los adeptos de hoy lo siguen usando apenas modificado
«Will you with me tomorrow be content, Faithfully to receive the blessed Sacrament, Upon this Oath that I shall heere you give, For ne Gold ne Silver as long as you live, Neither for love you beare towards your Kinne, Nor yet to no great Man preferment to wynne: That you disclose the secret that I shall you teach, Neither by writing nor by no swift speech; But only to him which you be sure Hath ever searched after the seacrets of Nature? To him you may reveale the seacrets of this Art, Under the Covering of Philosophic before this world yee depart.”» — el juramento mismo, en su grafía del siglo XVII: recibir el sacramento y no revelar el secreto por oro ni plata, ni por parentesco ni por medrar con un poderoso, sino solo a quien haya buscado los secretos de la Naturaleza. La voz es del *Theatrum Chemicum Britannicum*, no del autor
«Sooner or later, most students experience a desire to find an Adept in order to become his pupil or disciple. But no matter how sincere such a desire is, it is futile for the student to attempt to locate a teacher versed in the Grand Arcanum.» — lo que declara fútil: buscar por cuenta propia un adepto que enseñe el Gran Arcano
«When the pupil is ready, the Master will appear.” This ancient precept still holds true.» — el precepto que opone a esa busca, y que dice vigente
«An honest heart, a clean heart, a true heart, a benevolent and contrite heart accomplishes more than all the book learning can ever do.» — lo que pone por encima del estudio: un corazón honesto, limpio, verdadero, benévolo y contrito
«Yet, strangely enough, learning must accompany the virtues just cited. Without a knowledge and an understanding of natural laws and their corresponding spiritual parallels, no one could ever truly be called an Alchemist or a Sage.» — el límite que le pone a lo anterior: sin conocimiento de las leyes naturales y sus paralelos espirituales nadie sería alquimista ni sabio
«I am not attempting to vindicate Alchemy. It needs no vindication.» — la posición que adopta frente a la disputa: no vindica la alquimia, dice, porque no lo necesitaría
«He who has read about the lives of the Alchemists has found that most often many years had to elapse before their goal was reached.» — lo que enseñan las vidas de los alquimistas, según él: casi siempre pasaban muchos años antes de alcanzar la meta
«Not everyone was as fortunate as Eirenaeus Philalethes who writes that in his 23rd year that great blessing in the form of the lapis philosophorum was attained.» — el caso excepcional que nombra: Eirenaeus Philalethes, que escribe haber alcanzado el *lapis philosophorum* a los veintitrés años
«Many had to await another incarnation before they proved themselves worthy and ready to receive it.» — el contraste que le pone: a otros les habría hecho falta otra encarnación
«Since everything that grows comes from a seed, the fruit must be contained in its seed. Mark this well, for here lies the secret of creation.» — el axioma del que hace depender todo: si todo lo que crece viene de una semilla, el fruto está contenido en ella
«Herbs, animals, as well as minerals and metals, grow from seed.» — el alcance que le da: hierbas, animales, minerales y metales crecen de semilla
«Once this is known, then only the proper understanding is necessary in order to obtain results in the raising or elevating of specimen, which is nothing else but transmutation.» — la identidad que enuncia: elevar el espécimen no sería otra cosa que transmutación
«If we can help nature in her ultimate goal, that of bringing her products to perfection, then we are in harmony with her laws.» — la condición de legitimidad del arte: ayudar a la naturaleza a llevar sus productos a la perfección
«Nature does not resent an artificial effort, or a shortcut, to bring about perfection.» — la objeción que sale a responder: el atajo artificial no ofendería a la naturaleza
«illustrate: the seed of a tomato may be put into the ground late in the fall. Snow and ice may cover it during the winter. But no tomato plant will grow during this time, outdoors in freezing temperatures. However, if the same seed is planted inside where sufficient warmth and moisture is provided, and if it is placed in the proper matrix it will grow into a plant and bear fruit. This is not contrary to nature. It is in harmony with the natural laws. For fire (heat), water, air, and earth are all that are necessary to cause a seed to grow and bear its predestined fruit.» — el ejemplo del tomate con que lo muestra: la misma semilla que no prospera bajo la nieve da fruto dentro, con calor, humedad y matriz adecuada, y eso estaría en armonía con las leyes naturales
«The life force originates not in fire, earth, air, and water. This life force is a separate essence which fills the universe.» — dónde niega que esté la fuerza vital —no en los cuatro elementos— y qué le adjudica: una esencia aparte que llena el universo
«This essence, or fifth essence (quintessence), is the truly important object that alchemists seek. It is the fifth of the four: fire, water, air, and earth, and is the most important one for the alchemist to find and then to separate.» — la definición operativa de la quintaesencia que da el capítulo: la quinta de las cuatro, y lo que el alquimista debe hallar y separar
«A chemist may know all the formulas and all the abbreviations of chemical terminology, but does he also understand» — el mismo símil aplicado al químico: sabría todas las fórmulas y abreviaturas de su terminología, y la pregunta queda cortada por el salto de plana
«what they really are? Their true origin? Their first state?» — la continuación de esa pregunta en la plana siguiente: qué son realmente, cuál es su verdadero origen, cuál su primer estado
«This oily substance, or alchemical Sulphur, is just as essential to alchemical preparations as Salt and Essence.» — el nombre que le da a ese aceite y el rango que le adjudica: Azufre alquímico, tan esencial a la preparación como la Sal y la Esencia
«I do not wish to go into this any further at this point, as this will be treated more explicitly later on.» — el aplazamiento que anuncia: el Azufre se trata más adelante
«A repetition of certain phrases and sentences may be found throughout this book. This is not arbitrary; they have been purposely inserted in order to emphasize certain important points more strongly.» — la razón que da para las repeticiones del libro: subrayar los puntos importantes, no descuido
«Much that is written here must be reread many a time in order to lift the veil. This only can be accomplished individually by each student. That which follows will be discovered when the practical experimentation takes place in the laboratory.» — lo que pide del lector: releer muchas veces para levantar el velo, porque lo que sigue solo se descubre experimentando
«Now to the alchemist's laboratory. This usually takes on a sinister coloring as one's imagination runs wild. Even today, so-called religious people are inclined to discuss Alchemy in rather subdued whispers because, so they claim, it is the devil's work.» — lo que sale a desmarcar: la coloración siniestra del laboratorio y el reproche de que sería obra del diablo
«We must ignore those that have religious scruples against Alchemy, as we do not intend to convert anybody.» — la posición que adopta frente a esos escrúpulos religiosos: ignorarlos, sin ánimo de convertir a nadie
«Everything in the laboratory revolves around the fire or its emanation: heat. The rest is composed of a few flasks, a condenser, and some ingenuity.» — el inventario mínimo del laboratorio, según él: fuego o su emanación, unos matraces, un condensador y algo de ingenio
«Just as an artist needs only canvas, paint, and brushes to paint a picture, but may add an indefinite number of other related objects to his studio,» — el símil con que lo defiende, y que el salto de plana corta: al pintor le bastan lienzo, pintura y pinceles, aunque pueda añadir lo que quiera al taller
«so may an alchemist add other related equipment as he sees fit.» — la continuación de ese símil en la plana siguiente: el alquimista añade equipo según le parezca
«A corner in an attic or a place in the basement is sufficient, as long as there is a continuous source of heat available.» — lo que da por suficiente como local: un rincón del desván o del sótano, con fuente continua de calor
«He who wishes to practice our spagyric work will have to do all the work himself.» — la regla de trabajo que impone: quien quiera practicar la obra espagírica tiene que hacerlo todo él mismo
«Those who wait for a complete description, in similar language, of the Grand Arcanum will wait in vain. It cannot be given. It is not permissible.» — el límite que declara: no dará descripción completa del Gran Arcano en lengua llana, y no por falta de espacio sino porque no estaría permitido
«But—and this is of utmost significance—he who can accomplish in his laboratory what the following pages present by way of instruction, can surely accomplish the Grand Arcanum, if he is ready.» — la promesa que sí hace: quien logre en su laboratorio lo que estas páginas enseñan podría lograr el Gran Arcano, si está listo
«The preparation may take years or even tens of years. No time limit can be set.» — el plazo que da para esa preparación: años o decenas de años, sin límite fijable
«But to those who are ready to travel the royal road of Alchemy, I say, “Patience! Patience! Patience! Think and live cleanly and charitably and dwell always in truth—that which you honestly consider and believe to be the truth.» — el consejo que da al neófito, con la paciencia repetida tres veces y la verdad medida por convicción propia
«The wisdom of the Sages represents a culmination of all that is essential for men to have faith in, knowledge of, and understanding about.» — lo que llama sabiduría de los Sabios: la culminación de todo lo que hace falta creer, saber y entender
«To reach this goal of enlightenment, the struggle in this mundane shell need not be of a violent nature, as some want us to believe; rather it should be a constant alertness to the possibilities that confront us in our daily lives, to raise our thought world above the drudgery of this everyday life, and eventually to find the peace within us.» — el método que propone para la iluminación, contra quienes la piden violenta: alerta constante en la vida diaria y paz interior
«If one has not undergone the Alchemy of the inner self, or transcendental Alchemy, as it has been termed, he will find it extremely difficult to obtain results in his practical laboratory experimentation.» — la condición interior que pone al trabajo de laboratorio: sin la alquimia del yo interno, o alquimia trascendental, los resultados serían difíciles
«It is not sufficient only to know; it is understanding that crowns our work.» — el deslinde entre saber y entender, con el que corona la sección
«In Alchemy there is only one way that leads to results. The aspirant must show his worthiness and his sufficient preparation. This preparation extends over many and varied subjects, but most of all does it concern the search for truth.» — la única vía que reconoce: el aspirante debe probar su dignidad y su preparación, y sobre todo su busca de la verdad
«There must be a love for mankind that knows no passion, a readiness to gladly share one's entrusted material possessions with others, and a willingness to put the needs of mankind above personal desires.» — las virtudes que exige antes de nada: amor sin pasión, disposición a compartir lo propio y anteponer lo de la humanidad al deseo personal
«We is the term in which we will think. We, God and I, humanity and I become entwined.» — el desplazamiento de persona gramatical con que describe la iluminación: se pasa a pensar en *nosotros*, con Dios y la humanidad entrelazados
«The wise men, Sages, Adepts or whatever names we may give them, those who have become illuminated, meet on the same plane. They have climbed to the mountain top. Theirs is the mastership over the world below.» — la figura con que ubica a los iluminados: todos en el mismo plano, en la cima del monte, con maestría sobre el mundo de abajo
«Those in the valley, twisting and turning and searching behind obstacles are too close to the pattern of events to see it.» — el contraste que le pone: los del valle están demasiado cerca del patrón de los hechos para verlo
«Sages read Nature as an open book printed in clear type whose sentences they fully understand.» — el símil con que cierra: los Sabios leen la Naturaleza como libro abierto en letra clara
«The writings left us by the Sages are typical for the correspondence of their thoughts and explanations. All agree with one another.» — la tesis de concordia que sostiene sobre los escritos de los Sabios: todos concuerdan entre sí
«After such a separation has taken place, the answer to what lies behind the secret of creation will then manifest itself partly in the form of a dense smoke-like vapor that settles, after» — lo que dice manifestarse tras separar la quintaesencia: parte del secreto de la creación como vapor denso y humoso que se asienta. El renglón queda cortado por el fin de plana
«passing through the condenser tube, into a water-like substance of a yellowish color carrying with itself something oily which gives the tinge to the extracted water.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: pasado el tubo del condensador, el vapor cae como sustancia acuosa amarillenta que arrastra algo oleoso
«Only the uninitiated believes he detects inconsistencies and seeming» — cómo explica las contradicciones aparentes entre los Sabios; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«contradictions, due to a lack of understanding. Exemplary in its precision and profundity are the seven points dealing with Rosicrucian concepts as given during an extra curricular lecture to students of The Rose Croix University by the late eminent Sovereign Grand Master of that Order, Thor Kiimaletho» — la continuación en la plana siguiente, con la fuente que pone como ejemplo de precisión: los siete puntos rosacruces de una conferencia extracurricular de Thor Kiimaletho, Soberano Gran Maestro de la Rose Croix University, en la grafía del troceo
«The following is quoted from his lecture, “The Basic Rosicrucian Concepts”:» — el rótulo con que introduce la cita: la conferencia se titula así
«1. The Origin of the Universe is Divine. The Universe is a manifestation of, and an emanation from, the One Absolute Cosmic Being. All manifestations of life are centers of consciousness and expressions of the One Life within the framework of its material limitations. There is but One Life in the Universe—the Universal Life. It saturates and fills all forms, shapes, and manifestations of life.» — el primero de los siete puntos que cita de Thor Kiimaletho: origen divino del universo, emanación del Ser Cósmico Absoluto y una sola Vida Universal que satura todas las formas. La voz es de Kiimaletho
«2. The soul is a spark of the divine consciousness in the Universe. As a drop of water is a part of the ocean and all water, so is the soul manifesting in material expression, a part of the One Soul in the Universe. In the human being it develops the personality and the individual expression.» — el segundo punto de Kiimaletho: el alma como chispa de la consciencia divina, gota de un océano, que en el ser humano desarrolla la personalidad
«3. The soul-force possesses potentially the powers of the divine principle at work in the universe. The function of life on earth is to afford the opportunity of developing these potentialities in the personality. Since one incarnation on earth cannot possibly be sufficient, the personality must return again and again in order to achieve the maximum development.» — el tercer punto de Kiimaletho, que trae la reencarnación: una sola vida en la tierra no bastaría para desarrollar esas potencias
«4. The moral law is one of the basic laws of the universe. It is likewise called the principle of Karma, the result of cause and effect, or action and reaction. There is nothing vindictive about this principle. It works impersonally like any law of nature. As the fruit is contained in the seed, so the consequences are inherent in the act. This principle guides the destinies of both men and nations.» — el cuarto punto de Kiimaletho, sobre el karma: ley impersonal de causa y efecto, sin nada de vengativo, y con la fórmula de que las consecuencias están en el acto como el fruto en la semilla
«Knowledge of this principle gives man the power to control his own destiny.» — el corolario que Kiimaletho le saca a esa ley: conocerla da al hombre poder sobre su destino
«5. Life has a purpose. Life is not meaningless. Happiness is a very real thing and is a by-product of knowledge, action, and living.» — el quinto punto de Kiimaletho: la vida tiene propósito y la felicidad es subproducto del saber, del obrar y del vivir
«6. Man has free choice. He has tremendous powers of both good and evil, depending upon his conscious realizations.» — el sexto punto de Kiimaletho: libre albedrío, con poderes de bien y de mal según las realizaciones conscientes
«7. Since the individual soul is part of the universal soul, man has access to powers he does not know, but which time and knowledge and experience will gradually reveal to him.» — el séptimo punto de Kiimaletho: por ser parte del alma universal, el hombre tendría acceso a poderes que aún ignora
«Hermetic philosophers have taught the very same fundamentals even as philosophers of the future will do, for that which constitutes truth will remain truth. It cannot be changed.» — lo que el autor añade tras la cita: los filósofos herméticos habrían enseñado esos mismos fundamentos, y lo que es verdad no cambia
«But the theories of men and their opinions, which are incorrectly given by some as truth, are subject to change.» — el contraste que le pone: las teorías y opiniones que se dan por verdad sí cambian
«Wisdom is acquired through righteous living. It is understanding applied.» — la fórmula con que define la sabiduría: se adquiere viviendo con rectitud y es entendimiento aplicado
«The acquisition of a degree of Doctor of Philosophy, as conferred upon graduates in institutions of higher learning, does not make one a philosopher, as much as those in possession of such a degree may believe in their right to such a title.» — la objeción explícita que hace al grado académico: un doctorado en filosofía no haría filósofo a nadie
«To be a philosopher, therefore, means to understand and live according to that understanding, knowing well that only by giving unhesitatingly and unselfishly will our belief in mankind be justified.» — lo que sí haría filósofo, según él: entender y vivir conforme a ese entendimiento, dando sin vacilar y sin egoísmo
«When this has been realized, then only will Alchemy become something real.» — la condición que pone para que la alquimia se vuelva real: haber realizado eso primero
«Transmutation always takes place on a higher plane, and in the physical world laws cannot be adhered to or violated without producing karmic manifestations.» — dónde sitúa la transmutación —en un plano más alto— y qué le adjudica a la ley física: no se la observa ni se la viola sin manifestación kármica
«Beneficial karma, if it is permissible to use a term, because karma is impartial, is brought about by harmonious applications of natural laws.» — el matiz con que usa el término, advirtiendo que el karma es imparcial: el karma benéfico vendría de aplicar las leyes naturales con armonía
«Because one calls himself a philosopher does not necessarilv make him such. Only he is a philosopher who has a» — el deslinde que hace con el título de filósofo; el troceo imprime *necessarilv* por *necessarily* y el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«sincere love for the wisdom that manifests universally and who strives as sincerely to apply it in his daily life.» — la continuación de esa definición en la plana siguiente: amor sincero por la sabiduría universal y empeño en aplicarla a diario
«If the foregoing even in its very condensed form has made any sense at all to the student of Alchemy, it must be apparent then why that alchemical gem, which all alchemists desire to produce, has been called the Philosophers Stone.» — la conclusión que saca del capítulo: de ahí se vería por qué la gema que todos los alquimistas quieren producir se llama Piedra de los Filósofos
«How often it is that we use words and attach no meaning to them, only because we fail to understand.» — el diagnóstico con que cierra: se usan palabras sin darles sentido por no entenderlas
«Thor Kiimaletho granted the author permission to quote from “The Basic Rosicrucian Concepts.”» — la nota al pie que consigna el permiso de Thor Kiimaletho para citar su conferencia
«It is difficult to understand alchemical terminology. The novice without proper mental and spiritual preparation usually interprets spagyric symbols in his or her own way, thereby starting on a laborious road of misconception that only years of painful experience can remedy.» — el diagnóstico con que abre el capítulo de la circulación menor: el novicio sin preparación interpreta los símbolos espagíricos a su modo y entra en un camino largo de malentendidos
«It is safe to say, and experience has taught it to be so, that all beginners in Alchemy have their minds set on obtaining the Philosopher's Stone.» — lo que dice haber medido en los principiantes: todos empiezan con la mira puesta en la Piedra Filosofal
«However justified this goal may be, nevertheless, without proper preparation, it is usually soon abandoned when after a comparatively short time of experimentation no results become manifest.» — el desenlace que le atribuye a esa mira sin preparación: se abandona pronto, cuando no aparecen resultados
«Then Alchemy is condemned, called a fraud, or given similar names and erstwhile serious students, due to lack of proper preparation, disparage the true value of that which they do not understand.» — lo que sigue a ese abandono, según él: se condena la alquimia y se la llama fraude, y quienes fueron estudiantes serios menosprecian lo que no entendieron
«It may be well to commence this instruction by confronting the Neophyte with the prime requisite in alchemystical laboratory practice, namely, PATIENCE.» — el requisito primero de la práctica de laboratorio, en versalitas en la fuente: la paciencia
«This word should be painted in large letters and then hung above the alchemist's Athanor» — dónde manda ponerla: en letras grandes sobre el atanor
«If, therefore, the Neophyte believes himself or herself sufficiently endowed with this virtue, I shall most gladly open the door to my laboratory and guide the earnest student in his mind's eye through the various processes which are necessary to obtain the desired results.» — el trato que ofrece al neófito que se crea con esa virtud: guiarlo con la imaginación por los procesos de su laboratorio
«To begin with, the selection of herbs for medicinal purposes must be known to the aspirant. This means a fair understanding of herbs and their uses.» — el saber previo que exige antes de empezar: conocer las hierbas medicinales y sus usos
«The different parts of plants should be gathered when their peculiar juices are most abundant in them.» — la regla general de recolección que da: cada parte de la planta se recoge cuando sus jugos propios están más abundantes
«The barks of either trunk, branches, or roots should be peeled from young trees in autumn or early spring. After shaving off the outer portion of the bark, cut thinly and place in a good position in the shade to dry.» — la instrucción para las cortezas: se pelan de árboles jóvenes en otoño o a principios de primavera, se raspa la parte externa, se corta fino y se seca a la sombra
«These should be dug after the leaves are dead in the fall at which time all the strength has gone down into the root. But better still, dig them in early spring before the sap rises.» — la instrucción para las raíces: tras la muerte de la hoja en otoño, cuando toda la fuerza bajó, o mejor a principios de primavera antes de que suba la savia
«Only after they are fully ripened and in full bloom should seeds and flowers, respectively, be gathered. Then they should be dried quickly in the shade.» — la instrucción para semillas y flores: solo maduras y en plena flor, y secado rápido a la sombra
«These should be taken while in blossom for best results, but can be gathered at any time before the frost comes. Dry quickly in the shade.» — la instrucción para las plantas medicinales: en flor de preferencia, en todo caso antes de la helada
«Leaves should be collected while the plant is in flower. Dry quickly.» — la instrucción para las hojas: recogidas con la planta en flor
«One of the best methods for drying herbs is to spread them thinly on clean paper, preferably on the floor, over which a constant stream of fresh air can pass.» — el método de secado que recomienda: extendidas finas sobre papel limpio en el suelo, con corriente continua de aire
«Herbs, or all vegetable medicines, should be kept in a dry and dark place. Tin cans are to be preferred to other containers for storing powders. Roots are best kept in covered boxes. Tinctures and extracts should be kept in dark glass bottles to protect them from the action of light.» — las reglas de conservación: lugar seco y oscuro, lata para los polvos, cajas cubiertas para las raíces y vidrio oscuro para tinturas y extractos
«Let us suppose then that the herb known as Balm, Lemonbalm, or Melissa (Melisa officinalis» — la hierba con que ejemplifica todo el proceso, con la grafía del nombre latino tal cual el troceo
«The fresh or dried herb is soaked in water and left standing in room temperature.» — la primera de las tres vías de extracción, la maceración: la hierba fresca o seca en agua, a temperatura ambiente
«The fresh or dried herb is put in a thimble and both are placed in a Soxhlet Extractor for extraction.» — la tercera vía, la extracción: la hierba en un dedal dentro de un extractor Soxhlet
«Water, Alcohol or Ether may be used as extraction media (menstrum» — los tres medios de extracción que admite, con el nombre alquímico del disolvente en la grafía del troceo
«A tincture derived from a distillation with water does not contain as much of the essential essence of the herb as the macerated herbal extract obtained by immersion in alcohol or ether.» — la comparación que hace entre los medios: la tintura por destilación con agua traería menos esencia que el extracto macerado en alcohol o éter
«To obtain all possible essence, including the oily substance inherent in the herb, the latter method, that by extracting it in an extraction apparatus (Soxhlet or other), is preferable.» — cuál prefiere entonces, si se quiere toda la esencia con lo oleoso incluido: el aparato de extracción
«After the extraction of the essence, the herb will remain as a dead residue from which the life has been taken in the form of the liquid essence in either one of the above described three methods. These feces, as they are called, or in alchemical language, “Caput Mortum,” meaning dead head» — el nombre que da al residuo muerto tras extraer la esencia, con la grafía *Caput Mortum* tal cual el troceo y la traducción que el propio libro le pone
«are then taken and burned to ashes. This is accomplished by taking the residue and placing it in an earthenware or porcelain dish which is placed over the fire. The contents of the dish are burned to a blackness from which state they will gradually change to a light gray color. After these ashes have become light, they should be placed into a mortar and ground to a fine powder with a pestle.» — qué se hace con ese residuo: quemarlo en plato de barro o porcelana hasta el negro y luego al gris claro, y molerlo en mortero hasta polvo fino
«It is here where the differences between allopathic, homeopathic, and biochemic medicinal procedures become evident. Allopathic therapeutics generally use tinctures or salts (alkaloids), while homeopathic and biochemic therapeutics use salts (minerals triturated).» — el deslinde de escuelas terapéuticas que hace en ese punto: la alopatía usaría tinturas o alcaloides, la homeopatía y la bioquímica sales minerales trituradas
«The triangle is a great help in explaining the necessity of a conjunction of both the essence and salt to obtain a true manifestation as occurs only in Alchemy.» — la figura con que explica la necesidad de conjuntar esencia y sal, que sería lo propio de la alquimia
«If an herb, immersed or steeped in boiling water, produces a tea that helps to remedy bodily disorders, how much more effective must be the manifestations of an extract, or even conjunction of extract and salt, in the human body.» — el argumento a fortiori con que justifica el elixir: si la infusión ya remedia trastornos, más haría el extracto, y más aún la conjunción de extracto y sal
«A common error that has been and is still being made is the intermixing of vegetable essence with animal or mineral salts. Since each constitutes a separate sphere or vibratory group, a mixture of these not properly attuned recipients will produce no manifestation.» — el error que señala como corriente: mezclar esencia vegetal con sales animales o minerales, que por ser esferas vibratorias distintas no darían manifestación
«It is because of a misunderstanding of these vital principles of Alchemy that such a furor has been caused among pseudo-alchemists when they have failed to produce any alchemical manifestations, while in their estimation these manifestations should have occurred.» — a qué atribuye el furor de los pseudoalquimistas: haber entendido mal ese principio y no obtener las manifestaciones que esperaban
«Through concentration, from a commonly harmless substance, a poison can be produced. Therefore, it is also possible to produce from the same substance something which is equally non-poisonous.» — la analogía con que cierra: si por concentración se saca veneno de algo inocuo, de lo mismo puede sacarse algo igualmente inocuo
«To be sure, Alchemy is a slow process. It is evolution—the raising of vibrations. It is not a subject that can be mastered by means of the intellectual faculties alone.» — lo que repite del ritmo del arte: proceso lento, evolución, elevación de las vibraciones, no dominable solo con el intelecto
«The Essence (Quintessence) or active force in the vegetable kingdom is the same in all plant life.» — el primero de los dos puntos con que resume: la Esencia o fuerza activa es la misma en toda vida vegetal
«The Salt or ashes to which any plant can be reduced differs from one plant to another.» — el segundo: la Sal, en cambio, difiere de una planta a otra
«This Essence, or “Mercury” as alchemists call it, is the life-giving energy that is manifest in all matter.» — la equivalencia que enuncia entre Esencia y Mercurio: la energía dadora de vida presente en toda materia
«The same Mercury exists throughout the animal kingdom, and the same Mercury throughout the mineral kingdom.» — la extensión de esa equivalencia a los otros dos reinos
«Yet, and the reader will please note, although the Mercury is of the same origin, it is of a certain vibration in the vegetable kingdom, of a higher vibratory rate in the animal kingdom,» — el matiz que pide notar: mismo origen, distinta vibración según el reino. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«and of a still higher rate in the mineral realm. It is for this reason that Mercury from the vegetable kingdom should not be mixed with the salts from either of the other two kingdoms.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el reino mineral tendría la vibración más alta, y de ahí la prohibición de mezclar Mercurio vegetal con sales de otro reino
«The animal eats herbs and contracts and cures ills from the same source. Where the cure fails, only the next higher ones will help.» — la escala terapéutica que deriva de eso: el animal enferma y sana de la misma fuente, y donde falla la cura solo servirían los reinos superiores
«Even here it must be stated that the highest Elixir will not function indefinitely if the mind is not kept in proper condition.» — el límite que pone al remedio material: ni el elixir más alto funcionaría indefinidamente con la mente en mal estado
«Humans, belonging to the animal group, eat both vegetables and meat. Therefore, they can be cured with both, i.e., vegetable essences in their first state, and more adequately with their own animal Salt and Essence (arcanum of blood» — dónde ubica al hombre en el esquema y con qué se lo curaría: esencias vegetales primero y, mejor, su propia Sal y Esencia animal
«However, the most potent form of terrestrial manifestation is produced from the salts and essences from the minerals and metals. In its highest form (and brought to perfection only by man) this is known as the Philosopher's Stone.» — la forma más potente que reconoce: sales y esencias de minerales y metales, y en su grado más alto, llevado a perfección solo por el hombre, la Piedra Filosofal
«Nature in her performance does not produce the elixir of any of the three principalities. Each one, herbal, animal, and mineral elixir, can be produced only by art.» — el deslinde entre naturaleza y arte que sostiene: ninguno de los tres elixires se produce naturalmente, todos por arte
«Nature does not produce the Philosopher's Stone in the same sense that it forms the crystals of the earth.» — la comparación con que lo precisa: no como forma los cristales de la tierra
«The fresh or dried herb is circulated (percolated). This is accomplished by having a condenser over the flask which lets» — la segunda vía de extracción, la circulación o percolación, con el condensador sobre el matraz; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«the moisture condense and drip back into the bottom container. It then repeats this process which is also known as reflux.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: la humedad condensa y gotea de vuelta al recipiente de abajo, proceso que también se llama reflujo
«If, by divine wisdom, man, as highest specimen of the animal realm, has been placed in the middle of the three kingdoms, it has been of necessity, since nothing in nature is based on chance.» — el lugar que adjudica al hombre en los tres reinos: en medio, por sabiduría divina y no por azar
«Man is holding the balance of the three kingdoms and can partake of any one according to his liking, having an alchemical laboratory in his own body to transmute inorganic matter into organic, and organic into spiritual matter.» — la función que le da en ese sitio: sostiene el fiel de los tres reinos y lleva en su propio cuerpo un laboratorio alquímico que transmuta lo inorgánico en orgánico y lo orgánico en espiritual
«Only laws that are basic and of true cosmic value enter Alchemy. There can be no speculation in Alchemy.» — el deslinde que hace con la especulación: solo entrarían en alquimia leyes básicas y de valor cósmico
«Alchemy is based upon facts and, with patience, experimentation, and perseverance, the sincere student will obtain these facts. There is no other way than the one all Alchemists have traveled, and this is the way of experience.» — el método que declara: hechos obtenidos con paciencia, experimentación y perseverancia, por la vía de la experiencia
«In mentioning the number three, it can now be stated that this number of manifestation will be found repeatedly in Alchemy.» — el número que anuncia como recurrente en el arte: el tres
«As there are three principalities or kingdoms, there are also three substances with which an Alchemist is continuously working. Without them nothing can be accomplished in Alchemy. They are Mercury, Salt, and Sulphur.» — los tres principios con que trabaja el alquimista, y sin los cuales, dice, nada se logra
«As previously explained, alchemical Mercury is not the same as common quicksilver. Neither is Sulphur common sulphur or brimstone. Nor is Salt common table salt or sodium chloride.» — el deslinde de los tres nombres respecto de sus homónimos vulgares: ni azogue, ni azufre común, ni sal de mesa
«Sulphur, that is, the alchemical Sulphur, is usually found in its oily form adhering to the Mercury. It must be separated by means of distillation.» — dónde sitúa el Azufre alquímico —en forma oleosa adherida al Mercurio— y cómo manda separarlo
«This yellow substance is the Sulphur that common alcohol extraction did not set free sufficiently.» — lo que dice de esa sustancia amarilla: la extracción con alcohol común no la liberaría del todo
«In the herbal process, the separation of the Sulphur from the Mercury (Essence) is not as essential as in the mineral work.» — la diferencia de exigencia entre las dos obras: en la vegetal, separar el Azufre del Mercurio no sería tan esencial como en la mineral
«In this way, from any herb an elixir can be made by art that is more potent than either the tincture, extract, or Salt taken alone, as is commonly prescribed by present-day therapeutics.» — lo que reivindica del elixir así hecho: más potente que la tintura, el extracto o la sal por separado
«The process used in the herbal work differs only slightly from that employed with animal and mineral substances. One of the differences is the non-separation of the Sulphur from the Mercury in the herbal process.» — la relación que traza entre la obra vegetal y las otras dos: el proceso difiere solo un poco, y una de las diferencias es no separar Azufre de Mercurio
«In the instructions that follow, it is presumed that the spagyric novice already possesses a clear knowledge of what herbs are and what medicinal properties they contain.» — el saber que presume en el lector antes de la parte práctica: qué son las hierbas y qué propiedades medicinales tienen
«This word was used by Paracelsus to designate the oven in which the fire was kept burning.» — la nota al pie que adjudica a Paracelso el uso del término *athanor* para el horno donde se mantiene el fuego
«The progressive student will learn later on at what planetary times herbs should be gathered.» — la nota al pie que aplaza la cuestión de los tiempos planetarios de recolección al capítulo quinto
«Wisdom is a flower from which the bee its honey makes and the spider poison, each according to its own nature.» — la nota al pie que glosa la analogía del veneno; el propio volumen la da como de autor desconocido
«The human body contains some inorganic minerals in minute quantities from which it receives nourishment of a highly vibratory nature.» — la nota al pie que sostiene la doctrina del laboratorio corporal: el cuerpo contendría minerales inorgánicos en cantidades mínimas de los que se nutre
«When in the foregoing only two substances, Mercury and Salt, have been mentioned, it was done purposely in» — la razón que da para haber hablado hasta ahí solo de Mercurio y Sal; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«order not to confuse the beginner. As there are three principalities or kingdoms, there are also three substances with which an Alchemist is continuously working. Without them nothing can be accomplished in Alchemy. They are Mercury, Salt, and Sulphur.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: no confundir al principiante, y los tres principios con que trabaja el alquimista, sin los cuales nada se lograría
«separately, but will use Mercury and Sulphur combined and Salt separately. The first two (forming one liquid in the herbal extraction) are joined to the Salt, and from this combination, the alchemical medicine or elixir is then produced.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: Mercurio y Azufre juntos en un solo líquido de la extracción vegetal, unidos a la Sal, y de esa combinación el elixir
«From the foregoing it should have become clear to the reader that there are: 1. Three kingdoms or principalities as follows: a. Vegetable b. Animal c. Mineral 2. Each kingdom has its own Mercury. All three Mercuries are derived from the same original source, but manifest under different vibrations in each realm. 3. The Salt of each vegetable manifestation differs from one plant to another. This also holds true of all Salts from animal and mineral products. 4. Substances (Essence and Salt) should not be intermixed when elixirs or alchemical medications are prepared. 5. Alchemical elixirs are not products of natural formation, but of artificial production.» — el resumen numerado con que cierra la teoría del capítulo: tres reinos, un Mercurio propio de cada uno con vibración distinta y origen común, sales distintas de planta a planta, prohibición de mezclarlas entre reinos, y los elixires como producto artificial y no natural
«A further analogical illustration will perhaps clarify one common misconception—why the human being, belonging to the animal kingdom, does not stand above the mineral.» — la objeción que sale a responder: por qué el hombre, siendo del reino animal, no estaría por encima del mineral
«To explain why human beings are endowed with reasoning powers that are not manifest in vegetables, minerals, and metals would bring us into transcendantal Alchemy. Here we are dealing with the physical phenomena.» — el deslinde con que la contesta: explicar la razón humana llevaría a la alquimia trascendental, y el capítulo trata el fenómeno físico
«Therefore, the beginner will not use the three alchemical substances» — el reparto que deja al principiante de los tres principios; el renglón se corta al fin de plana y sigue con el Mercurio y el Azufre combinados frente a la Sal aparte
«In preparing the herbal elixir, we will use those parts of herbs that contain medicinal value. This may be the leaves, stems, roots, or flowers, depending upon the particular herb being used. This presupposes, of course, some understanding on the part of the students of the healing properties of herbs.» — con qué parte de la planta manda trabajar: la que tenga valor medicinal, presupuesto ya el conocimiento de sus propiedades curativas
«Fresh herbs firstly should be dried in a warm place where there is an adequate circulation of air.» — la primera operación: secar la hierba fresca en sitio cálido con circulación de aire
«If fresh, undried herbs are used in our work, it will be found that they contain much water which is of no value to us. When an herb is dried, the essence and sulphur remain in it and can be easily extracted. The water contained in fresh herbs will mix with alcohol and will only serve to increase the bulk.» — la razón que da para secarla: el agua de la hierba fresca no sirve, se mezcla con el alcohol y solo aumenta el volumen
«The herb selected for use should be finely ground in a mortar with a pestle.» — el segundo paso: moler fina la hierba en mortero
«The ground herb3 is now to be placed in the thimble of an extraction apparatus. To this apparatus attach a flask half filled with the rectified alcohol. Now the fire should be lit under the flask in order to commence the extraction.» — el tercer paso: la hierba molida al dedal del extractor, el matraz medio lleno de alcohol rectificado y el fuego debajo
«A Soxhlet extraction apparatus consists of three parts: 1. Flask 2. Extractor and thimble 3. Condenser» — las tres partes del extractor Soxhlet que enumera
«The flask is at the bottom. The middle section is the extractor, which contains the thimble (a filter paper cylinder in which we have placed the herb to be worked upon). The condenser is the top section, which rests on the extractor.» — cómo se montan esas tres partes: matraz abajo, extractor con el dedal de papel de filtro en medio, condensador arriba
«After three or four extractions have made, it will be noticed that there is a definite change of color in the contents of the flask.» — la señal que manda observar tras tres o cuatro extracciones: el cambio de color en el matraz. El troceo imprime *have made* por *have been made*
«Should a dark rim form on the flask, it will be necessary to lower the fire, otherwise the Sulphur (oil) will be scorched and lose its efficacy.» — la corrección que ordena si se forma un anillo oscuro: bajar el fuego, o el Azufre se quema y pierde eficacia
«It is preferable to use a water bath rather than an open flame, as the water bath will prevent the scorching or burnning of the delicate oil (Sulphur) contained in the extract» — el medio de calor que prefiere: baño María antes que llama directa, para no quemar el aceite delicado
«When the alcohol coming through the syphon tube eventually becomes clear, that is an indication that the extraction has been completed.» — la señal de que la extracción terminó: el alcohol sale claro por el sifón
«The thimble should now be removed and its contents placed in an earthenware or porcelain dish.» — qué se hace entonces con el dedal y su contenido
«Place a wire screen over the dish and fight this residue which will ignite at once, due to its being saturated with alcohol. Care should be taken that there are no other flammable substances close by.» — la operación de quemar el residuo saturado de alcohol, con la advertencia de apartar lo inflamable. El troceo imprime *fight* donde el sentido pide *light*
«This material should be calcined to black ash. Grind this and then calcine again to a light gray.» — la calcinación en dos tiempos que manda: a ceniza negra, moler, y calcinar otra vez hasta gris claro
«The calcined ashes (Salt) are now placed into the lower flask. A sufficient amount of the extract is poured over this Salt. The flask is reattached to the extraction apparatus and circulation is started. This is to be continued until the Salt has absorbed the Essence and Sulphur.» — el sexto paso, la imbibición: las cenizas al matraz, el extracto encima y circulación hasta que la Sal absorba Esencia y Azufre
«The extract in the lower flask should become lighter. When there is no further change in color, the Salt has absorbed all that is possible. If the extract becomes clear, pour it out of the flask and add more of the Essence until the Salt does not absorb any more.» — la señal de saturación y la instrucción de reponer esencia mientras la Sal siga absorbiendo
«Detach the flask and remove its contents. This is now the alchemical elixir in its first state. When warm it becomes an oily substance and will run. When cold it becomes solid again.» — el resultado del séptimo paso: el elixir alquímico en su primer estado, oleoso en caliente y sólido en frío
«The potency of this elixir may be increased by calcining it in a calcining dish. This is then returned to the flask of the extraction apparatus, and the circulation is repeated with more of the extracted essence. Each time this is done, the potency will be increased.» — cómo dice que se aumenta la potencia: calcinar el elixir y repetir la circulación con más esencia
«The process can be carried a step further by placing the three combined substances in a glass flask which is tightly sealed and subjecting it to moderate heat for digestion. In this way a “stone” in the vegetable kingdom can be produced.» — el paso siguiente que describe: los tres principios juntos en matraz sellado, a calor moderado, darían una piedra del reino vegetal
«This must not be confused with the Philosopher's Stone.» — el deslinde explícito que pone entre esa piedra vegetal y la Piedra Filosofal
«While it is not absolutely necessary to produce a vegetable stone, it will nevertheless be of great help for further alchemical investigations, especially if one is not familiar with what a sublimate substance looks like.» — la utilidad que le encuentra a la piedra vegetal aunque no sea imprescindible: enseña qué aspecto tiene un sublimado
«The potency of such a “stone” is far greater than any medicament in the form of an elixir» — la comparación de potencia que hace entre la piedra vegetal y el elixir
«This herbal “stone” will attract the Essence, Sulphur, and Salt of other herbs by immersion only.» — la propiedad que le adjudica: atraería por sola inmersión la Esencia, el Azufre y la Sal de otras hierbas
«For those not able to procure an extraction apparatus, another method may be used which is much simpler in regards to the equipment needed.» — la vía alternativa que ofrece a quien no consiga extractor
«This was originally described in the Alchemical Laboratory Bulletin, 1st Quarter, No. 1, 1960 and is repeated in the material which follows.» — de dónde toma ese método alternativo: el *Alchemical Laboratory Bulletin*, primer trimestre, número 1, de 1960
«First of all, the selection of a proper place for the work about to begin is of importance. The space required is not large. A corner in the basement, or in an attic, perhaps even a garage will do» — el local que da por suficiente para el método simple, con la condición de tener fuente constante de calor
«Cold water should also be close by for the cooling of the condenser tube.» — el otro requisito del sitio: agua fría cerca para enfriar el condensador
«A few bottles and flasks and a mortar and pestle are desirable, if not necessary. A table and a chair complete the furnishings.» — el mobiliario que lista: unos frascos, mortero, mano, mesa y silla
«For the gas flame, a Bunsen burner, or better still, a Fisher burner is recommended.» — el quemador que recomienda: Bunsen o, mejor, Fisher
«Erlenmeyer flasks, those with the flat bottoms, is the type best for our purposes. As for stoppers, both the rubber and cork types are needed.» — los matraces y tapones que pide: Erlenmeyer de fondo plano, tapones de goma y de corcho
«A support to hold the flask over the flame, and to maintain it in a rigid position when distillation is taking place» — el soporte que exige para sostener el matraz rígido sobre la llama durante la destilación
«At this point we should ascertain if we have actually selected the desired herb. This may seem unnecessary, but it is quite important.» — la comprobación que insiste en hacer, aunque parezca innecesaria: que la hierba sea la que se quería
«There is, for instance, a difference between wild and garden sage in our work. The flowers of the wild sage, again, will produce a different medication than the leaves from the same plant.» — el ejemplo con que lo sostiene: la salvia silvestre difiere de la de jardín, y las flores de una misma planta dan medicación distinta que las hojas
«The next step in the procedure is the grinding of the herb. This may be accomplished by rubbing between the hands or by grinding it in a mortar with a pestle. The more minute the particles the easier the extraction.» — el paso siguiente y su criterio: moler, y cuanto más fina la partícula, más fácil la extracción
«Over the ground herb the menstruum is now poured which will produce the extraction.» — qué se echa encima de la hierba molida: el menstruo que hará la extracción
«The easiest way is to pour some strong alcohol (NEVER use denatured alcohol or Methanol), or preferably brandy, over the ground herb in the flask or bottle.» — el disolvente que propone como más fácil, con la prohibición expresa del alcohol desnaturalizado y el metanol, y el brandy como preferencia
«Then it should be closed tightly and put on top or near the furnace in the winter.» — dónde manda poner el frasco cerrado en invierno
«If warmth is provided by some other method, the temperature should not exceed that required for the hatching of chicken eggs.» — el techo de temperatura que fija, con la medida casera que le pone: la de incubar huevos de gallina
«One-half to one-third of the container should be left empty above the menstruum, in order that it will have room for expansion and to relieve some of the pressure that may build up within the container.» — el hueco que manda dejar en el frasco, para expansión y presión
«After several days, the menstrum will be colored green. The shade of green will depend on the type of melissa used and the strength and purity of the alcohol.» — el color que anuncia tras varios días y de qué depende el matiz
«When sufficiently macerated (this process is called maceration), the liquid is to be poured off into a clean glass container.» — el nombre que da al proceso y qué hacer al terminarlo: trasvasar el líquido a vidrio limpio
«The remaining herbal substance should be placed in a calcining dish and burnt to ashes.» — qué se hace con lo que queda de la hierba: a plato de calcinar y a ceniza
«The alcohol which has saturated the herb will ignite immediately and burn the remainder of the herb, now called “feces,” to black ashes.» — cómo arde ese residuo, saturado de alcohol, y el nombre que le da: heces
«As this will cause smoke and a strong odor, care should be taken not to do this in a closed room.» — la precaución que añade: humo y olor fuerte, así que no en cuarto cerrado
«An occasional grinding in the mortar followed by further burning, which we shall now call “calcination,” will gradually bring about a lighter color.» — el nombre que le da a la operación —calcinación— y la señal de que avanza: el color se aclara
«When this state has been reached the feces should be removed from the fire and, while still warm, placed into a flask which has been preheated, so that it will not break from the sudden temperature change.» — la precaución del trasvase: las heces aún calientes a un matraz precalentado, para que el vidrio no se rompa
«Into this flask is poured the essence which had been previously poured off of the macerated herb and put aside. Now the flask must be tightly stoppered so that no alcohol fumes can escape.» — el reencuentro de los dos: la esencia guardada se echa sobre las heces y el matraz se tapa para que no escapen los vapores
«Left to digest in this way for an interval of two weeks, the Salt will absorb the Essence necessary for the formation of the required strength.» — el plazo de digestión que fija: dos semanas para que la Sal absorba la Esencia
«It is absolutely harmless but of high potency and should be taken in minute amounts.» — lo que declara del medicamento resultante: inocuo pero muy potente, a tomar en cantidades mínimas
«A few grains of the Salt together with a teaspoon of the liquid Essence in a glass of distilled water will produce exhilarating results.» — la posología que da: unos granos de Sal y una cucharadita de Esencia en un vaso de agua destilada
«This is the most primitive and simplest form of preparing an herbal substance according to the precepts of Alchemy.» — cómo califica el método alternativo entero: el más primitivo y sencillo de preparar una sustancia vegetal según los preceptos del arte
«The time during the maceration period can be put to beneficial use in producing a pure menstruum from alcohol or spirits of wine.» — en qué manda ocupar los días de maceración: en rectificar el menstruo
«While there are various kinds of alcohol, only one is of interest to us at the outset of our work. This is the spirit of wine.» — cuál de los alcoholes le interesa: el espíritu de vino
«As wine generally contains less than 20% alcohol by natural fermentation, this alcohol (spirit of wine) must be extracted.» — la razón técnica de la destilación: el vino no pasa del veinte por ciento por fermentación natural
«Since we are interested only in alcohol extracted from grape wine, we must exclude all other types of wines—apple wine, loganberry wine, etc.» — el recorte de materia prima que hace: solo vino de uva, excluidos los de manzana o de otras bayas
«Our next step, then, is to take pure unadulterated grape wine or brandy and pour a sufficient amount into a flask for distillation. The amount depends upon the flask at hand. It should never be filled more than half full.» — el montaje: vino de uva puro o brandy en el matraz, nunca más de medio lleno
«Two holes should then be drilled through a rubber or cork stopper. Through these a thermometer in one and a bent glass tube in the other must fit tightly. The thermometer should not touch the wine, while the bent glass tube reaches barely below the stopper.» — cómo perforar el tapón y colocar termómetro y tubo acodado: el termómetro sin tocar el vino, el tubo apenas por debajo del tapón
«What has been formed now is known as a distillation train.» — el nombre que da al montaje entero
«Once the heat under the flask is started and the wine begins to boil, a vapor will rise and pass through the bent glass tube and then enter the condenser. Here the cooling water around the inner tube will cause it to condense and emerge at the end as a distillate, dripping into a receiver.» — el recorrido del vapor que describe: del matraz al tubo acodado, al condensador, y al receptor como destilado
«The heat should be so regulated that the first distillation will not exceed 80 degrees centigrade.» — la temperatura que fija para la primera destilación
«When about 15 drops have been distilled over and the temperature has been regulated so that the thermometer shows the same degree of heat, the receiver may be attached to the condenser end. This is done in order to avoid any unnecessary evaporation of the alcohol or any possible ignition of its fumes.» — cuándo manda acoplar el receptor y por qué: evitar evaporación e ignición de los vapores
«When the temperature begins to rise above 85°C. and all of the alcohol has come over, there will still be some traces of water in the alcohol.» — la señal de que pasó todo el alcohol, y la advertencia de que aun así quedan trazas de agua
«The residue of the wine may now be discarded as it is of no further use to us at present. However, the distillate is saved.» — qué se tira y qué se guarda al final de la primera destilación
«But as this distilled spirit of wine is not pure as yet, it must undergo several further distillations in order to become absolute alcohol.» — lo que falta para el alcohol absoluto: varias destilaciones más
«During these subsequent distillations, the temperature must be approximately 78°C.» — la temperatura de las redestilaciones
«At the end of each distillation there will always remain a small amount of cloudy residue which must be discarded as it contains water.» — qué manda tirar al final de cada pasada: el residuo turbio, que llevaría agua
«Only during the last distillation (approximately seven distillations are sufficient) should the temperature be 76°C.» — el número de destilaciones que da por bastante y la temperatura de la última
«As this final menstruum contains no more traces of water, it reaches the spiritual essence of an herb in a shorter time and more effectively than before it was completely rectified.» — lo que promete del menstruo así rectificado: alcanza antes y mejor la esencia espiritual de la hierba
«Another method to purify spirits of wine is by using potassium carbonate anhydrous. However, in the beginning we do not use this process.» — el segundo método que menciona, con carbonato de potasio anhidro, y su aplazamiento para el principiante
«Dried, not poisonous plants should be finely pulverized and with six parts water digested for 3-4 days in a warm place. Then the entire process mentioned before is repeated.» — la variante que la misma fuente da para planta seca no venenosa: pulverizar y digerir con seis partes de agua tres o cuatro días antes de repetirlo todo
«After collecting wildgrowing flowering medicinal herbs or their respective medicinal parts and cutting them into small pieces, a special yeast is added and everything subjected to fermentation. This fermentation yields the peculiarities of the plant and frees the ethereal oils. After fermentation the newly formed alcohol is carefully distilled.» — el procedimiento que cita del médico Zimpel, de su *Taschenrezeptierbuch fuer Spagyriker*: hierbas silvestres troceadas, levadura especial y fermentación, que liberaría los aceites etéreos
«The residue dried and calcined and the calcined salt leached out with the distillate. The liquor thus obtained is filtered—which contains the soluble minerals of the medicinal plant» — la continuación del método de Zimpel: residuo seco y calcinado, sal lixiviada con el propio destilado, y filtrado
«The longer it is left undisturbed before using, the better-like wine when left to “ripen” in the bottle is suposedly to increase its efficacy.» — el remate del pasaje de Zimpel, con el símil del vino que madura en la botella. El troceo imprime *suposedly*
«As can be seen from the two examples cited there is little difference except Dr. Zimpel leaches his salt right way with its first distillate.» — la comparación que el autor hace entre los dos métodos citados: casi idénticos, salvo que Zimpel lixivia la sal de inmediato con su primer destilado. El troceo imprime *right way* donde el sentido pide *right away*
«Such minor differences here and there will be found all over in alchemical literature. It is up to the practitioner to find his own way which only experience will teach.» — la conclusión que saca de esa divergencia: en la literatura alquímica abundan, y cada practicante debe hallar su vía por experiencia
«A Basement Laboratory — Concealed from the curious, husband and wife share the marvels of Divine creative unfoldment in the quiet hours of the evening and sometimes late at night. Accumulated over a lengthy period of time, it can be considered a model alchemical laboratory.» — el pie de la lámina del laboratorio de sótano: marido y mujer trabajando a escondidas en las horas quietas de la noche, con el material reunido a lo largo de años
«A Distillation Train —At the bottom is the burner; above it are the distilling flask and condenser connected to sidearm. The hose at the bottom brings the water into the condenser walls. Water leaves the condenser through the upper hose. Two supports, each holding an instrument, complete the apparatus necessary for distillation.» — el pie de la lámina del tren de destilación, que nombra pieza por pieza el montaje
«The illustration above shows a distillation train before the condenser is connected to the distilling flask. Note the thermometer inserted through the stopper hole in top of flask. Funnel in Erlenmeyer flask acts as receptacle for distillate.» — el pie que describe el tren antes de conectar el condensador, con el embudo del Erlenmeyer haciendo de receptáculo
«Alcohol is derived from various sources. It is obtained from sugar cane, grain, corn, potatoes, grapes, wood, to name its most common sources. Therefore, all alcohol is not the same.» — la nota al pie sobre el alcohol: viene de caña, grano, maíz, papa, uva o madera, y por eso no todos son el mismo
«When we refer to the grain spirits we speak of that which is the essence of the grain. Thus it should be seen that alcohol is, therefore, the spirit or essence which is freed from the various sources from which we obtain it.» — la doctrina que la nota deriva de eso: el alcohol sería el espíritu o esencia liberado de la fuente de la que se obtiene
«Alcohol derived from wood is known as methanol and is poisonous if taken internally.» — la advertencia de la misma nota sobre el metanol
«The alcohol, or spirit of wine, obtained from wine is the best and most ripened essence of the vegetable kingdom. It has been claimed to have the highest vibratory rate of any essence in the vegetable kingdom and is, therefore, used as a menstrum to make extractions from herbs.» — la jerarquía que la nota enuncia: el espíritu de vino sería la esencia más madura del reino vegetal, y por eso el menstruo de las extracciones vegetales
«To rectify alcohol, proceed as follows: Take any pure non-poisonous alcohol (190 proof spirits and distill at 78 degrees C. Whatever is distilled at a temperature above 78 degrees C. cannot be used. Take all that has been distilled at not above 78 degrees C. and place this again in a clean flask. Re-distill at 76 degrees C. The distillate should then be distilled again. This is to be preformed seven times from distillation. That which remains behind will become darker after each distillation. Finally, at the last distillation the distillate will be a crystal clear alcohol.» — la receta de rectificación que da la nota al pie: alcohol de 190 grados a 78 °C, redestilado a 76 °C siete veces, hasta quedar cristalino. El troceo imprime *preformed* por *performed*
«There is another method by which alcohol may be rectified. Distill again non-poisonous 190 proof alcohol at 78 degrees C. To every 1000 ml. of this distilled alcohol add 25 grams of potassium carbonate anhydrous. Let this stand for 48 hours. Shake occasionally. Distill the alcohol once again at 76 degrees C. The distillate will be a rectified alcohol.» — el segundo método de rectificación de la misma nota: veinticinco gramos de carbonato de potasio anhidro por litro, cuarenta y ocho horas en reposo y una destilación a 76 °C
«The first method above is the old way to rectify. The second method is used today in modern chemistry. Experience will teach which method the individual alchemist will» — el contraste que la nota hace entre los dos: el primero es el modo antiguo, el segundo el de la química moderna
«Our rectified alcohol which is sufficient for herbal extractions must yet undergo another preparation before it is fit for mineral extractions. The rectified spirits of wine of the sages differs from the one described here for the herbal extraction.» — la nota que separa las dos obras: el alcohol rectificado que basta para lo vegetal no bastaría para lo mineral, y el espíritu de vino de los sabios sería otro
«It should also be mentioned that in preparing the rectified spirits of wine, it is preferable to use a red wine, the older the better. The wine should be a pure unfortified wine.» — la preferencia que la nota declara: vino tinto, cuanto más viejo mejor, y sin encabezar
«A prolonged calcination can change the gray to a reddish color which of course is preferable, but this will require a long time.» — la nota que declara preferible llevar la calcinación del gris al rojizo, a costa de mucho tiempo
«From: Grossman: Die Pflanze im Zauberglauben und in der spagyrischen (okkulten) Heilkunst. Verlag Karl Sigismund, Berlin, 1922.» — la nota que da la procedencia del método alemán citado: Grossman, Berlín 1922
«in a glass of distilled water will produce exhilarating results. The elixir should never be consumed undiluted.» — el remate de la posología: el elixir nunca se toma sin diluir
«The water will flow to the condenser jacket and then out at the top opening through another rubber tube and then into a drain. In this way, the vapor that rises from the heated flask will be cooled and will drip out from the bottom end of the condenser into a receptacle.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el agua sale por arriba al desagüe y el vapor enfriado gotea del condensador al recipiente
«All of this is placed in a wooden container and slightly covered so it can ferment. One has to watch that when the fermentation has ceased that it is stirred well, placed in a distillation flask and distilled until nothing more distills over. A steam distillation is best. What remains in the flask is calcined, leached out with water, filtered and the filtrate slowly evaporated. The residue is saved. The former distillate is reduced by further distillation until two parts of distillate come to one part of the leached out salt. Both are distilled once more and the oil separated from the first distillation is now added.» — la continuación de ese método en la plana siguiente: fermentación en recipiente de madera, destilación hasta agotar, calcinación del residuo, lixiviado, evaporación y reunión final con el aceite apartado
«Essential Equipment— From left to right: Beaker, Erlenmeyer flasks,» — el pie de la lámina del equipo esencial, cortado por el fin de plana
«Cylinder (for measuring), and Funnel. These items are in constant use in the laboratory.» — la continuación de ese pie en la plana siguiente: probeta de medir y embudo, en uso constante en el laboratorio
«In order to keep the condenser cool with water, it must be connected by» — el circuito de agua del condensador; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«Fifty pounds of a fresh, flowering plant including root, stem, leaves and seeds are cleaned from dying leaves and other impurities and» — el arranque del procedimiento que cita de un libro alemán: cincuenta libras de planta florida entera —raíz, tallo, hojas y semillas—, limpiada de hoja muerta. La voz es de la fuente citada, y el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«then washed. After cutting the plant into small pieces, water is poured over it and then slowly distilled. Any oil that shows is separated from the water and the water thus obtained without the oil, which is by now kept separate, is poured back over the plant to which has been added one to two spoons of yeast.» — la continuación de ese método en la plana siguiente: lavado, troceado, destilación lenta, aceite separado del agua, y el agua devuelta sobre la planta con una o dos cucharadas de levadura
«In all our investigations of nature we must observe what quantities or doses of the body is requisite for a given effect; and must guard ourselves from estimating it at too much or too little. —Francis Bacon» — el epígrafe con que abre el capítulo de usos medicinales: la dosis requerida para un efecto dado, sin estimarla de más ni de menos. El volumen lo adjudica a Francis Bacon
«Ailments differs as do the individuals who suffer from them. Hardly any bodily disorder can be standardized and, therefore, we must be very careful in prescribing the exact doses of either tincture, extract, salt, or the combined medication.» — el principio de individuación con que arranca: los males difieren como los enfermos, y casi ningún trastorno se estandariza. El troceo imprime *Ailments differs*
«it is well to mention again that a more potent medication is obtained each time we repeat the process of calcination and coagulation, after the first state has been attained.» — la regla de potenciación que repite: cada calcinación y coagulación nueva daría un remedio más potente
«Distilled water and spirits of wine are the two common mediums used for the dissolving of the herbal elixir. If the elixir has been properly prepared, it will dissolve without trouble in either liquid.» — los dos vehículos de disolución que da y la prueba que encierran: un elixir bien hecho se disuelve sin problema en cualquiera de los dos
«Due to the condensed potency and accelerated vibratory rate of the herbal elixir, it must be taken greatly diluted.» — la razón que da para diluir mucho: potencia condensada y vibración acelerada
«A few grains may be dissolved in a glassful of water or pure unadulterated red wine. Two or three tablespoonfuls taken at hourly intervals will usually produce the desired results» — la posología concreta: unos granos en un vaso de agua o de vino tinto puro, dos o tres cucharadas cada hora
«provided the ailment has been properly diagnosed and the patient's condition is known. If this cannot be done personally, the experience of a physician should be called upon.» — la condición que pone a esa posología y la salida que ofrece si no se cumple: acudir a la experiencia de un médico
«If his prescription contains an herbal substance as the main ingredient, this is to be used. In other words, from this herb an alchemical preparation is to be produced.» — lo que propone hacer con la receta del médico: si su ingrediente principal es vegetal, preparar de esa hierba el remedio alquímico
«However, great care must be taken that the basic medication is not a poisonous one. A sedative, for instance, acts as an opiate and not as a curative agent.» — la advertencia que pone a ese procedimiento: que la base no sea venenosa, y su ejemplo, el sedante, que obraría como opiáceo y no como curativo
«Likewise, no true physician will deny his patient information leading to a cure, if this is known to him» — lo que espera del médico verdadero: no negar al paciente la información que lleve a la cura
«It should have become obvious to the reader that alchemical preparations must be individually prepared, as they are not obtainable in drug or apothecary stores.» — lo que declara del régimen de estos remedios: hay que prepararlos uno a uno, porque no se compran en botica
«If for any reason the herbal elixir does not cure the ailment, or at least bring relief from pain, then it is evident that a state of disorder prevails in which herbal preparations do not have sufficiently strong enough vibrations to eliminate the disorder and restore a harmonious balance.» — cómo lee el fracaso del elixir vegetal: sería señal de un desorden cuya vibración lo excede
«In such a case, it would be necessary to use the next highest medication, but which is to be found outside the herbal realm.» — la salida que da entonces: subir al remedio del reino siguiente
«It is unreasonable to expect an herbal elixir to bring about an immediate result in every case. The manifestation of any cure will depend upon the length of time the ailment has been present and the state of its progress in the disruption of organic functions. Very important, also, is the state of mind of the patient.» — el límite que pone a la expectativa de cura inmediata: dependería de la antigüedad del mal, del avance del desorden orgánico y del estado mental del paciente
«While an herbal elixir is not a cure-all, it is definitely of greater curative potency than the tincture and salts taken separately.» — la acotación con que enmarca todo el capítulo: el elixir no sería una panacea, solo más potente que la tintura y las sales por separado
«Through Alchemy that which has been violated is restored, and nature is helped to reach the state of perfection which is the predestined goal for all its manifestations.» — lo que adjudica al arte: restaura lo violado y ayuda a la naturaleza hacia la perfección que sería su meta predestinada
«However, to force a cure is just as contrary to nature as contracting an illness.» — el límite que pone a la intervención: forzar la cura sería tan contrario a la naturaleza como enfermar
«Nature requires a certain period of time for the production of her specimen. This is also true of the alchemist in his laboratory, but here the time intervals are relatively shorter.» — la relación que enuncia entre los tiempos de la naturaleza y los del laboratorio: los mismos procesos, más cortos
«A recent illness which has been contracted over a short period of time will yield more quickly to our alchemical preparations than one which has developed into a chronic state.» — el pronóstico que da según la antigüedad del mal
«However, fresh air, normal physical exercise, proper food, adequate clothing, as well as satisfactory sanitary and working conditions are equally essential for curative purposes.» — lo que declara igualmente esencial junto al remedio: aire, ejercicio, comida, ropa y condiciones sanitarias y de trabajo
«Beginning spagyric practitioners inevitably wonder why it is necessary to deal with herbal Alchemy when it is well known to all that medications prepared from herbs are less potent than those prepared from minerals and metals.» — la objeción del principiante que sale a responder: para qué la alquimia vegetal si lo mineral es más potente
«However, it is essential that alchemists-to-be understand that nature's laws are unfolded only gradually. That which has been learned in working with the herbal process can be applied later to the work with metals.» — la respuesta que da: las leyes de la naturaleza se despliegan por grados y lo aprendido en lo vegetal se aplica luego a los metales
«But the higher arcanum should not be attempted until the herbal process has been mastered.» — el orden que impone: no intentar el arcano mayor antes de dominar el proceso vegetal
«Although the process for obtaining alchemical herbal elixirs, as presented here, appears to be extremely simple, much experience is still necessary before the first correct results greet the beginning alchemist's eyes.» — la advertencia sobre la aparente sencillez del método: haría falta mucha experiencia antes del primer resultado correcto
«Even then, the very small amount of the alchemical preparation which is finally produced may seem so insignificant to the beg inner that he may then be filled with doubts and wonder if all the work and trouble was really worthwhile.» — la duda que anticipa: lo poquísimo que se obtiene puede parecer insignificante al principiante. El troceo imprime *beg inner* partido
«It is only after the first manifestation reveals itself, after the first cure becomes obvious beyond a doubt that an inner conviction begins to grow that there is more, to be found in the realm of Alchemy than meets the eye at first glance.» — qué disiparía esa duda, según él: la primera manifestación y la primera cura indudable
«Before administering any alchemical medication to animals or sick individuals, a test should be performed to determine if the medicine has been properly prepared.» — la prueba que manda hacer antes de administrar el remedio a animales o enfermos
«This is done by placing a small amount of the prepared herbal substance on a thin sheet of heated copper. If the medication melts like wax and does not give off any smoke, and then solidifies when cold again, it is an indication that the medication has been prepared correctly and that it is ready for use.» — la prueba del cobre, paso a paso: sobre lámina delgada de cobre caliente, el remedio bien hecho funde como cera, no humea y vuelve a solidificar en frío
«The correct dosage differs in almost every case, but if administered in small doses there cannot be harm in any case.» — lo que dice de la dosis: distinta casi siempre, pero inocua si es pequeña
«Alchemical herbal medications are essence and salt in their purest form, as all irrelevant and extraneous matter has been removed during the process of calcination.» — la definición que da del producto: esencia y sal en su forma más pura, quitado todo lo extraño por calcinación
«That which is essential cannot be destroyed by fire, but is only purified and brought to its preordained state.» — la fórmula que sostiene esa definición: el fuego no destruiría lo esencial, solo lo purificaría hacia su estado preordenado
«This vital life force plus its purified salt, or mineral substance, are the curative agents.» — qué señala como agentes curativos: la fuerza vital y su sal purificada
«The writer knows from personal experience of the case of a baby suffering from severe colic. Constant medical attention from an allopathic physician and surgeon brought no relief.» — el caso que da como prueba, en tercera persona: un bebé con cólico grave sin alivio bajo atención alopática constante
«However, after administering an alchemical preparation made from the flowers of camomile, the child was cured within a few hours and remained so with no recurrence of the ailment.» — el desenlace que declara: curado en pocas horas con un preparado de flores de manzanilla, sin recaída
«Critics may object by answering that if proper care had been given to the child from the time the disturbance first began to appear, the original medical attention would also have helped.» — la objeción que él mismo levanta contra su caso: con atención médica desde el principio, la vía ordinaria habría bastado
«In this case, though, it must be pointed out that all the medical advice was very painstakingly followed in every detail, and the herbal preparation was accepted only as a last resort in order that the mother and the child might have some sleep after several frantic,» — su respuesta a esa objeción: se siguió al detalle todo el consejo médico y lo alquímico se aceptó como último recurso. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«sleepless nights. This case is mentioned here only to demonstrate the harmless nature of these preparations to the human body, even to infants, when properly administered.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente y el uso que le da al caso: demostrar lo inocuo de estos preparados, incluso en lactantes
«It is highly recommended that the medical profession also make it its study to discover the truth about Alchemy.» — la recomendación que dirige a la profesión médica
«If one has had insufficient schooling or is not endowed with a profound desire to study the human anatomy and its related physical functionings, he would hardly find it worthwhile to experiment in herbal Alchemy, let alone to attempt to cure when his knowledge is insufficient because of the long study and tedious work by which this knowledge can only be acquired.» — el requisito de estudio que pone al final: sin escolaridad bastante ni deseo profundo de estudiar anatomía y fisiología, no valdría la pena experimentar
«May Bacon's statement close this chapter as it began it: “In all our investigations of nature we must observe what quantity or dose of the body is requisite for a given effect; and must guard ourselves from estimating it at too much or too little.”» — el cierre del capítulo con el mismo epígrafe de Bacon, que en esta segunda impresión dice *quantity or dose* donde la primera decía *quantities or doses*: la divergencia va tal cual, sin armonizar
«How are herbs related to the stars? Can such a thing be true? Scientists will shake their heads in disgust. “Nonsense. Superstition. Quack.”, they will answer. And why not? How could scientists accept the possibility of something when at the same time they did not consider it worthy of their efforts to investigate the subject?» — la pregunta con que abre el capítulo de hierbas y astros, y la objeción que le adjudica a la ciencia: la descartaría por superstición sin haberla investigado
«The writer may seem rash in his judgment concerning the attitude science has shown toward this branch of research, but experience has revealed that there is a connection between herbs and the heavenly bodies that adorn the firmament.» — la afirmación que sostiene contra esa objeción, hablando de sí en tercera persona: la experiencia le habría revelado una conexión entre las hierbas y los cuerpos celestes
«Observation has also revealed that certain countries are influenced by particular planets, as astrology has long declared.» — lo que dice haber observado además: ciertos países bajo influencia de planetas determinados, como la astrología viene declarando
«Again, certain plants are found only in certain places. As soon as these plants are transplanted into soil foreign to their nature, they lose all or some of their curative virtues.» — el argumento de trasplante con que lo sostiene: la planta llevada a suelo ajeno a su naturaleza perdería sus virtudes curativas
«In this plant and mineral life, all growth gives evidence of an unseen but measurable change in proportion to its structure. What causes this growth?» — el hecho que pone como pregunta abierta: todo crecimiento da señal de un cambio medible pero invisible, proporcional a su estructura
«Inorganic minerals are taken up into plant life and changed into organic minerals. What brings this change about?» — la segunda pregunta abierta: qué convierte el mineral inorgánico en orgánico dentro de la planta
«Radium is able to cause a decay of tissues. Is it radium as substance or the unseen but measurable emanation from a mysterious force from within?» — la tercera pregunta, con el radio: si el efecto es de la sustancia o de una emanación invisible aunque medible
«Science asks us to believe that the structure of the radium atom is like a cosmos in miniature. A solar system in Microcosmos.» — la comparación que atribuye a la propia ciencia: el átomo de radio como cosmos en miniatura, sistema solar en microcosmos
«A layman who is unable to verify scientific theories must either believe or not believe them.» — el argumento de simetría que saca de ahí: el lego no puede verificar la teoría científica y solo cabe creerla o no
«That one has accepted as natural law what science has propounded should not make it any more difficult to believe that the Macrocosmos has the same influence both on the surface as well as below the surface (tissue) of the earth.» — el paso siguiente de ese argumento: quien acepta la ley natural por autoridad de la ciencia no debería tener más dificultad con la influencia del Macrocosmos
«Does not the old hermetic axiom, “As above so below, as below so above,” again have its counterpart here?» — el axioma hermético que vuelve a invocar como respaldo, en su forma doble
«Perhaps science someday will take the time to investigate in these uncharted areas and experiment on a far broader base than has been the case so far.» — lo que espera de la ciencia futura: investigar estas zonas sin carta sobre una base más ancha
«All this they were, but had they not left the beaten path and ventured to explore in other directions, their labor never would have produced results of alchemical importance.» — el matiz con que concede el reproche y a la vez lo vuelve mérito: por salirse del camino trillado obtuvieron resultados de importancia alquímica
«The following is a condensed tabulation1 of herbs listed according to the planetary influence which affects each of them, as claimed by ancient tradition.» — el rótulo con que presenta la tabla de hierbas, adjudicada a la tradición antigua
«In order that this list be of benefit, each student must discover individually how true these planetary attributions are for these various herbs.» — lo que pide del lector ante esa tabla: comprobar individualmente si las atribuciones planetarias son ciertas
«It would seem that even a deeper study is necessary in order to discover the underlying causes of the different ways in which the medicinal virtues operate.» — la deuda que declara sobre su propia tabla: haría falta estudio más hondo para dar con las causas
«SUN angelica ash tree bay tree burnet butterbur camomile celandine small centaury eyebright juniper lovage marigold pimpernel rosemary rue saffron St. John's wort St. Peter's wort sundew tormentil turnsole heart-trefoil vine viper's bugloss walnut tree» — la lista de hierbas solares, encabezada por la angélica y cerrada por el nogal
«MOON adder's tongue arrach brankursine colewort water caltrop chickweed clary cleavers coralwort water cress cucumber duckmeat fleur de Iys (or water flag) fluellein cuckoo-flower lettuce water-lily white lily loosestrife moonwort mouse-ear orpine pellitory of Spain rattle-grass saxifrage stonecrop pearl-trefoil wallflower willow tree» — la lista de hierbas lunares, de la lengua de serpiente al sauce
«In concluding this condensed table of herbs and corresponding planetary influences, it will be interesting to add a few further observations. These can be corroborated by those who wish to do so and who may then arrive at their own personal conclusions.» — el cierre de la tabla y lo que ofrece a continuación: observaciones que el lector puede comprobar por su cuenta
«Is there anyone capable of answering why the chickweed flowers are open and upright from nine in the morning until noon? However, if it rains they remain closed and after the rain they become pendent.» — el primero de sus ejemplos de comportamiento vegetal medido por la hora: la pamplina abre de nueve a mediodía, se cierra con la lluvia y queda colgante después
«The “Four-O-Clock” opens its flower at about four in the afternoon. The dandelion (a true sundial) opens at seven in the morning and closes at five in the afternoon.» — los dos ejemplos siguientes: el dondiego abre hacia las cuatro de la tarde y el diente de león, que llama reloj de sol verdadero, abre a las siete y cierra a las cinco
«The pimpernel (the poor man's weatherglass) closes its tiny flowers long before it rains or night draws near.» — el cuarto ejemplo: la pimpinela, barómetro del pobre, cierra antes de la lluvia y del anochecer
«The purple sandworth flower expands only when the sun shines. If the trefoil contracts its leaves, thunder and heavy rains can be expected.» — los dos últimos: la arenaria púrpura solo se abre al sol, y el trébol que contrae la hoja anunciaría tormenta
«What causes such variance in behavior? AH have their roots in the ground and draw their nourishment from the soil and the air. Yet their behavior is remarkably different.» — la pregunta con que cierra la serie: todas tienen la raíz en el suelo y se nutren de tierra y aire, y aun así se comportan de modo muy distinto. El troceo imprime *AH* por *All*
«Science must disprove this, if it can.» — la carga de la prueba que devuelve a la ciencia
«While it is true that some scientists have accomplished remarkable results working in these areas, they have been few and have been shunned by their colleagues.» — lo que dice de los pocos científicos que trabajaron en estas zonas: fueron pocos y sus colegas los rehuyeron. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«MERCURY bitter-sweet calamint wild carrot caraway dill» — el arranque de la lista de hierbas de Mercurio, cortado por el fin de plana
«elecampane fern fennel germander hazelnut horehound houndstongue lavender lily of the valley liquorice wall rue (or white maiden-hair) golden maiden-hair marjoram mulberry tree nailwort oats parsley parsnip pellitory of the wall sauce-alone (garlic cress) savory scabius smallage southernwood honeysuckle valerian» — la continuación de la lista de Mercurio en la plana siguiente, hasta la valeriana
«VENUS alkanet alehoof or ground ivy artichoke black or common alder tree wild arrach archangel bean bishop's weed bramble blites bugle» — el arranque de la lista de hierbas de Venus, cortado por el fin de plana
«MARS all-heal prunella vulgaris barberry basil briony benedictus cardines crowfoot dovesfoot flax-weed burze bush garlic gentian» — el arranque de la lista de hierbas de Marte, cortado por el fin de plana
«JUPITER agrimony alexander wild parsley asparagus balm white beet bilberry borage chervil chestnut tree cinque foil costmary dandelion dock dog's grass endive fig tree clove-gilliflowers hart's tongue hyssop house-leek» — el arranque de la lista de hierbas de Júpiter, cortado por el fin de plana
«SATURN amaranthus barley corn red beet beech tree bifoil birds-foot blue bottle buck's horn plantain comfrey sciatica-cress darnel dodder elm tree water-fern fleawort flux weed fumitory gladwin goutwort heart's ease hawkweed hemlock henbane black hellebore horsetail holly» — el arranque de la lista de hierbas de Saturno, cortado por el fin de plana
«well as tiny atoms, are governed according to similar laws?» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: que plantas y átomos se rijan por leyes semejantes
«to venture into the unknown, the ridiculed spheres, and have been termed mystics, heretics, and stray sheep from the herd.» — la continuación del pasaje sobre esos científicos en la plana siguiente: por aventurarse en las esferas ridiculizadas se les llamó místicos, herejes y ovejas descarriadas
«Yet their behavior is remarkably different. Is it so unreasonable to assume that they, as» — el remate del capítulo, cortado por el fin de plana: si es tan irrazonable suponer que las plantas se rijan por leyes semejantes
«There is no point in going any further into this matter here as sufficient material can be found in the following pages to help in the assimilation of the spiritual essence for further transmutation.» — el corte que hace en la materia astral para volver a la asimilación de la esencia espiritual
«However, a subject related to the planetary influences on plants and herbs does deserve attention. This involves the planetary influences on the various parts of the human body.» — el asunto vecino que sí retiene: la influencia planetaria sobre las partes del cuerpo
«The zodiac is represented as ruler of the body whose parts are distributed throughout the twelve houses. These, in turn, are ruled by certain planets.» — el esquema que expone: el zodiaco como regidor del cuerpo repartido en doce casas regidas por planetas
«The following tabulation, according to Paracelsus, of organs of the body and the respective planets that rule them will be of assistance for further analysis» — el rótulo con que introduce la tabla de órganos y planetas, adjudicada a Paracelso
«The Sun rules the heart. The Moon rules the brain. Venus rules the veins. Saturn rules the spleen. Mercury rules the liver.1 Jupiter rules the lungs (chest). Mars rules the gall.» — la tabla misma: Sol y corazón, Luna y cerebro, Venus y venas, Saturno y bazo, Mercurio e hígado, Júpiter y pulmones, Marte y hiel. La adjudicación es a Paracelso
«Since the writings of this great sage, Paracelsus, are of such importance, it is almost essential that students of alchemical literature give his works very careful study.» — la recomendación de lectura que hace de Paracelso a los estudiantes de literatura alquímica
«Paracelsus is in agreement with previous teachers in regard to the fact that the stars influence all growing things. These growing things, then, correspond exactly to the number of influences and stars.» — lo que atribuye a Paracelso sobre la influencia astral: los seres que crecen corresponderían exactamente en número a las influencias y a las estrellas
«But as some trees produce pears and other trees apples, so some stars yield rain, others snow, hail, etc. Thus, in this fashion what falls from heaven is generated.» — el símil con que lo explica: como unos árboles dan peras y otros manzanas, unas estrellas dan lluvia y otras nieve o granizo
«Paracelsus speaks of the hot and cold nature of ailments and also of remedies falling under these two classifications.2 In such cases the homeopathic principle of “similia similibus curantur”—like cures like —can be employed.» — el puente que tiende entre Paracelso y la homeopatía: la naturaleza caliente o fría de males y remedios permitiría el *similia similibus curantur*
«This principle perhaps can best be illustrated by taking a frozen egg and placing it in cold water. The frost will be drawn out by the cold and the egg will be wholesome again.» — el ejemplo con que lo ilustra: el huevo congelado puesto en agua fría, del que el frío sacaría la escarcha
«Since like repels like in physical phenomena, the homeopathic approach of curing, say, arsenic poisoning, is to use the same substance, namely, arsenic. Thus, if a physiological dose of arsenic will bring about arsenic poisoning, the homeopathic practitioner will use this same substance, arsenic, in a most minute or highly triturated form to effect a cure.» — el caso del arsénico con que expone la homeopatía: la misma sustancia que en dosis fisiológica envenena, en trituración altísima curaría
«Because of the high trituration, the vibratory rate is greatly increased and achieves high potency in expelling the physiological dose of arsenic.» — la explicación que da del efecto: la trituración subiría la vibración y con ella la potencia
«Perhaps the phrase, “curative dose,” is inadequate, but it is being used to convey the process.» — la reserva que pone sobre su propia terminología
«However, in using highly triturated homeopathic agents, one cannot really speak of a dose since the curative substance is so inconceivably small— 1:100,000,000 and even smaller.» — el límite que le encuentra a la palabra *dosis* en homeopatía, con la dilución que cita
«Homeopathy is nearer to Alchemy than other therapies, but is still far from producing alchemical actions, inasmuch as it does not set free the quintessence which is so essential as a healing agent.» — el lugar que asigna a la homeopatía: la más cercana a la alquimia y todavía lejos, porque no liberaría la quintaesencia
«Since Homeopathy, as taught by Hahnemann, is only a segment of Paracelsian therapeutics and is comparatively little used, what can one expect as to the acceptance of Herbal Alchemy?» — la pregunta con que mide su propia expectativa de acogida: si la homeopatía de Hahnemann, que llama segmento de la terapéutica paracelsiana, se usa poco
«Alchemically a cure is obtained by using the opposing forces of negative against positive. An ailment presents the negative aspect while curative agents represent positive forces. Manifestations occur where these opposite forces meet.» — el esquema de cura que declara propio de la alquimia: fuerzas opuestas, el mal como negativo y el remedio como positivo
«The object of alchemical remedies is to supplement the lacking or deficient positive forces in the human body which represents the negative part in contradistinction to the positive vital life force (which in Sanskrit is called “prana”» — el fin que da a los remedios alquímicos y el nombre sánscrito con que identifica la fuerza vital positiva
«This vital life force, prana, or quintessence can only be separated through Alchemy. It is this difference, the separation of the quintessence, that sets Alchemy on a higher level above all other systems of therapeutics.» — la identidad que enuncia entre fuerza vital, prana y quintaesencia, y lo que dice que pone a la alquimia por encima de las demás terapéuticas: solo ella la separa
«If it is true, as has been claimed, that the heavenly bodies radiate an unseen power that has been observed to manifest differently among the various specimens of the herbal kingdom, only an investigation by sincere and unprejudiced students is needed to substantiate these observations.» — la condición con que cierra el capítulo: bastaría la investigación de estudiantes sinceros y sin prejuicio para sostener lo observado
«Culpeper states that Jupiter rules the liver and Mercury the lungs.» — la nota al pie que consigna la discrepancia de Culpeper con la tabla de Paracelso: le da a Júpiter el hígado y a Mercurio los pulmones. Las dos atribuciones se dejan como están
«Black pepper (piper niger), mustard (sinapis), nutmeg (nux moschata) for example, are medicaments of a hot nature. Those herbs of the mentha (mint) family are medicaments of a cold nature.» — la nota al pie con ejemplos de remedios de naturaleza caliente —pimienta negra, mostaza, nuez moscada— y fría, la familia de la menta
«Prof. Liebig in his chemical letters said: “The smaller the particles of a prescribed medicine the less physical resistance they met in their diffusion in the tissue.”» — la nota al pie que cita a Liebig en apoyo de la trituración: cuanto menor la partícula, menos resistencia física encontraría al difundirse en el tejido
«Here the high trituration causes the arsenic particles to» — lo que la trituración alta le hace a la partícula de arsénico; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«Dr. Schuessler's system of biochemistry prescribes the 12 tissue remedies to build up the missing minerals in the blood. Homeopathy differs from biochemistry, the first curing like with like and biochemistry replenishing or building up lacking minerals in the blood.» — la nota al pie que expone el sistema del Dr. Schuessler: doce remedios tisulares para reponer los minerales que faltan en la sangre, distinto de la homeopatía, que curaría lo semejante con lo semejante
«Both homeopathy and biochemistry have a closer relationship with alchemical therapeutics than the administering of physiological doses according to the allopathic system.» — lo que la misma nota adjudica a ambos sistemas: más parentesco con la terapéutica alquímica que la dosis fisiológica alopática
«However, even allopathic physicians are attenuating their doses now in what is known as serum therapy. This is only an indication of a further step by modern medicine to approach nearer to the only perfect natural system of healing which is to be found in Alchemy.» — el cierre de esa nota: hasta la alopatía atenuaría ya sus dosis con la sueroterapia, lo que sería un paso más hacia el que declara único sistema natural perfecto
«If any of Dr. Schuessler's tissue remedies, such as calcium, silica, potassium, etc. were to be separated into its three essentials (according to alchemical practice), namely, sulphur, salt, and mercury, and then coagulated again, it is not difficult to imagine the potential remedies that could be obtained in this fashion.» — la propuesta que hace sobre los remedios de Schuessler: separarlos en azufre, sal y mercurio y volver a coagularlos
«Such remedies would truly replenish and build up the body due to the raised vibrations of these remedies.» — lo que espera de esos remedios así rehechos: repondrían y reconstruirían el cuerpo por la vibración elevada
«This holds true also of any of the homeopathic preparations, which is to say their basic substance before trituration with lactose (milksugar) or spirits of wine.» — la extensión de esa propuesta a los preparados homeopáticos, tomados en su sustancia básica antes de triturarlos con lactosa o espíritu de vino
«However, neither system frees the quintessence, the most important matter in alchemical preparations.» — el límite que devuelve a los dos sistemas: ninguno liberaría la quintaesencia, que llama la materia más importante del arte
«What is essential can not be destroyed by fire. Out of the Cosmic retort rises the vital life force to let the Oobalistic Tree of Life grow, so that the Alchemist may partake of its fruit and thereby obtain eternal life, light and love.» — la fórmula con que cierra el capítulo quinto: lo esencial no lo destruye el fuego, y de la retorta cósmica sube la fuerza vital que hace crecer el Árbol de la Vida cuyo fruto daría vida eterna, luz y amor. El troceo imprime *Oobalistic* donde el índice de ilustraciones dice *Qabalistic*
«become so small that they can no longer be perceived. Because of the high trituration, the vibratory rate is greatly increased» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: la partícula se vuelve imperceptible y con ello, según él, sube mucho la vibración
«Mysterious symbols have intrigued the mind of man from time immemorial. In every epoch, religion, magic and alchemy have abounded in the use of symbols.» — el marco con que abre el capítulo de los símbolos: religión, magia y alquimia habrían abundado en ellos en toda época
«Meanings of diverse kinds and interpretations bordering on the hallucinatory and fantastic have been attributed to these strange signs.» — lo que dice haberse atribuido a esos signos: sentidos de toda clase e interpretaciones rayanas en lo alucinatorio
«One can understand, then, if even today, such expressions as “signs of the devil,” “marks of the devil,” etc., can still be found among various peoples.» — de dónde hace venir el mote de signos o marcas del diablo, todavía en uso entre varios pueblos
«In alchemy, nothing devilish or unholy is concealed behind these symbols. On the contrary, to those who are able to understand them, they possess an honorable and even a holy significance.» — la objeción que opone a ese mote: en alquimia no habría nada diabólico tras los símbolos, sino un sentido honorable y aun sagrado para quien los entienda
«This understanding has been considered too sacred and too valuable to be cast before the unworthy.» — la razón que da para el secreto de esos signos: demasiado sagrados y valiosos para echarlos a los indignos
«Alchemists, and especially the Rosicrucian fraters, have used these sacred symbols amongst themselves in order to prevent alchemical, mystical, or occult secrets from falling into the hands of those who would misuse them.» — quiénes los habrían usado y para qué: alquimistas y en especial los fratres rosacruces, para que los secretos no cayeran en malas manos
«Rosicrucian adepts were known to have secret powers and methods to accomplish what seemed miraculous to others, as has been recorded for centuries.» — lo que adjudica a los adeptos rosacruces: poderes y métodos secretos que a otros parecían milagrosos, con registro de siglos
«For example, the wonderful work (In German) of W. G. Surya, Der Stein der Weisen (The Stone of the Wise), presents an almost unbelievable but authentic record of these sages during past centuries.» — la fuente que da para ese registro: *Der Stein der Weisen* de W. G. Surya, en alemán, que llama testimonio auténtico
«Even today, the very same symbols are employed by the alchemical brethren whenever necessary.» — lo que declara del presente: los mismos símbolos seguirían en uso entre los hermanos alquimistas
«The occasion may arise for the alchemist-to-be, now reading these pages, when he may come in contact with books and manuscripts containing these alchemystical symbols. For this reason, the following pages present the important signs together with their Latin and English names.» — la utilidad práctica que le da al capítulo: dar los signos con su nombre latino e inglés para cuando el lector tope con libros o manuscritos que los lleven
«To some, such symbols are of little importance now, but they will prove of immense value when, at the least suspected time, a connecting link will present itself.» — la defensa que hace de incluirlos pese a parecer poco importantes: servirían de eslabón cuando menos se espere
«Members of the age-old fraternity of Rosicrucians are still very actively engaged in alchemy as part of their occult and mystical work.» — lo que sostiene de la fraternidad rosacruz: sigue muy activa en alquimia como parte de su trabajo oculto y místico
«However, one must discriminate between pseudo-Rosicrucians who may outwardly belong to one of several organizations making use of that name, and real adepts who comprise the inner core of the circle of the Order, which still exists throughout the Occident and the Orient.» — el deslinde que hace dentro de esa fraternidad: pseudorrosacruces que usan el nombre por fuera, y adeptos reales del núcleo interior, que existiría en Occidente y Oriente
«As previously stated, it would be useless to attempt to locate or even to contact this inner circle.» — lo que repite del núcleo interior: sería inútil intentar localizarlo o contactarlo
«It is true that Rosicrucian alchemical symbols have been published prior to their appearance here, and no doubt they will find their way into print again in the future.» — lo que concede sobre la publicación de esos símbolos: ya se habían impreso antes y volverán a imprimirse
«They are included in this little work only to help students arrive at a fundamental understanding of their basic meanings. For this reason, they are compiled in a condensed, yet comprehensive, way.» — el fin acotado con que dice incluirlos: llevar al estudiante a un entendimiento básico, de modo condensado
«No claim is made that the symbols reproduced here are the only ones used in alchemy.» — la reserva que pone sobre su propia tabla: no serían los únicos signos del arte
«Basilius Valentinus employed some of similar design plus others entirely of his own composition.» — el caso que le opone: Basilius Valentinus usó algunos parecidos y otros enteramente suyos
«Some alchemists devised their own sets of symbols when it became apparent that formerly used signs had fallen into the hands of charlatans, who only made use of them to defraud and deceive the public.» — la razón que da para esas invenciones particulares: los signos usados habían caído en manos de charlatanes que defraudaban con ellos
«Regarding individual interpretation of alchemical symbols, it can only be said that an inner unfoldment will help the student alchemist to arrive at their correct meanings.» — lo que pone como única vía de interpretación: un despliegue interior del propio estudiante
«The profound message they contain will never be fully explained in the printed word nor in the attempted translations of “schooled intellectuals.”» — el límite que declara: ni la letra impresa ni las traducciones de los intelectuales de escuela agotarían su mensaje
«The symbols as used by the Rosicrucian fraters are given here in such a way that interpretation is superfluous. They are presented in the same manner that a dictionary define certain words and phrases.» — la forma en que dice presentarlos: como un diccionario define palabras, sin interpretación añadida. El troceo imprime *a dictionary define*
«ROSICRUCIAN ALCHEMY I SIGNS OF ELEMENTS II SIGNS OF METALS AND PLANETS» — los dos primeros rótulos de la tabla de signos: elementos, y metales con planetas
«IV PRODUCTS OF MINERALS V SIGNS OF VEGETABLES» — el cuarto y el quinto rótulos: productos de minerales y signos de vegetales
«VII SIGNS OF TIME VIII SIGNS OF WEIGHT» — el séptimo y el octavo rótulos: signos de tiempo y de peso
«X SIGNS OF OPERATION XI SIGNS OF VARIOUS PRODUCTS» — el décimo y el undécimo rótulos: signos de operación y de productos varios
«III SIGNS OF MINERALS» — el tercer rótulo de la tabla de signos, que ocupa su plana entera porque la tabla misma es lámina sin capa de texto
«VI SIGNS OF ANIMALS» — el sexto rótulo de la tabla de signos, en plana propia
«IX SIGNS OF INSTRUMENTS» — el noveno rótulo de la tabla de signos, en plana propia
«XII ALCHEMICAL CIPHERS» — el duodécimo y último rótulo de la tabla de signos, en plana propia
«The following alchemical material was obtained from a rare manuscript handwritten in Latin and German script and Rosicrucian ciphers. The four sections of the original document are arranged as follows: A - Introduction; I - First Degree; II - Second Degree; III - Third Degree.» — de dónde declara haber sacado el capítulo séptimo: un manuscrito raro en latín, letra alemana y cifras rosacruces, con introducción y tres grados
«This work, together with the first edition of The Secret Symbols of the Rosicrucians, was brought to this country by the widow of a Mr. Ernst Klatscher, a native of Prague, Czechoslovakia Mr. Klatscher was a high degree Mason, who had been interested in Rosicrucianism for some years. The invasion of his country during World War II forced Mr. Klatscher and his family into exile. They fled in such haste that only their most highly prized possessions could be carried with them. Among these were The Secret Symbols of the Rosicrucians and the document we summarize here.» — la procedencia que le adjudica: llegó al país con la viuda de Ernst Klatscher, masón de alto grado nacido en Praga, exiliado por la invasión de su país en la guerra. El troceo imprime *Czechoslovakia Mr. Klatscher* sin punto
«Naturally, this manuscript is priceless. The original came from a monastery in Prague (in the country formerly known as Bohemia), for many years the center of alchemical activity. As far as we are able to determine, the original of this document no longer exists. Perhaps these photostats alone survive.» — lo que dice del original: vino de un monasterio de Praga, centro de actividad alquímica, y ya no existiría, de modo que solo quedarían estos fotostatos
«A.E. Waite, in his book, The Brotherhood of the Rosy Cross, (p. 457) mentions that he knew of the existence of this document as recorded in a Rosicrucian Convention held in Germany in 1777.» — el único respaldo externo que ofrece: A. E. Waite menciona en *The Brotherhood of the Rosy Cross*, p. 457, haber sabido de este documento de una convención rosacruz de 1777 en Alemania
«The Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, obtained these photostatic copies and the first edition of The Secret Symbols of the Rosicrucians from the executor of the state of Ernst Klatscher.» — quién obtuvo los fotostatos: la Orden Rosacruz AMORC, del albacea de Klatscher. El troceo imprime *executor of the state*
«His widow turned over these documents to Frenkel and Company, an old established firm having offices in London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Hamburg.» — el eslabón intermedio que consigna: la viuda entregó los documentos a Frenkel and Company, con oficinas en Londres, París, Ámsterdam y Hamburgo
«The report of the First Degree, Junior Degree, or Zelators as they are called, contains nine pages. In addition to this, there are four large tables, two of four pages each and the other two of two pages each.» — el desglose del primer grado, el de los Zeladores: nueve planas y cuatro tablas grandes
«One of these tables, Number 4, is extremely valuable from an alchemical point of view, as it contains all of the symbols used by the Rosicrucians of all ages in their alchemical work.» — lo que destaca de la tabla número 4: contendría todos los símbolos usados por los rosacruces de todas las épocas
«The First Degree gives instruction concerning the four alchemical elements and the symbols by which they are represented. Other Qabalistic material in relation to Alchemy is given, dating back even to the time of Solomon.» — lo que enseñaría el primer grado: los cuatro elementos con sus signos y material cabalístico que el propio manuscrito remonta al tiempo de Salomón
«The relationship of the triangle, signifying the beginning, middle, and end, and its other correspondences to divine names is the reason that the triangle was adopted, with slight alterations, to represent the four elements.» — la razón que da para el triángulo como signo elemental: significa principio, medio y fin y tiene correspondencias con los nombres divinos
«One who understands thoroughly these principles of the four elements can bring forth from them the alchemical Salt, Sulphur, and Mercury. Later on the student is taught how to unite this Salt, Sulphur, and Mercury in a higher degree.» — lo que promete ese primer grado a quien entienda a fondo los cuatro elementos: sacar de ellos los tres principios, y unirlos en grado superior más adelante
«The fundamental law of the Order is given in this degree to be the pursuance of wisdom and virtue, rather than to abide in the the domain of mammon when the philosopher's stone is discovered.» — la ley fundamental que el manuscrito asigna a la Orden: buscar sabiduría y virtud, no quedarse en el dominio de mammón al hallar la piedra. El troceo repite *the the*
«The instruction of the higher members, the members' own initiative and energy, and the mercy of God will determine whether or not they will ever make a transmutation.» — de qué haría depender la transmutación: la instrucción de los miembros superiores, la iniciativa propia y la misericordia de Dios
«Incidentally, it is also specified that the cost of experiments undertaken is to be controlled and restricted to such a degree that the material possessions of members will not be depleted.» — la regla económica del manuscrito: el costo de los experimentos se restringe para no vaciar los bienes de los miembros
«Members are expected to work together in groups and to supplement each other's work, thereby reducing the cost of experiments. Disobedience of this rule would be punished by such penalties as suspension or expulsion from the Order.» — la regla de trabajo y su sanción: trabajar en grupo para abaratar, so pena de suspensión o expulsión
«The Second Degree, or that of the Fratres Theoricus, has five pages. The fifth page has the cipher of the degree. (In these manuscripts, instead of being called First, Second, and Third Degrees, the different stages are named First, Second, and Third Classes-or Zelators, Fratres Theoricus, etc.» — el desglose del segundo grado y la salvedad de nomenclatura: el manuscrito habla de Clases, no de Grados
«The Fratres of this degree or class were concerned with theory of instruction in direct preparation for the next degree. They may formulate their own theories and slightly change the wording of the instruction so that they may better understand it, but they are not allowed to use any apparatus.» — lo que hacían los Fratres de esa clase: teoría preparatoria, con permiso de reformular pero prohibición expresa de tocar aparato
«The philosophical heart of the theory of Alchemy, as taught, applied itself to the spiritual world in this manner: It was the fire of love that prepared the heavenly quintessence and eternal tincture of all souls.» — el corazón filosófico que le atribuye a esa enseñanza: el fuego del amor prepararía la quintaesencia celeste y la tintura eterna de todas las almas
«The definite Rosicrucian instruction concerning the seven planets and the particular metal under the respective influence of each planet was given in detail.» — la otra materia del segundo grado: los siete planetas con el metal bajo la influencia de cada uno
«They must also have a knowledge of the different processes and manipulations in order to obtain the essence from the mineral, vegetable, and animal kingdoms.» — el saber práctico que exigía antes de pasar al tercer grado: procesos y manipulaciones para sacar la esencia de los tres reinos
«They had to be familiar with the various minerals and rocks, ores and metals, and be able to obtain pure virgin metal from ore. They should also know the different types of vessels on sight and know for what use they were intended.» — el resto de ese requisito: conocer minerales, menas y metales, sacar metal virgen del mineral y reconocer los vasos de vista
«The Third Degree, or that of Practicus, contains sixteen pages. It is divided into two parts. The first part deals with the alchemical instructions or “Necessary Preparatory Processes for the Philosophical Work.”» — el desglose del tercer grado, el de los Practicus, y el rótulo de su primera parte
«There are four chapters concerning the materials to be obtained, the room, the type of equipment, and the other arrangements of the laboratory.» — las cuatro materias preparatorias de ese grado: materiales, cuarto, equipo y disposición del laboratorio
«Chapter 5 begins with the actual work. It is titled “How the Radical or Universal Menstruum Resolventia Must Be Prepared from Mineral, Vegetable, and Animal Materials.”» — el rótulo del capítulo con que empieza la obra propiamente dicha, sobre el menstruo radical o universal
«Process I deals with the mineral radical menstruum, or just plain metals and precious stones. In brief, it is this: One is to take equal parts of saltpeter and vitriol and purify this with water. The water is then driven off and evaporated and the remaining salts are calcined.» — el primer proceso, el del menstruo mineral: partes iguales de salitre y vitriolo, purificadas con agua, evaporadas y calcinadas
«A special kind of vitriol is required which should have come from some place outside of Europe, preferably the East Indies, Japan, or Mexico.» — la condición de procedencia que pone al vitriolo: de fuera de Europa, de preferencia Indias Orientales, Japón o México
«This was probably due to the fact the copper sulphate in these countries was much stronger than that found in Europe.» — la conjetura con que él mismo explica esa condición: el sulfato de cobre de esos países sería más fuerte
«A complicated process of sublimation and distillation, similar to that described in Cockren's work, next takes place with these salts.» — la referencia con que compara ese proceso de sublimación y destilación: la obra de Cockren
«The essence thus obtained has the property and power, when mixed with other metals or their salts, of extracting their essence.» — la propiedad que atribuye a la esencia así obtenida: extraería la esencia de otros metales o sus sales
«Process II is that of preparing the vegetable radical menstruum. Of the vegetable or herb used, one takes the best kind. This is placed in weak acetic acid and rectified spirits of wine. Equal parts of both liquids are to be used. This mixture is placed in an alembic and distilled. It is digested again, and the complete process of mixture and distillation repeated two more times, making a total of three.» — el segundo proceso, el del menstruo vegetal: la hierba en ácido acético débil y espíritu de vino rectificado a partes iguales, destilado y digerido tres veces
«The Introduction, itself, is divided into three parts of three reports each. The total number of pages in the introduction is thirty-five. The first report covers pages 1 to 22, the second pages 23 to 28, and the» — el desglose de la introducción del manuscrito: tres partes de tres informes, treinta y cinco planas en total; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«third, which seems to deal more or less with alchemical notes, pages 29 to 35.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el tercer informe, de notas alquímicas, cubriría las planas 29 a 35 del manuscrito
«The works of Basil Valentine, Paracelsus, Henry Madathanas, Arnold de Villanova, Raymund Lully, and several anonymous alchemical writers were recommended» — las lecturas que el manuscrito recomienda en el segundo grado: Basil Valentine, Paracelso, Henry Madathanas, Arnold de Villanova, Raymund Lully y varios anónimos
«Finally, as a result of these constant firings, a penitent spirit will» — el remate del segundo proceso, cortado por el fin de plana: de esos fuegos constantes saldría un espíritu penetrante. El troceo imprime *penitent*
«come over. There should remain behind, in the alembic, a small amount of dead earth and nitrum (saltpeter).» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: en el alambique quedarían tierra muerta y nitro
«It will then be necessary to make two or three cohobations —i.e., combining the dead earth with the spirit or essence. In this manner, the vegetable radical menstruum is prepared.» — la operación con que se cierra ese menstruo vegetal: dos o tres cohobaciones, uniendo la tierra muerta con el espíritu
«By placing other herbs in this menstruum, their essential oils can easily be obtained and, thereby, invaluable elixirs and medicaments prepared.» — lo que promete ese menstruo ya hecho: sacar con facilidad los aceites esenciales de otras hierbas
«Process III, dealing with the preparation of the animal radical menstruum, begins with the testing of the urine of a healthy person. If the sample is perfectly normal, it is placed in a flask or alembic and distilled. This process is repeated seven times.» — el tercer proceso, el del menstruo animal: orina de persona sana, comprobada normal, destilada siete veces
«The manuscript adds, perhaps humorously, that it is strong enough to freshen up mummies.» — lo que el manuscrito añade sobre su fuerza, con la reserva de humor que el propio autor le pone
«Such a preparation may seem repugnant to us today, but many old pharmaceutical, herbal and medical books contain similar practices. In fact, Paracelsus, at one time, confounded and disgusted the medical faculty where he was lecturing by experimenting with the excrement of the human body.» — la defensa que hace de ese procedimiento contra el asco moderno, con el precedente de Paracelso, que habría escandalizado a la facultad médica experimentando con excremento humano
«Process IV, or the preparation of the universal menstruum, begins with the mixture of alcohol and saltpeter, which are then distilled. Taking the combined result, one half pound of nitrum salt is mixed with it in a rubbing manner and distilled again. The resulting combination is mixed with equal portions of the above three results. They, in turn, are distilled and sublimated seven times. The final result will be the universal essence, menstruum, or elixir.» — el cuarto proceso, el del menstruo universal: alcohol y salitre destilados, media libra de sal de nitro añadida por trituración, mezcla a partes iguales con los tres anteriores y siete destilaciones y sublimaciones
«The second part of the Third Degree, beginning on page nine, contains instructions and further elaborations of these four processes.» — qué contiene la segunda parte del tercer grado, según el resumen
«These instructions end with the admonition that all philosophical elixirs, oils, essence, alkahests, and even the Stone, itself, were to be used primarily in the service of mankind and for the glory of God.» — la admonición con que cierran esas instrucciones: todos los elixires, aceites, esencias, alcaestos y la Piedra misma al servicio de la humanidad y para gloria de Dios
«Of course, those to receive the first benefit would be themselves and other members of the Rosicrucian Order.» — quiénes cobrarían el primer beneficio, según el manuscrito: ellos mismos y los demás miembros de la Orden
«They were to be chiefly interested in the medicinal values of these preparations, but were to be able to create enough precious stones and metals to maintain the finances of the Order.» — el reparto de fines que el manuscrito les fija: sobre todo lo medicinal, y piedras y metales bastantes para sostener las finanzas de la Orden
«Stress was again laid upon the fact that all of the ciphers and symbols should be mastered in order that no mistakes would be made.» — lo que el manuscrito volvía a subrayar: dominar cifras y símbolos para no errar
«Also, further instructions in spiritual Alchemy were offered to those who had completely mastered the physical Alchemy.» — el orden que el manuscrito pone entre las dos alquimias: la espiritual solo tras dominar del todo la física
«We can imagine, therefore, that those who had attained perfect health and financial independence from the world were given a new set of instructions to study and practice in some sequestered spot.» — la conjetura que el autor añade de su cosecha sobre quienes lograban salud perfecta e independencia financiera
«The formulas as given in the manuscript, of course, must not be taken at face value, as they are of necessity concealed in their phraseology.» — la reserva con que el autor entrega todo el resumen: las fórmulas del manuscrito estarían veladas y no deben tomarse al pie de la letra
«It gives us, however, an interesting glimpse into these groups of sincere students, as well as adepts, who considered their time and effort well spent in order to enter the mystic realm of alchemystical experimentations.» — lo que dice que sí da ese documento: una mirada a esos grupos de estudiantes sinceros y adeptos
«The quotation which follows is from the wisdom of a Sage as recorded in the Collectanea Chemica. Its purpose is to help prepare alchemical students for the greater work.» — la fuente y el fin de la larga cita que sigue: un Sabio recogido en la *Collectanea Chemica*, para preparar a los estudiantes hacia la obra mayor
«It will be recalled by the reader that mention was made that anyone who is able to master the herbal process will find it considerably easier to work with minerals and even metals.» — el vínculo que vuelve a trazar entre las dos obras: quien domine el proceso vegetal lo tendría más fácil con minerales y metales
«The members assembled together and discussed these» — el modo de lectura que el manuscrito prescribe en ese grado: los miembros se reunían y discutían a esos autores; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«The remains in the alembic are mixed with the last half of the liquid obtained in the last distillation.» — cómo se remata el menstruo animal: lo que queda en el alambique se mezcla con la última mitad del líquido de la séptima destilación
«This substance is claimed to have an especially powerful effect when applied to sore spots on the human body.» — el efecto que se le atribuye a esa sustancia sobre las llagas del cuerpo
«There they would probably attain to the highest degree of psychic» — adónde llegarían, según esa conjetura del autor; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«development and adepthood. The formulas as given in the manuscript, of course, must not be taken at face value, as they are of necessity concealed in their phraseology.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: desarrollo psíquico y adeptado, y la reserva de que las fórmulas del manuscrito van veladas
«These were all formed of the same moist vapour originally, but are thus varied from the different impregnations of the sperm, the quality of salt and sulphur with which it is fixed, and the purity of the earth which serves it for a matrix; for whatever portion of this moist vapour is hastily sublimed to the surface of the earth, taking along its impurities, is soon deprived of its purer parts by the constant action of heat, both solar and central, and the grosser parts, forming a mucilaginous substance, furnish the matter of common rocks and stones.» — cómo explica esa misma voz la variedad de los minerales: un solo vapor, diversificado por la impregnación del esperma, la calidad de sal y azufre y la pureza de la tierra que le sirve de matriz
«But when this moist vapour is sublimed, very slowly, through a fine earth, not partaking of a sulphureous unctuosity, pebbles are formed; for the sperm of these beautiful, variagated stones, with marbles, alabasters, etc., separates this depurated vapour, both for their first formation and continual growth.» — lo que la misma voz adjudica al vapor sublimado despacio por tierra fina sin untuosidad sulfúrea: los guijarros, los mármoles y los alabastros
«Gems are in like manner formed of this moist vapour when it meets with pure salt water, with which it is fixed in a cold place.» — cómo hace nacer las gemas: el mismo vapor fijado en lugar frío con agua salada pura
«But if the unctuous matter comes into places cold and impure, lead, or Saturn, is produced; if the earth be cold and pure, mixed with sulphur, the result is copper.» — las dos derivaciones que le opone: en lugar frío e impuro, plomo o Saturno; en tierra fría y pura con azufre, cobre
«Silver also is formed of this vapour, where it abounds in purity, but mixed with a lesser degree of sulphur and not sufficiently concocted. In tin, or Jupiter, as it is called, it abounds, but in less purity. In Mars, or iron, it is in a lesser proportion impure, and mixed with an adust sulphur.» — el resto de la escala de los metales según esa voz: plata donde el vapor abunda puro pero mal cocido, estaño donde abunda con menos pureza, hierro donde escasea impuro y con azufre adusto
«Hence, it appears that the First Matter of metals is one thing, and not many, homogeneous, but altered by the diversity of places and sulphurs with which it is combined.» — la tesis que la voz saca de esa escala: una sola primera Materia, homogénea, alterada por los lugares y los azufres
«The philosophers frequently describe this matter. Sendivogius calls it heavenly water, not wetting the hands; not vulgar, but almost like rain water.» — la descripción que atribuye a Sendivogius: agua celeste que no moja las manos, no vulgar, casi como agua de lluvia
«When Hermes calls it a bird without wings, figuring thereby its vaporous nature, it is well described.» — la lectura que hace del ave sin alas de Hermes: figuraría su naturaleza vaporosa
«When he calls the sun its father and the moon its mother, he signifies that it is produced by the action of heat upon moisture.» — la lectura que hace del padre Sol y la madre Luna: la acción del calor sobre la humedad
«When he says the wind carries it in its belly, he only means that the air is its receptacle.» — la lectura que hace del viento que lo lleva en el vientre: el aire sería su receptáculo
«When he affirms that which is inferior is like that which is superior, he teaches that the same vapour on the surface of the earth furnishes the matter of rain and dew, wherewith all things are nourished in the vegetable and animal kingdoms.» — la lectura que hace de lo inferior semejante a lo superior: el mismo vapor da en la superficie la lluvia y el rocío que nutren los reinos vegetal y animal
«This now is what the philosophers call their Mercury and affirm it to be found in all things, as it is in fact.» — el nombre que la voz da a ese vapor y el alcance que le adjudica: el Mercurio de los filósofos, presente en todo
«This makes some suppose it to be in the human body, others in the dunghill, which has often bewildered such as are fond of philosophical subtleties, and fly from one thing to another, without any fixed theory about what they would seek, expecting to find in the Vegetable or Animal Kingdoms the utmost perfection of the Mineral.» — el error que esa voz señala: buscarlo en el cuerpo humano o en el estercolero, esperando hallar en lo vegetal o lo animal la perfección de lo mineral
«To this mistake of theirs, without doubt, the philosophers have contributed with the intention of hiding their First Matter from the unworthy; in which they were, perhaps, more cautious than is necessary» — a quién adjudica la culpa de ese error: los propios filósofos, por esconder su primera Materia de los indignos con más cautela de la necesaria
«for Sendivogius declares that occasionally, in discourse, he had intimated the art plainly word by word to some who accounted themselves very acute philosophers; but they conceived such subtle notions, far beyond the simplicity of Nature, that they could not, to any purpose, understand his meaning.» — el caso de Sendivogius que da como prueba: habría dicho el arte palabra por palabra a quienes se tenían por agudos, y no lo entendieron por buscar sutilezas más allá de la simplicidad de la Naturaleza
«Wherefore he professes little fear of its being discovered but to those who have it according to the good pleasure and providence of the Most High.» — la conclusión que Sendivogius saca de ese caso, según la cita: poco temor de que el arte se descubra salvo a quien lo tenga por voluntad del Altísimo
«This benevolent disposition has induced him to declare more openly the First Matter, and fix the artist in his search of it to the mineral kingdom; for, quoting Albertus Magnus, who wrote that in his time grains of gold were found betwixt the teeth of a dead man in his grave, he observes that Albertus could not account for this miracle, but judged it to be by reason of the mineral virtue in man» — lo que esa disposición benévola le hizo declarar, con el caso de Albertus Magnus: granos de oro entre los dientes de un muerto en su tumba, que Albertus no supo explicar salvo por la virtud mineral en el hombre
«being confirmed by that saying of Morien: ‘And this matter, O King, is extracted from thee.» — la sentencia de Morien con que se apoyaba esa lectura: la materia se extrae de ti, oh Rey
«But this is erroneous, for Morien understood those things philosophically, the mineral virtue residing in its own kingdom, distinct from the animal.» — la objeción que la voz de la *Collectanea* opone a esa lectura: Morien lo entendía filosóficamente, y la virtud mineral reside en su propio reino
«It is true, indeed, in the animal kingdom mercury, or humidity, is as the matter, and sulphur, or marrow in the bones, as the virtue; but the animal is not mineral, and vice versa.» — la analogía que concede entre los reinos y el límite con que la corta: mercurio como materia y azufre como virtud en cada reino, sin que lo animal sea mineral
«If the virtue of the animal sulphur were not in man, the blood, or mercury, could not be coagulated into flesh and bones; so if there were not a vegetable sulphur in the vegetable kingdom, it could not coagulate water, or the vegetable mercury, into herbs, etc. The same is to be understood in the mineral kingdom.» — el argumento de simetría con que lo sostiene: sin azufre animal la sangre no coagularía en carne y hueso, y sin azufre vegetal el agua no coagularía en hierbas
«These three kingdoms do not, indeed differ in their virtue, nor the three sulphurs, as every sulphur has a power to coagulate its own mercury; and every mercury has a power of being coagulated by its own proper sulphur, and by no other which is a stranger to it.» — la regla de correspondencia con que cierra: cada azufre coagula su propio mercurio y ningún otro
«Now the reason why gold was found betwixt the teeth of a dead man is this: because in his lifetime mercury had been administered to him, either by unction, turbith, or some other way; and it is the nature of this metal to ascend to the mouth, forming itself an outlet there, to be evacuated with the spittle. If, then, in the time of such treatment, the sick man died, the mercury, not finding an egress, remained in his mouth between his teeth, and the carcass becoming a natural matrix to ripen the mercury, it was shut up for a long time, till it was congealed into gold by its own proper sulphur, being purified by the natural heat of putrefaction, caused by the corrosive phlegm of man's body; but this would never have happened if mineral mercury had not been administered to him.» — la explicación que da al fin de los granos de oro: mercurio administrado en vida que subió a la boca, quedó atrapado al morir el enfermo y cuajó en oro en el cadáver hecho matriz
«All philosophers affirm, with one consent, that metals have a seed by which they are increased, and that this seminal quality is the same in all of them; but it is perfectly ripened in gold only, where the bond of union is so fixed that it is most difficult to decompound the subject, and procure it for the Philosophical Work.» — la tesis de la semilla de los metales: única en todos, madura solo en el oro, cuyo vínculo sería el más difícil de descomponer
«All true philosophers agree that the first Matter of metals is a moist vapour, raised by the action of the central fire in the bowels of the earth, which, circulating through its pores, meets with the crude air, and is coagulated by it into an unctuous water, adhering to the earth, which serves it for a receptacle, where it is joined to a sulphur more or less pure, and a salt» — el arranque de la cita de la *Collectanea Chemica*: la primera Materia de los metales sería un vapor húmedo que el fuego central levanta en las entrañas de la tierra, coagulado por el aire crudo en agua untuosa. La voz es del Sabio de la *Collectanea*. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«more or less fixing, which it attracts from the air, and, receiving a certain degree of concoction from the central and solar heat, is formed into stones and rocks, minerals and metals.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: con sal más o menos fijadora tomada del aire y cocción del calor central y solar, ese vapor formaría piedras, rocas, minerales y metales
«But if it is sublimed leisurely through places which are hot and pure, where the fatness of sulphur adheres to it, this vapour, which the philosophers call their Mercury, is joined to that fatness and becomes an unctuous matter, which coming afterwards to» — cómo hace nacer el oro esa misma voz: el vapor sublimado despacio por lugares calientes y puros toma la grasa del azufre y se vuelve materia untuosa. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«other places, cleansed by the afore-named vapours where the earth is subtle, pure, and moist, fills the pores of it, and so gold is made.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: esa materia untuosa llena los poros de una tierra sutil, pura y húmeda, y así se hace el oro
«We shall, therefore, set before the reader a landmark, to keep him from splitting on this difficulty, by considering what is the seed wherein the metals are increased, that the artist may be no longer at a loss where to seek for it, keeping in view the writings of our learned predecessors on this subject.» — el propósito que la misma voz declara: poner un mojón que impida encallar en esa dificultad, considerando cuál es la simiente en que crecen los metales
«The seed of metals is what the Sons of Wisdom have called their mercury, to distinguish it from quicksilver, which it nearly resembles, being the radical moisture of metals.» — la definición que da de la simiente de los metales: lo que los Hijos de la Sabiduría llaman su mercurio, la humedad radical, distinta del azogue al que se parece
«This, when judiciously extracted, without corrosives, or fluxing, contains in it a seminal quality whose perfect ripeness is only in gold; in the other metals it is crude, like fruits which are yet green, not being sufficiently digested by the heat of the sun and action of the elements.» — la condición de extracción y el estado de esa simiente en cada metal: madura solo en el oro, cruda en los demás como fruta verde
«We observed that the radical moisture contains the seed, which is true: yet it is not the seed, but the sperm only, in which the vital principle floats, being invisible to the eye.» — la precisión que introduce sobre su propia formulación: la humedad radical no sería la simiente sino el esperma en que flota el principio vital, invisible al ojo
«But the mind perceives it, in a true artists, as a central point of condensed air, wherein Nature, according to the will of God, has included the first principles of life in everything, as well animal and vegetable as mineral» — dónde sitúa ese principio: un punto central de aire condensado donde la Naturaleza, según la voluntad de Dios, incluyó los primeros principios de la vida en los tres reinos. El troceo imprime *a true artists*
«for in animals the sperm may be seen, but not the included principle of impregnation: this is a concentered point, to which the sperm serves only as a vehicle, till, by the action and ferment of the matrix, the point wherein Nature has included a vital principle expands itself, and then it is perceivable in the rudiments of an animal.» — la analogía animal con que lo sostiene: se ve el esperma pero no el principio de impregnación, punto que solo se percibe cuando el fermento de la matriz lo expande
«So in any esculent fruit (as, for instance, in an apple), the pulp or sperm is much more in proportion than the seed included; and even that which appears to be seed is only a finer concoction of sperm, including the vital stamina» — la analogía vegetal que le sigue: en la manzana la pulpa es esperma y aun lo que parece simiente sería una cocción más fina de esperma
«as also in a grain of wheat the flour is only the sperm, the point of vegetation is an included air, which is kept by its sperm from the extremes of cold and heat, till it finds a proper matrix, where the husk being softened with moisture, and warmed by the heat, the surrounding sperm putrefies, making the seed, or concentered air, to expand and to burst the husk carrying along in its motion a milky substance, assimilated to itself from the putrefied sperm. This the condensing quality of the air includes in a film and hardens into a germ, all according to the purpose of Nature.» — la analogía del grano de trigo, llevada paso a paso: la harina como esperma, el punto de vegetación como aire incluido, la putrefacción del esperma que revienta la cáscara y el germen que endurece
«If this whole process of Nature, most wonderful in her operations, was not constantly repeated before our eyes, the simple process of vegetation would be equally problematical with that of the philosophers» — el argumento de familiaridad que emplea: si la vegetación no ocurriera a diario ante los ojos, sería tan problemática como el proceso de los filósofos
«yet how can the metals increase, nay, how can anything be multiplied without seed?» — la pregunta con que sostiene la necesidad de simiente también en los metales
«The true artists never pretended to multiply metals without it, and can it be denied that Nature still follows her first appointment? She always fructifies the seed when it is put into a proper matrix.» — lo que la voz declara de los artistas verdaderos y de la Naturaleza: nunca multiplicaron sin simiente, y ella siempre fructifica la puesta en matriz adecuada
«A husbandman meliorates his ground with compost, burns the weeds, and makes use of other operations. He steeps his seed in various preparations, only taking care not to destroy its vital principle; indeed, it never comes into his head to roast it, or to boil it, in which he shows more knowledge of Nature than some would-be philosophers do. Nature, like a liberal mother, rewards him with a more plentiful harvest, in proportion as he has meliorated her seed and furnished a more suitable matrix for its increase.» — la analogía del labrador con que ilustra la colaboración con la naturaleza: abona, quema hierba, macera la simiente sin destruir su principio vital, y no se le ocurre asarla ni hervirla
«The intelligent gardener goes farther; he knows how to shorten the process of vegetation, or retard it. He gathers roses, cuts salads, and pulls green peas in winter. Are the curious inclined to admire plants and fruits of other climates? He can produce them in his stoves to perfection.» — la analogía del jardinero, que lleva más lejos la misma idea: acorta o retarda la vegetación y da rosas, lechugas y guisantes en invierno, y plantas de otros climas en sus estufas
«Open your eyes here, ye studious searchers of Nature! Is she so liberal in her perishing productions, how much more in those which are permanent, and can subsist in the fire?» — la interpelación con que aplica esas analogías a lo metálico: si la Naturaleza es tan liberal en lo perecedero, cuánto más en lo permanente que subsiste en el fuego
«Attend, then, to her operations; if you procure the metallic seed, and ripen that by art which she is many ages in perfecting, it cannot fail but she will reward you with an increase proportioned to the excellency of your subject.» — la promesa que sigue a esa interpelación: madurar por arte la simiente metálica que ella tarda edades en perfeccionar
«The reader will be apt to exclaim here: ‘Very fine! All this is well; but how shall the seed of metals be procured, and whence comes it that so few know how to gather it?’» — la objeción que la propia voz se pone en boca del lector: cómo se procura esa simiente y por qué tan pocos saben recogerla
«But we, finding no restraint on our mind in that respect, shall declare what we know: and the rather because we judge the time is come to demolish the golden calf, so long had in veneration by all ranks of men» — la razón que da para hablar ahora: habría llegado el tiempo de demoler el becerro de oro venerado por todos los estamentos
«insomuch that worth is estimated by the money a man possesses; and such is the inequality of possessions that mankind are almost reducible to the rich, who are rioting in extravagance, and the poor, who are in extreme want, smarting under the iron hand of oppression.» — el diagnóstico social que trae esa cita: el valor se mide por el dinero y la desigualdad reduce a la humanidad a ricos en la extravagancia y pobres en la miseria
«Now the measure of iniquity among the rich hastens to its limit, and the cry of the poor is come before the Lord: ‘Who will give them to eat till they shall be satisfied?’» — lo que enuncia como inminente: colmada la iniquidad de los ricos y llegado el clamor de los pobres ante el Señor
«Hereafter the rich will see the vanity of their possessions when compared with the treasures communicated by this secret; for the riches it bestows are a blessing from God, and not the squeezing of oppression.» — el contraste con que remata: las riquezas de este secreto serían bendición de Dios y no fruto de la opresión
«Besides, its chief excellence consists in making a medicine capable of healing all diseases to which the human body is liable, and prolonging life to the utmost limits ordained by the Creator of all things.» — dónde pone la excelencia principal del secreto: una medicina que sanaría toda enfermedad del cuerpo y alargaría la vida hasta el límite ordenado
«There want not other reasons for the manifestation of the process; for scepticism has gone hand in hand with luxury and oppression, insomuch that the fundamental truths of all revealed religion are disputed.» — la segunda razón que da para publicar: el escepticismo habría ido de la mano del lujo y la opresión hasta disputar las verdades de la religión revelada
«These were always held in veneration by the possessors of this art, as may be seen from what they have left upon record in their books: and, indeed, the first principles of revealed religion are demonstrated from the whole process» — lo que declara de los poseedores del arte: veneraban esas verdades, y el proceso entero demostraría los primeros principios de la religión revelada
«for the seed of metals is sown in corruption, and raised in in-corruption; it is sown a natural body, and raised a spiritual body» — la lectura paulina que hace del proceso: la simiente de los metales se siembra en corrupción y se levanta en incorrupción, cuerpo natural sembrado y cuerpo espiritual levantado. El troceo imprime *in-corruption* partido
«it is known to partake of the curse which came upon the earth for man's sake, having in its composition a deadly poison, which can only be separated by a regeneration in water and fire» — lo que añade sobre el veneno mortal en su composición: participaría de la maldición caída sobre la tierra y solo se separaría por regeneración en agua y fuego
«it can, when it is thoroughly purified and exalted, immediately tinge imperfect metals and raise them to a state of perfection, being in this respect a lively emblem of that seed of the woman, the Serpent Bruiser, who, through His sufferings and death, hath entered into glory, having thenceforth power and authority to reedem, purify, and glorify all those who come unto Him as a mediator between God and mankind.» — la figura cristológica con que cierra esa lectura: purificada y exaltada, la simiente tiñe los metales imperfectos, emblema de la simiente de la mujer que quebranta la serpiente. El troceo imprime *reedem*
«Such being our motives, we can no longer be silent concerning the seed of metals, but declare that it is contained in the ores of metals, as wheat is in the grain» — la declaración central del pasaje: la simiente de los metales estaría en las menas, como el trigo en el grano
«Nay, though the philosophers have said many times the vulgar metals are dead, not excepting gold, which passes the fire, they could never imagine a thing so simple as that the seed of metals was contained in their ores, where alone it ought to be expected; so bewildered is human ingenuity, when it leaves the beaten track of truth and Nature, to entangle itself in a multiplicity of finespun inventions.» — lo que añade sobre esa ceguera: aun dicho mil veces que los metales vulgares están muertos, no imaginaron nada tan simple como la mena
«The searcher of Nature will rejoice greatly in this discovery, as grounded in reason and sound philosophy, but to fools it would be in vain, should even Wisdom herself cry out in the streets.» — el reparto de lectores que hace: el buscador de la Naturaleza se alegraría del hallazgo y al necio no le serviría ni el clamor de la Sabiduría en las calles
«we shall go on to observe that the ores of metals are our First Matter, or sperm, wherein the seed is contained, and the key of this art consists in a right dissolution of the ores into a water, which the philosophers call their mercury, or water of life, and an earthly substance, which they have denominated their sulphur.» — la clave del arte que enuncia: las menas como primera Materia o esperma, y la disolución correcta en un agua que llaman su mercurio y una tierra que llaman su azufre
«The first is called their woman, wife, Luna, and other names, signifying that it is the feminine quality in their seed; and the other they have denominated their man, husband, Sol, etc., to point out its masculine quality.» — el reparto de género de esos dos nombres: el agua como mujer, esposa y Luna, la tierra como hombre, marido y Sol
«In the separation and due conjunction of these with heat, and careful management, there is generated a noble offspring, which they have for its excellency called the quintessence or a subject wherein the four elements are so completely harmonized as to produce a fifth subsisting in the fire, without waste of substance, or diminution of its virtue, wherefore they have given it the titles of Salamander, Phoenix, and Son of the Sun.» — lo que nace de separar y conjuntar esos dos con calor: la quintaesencia, con los cuatro elementos armonizados, llamada Salamandra, Fénix e Hijo del Sol
«The true Sons of Science have always accounted the dissolution of metals as the master key to this art, and have been particular in giving directions concerning it, only keeping their readers in the dark as to the subject, whether ores, or factitious metals, were to be chosen: nay, when they say most to the purpose, then they make mention of metals rather than the ores, with an intention to perplex those whom they thought unworthy of the art.» — el punto en que los Hijos de la Ciencia habrían dejado a oscuras al lector: dicen metales donde debe entenderse menas, para desconcertar a los indignos
«It is remarkable that he avoids mentioning the ore, but calls his subject copper, which is what they call a metal of the vulgar, being indeed factitious, and not fit for the confection of our Stone, having lost its seminal quality in the fire; but in other respects it is the plainest discovery extant, and is accounted to be so by Sendivogious.» — la lectura que hace de esa cita: evita nombrar la mena y dice cobre, metal vulgar y facticio, y aun así sería el descubrimiento más llano, como lo tendría Sendivogius. El troceo imprime *Sendivogious*
«Yet the reader is not to suppose that the ore of copper is to be chosen in consequence of that assertion, as preferable to others. No, the mercury, which is the metallic seed, is attainable from all, and is easier to be extracted from lead, which is confirmed by the true adepts, advising us to seek for the noble child where it lies in a despised form, shut up under the seal of Saturn» — la salvedad que añade: el mercurio metálico se saca de todas las menas y con más facilidad del plomo, donde los adeptos mandan buscar al niño noble bajo el sello de Saturno
«and, indeed, let it be supposed, for an illustration of this subject, that if any one would propose to make malt, he may effect his purpose in the other corns, but barley is generally chosen, because its germ is made to sprout by a less tedious process, which is to all intents and purposes what we want in the extraction of our mercury: neither are the proceedings un-similar in both cases, if regard is had to the fixity of ores, and the ease with which barley gives forth its seminal virtue from the slight cohesion of its parts.» — la analogía de la malta con que lo ilustra: se puede maltear cualquier grano pero se elige la cebada porque germina antes, como la mena que da su mercurio con menos trabajo
«Let the artist remark how a maltster manages his grain by wetting, to loosen the cohesion of its parts, and leaves the rest to Nature, knowing that she will soon furnish the necessary heat for his purpose, if he does not suffer it to escape by mismanagement in the laying of his heap too thin, or raising the fermentation too high by a contrary proceeding, as it is well known actual fire may be kindled from the fermentation of vegetable juices when crude; and ripe corn, under such treatment, would soon be fit for nothing but hogs, or the dunghill.» — la lección de manejo que saca del maltero: mojar para aflojar la cohesión y dejar el resto a la Naturaleza, sin apilar demasiado fino ni levantar demasiado la fermentación
«Now the intention is to raise such a fermentation only as will draw out the vegetable mercury without spoiling it, either for the earth, if it was cast there to fructify, or the kiln, if it is to be fixed at that precise point, by exhaling the adventitious moisture, and thus preserving the whole strength of its seminal quality for the purposes of brewing, or making malt spirits.» — el fin de esa fermentación medida: sacar el mercurio vegetal sin echarlo a perder ni para la tierra ni para el horno
«have by painful processes taken gold for their male, and the mercury, which they knew how to extract from the less compacted metals, for a female; not as an easier process, but to find out the possibility of making the stone this way; and have succeeded, giving this method more openly to conceal the true confection, which is most easy and simple.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: tomaron el oro por macho y el mercurio de metales menos compactos por hembra, no por vía más fácil sino para probar que la piedra podía hacerse así, y publicaron ese método para esconder la confección verdadera
«some out of a selfish disposition, though otherwise good men. Others, who wished only for worthy persons to whom they might impart it, could not write of it openly» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: unos por egoísmo aun siendo buenos hombres, y otros porque, queriendo transmitirlo solo a los dignos, no podían escribirlo abiertamente
«because covetousness and vanity have been governing principles in the world; and, being wise men, they knew that it was not the will of the Most High to inflame and» — la razón que da para ese silencio: la codicia y la vanidad gobernarían el mundo y no sería voluntad del Altísimo alimentarlas; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«cherish such odious tempers, the genuine offspring of pride and self-love, but to banish them out of the earth, wherefore they have been withheld hitherto.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: esos humores odiosos, hijos del orgullo y el amor propio, habrían de ser desterrados, y por eso el arte se retuvo
«folly of alchemists has hindered them from adverting to this, so that they have always sought it in the vulgar metals, which are factitious and not a natural production, herein acting as foolishly as if a man should sow bread and expect corn from it, or from an egg which is boiled hope to produce a chicken.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el reproche de buscarla en los metales vulgares, facticios, como quien siembra pan o espera pollo de un huevo cocido
«Thus, the author of the Philosophical Duel, or a dialogue between the stone, gold, and mercury, says: “‘By the omnipotent God, and on the salvation of my soul, I» — la cita dentro de la cita, del autor del *Philosophical Duel*, que arranca con juramento; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«here declare to you earnest seekers, in pity to your earnest searching, the whole Philosophical Work, which is only taken from one subject and perfected in one thing. For we take this copper, and destroy its crude and gross body; we draw out its pure spirit, and after we have purified the earthy parts, we join them together, thus making a medicine of a poison.’» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: declara la Obra entera tomada de un solo sujeto, destruir el cuerpo crudo del cobre, sacar su espíritu puro y reunirlo con la tierra purificada, haciendo medicina de un veneno
«answered that the philosophers have hitherto industriously kept that a profound secret; some out of a selfish disposition, though otherwise good men.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: los filósofos lo guardaron como secreto profundo, unos por egoísmo aun siendo buenos hombres
«Suppose, then, an artist would extract a mineral mercury from the ores, and chooses lead ore for his subject. He can only assist Nature in the process by stirring up a central heat, which she includes in everything not already putrefied, as a root of its life, in which it is increased.» — el caso que la voz de la *Collectanea* pone para el mercurio mineral: elegida la mena de plomo, el artista solo asistiría a la Naturaleza avivando el calor central que ella pone en todo lo no podrido
«The medium by which this central heat is put in motion is known to be putrefaction; but the ores of every kind are found to resist putrefaction in all known processes extant.» — el medio que declara para avivar ese calor y el obstáculo que reconoce: las menas resisten la putrefacción en todo proceso conocido
«They may, indeed, when they have been fluxed in the fire, contract a rust from the air, which is a gradual decomposition of their substance, but this is only the natural decay of a dead body, not the putrefaction of its sperm for the purposes of propagation» — el deslinde que hace entre herrumbre y putrefacción: la primera sería el decaimiento natural de un cuerpo muerto, no la corrupción del esperma con vistas a propagarse
«and we are sensible from the heat of furnaces which is required to flux ores, and the slowness of their decay when deprived of their seminal qualities, by fluxation, that a heat which would destroy the seed in vegetables may be necessary in the first stages of putrefaction for the ores, as they will bear a red fire without being fluxed or losing anything but their sulphureous and arsenical impurities» — lo que infiere del calor de los hornos: un fuego que mataría la simiente vegetal haría falta en la primera putrefacción de las menas, que soportan el rojo perdiendo solo impurezas sulfúreas y arsenicales
«in short, a matter in itself as much extraneous to the seed of metals, as the chaff to the wheat» — el símil con que mide esas impurezas: tan ajenas a la simiente de los metales como la paja al trigo
«wherefore, a careful separation of these by roasting, or otherwise, is deservedly reckoned among the first operations for the putrefaction of ores, and the rather because that which has been calcined, by having its pores opened, is rendered attractive, both of the air and other menstruums proper for its decomposition.» — la operación que pone entre las primeras: separar esas impurezas tostando, y lo que la calcinación le hace a la mena, abrir sus poros y volverla atractiva del aire y de los menstruos
«Let the artist, therefore, by fire and manual operation, separate the impure qualities from his subject, pounding, washing, and calcining, till no more blackness is communicated to his menstruum, for which pure rainwater is sufficient.» — la instrucción de limpieza que da: machacar, lavar y calcinar hasta que el menstruo no reciba más negrura, y agua de lluvia pura como menstruo bastante
«It will be seen on every repetition of this process, that what fouls the water is extraneous and the ore yet exists in its individual metallic nature, except it is fluxed by a too intense heat, in which case it is no longer fit for our purpose; therefore, fresh ore is to be used.» — la advertencia que acompaña a esa limpieza: lo que ensucia el agua es extraño, y la mena fundida por un calor demasiado intenso queda inservible
«The matter being thus prepared, its central fire will be awakened, if it is treated properly, according to the process for extracting quicksilver from its ores, by keeping it in a close heat, which is continued without admission of the crude air, till the radical moisture is elevated in the form of a vapour, and again condensed into a metallic water, analogous to quicksilver.» — el procedimiento con que se despierta ese fuego central: calor cerrado, sin aire crudo, hasta que la humedad radical suba en vapor y vuelva a condensarse en agua metálica
«This is the true mercury of the Philosophers, and fit for all their operations in the Hermetic Art.» — el nombre que le da a ese resultado: el verdadero mercurio de los Filósofos, apto para todas las operaciones del Arte Hermético
«The putrefaction of our subject being thus completed, it exists under two forms: the moisture which was extracted, and the residuum, being our Philosophical Earth and Water.» — lo que queda tras esa putrefacción, en dos formas: la Tierra y el Agua Filosóficas
«The water contains its seminal virtue, and the earth is a proper receptacle, wherein it may fructify.» — el reparto de papeles entre esas dos: el agua lleva la virtud seminal y la tierra sirve de receptáculo
«Let the water, then, be separated and kept for use; calcine the earth, for an impurity adheres to it which can only be taken away by fire, and that, too, of the strongest degree: for here there is no danger of destroying the seminal quality, and our earth must be highly purified before it can ripen the seed.» — la instrucción que sigue: apartar el agua y calcinar la tierra con el fuego más fuerte, sin miedo a matar la virtud seminal
«This is what Sendivogius means when he says: Burn the sulphur till it becomes sulphur» — la sentencia de Sendivogius con que lo autoriza: quemar el azufre hasta que se vuelva azufre incombustible. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«incombustible. Many lose in the preparation what is of most use in the art; for our mercury is acuated by the sulphur, else it would be of no use.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: muchos perderían en la preparación lo más útil del arte, porque el mercurio se agudiza con el azufre
«Let, therefore, the earthy part be well calcined, and return the mercury on the calcined earth; afterwards draw it off by distillation; then calcine, cohobate, and distil, repeating the process till the mercury is well acuated by the sulphur, and the sulphur is purified to a whiteness, and goes to a red, a sign of its complete purification, where you have the Philosophical Male and Female ready for conjunction.» — el ciclo de cohobación que prescribe: calcinar, devolver el mercurio sobre la tierra, destilar y repetir hasta que el azufre pase del blanco al rojo, señal de que están listos el Macho y la Hembra filosóficos
«This must now be managed with judgment, as the noble child may be yet strangled in the birth» — la advertencia que pone a esa conjunción: el niño noble puede morir estrangulado en el parto
«The seed and its earth being thus prepared nothing remains but a judicious conjunction of them together; for if too much moisture prevails, the philosophical egg may be burst before it can go through the heat necessary for its hatching.» — el riesgo que señala en la unión: con demasiada humedad, el huevo filosófico reventaría antes de la incubación
«To speak without a figure, our subject must now be enclosed in a small glass vial, made strong enough to bear a due heat, which is to be raised gradually to the highest degree: the best form for this vessel being that of an oil flask, with a long neck» — la traducción llana que da de la figura: el sujeto en un vial de vidrio pequeño y resistente, de cuello largo como un frasco de aceite
«In such a vessel the mixture is to be sealed hermetically, and digested so long till it is fixed into a dry concretion» — lo que se hace en ese vaso: sellado hermético y digestión hasta que la mezcla se fije en concreción seca
«On the other hand, if the dry, fixing quality of the sulphur exceeds so as not to suffer an alternate resolution of its substance into vapors, and a re-manifestation of its fixing quality, by causing the whole to subside in the bottom of the vessel till the matter again liquefies and sublimes (which Ripley has well described), there is danger of the whole vitrifying; and thus you shall have only glass instead of the noble tincture.» — el riesgo opuesto que describe: si la cualidad seca del azufre impide la resolución alterna en vapores, todo vitrifica y queda vidrio en lugar de tintura, como lo habría descrito bien Ripley
«To avoid these two extremes it is very proper that the purified earth be reduced by manual operation to an impalpable fineness, and then its acuated mercury must be added, incorporating both together till the earth will imbibe no more.» — el remedio que da contra los dos extremos: reducir la tierra a finura impalpable y añadirle su mercurio agudizado hasta que no absorba más
«This operation will require time, with some degree of the artist's patience; for however the humidity may seem disproportionate; on letting it rest a while, a dryness on the surface of your matter will show that it is capable of imbibing more, so that the operation is to be repeated till it is finally saturated» — lo que exige esa imbibición: tiempo y paciencia, repitiéndola mientras la superficie se seque
«which may be known from its bearing the air without any remarkable change of surface from dry to humid; or, on the contrary, if so, the conjunction is well made, which is further confirmed if a small portion be spread upon a thin plate of iron, heated till it gently flows like wax, casting forth the moisture with heat and again absorbing it when cold, so as to return to the former consistence» — la prueba de saturación que da: la materia soporta el aire sin cambiar de superficie, y sobre plancha de hierro caliente fluye como cera, suelta la humedad y la reabsorbe al enfriar
«but if a clamminess ensues it is a sign you have exceeded in the quantity of humidity, which must be extracted by distilling again and repeating the process till it is right.» — la señal contraria: la viscosidad indicaría exceso de humedad, a corregir destilando de nuevo
«Your sulphur and mercury being thus united, put them into a glass vial, before described, in such a quantity as to take up one-third of its contents, leaving two-thirds, including the neck, for the circulation of your matter.» — la proporción de llenado que fija para el vial: un tercio de materia y dos tercios libres para la circulación
«Secure the neck of your vial with a temporary luting at the first, and give a gentle heat, observing whether it sublimes and fixes alternately.» — la maniobra inicial: lutar el cuello provisionalmente y dar calor suave, vigilando la alternancia de sublimación y fijación
«If it easily sublimes and shows a disposition, at intervals, to subside at the bottom of the vessel, all is well conducted hitherto; for the moisture will first be predominant, which the sulphur can only perfectly absorb as the heat is increased for the perfect ripening of our Paradisiacal Fruit.» — la señal de buena marcha: sublimación fácil con vuelta al fondo, con la humedad predominante que el azufre solo absorbe al subir el calor
«Therefore, if it manifests a too early disposition for fixing, add more of the acuated mercury till Luna rises resplendent in her season; she will give place to the Sun in his turn.» — la corrección que manda si la materia tiende a fijarse pronto, dicha en lengua de adepto: añadir mercurio agudizado hasta que Luna se levante resplandeciente y ceda luego el puesto al Sol
«such being the case in all vegetation; for every germ which is the first rudiments of a herb or tree, is predominant in moisture, and then only becomes fixed when it is fully concocted in the seed.» — el paralelo vegetal con que la sostiene: todo germen predomina en humedad y solo se fija al cocerse del todo en la simiente
«This is deservedly called the Great Work of the Philosophers; and the artist having done his part hitherto, must seal up his glass hermetically, an operation which every maker of barometers knows how to perform.» — el nombre que da a esta fase y la maniobra que exige: sellar el vidrio herméticamente, cosa que sabría hacer cualquier fabricante de barómetros
«The glass is then to be put into a furnace with a proper nest contrived for its reception, so as to give a continual heat from the first to the fourth degree, and to afford the artist an opportunity, from time to time, of inspecting every change which his matter assumes during the process, without danger of damping the heat and putting a stop to its perfect circulation.» — el horno que prescribe: nido propio para el vaso, calor continuo del primer al cuarto grado y posibilidad de inspeccionar sin enfriar
«A heat of the first degree is sufficient at the first, for some months, in which method much time may be lost by a young practitioner, till he knows how to handle his matter from experience; but then he is not so liable to be disappointed with the bursting of his vessel or the matter vitrifying.» — el ritmo que aconseja al principiante: meses en el primer grado, con pérdida de tiempo pero sin reventar el vaso ni vitrificar
«Thus you have arrived at the desired seed-time in our Philosophical Work, which, though it may appear in the artist's power to ripen, depends no less on the Divine blessing than the harvest, which a painful husbandman has not the presumption to expect otherwise than from God's beneficence.» — el límite teológico que pone al arte: la maduración dependería de la bendición divina tanto como la cosecha del labrador
«There are many requisites to entitle anyone to the possession of our philosophical harvest, and the true labourers in it have sought for such persons to whom they might communicate it, by evident testimony of the senses, after which they account the confection of our Stone an easy process, manageable by women and children» — el requisito que pone para poseer esa cosecha, con la fórmula de que, comunicado el arte por testimonio de los sentidos, sería proceso fácil, manejable por mujeres y niños
«but without such a communication, there is a necessity that those who would undertake it are endowed by Nature with an ingenious mind, patient to observe and accurate to investigate her ordinary appearances» — lo que exige a quien carezca de esa comunicación: mente ingeniosa, paciente para observar y exacta para investigar las apariencias ordinarias de la Naturaleza
«yet these for the most part employ the precious time of those egregious triflers, the modern virtuosi. These smatterers in philosophy are in raptures upon the discovery of a shell or butterfly differently streaked from those of the same kind» — el reproche que dirige a los virtuosos modernos: se extasían ante una concha o una mariposa de rayas distintas
«Our vessel being warily heated at the first for fear of its cracking, an ebullition of the contained matter is brought on, so that the moisture is alternately circulated in white fumes above, and condensed below, which may continue for a month or two, nay longer, increasing the heat gradually to another degree, as your matter discovers a disposition for fixing, by the vapour continuing at longer intervals condensed, and rising in a lesser quantity, of an ash colour, or other dark shades, which it will assume as a medium to perfect blackness» — el curso de la segunda parte de la obra: ebullición, vapores blancos alternos por uno o dos meses, y colores de ceniza u oscuros camino de la negrura perfecta
«Other colours may be exhibited in this part of the work without danger, if they pass transiently; but if a faint redness, like that of a corn poppy continues, the matter is in danger of vitrifying, either from an impatient urging of the fire, or the moisture not being sufficiently predominant.» — la señal de peligro que aparta de las demás: un rojo pálido persistente, como de amapola, anunciaría vitrificación por fuego forzado o humedad escasa
«An ingenious artist can remedy this by opening his vessel and adding more of the acuated mercury, sealing it up as before» — el remedio que da al artista ingenioso: abrir el vaso, añadir mercurio agudizado y volver a sellar
«but a novice would do much better to prevent it by governing his fire according to the appearances of his matter, with judgment and patience, increasing it if the moisture manifests its predominancy too long, and slacking if the dry prevails, till such time as the vapours become dark» — lo que aconseja al novicio en cambio: prevenirlo gobernando el fuego según el aspecto de la materia
«and after they have continued for some time at rest, a pellicle or film on the matter shows its disposition for fixing, retaining the vapour captive for some time, till it breaks through at different places on its surface (much like the bituminous substance of coal in a smoldering fire), with darker clouds, but quickly dissipated, and growing less in quantity, till the whole substance resembles molten pitch, or the aforesaid bituminous substance, bubbling less and less, resting in one entire black substance at the bottom of your glass.» — la secuencia con que llega al negro: película que retiene el vapor, rupturas en la superficie como brasa de carbón, nubes oscuras que menguan y una masa que hierve cada vez menos
«When the putrefaction of our seed has been thus completed, the fire may be increased till glorious colours appear, which the Sons of Art have called Cauda Pavonis, or the Peacock's Tail.» — lo que sigue a la putrefacción al subir el fuego: los colores gloriosos que los Hijos del Arte llamaron Cola de Pavo Real
«These colours come and go, as heat is administered approaching to the third degree, till all is of a beautiful green, and as it ripens assumes a perfect whiteness, which is the White Tincture, transmuting the inferior metals into silver, and very powerful as a medicine.» — el paso al blanco que describe: verde primero y luego blancura perfecta, la Tintura Blanca, que transmutaría los metales inferiores en plata y sería potente como medicina
«But as the artist well knows it is capable of a higher concoction, he goes on increasing his fire, till it assumes a yellow, then an orange or citron colour and then boldly gives a heat of the fourth degree, till it acquires a redness like blood taken from a sound person, which is a manifest sign of its thorough concoction and fitness for the uses intended.» — la cocción ulterior que describe: amarillo, naranja o cidra, y con fuego de cuarto grado un rojo de sangre de persona sana
«Having thus completed the operation, let the vessel cool, and on opening it you will perceive your matter to be fixed into a ponderous mass, thoroughly of a scarlet colour, which is easily reducible to powder by scraping, or otherwise, and in being heated in the fire flows like wax, without smoking, flaming, or loss of substance, returning when cold to its former fixity» — lo que se halla al abrir el vaso frío: masa fija de color escarlata, pulverizable, que al fuego fluye como cera sin humear ni flamear y vuelve a fijarse en frío
«heavier than gold, bulk for bulk, yet easy to be dissolved in any liquid, in which a few grains being taken its operation most wonderfully pervades the human body, to the extirpation of all disorders, prolonging life by its use to its utmost period; and hence it has obtained the appelation of “Panacea,” or universal remedy.» — lo que declara de la Piedra: más pesada que el oro a igual volumen, soluble en cualquier líquido, y en pocos granos extirparía todo desorden y alargaría la vida, de donde el nombre de Panacea
«Therefore, be thankful to the Most High for the possession of such an inestimable jewel, and account the possession of it not as a result of your own ingenuity, but a gift bestowed, of God's mere bounty, for the relief of human infirmities» — el deber que impone a quien la posea: darla por don de Dios y no por fruto del propio ingenio
«The intention is, nevertheless, to fix our subject in the heat, and so render its future» — el fin de toda la operación, según la cita; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«only suggesting that the female quality in our prepared seed is first active, while the male» — la traducción llana que la voz da de la figura de Luna y Sol; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«it is afterwards passive while the male is active, such being the case in all vegetation; for every germ which is the first rudiments of a herb or tree, is predominant in moisture, and then only becomes fixed when it is fully concocted in the seed.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: la cualidad femenina obra primero y luego cede, como en toda vegetación, donde el germen predomina en humedad y solo se fija al cocerse
«and all the while water, air, earth, fire, with their continual changes and resolutions into one another, by the medium of our atmosphere, through» — lo que los virtuosos modernos dejarían sin estudiar: los cuatro elementos y sus cambios recíprocos; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«the efficacy of the central and solar heat, are unstudied by these would-be philosophers; so that a sensible rustic has more real knowledge, in this respect, than a collector of natural rarities, and makes a much wiser use of what experience he has acquired.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: por eficacia del calor central y solar, y el contraste con que remata, el campesino sensato sabría más de eso que el coleccionista de rarezas
«This is called the blackness of black, the head of the crow, etc.» — los nombres que da a esa fase: negrura de la negrura y cabeza del cuervo; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«desirable stage in our philosophical generation, being the perfect putrefaction of our seed, which will ere long show its vital principle by a glorious manifestation of Seminal Virtue.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: sería la putrefacción perfecta de la simiente, que en breve mostraría su principio vital
«destruction impossible. “On the other hand, if the dry, fixing quality of the sulphur exceeds so as not to suffer an alternate resolution of its substance into vapors, and a re-manifestation of its fixing quality, by causing the whole to subside in the bottom of the vessel till the matter again liquefies and sublimes (which Ripley has well described), there is danger of the whole vitrifying; and thus you shall have only glass instead of the noble tincture.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente y el riesgo opuesto: si la cualidad seca del azufre impide la resolución alterna en vapores, la masa vitrifica y queda vidrio en vez de tintura, cosa que Ripley habría descrito bien
«It is much to be lamented that the seekers of natural knowledge in this art propose, principally, the Science of Transmutation as their ultimate view, and overlooking the chief excellency of our Stone as a medicine.» — el reproche que la voz de la *Collectanea* dirige a los buscadores: ponen la transmutación como fin último y descuidan la excelencia principal de la Piedra, que sería la médica
«Notwithstanding this grovelling spirit, we shall commit the issue to His Providence, and declare the Transmutation (which, indeed, the philosophers do) openly, after which we shall describe the further circulation of our Stone for an increase of its virtues, and then make an end of our treatise.» — el plan con que cierra el tratado: declarar la transmutación abiertamente y describir después la circulación que aumenta las virtudes de la Piedra
«When the artist would transmute any metal—for instance, lead—let a quantity be melted in a clean crucible, to which let a few grains of gold in filings be cast; and when the whole is melted, let him have in readiness a little of the powder, which will easily scrape off from his “stone,” the quantity inconsiderable, and cast it on the metal while in fusion.» — la operación de proyección que describe: plomo fundido en crisol limpio, unos granos de oro en limaduras, y el polvo raspado de la piedra echado sobre el metal en fusión
«Immediately there will arise a thick fume, which carries off with it the impurities contained in the lead, with a crackling noise, and leaves the substance of the lead transmuted into most pure gold, without any kind of sophistication» — lo que dice que sigue a la proyección: un humo espeso que se lleva las impurezas con crujido y deja el plomo transmutado en oro purísimo
«the small quantity of gold added, previous to projection, serves only as a medium to facilitate the transmutation, and the quantity of your tincture is best ascertained by experience, as its virtue is proportioned to the number of circulations you have given after the first has been completed.» — la función que asigna al oro añadido —medio que facilitaría la transmutación— y la medida de la tintura, proporcional al número de circulaciones
«For instance: when you have finished the stone, dissolve it in our mercury again, wherein you have previously dissolved a few grains of pure gold. This operation is done without trouble, both substances readily liquefying.» — la operación de multiplicación que describe: disolver la piedra otra vez en el mercurio con unos granos de oro puro dentro
«There is no danger in the management, but breaking your vessel; and every time it is thus treated its virtues are increased, in a ratio of ten to one hundred, a thousand, ten thousand, etc., both in medicinal and transmuting qualities; so that a small quantity may suffice for the purposes of an artist during the remaining term of his life.”» — la escala de multiplicación que declara: diez, cien, mil, diez mil, en lo medicinal y en lo transmutatorio, hasta que una cantidad pequeña baste para toda la vida del artista
«Basil Valentine, the German Benedictine monk, whose name deserves great respect in Alchemy, has given posterity precious pearls of wisdom when he states in his famous work, Currus Triumphalis Antimonii (Triumphal Chariot of Antimony» — el modo en que presenta a su fuente siguiente: Basil Valentine, monje benedictino alemán, y su *Currus Triumphalis Antimonii*
«You should know that all things contain operative and vital spirits which derive their substance and nourishment from their bodies; nor are the elements themselves without these spirits, whether good or evil.» — la doctrina que cita de Basil Valentine: todo contendría espíritus operativos y vitales que sacan su sustancia del cuerpo, y ni los elementos carecerían de ellos
«In the same way minerals and metals possess vitalizing spirits which constitute their whole strength and goodness; for what has no spirit has no life, or vitalizing power.”» — el remate de esa cita de Valentine: los minerales y metales tendrían también espíritus vitalizadores, y lo que no tiene espíritu no tiene vida
«Again, he says so plainly what alchemical students should keep in mind when working in their laboratories and trying to fix that elusive Mercury of the minerals» — el rótulo con que introduce la segunda cita de Valentine, sobre fijar el Mercurio de los minerales
«No animal or vegetable contains anything that can avail to fix Mercury; the attempt to do this has always ended in failure, because none of these substances have a metallic nature.» — lo primero que Valentine niega en esa cita: nada animal ni vegetal serviría para fijar el Mercurio, por no ser de naturaleza metálica
«Mercury is both inwardly and outwardly pure fire: therefore no fire can destroy it, no fire can change its essence; it flees from the fire, and resolves itself into an incombustible oil spiritually; but when it is once fixed, no cunning of man can volatilize it again.» — lo que Valentine afirma del Mercurio: fuego puro por dentro y por fuera, que ningún fuego destruye y que huye resolviéndose en aceite incombustible, pero que una vez fijado no vuelve a volatilizarse
«Then everything can by art be made of it that can be produced from gold, because after its coagulation it perfectly resembles gold, seeing that it has grown from the same root, and sprung from exactly the same branch as that precious metal.”» — lo que Valentine promete del Mercurio ya coagulado: se parecería perfectamente al oro por haber crecido de la misma raíz y rama
«The great question which vexes all the students of our Art, ‘What is our Mercury?’ is here clearly and lucidly answered. Attend carefully to all that Basilius says. Any light that I could add to his brightness would be darkness indeed.» — la anotación que el volumen intercala en la cita: la pregunta por el Mercurio quedaría respondida ahí. La voz es de Theodore Kerkringius, comentarista de la versión latina de 1685 impresa en Ámsterdam, y el propio volumen lo declara
«Let me tell you then that all metals and minerals grow in the same way from the same root, and that thus all metals have a common origin.» — la tesis de origen común de metales y minerales que sigue citando de Valentine
«This first principle is a mere vapour extracted from the elementary earth through the heavenly planets and, as it were, divided by the sidereal distillation of the Macrocosmos.» — cómo describe Valentine ese primer principio: vapor sacado de la tierra elemental por los planetas y dividido por la destilación sideral del Macrocosmos
«This sidereal hot infusion, descending from on high into those things which are below, with the aero-sulphureous property, so acts and works as to engraft on them in a spiritual and invisible manner a certain strength and virtue.» — lo que esa infusión sideral haría al bajar: injertar de modo espiritual e invisible cierta fuerza y virtud en las cosas de abajo
«This vapour afterwards resolves itself in the earth into a kind of water, and out of this mineral water all metals are generated and perfected.» — el paso siguiente en esa génesis: el vapor se resuelve en agua mineral y de ella se generan y perfeccionan los metales
«The mineral vapour becomes this or that metal according as one or the other of the three first principles predominates, i.e., according as they have much or little mercury, sulphur, or salt, or an unequal mixture or their weights.» — de qué haría depender Valentine que salga un metal u otro: cuál de los tres principios predomine y en qué peso
«Hence, some metals are fixed; some are permanent and unchangeable; some are volatile and variable, as you may see in gold, silver, copper iron, tin,» — la consecuencia que saca de eso: unos metales fijos, otros permanentes e inmutables, otros volátiles y variables. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«In an exceedingly rare volume of treatises, The Hermetic Museum, published in Frankfort in 1678, we find in The Open Entrance to the Closed Palace of the King (by “An Anonymous Sage and Lover of Truth,” whom we discover to be Eirenaeus Philalethes) the following under the heading, “Of the Difficulty and Length of the First Operation.”» — la fuente siguiente que declara y cómo la presenta: *The Hermetic Museum*, Fráncfort 1678, y dentro de él *The Open Entrance to the Closed Palace of the King*, cuyo Sabio anónimo identifica con Eirenaeus Philalethes
«Some alchemists fancy that the work from beginning to end is a mere idle entertainment; but those who make it so will reap what they have sown—viz., nothing.» — lo primero que cita de Philalethes: quien tome la obra por entretenimiento ocioso cosechará nada
«We know that next to the Divine Blessing, and the discovery of the proper foundation, nothing is so important as unwearied industry and perseverance in this First Operation.» — lo que Philalethes pone después de la bendición divina y del hallazgo del fundamento: industria y perseverancia infatigables en la Primera Operación
«It is no wonder, then, that so many students of this Art are reduced to beggary; they are afraid of work, and look upon our Art as mere sport for their leisure moments.» — el diagnóstico de Philalethes sobre los estudiantes reducidos a la mendicidad: temen el trabajo y toman el arte por pasatiempo
«For no labour is more tedious than that which the preparatory part of our enterprise demands.» — lo que Philalethes dice de la parte preparatoria: ningún trabajo más tedioso
«Morienus earnestly entreats the King to consider this fact, and says that many Sages have complained of the tedium of our work.» — el respaldo que Philalethes trae para eso: Morienus rogaba al Rey que lo tuviera en cuenta, y muchos Sabios se quejaron del tedio de la obra
«To render a chaotic mass orderly,’ says the Poet, ‘is matter of much time and labour’—and the noble author of the Hermetical Arcanum describes it as Herculean task.» — las dos autoridades que añade: el Poeta, que da por asunto de mucho tiempo y trabajo ordenar la masa caótica, y el autor del *Hermetical Arcanum*, que lo llama tarea hercúlea
«There are so many impurities clinging to our first substance, and a most powerful intermediate agent is required for the purpose of eliciting from our polluted menstruum the Royal Diadem.» — la razón técnica que da Philalethes para esa dificultad: las impurezas de la primera sustancia exigen un agente intermedio poderosísimo para sacar la Diadema Real
«But when you have once prepared your Mercury,* the most formidable part of your task is accomplished, and you may indulge in that rest which is sweeter than any work, as the Sage says.”» — el descanso que Philalethes promete tras preparar el Mercurio
«There are those who think that this Art was first discovered by Solomon, or rather imparted to him by Divine Revelation.» — la opinión de origen que Philalethes recoge: el arte habría sido descubierto por Salomón o revelado a él
«But though there is no reason for doubting that so wise and profoundly learned a sovereign was acquainted with our Art, yet we happen to know that he was not the first to acquire the knowledge. It was possessed by Hermes, the Egyptian, and some other Sages before him» — la objeción que Philalethes le pone: sin dudar del saber de Salomón, el arte ya lo tuvieron Hermes el Egipcio y otros Sabios antes
«and we may suppose that they first sought a simple exaltation of imperfect metals into regal perfection, and that it was at first their endeavour to develop Mercury, which is most like to gold in its weight and properties, into perfect gold.» — lo que Philalethes conjetura de esos primeros: buscaron exaltar los metales imperfectos y desarrollar el Mercurio, el más parecido al oro por peso y propiedades
«This, however, no degree of ingenuity could effect by any fire, and the truth gradually broke on their minds that an internal heat was required as well as an external one.» — el hallazgo que Philalethes les atribuye tras el fracaso: haría falta un calor interno además del externo
«They saw that the digestion of Mercury was prevented by certain aqueous crudities and earthy dross; and that the radical nature of these impurities rendered their elimination impossible, except by the complete inversion of the whole compound.» — lo que vieron después, según Philalethes: crudezas acuosas y escoria terrosa impedían la digestión del Mercurio, y su raíz solo cedería invirtiendo el compuesto entero
«They knew that Mercury would become fixed if it could be freed from their defiling presence—as it contains fermenting sulphur, which is only hindered by these impurities from coagulating the whole mercurial body.» — la razón que Philalethes les atribuye: el Mercurio se fijaría libre de esas impurezas, porque lleva azufre fermentante que ellas estorban
«At length they discovered that Mercury, in the bowels of the earth, was intended to become a metal, and that the process of development was only stopped by the impurities with which it had become tainted.» — el descubrimiento que Philalethes les adjudica: el Mercurio estaba destinado a volverse metal en las entrañas de la tierra y solo lo detuvieron las impurezas
«They found that that which should be active in Mercury was passive; and that its infirmity could not be remedied by any means, except the introduction of some kindred principle from without.» — el diagnóstico siguiente: lo que debía ser activo en el Mercurio era pasivo, y solo un principio afín venido de fuera lo remediaría
«Such a principle they discovered in metallic sulphur, which stirred up the passive sulphur in the Mercury, and by allying itself with it, expelled the aforesaid impurities.» — el principio que hallaron, según Philalethes: azufre metálico que despierta el azufre pasivo del Mercurio y expulsa las impurezas
«But in seeking to accomplish this practically, they were met by another great difficulty. In order that this sulphur might be effectual in purifying the Mercury, it was indispensable that it should itself be pure.» — la dificultad nueva que topa ese camino: el azufre purificador tenía que ser puro él mismo
«All their efforts to purify it, however, were doomed to failure. At length they bethought them that it might possibly be found somewhere in nature in a purified condition—and their search was crowned with success.» — cómo salieron de esa dificultad, según Philalethes: buscaron el azufre ya puro en la naturaleza y lo hallaron
«They sought active sulphur in a pure state, and found it cunningly concealed in the House of the Ram» — dónde dice Philalethes que lo hallaron, en lengua velada: en la Casa del Carnero
«This sulphur mingled most eagerly with the offspring of Saturn, and the desired effect was speedily produced—after the malignant venom of the “air” of Mercury had been tempered (as already set forth at some length) by the doves of Venus.» — lo que ese azufre hizo con la prole de Saturno, temperado antes el veneno maligno del aire del Mercurio por las palomas de Venus
«Then life was joined to life by means of the liquid; the dry was moistened; the passive was stirred into action by the active; the dead was revived by the living.» — la serie de opuestos con que Philalethes describe la conjunción: vida unida a vida, lo seco humedecido, lo pasivo movido por lo activo, lo muerto revivido por lo vivo
«The heavens were indeed temporarily clouded over, but after a copious downpour of rain, serenity was restored. Mercury emerged in a hermaphroditic state.» — la figura meteorológica con que sigue y su resultado: nublado, aguacero copioso, serenidad restaurada, y el Mercurio hermafrodita
«Then they placed it in the fire; in no long time they succeeded in coagulating it, and in its coagulation they found the Sun and the Moon in a most pure state.» — lo que hallaron al coagularlo en el fuego: el Sol y la Luna en estado purísimo
«Then they considered that, before its coagulation, this Mercury was not a metal, since, on being volatilised, it left no residue at the bottom of the c&rllling vessel; hence they called it unmatured gold and their living (or quick) silver.» — el razonamiento con que lo nombran: antes de coagularse no era metal, porque al volatilizarse no dejaba residuo, y por eso lo llamaron oro inmaduro y plata viva. El troceo imprime *c&rllling vessel*, corrupción de la capa de texto
«For this reason they wedded these two to each other, put them in a still over the fire, and for many days regulated the heat in accordance with the requirements of Nature.» — lo que hicieron con esos dos, según Philalethes: casarlos en alambique sobre el fuego, regulando el calor muchos días según lo pedía la Naturaleza
«Thus the dead was revived, the body decayed, and a glorified spirit rose from the grave; the soul was exalted into the quintessence—the Universal Medicine for animals, vegetables, and minerals.”» — el remate de la cita de Philalethes: el espíritu glorificado sale de la tumba y el alma se exalta en quintaesencia, Medicina Universal para los tres reinos
«At first it will seem that the quotation above is a book sealed seven times seven. As is the case with all alchemystical literature, a prolonged contemplation will eventually reveal its true meaning in the plainest manner imaginable.» — lo que el autor añade tras esa cita: parecerá libro sellado siete veces siete, y la contemplación prolongada acabaría revelando su sentido
«If we penetrate even further, we will come to know one of the valiant defenders of the Hermetic Brethren. He is none other than the mystery figure, Michael Sendivogius.» — cómo presenta a la fuente siguiente: uno de los valientes defensores de los Hermanos Herméticos
«The name, Michael Sendivogius, whose name was concealed in his anagram, “Divi Leschi genus amo” (“I love the divine race of Leschi» — el anagrama con que dice que Sendivogius escondía su nombre, con la traducción que el propio volumen le pone
«In his The New Chemical Light, which he says is “drawn from the fountain of nature and of manual experience» — la obra de Sendivogius que cita y la procedencia que el mismo Sendivogius le declara
«Upon all genuine Seekers of the great Chemical Art, or Sons of Hermes, the Author implores the Divine Blessing and Salvation.» — la dedicatoria con que arranca la cita de Sendivogius, a los Hijos de Hermes
«When I considered in my mind the great number of deceitful books and forged Alchemistic ‘receipts,’ which have been put in circulation by heartless impostors, though they do not contain even a spark of truth—and how many persons have been and are still daily led astray by them?—it occurred to me that I could not do better than communicate the Talent committed to me by the Father of Lights to the Sons and Heirs of Knowledge.» — el motivo que Sendivogius declara para escribir: la cantidad de libros engañosos y recetas forjadas que extravían a diario
«I also wish to let posterity see that in our own age, as well as in ancient times, this singularly gracious philosophical Blessing has not been denied to a few favoured men.» — lo segundo que Sendivogius dice querer: mostrar a la posteridad que la bendición filosófica no se negó a unos pocos también en su época
«For certain reasons I do not think it advisable to publish my name; chiefly, because I do not seek for praise for myself, but am only anxious to assist the lovers of philosophy.» — la razón que Sendivogius da para no firmar: no busca alabanza sino ayudar a los amantes de la filosofía
«The vainglorious desire for fame I leave to those who are content to seem what they, in reality, are not.» — a quiénes deja Sendivogius el deseo de fama
«The facts and deductions which I have here briefly set down are transcribed from that manual—experience, graciously bestowed upon me by the Most High» — de dónde saca Sendivogius lo que escribe: de la experiencia manual que dice concedida por el Altísimo
«Our science is not a dream, as the vulgar crowd imagines, or the empty invention of idle men, as the foolish suppose. It is the very truth of philosophy itself, which the voice of conscience and of love bid me to conceal no longer.» — lo que Sendivogius afirma de su ciencia contra el vulgo y contra los necios: sería la verdad misma de la filosofía
«In these wicked days, indeed, when virtue and vice are accounted alike, the ingratitude and unbelief of men keep our Art from appearing openly before the public gaze.» — el diagnóstico de época de Sendivogius: la ingratitud y la incredulidad impedirían que el arte se muestre en público
«Yet this glorious truth is even now capable of being apprehended by learned and unlearned persons of virtuous lives, and there are many persons of all nations now living who have beheld Diana unveiled.» — lo que sostiene a pesar de eso: muchos de todas las naciones habrían visto a Diana sin velo
«But as many, either from ignorance or from a desire to conceal their knowledge, are daily teaching and inducing others to believe that the soul of gold can be extracted, and then imparted to other substances; and thereby entice numbers to incur great waste of time, labour, and money; let the sons of Hermes know for certain that the extracting of the essence of gold is a mere fond delusion» — el error que Sendivogius sale a negar: que se pueda extraer el alma del oro e impartirla a otras sustancias
«as those who persist in it will be taught to their cost by experience, the only arbitress from whose judgment seat there is no appeal.» — el árbitro que invoca contra ese error: la experiencia, de cuyo tribunal no habría apelación
«If, on the other hand, a person is able to transmute the smallest piece of metal (with or without gain) into genuine gold or silver which abides all the usual tests, he may justly be said to have opened the gates of Nature» — el criterio positivo que da Sendivogius: transmutar la menor pieza de metal en oro o plata que aguante las pruebas usuales
«It is with this object that I dedicate the following pages, which embody the results of my experience, to the sons of knowledge, that by a careful study of the working of Nature they may be enabled to lift the veil, and enter her inmost sanctuary.» — el destinatario que Sendivogius se fija: los hijos del conocimiento, para que estudiando la obra de la Naturaleza levanten el velo
«To this final goal of our sacred philosophy they must travel by the royal road which Nature herself has marked out for them.» — el camino que les señala: el real, marcado por la propia Naturaleza
«Let me therefore admonish the gentle reader that my meaning is to be apprehended not so much from the outward husk of my words, as from the inward spirit of Nature.» — la advertencia de lectura que Sendivogius da: entender no tanto por la cáscara de sus palabras como por el espíritu interior de la Naturaleza
«Let him consider that this mystery is for wise men, and not for fools.» — el deslinde de lectores con que la remata
«The inward meaning of our philosophy will be unintelligible to vainglorious boasters, to conceited mockers, and to men who smother the clamorous voice of conscience with the insolence of a wicked life; as also to those ignorant persons who have fondly staked their happiness on albafactions and rubefactions and other equally senseless methods.» — a quiénes declara ininteligible su sentido interior: fanfarrones, burlones, quienes ahogan la conciencia y quienes apostaron por albafacciones y rubefacciones
«The right understanding of our Art is by the gift of God, or by the ocular demonstration of a teacher, and can be attained only by the diligent, humble search and prayerful dependence on the Giver of all good things» — las dos vías de entendimiento que Sendivogius admite: el don de Dios o la demostración ocular de un maestro, con busca diligente y humilde
«Men and animals have within them an operative and vitalizing spirit, and if it forsakes them, nothing» — la continuación de la cita de Valentine: hombres y animales llevan dentro un espíritu operativo y vitalizador; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«but a dead body is left. Herbs and trees have spirits of health, else no art could turn them to medicinal uses.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: sin ese espíritu queda un cuerpo muerto, y las hierbas y árboles tendrían espíritus de salud sin los cuales ningún arte los volvería medicinales
«Besides these metals, other minerals are generated from these three principles; according to the proportion of the ingredients, we have vitriol, antimony, marcasite, electrum, and many other minerals.”» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: de esos mismos tres principios saldrían, según la proporción, vitriolo, antimonio, marcasita, electro y otros minerales
«It also occurred to them that if gold were sown, as it were, in the soil of its» — la ocurrencia que Philalethes les adjudica: sembrar el oro en el suelo de su propia primera sustancia; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«own first substance, its excellence would probably be enhanced, and when they placed gold therein, the fixed was volatilised, the hard softened, the coagulated dissolved, to the amazement of Nature herself.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: con eso lo fijo se volatilizó, lo duro se ablandó y lo coagulado se disolvió, para asombro de la Naturaleza misma
«jargon of gibberish and nonsense will gradually reveal itself in a very simple form.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: lo que parecía jerga sin sentido acabaría mostrándose en forma muy simple
«and my object is to enable those who have laid a sound foundation in the elementary part of this most noble Art, to advance to a» — el fin que Sendivogius declara para su escrito; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«knowledge, and to put them on their guard against those depraved ‘vendors of smoke’ who delight in fraud and imposition.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: poner en guardia contra los vendedores de humo que se deleitan en el fraude
«rejected aqua fortis and all corrosive solvents, after long experiments with the same — also all salts, except that kind which is the first substance of all salts, which dissolves all metals and coagulates Mercury, but not without violence» — lo que descartaron esos primeros Sabios, según Philalethes: el agua fuerte y los disolventes corrosivos, y todas las sales salvo la primera sustancia de todas, que disuelve los metales y coagula el Mercurio con violencia
«ask the sons of knowledge to accept this book in the spirit in which it was written; and when the HIDDEN has become MANIFEST to them, and the inner gates of secret knowledge are flung open, not to reveal this mystery to any unworthy person; also to remember their duty towards their suffering and distressed neighbors, to avoid any ostentatious display of their power; and above all, to render to God, the Three in One, sincere and grateful thanks with their lips, in the silence of their hearts, and by refraining from any abuse of the gift.» — el encargo final de Sendivogius a los hijos del conocimiento: no revelar el misterio a los indignos, atender al prójimo doliente, no ostentar el poder y dar gracias a Dios
«As after the completion of the preface, it was found that it did not cover the whole of the space allotted to it, I have at the publisher's request, there set down ‘the last will and testament of Arnold Villanovanus,’ which I once turned into Latin verse. I am conscious that the style of my versification is wanting in neatness and elegance; but this defect was partly caused by the necessity of adhering strictly and faithfully to the author's meaning.» — la razón editorial que Sendivogius da para añadir el testamento de Arnaldo: sobraba espacio en el prefacio y el editor se lo pidió, y él lo había puesto en verso latino
«It is said that Arnold de Villanova, a man who was a credit to his race, signified his last will in the following words: Tt has its birth in the earth, its strength it doth acquire in the fire, and there becomes the true Stone of the ancient Sages.» — el arranque del testamento de Arnaldo de Villanova que cita: la piedra nace en la tierra y adquiere su fuerza en el fuego. El troceo imprime *Tt has its birth*
«Let it be nourished for twice six hours with a clear liquid until its limbs begin to expand and grow apace. Then let it be placed in a dry and moderately warm spot for another period of twelve hours, until it has purged itself by giving out a thick steam or vapour, and becomes solid and hard within.» — los dos plazos que fija ese testamento: doce horas de líquido claro hasta que los miembros se expandan, y otras doce en sitio seco y templado hasta que expulse su vapor
«The Virgin's Milk that is expressed from the better part of the Stone is then preserved in a carefully closed oval-shaped distilling vessel of glass, and is day by day wondrously changed by the quickening fire, until all the different colors resolve themselves into a fixed, gentle splendor of a white radiance which soon under the continued genial influence of the fire, changes to a glorious purple the outward and visible sign of the final perfection of your work.’» — el remate del testamento de Arnaldo: la Leche de la Virgen se guarda en vaso oval de vidrio bien cerrado y el fuego la lleva por los colores hasta el blanco y de ahí al púrpura, señal de la perfección final
«Many Sages, scholars, and learned men have in all ages and (according to Hermes) even so early as the days before the Flood, written much concerning the preparation of the Philosopher's Stone» — la antigüedad que Sendivogius le atribuye a la literatura del arte, con Hermes como fuente de que ya se escribía antes del Diluvio
«and if their books could be understood without a knowledge of the living processes of Nature, one might almost say that they are calculated to supersede the study of the real world around us.» — la condición que le pone a esos libros: solo suplirían el estudio del mundo real si se entendieran sin conocer los procesos vivos de la Naturaleza
«But though they never departed from the simple ways of Nature they have something to teach us, which we in these more sophisticated times, still need to learn, because we have applied ourselves to what are regarded as the more advanced branches of knowledge, and despise the study of so ‘simple’ a thing as natural Generation.» — el reproche que Sendivogius dirige a su propia época: se desprecia el estudio de algo tan simple como la Generación natural
«It is one of the most remarkable features of human nature that we neglect those things which seem familiar, and are eager for new and strange information.» — el rasgo humano que señala: descuidar lo familiar y correr tras lo nuevo y extraño
«The workman who has attained the highest degree of excellence in his Art, neglects it, and applies himself to something else, or else, abuses his knowledge.» — el ejemplo con que lo ilustra: el operario que llega a la excelencia la abandona o abusa de ella
«Our longing for an increase of knowledge urges us ever onward toward some final goal, in which we imagine that we shall find full rest and satisfaction, like the ant, which is not endowed with wings till the last days of its life.» — el símil de la hormiga con que describe esa busca de un fin último: no le salen alas hasta los últimos días de vida
«In our time, the Philosophical Art has become a very subtle matter; it is the craft of the goldsmith compared with that of the humble workman who exercises his calling at the forge.» — el contraste con que Sendivogius describe el arte de su tiempo: oficio de orfebre frente al del humilde obrero de la fragua
«We have made such mighty strides in advance that if the ancient Masters of our science, Hermes and Geber and Raymond Lullius, were to rise from the dead, they would be treated by our modern Alchemists, not as Sages, but as only humble learners.» — la ironía con que mide ese avance: Hermes, Geber y Raymond Lullius resucitados serían tratados por los alquimistas modernos como aprendices
«They would seem very poor scholars in our modern lore of futile distillations, circulations, calcinations, and in all the other countless operations wherewith modern research has so famously enriched our Art. In all these respects, our learning is vastly superior to theirs.» — la enumeración con que redondea la ironía: destilaciones, circulaciones y calcinaciones fútiles en las que la ciencia moderna sería muy superior
«Only one thing is unfortunately wanting to us which they possessed, namely, the knack they had of actually preparing the Philosopher's Stone.» — lo único que falta, según esa ironía: la maña de preparar de verdad la Piedra
«Perhaps, then, their simple methods were after all the best; and it is on this supposition that I desire, in this volume, to teach you to understand Nature, so that our vain imaginations may not misdirect us in the true and simple way.» — la conclusión que Sendivogius saca y el fin que le da a su libro: enseñar a entender la Naturaleza para que la imaginación no desvíe del camino simple
«Nature is the one source of all things: nor is anything in the world outside Nature, or contrary to Nature.» — el corolario que le pone: nada en el mundo estaría fuera de la Naturaleza ni contra ella
«Nature is divided into four places' in which she brings forth all things that appear and that are in the shade; and according to the good or bad quality of the ‘place’ she brings forth good or bad things.» — la división que hace de la Naturaleza en cuatro lugares, y lo que hace depender de la calidad de cada lugar
«There are only four qualities which are in all things and yet do not agree among themselves, as one is always striving to obtain the mastery over the rest.» — lo que dice de las cuatro cualidades: están en todo y no concuerdan, porque una pugna siempre por dominar
«Nature is not visible, though she acts visibly; she is a volatile spirit who manifests herself in material shapes, and her existence is in the Will of God.» — la naturaleza que le atribuye: espíritu volátil que se manifiesta en formas materiales y que existe en la Voluntad de Dios
«It is most important for us to know her ‘places,’ and those which are most in harmony, and most closely allied, in order that we may join things together according to Nature, and not attempt to confound vegetables with animals, or animals with metals.» — lo que declara más importante saber: cuáles lugares armonizan entre sí, para no confundir vegetales con animales ni animales con metales
«Everything should be made to act on that which is like to it—and then Nature will perform her duty.» — la regla operativa que saca de eso: hacer obrar cada cosa sobre su semejante
«They should always be ready to learn from Nature, and to be guided by her methods, ascertaining by visible and sensible examples whether that which they propose to perform is in accordance with her possibilities.» — el método que les prescribe: dejarse guiar por ella y comprobar con ejemplos visibles si lo que proponen cabe en sus posibilidades. El tramo cruza el corte de plana
«If we would reproduce something already accomplished by Nature, we must follow her, but if we would improve on her performance, we must know in and by what it is ameliorated.» — el deslinde que hace entre imitar y mejorar a la Naturaleza
«For instance, if we desire to impart to a metal greater excellence than Nature has given to it, we must take the metallic substance both in its male and female varieties, else all our efforts will be in vain.» — el ejemplo con que lo aplica: para dar a un metal más excelencia hay que tomar la sustancia metálica en sus variedades macho y hembra
«Hence, we pay more heed to impossible things than to those objects which are broadly exhibited before our very eyes; we excel more in subtle speculations than in a sober study of Nature, and of the meaning of» — la consecuencia que Sendivogius saca de ese descuido: más atención a lo imposible que a lo que está a la vista, y más especulación sutil que estudio sobrio; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«Students of Nature should be such as is Nature herself—true, simple, patient, constant, and so on; above all, they should fear God» — las cualidades que exige al estudiante de la Naturaleza: verdadero, simple, paciente y constante; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«and love their neighbors. They should always be ready to learn from Nature, and to be guided by her methods, ascertaining by visible and sensible examples whether that which they propose to perform is in accordance with her possibilities.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: amar al prójimo, aprender de la Naturaleza y comprobar con ejemplos visibles si lo propuesto cabe en sus posibilidades
«It is as impossible to produce a metal out of a plant as» — el primero de los dos imposibles con que marca el límite; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«to make a tree out of a dog or any other animal. “I have already said that Nature is one» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el segundo imposible, hacer un árbol de un perro o de cualquier otro animal
«I have already said that Nature is one, true, and consistent, and that she is known by her products, such as trees, herbs, etc. I have also described the qualifications of a student of Nature. Now I will say a few words about the operation of Nature.» — el resumen con que Sendivogius encadena las dos partes de su exposición: la Naturaleza es una y se conoce por sus productos, y ahora hablará de su operación
«As Nature has her being in the Will of God, so her will or seed is in the Elements. She is one and produces different things, but only through the mediate instrumentality of seed.» — la doctrina de la simiente que enuncia: la voluntad de la Naturaleza está en los Elementos, y ella produce lo diverso solo por medio de la simiente
«For Nature performs whatsoever the sperm requires of her and is, as it were, only the instrument of some artisan.» — el lugar que asigna a la Naturaleza frente al esperma: instrumento de un artesano
«Wherever there is seed, Nature will work through it, whether it be good or bad.» — la indiferencia moral que le atribuye a esa obra
«Nature works on ‘seed’ as God works on the free will of man. Truly it is a great marvel to behold Nature obeying the seed, not because she is forced to do so, but of her own will.» — el paralelo teológico con que la explica: la Naturaleza obedece a la simiente por voluntad propia, como Dios obra sobre el libre albedrío
«The seed, then, is the elixir of anything or its quintessence, or its most perfect digestion or decoction or, again, the Balm of Sulphur which is the same as the radical moisture in metals.» — los nombres que da a la simiente: elixir de cada cosa, quintaesencia, digestión perfecta, y Bálsamo de Azufre, que sería la humedad radical de los metales
«The four elements produce seed, through the will of God and the imagination of Nature; and as the seed of the male animal has its center or storing place in the kidneys, so the four elements by their continual action project a constant supply of seed to the center of the earth, where it is digested, and whence it proceeds again in generative motions.» — el mecanismo que describe: los cuatro elementos proyectan simiente sin cesar al centro de la tierra, donde se digiere, como el semen animal a los riñones
«Now the center of the earth is a certain void place wherein nothing is at rest; and upon the margin or circumference of this center the four elements project their qualities.» — cómo describe ese centro: lugar vacío donde nada reposa, con los cuatro elementos proyectando sus cualidades en el borde
«Let us illustrate the matter by supposing a glass of water to be set in the middle of a table, round the margin of which are placed little heaps of salt and of powders of different colors. If the water be poured out, it will run all over the table in divergent rivulets, and will become salt where it touches the salt, red where it dissolves the red powder, and so on. The water does not change the places', but the several places differentiate the water.» — la imagen del vaso de agua derramado sobre montoncitos de sal y polvos de colores: el agua no cambia los lugares, los lugares diferencian el agua
«In the same way, the seed which is the product of the four elements is projected in all directions from the earth-center, and produces different things according to the quality of the different places.» — la aplicación de esa imagen: una sola simiente proyectada en todas direcciones desde el centro produce cosas distintas según el lugar
«Thus, while the seed of all things is one, it is made to generate a great variety of things, just as the seed of man might produce a man if projected into the womb of a female of his own species, or a monstruous variety of abortions, if projected into the wombs of different female animals.» — el segundo símil con que lo redondea: la simiente del hombre daría un hombre en su propia especie y abortos monstruosos en otras. El troceo imprime *monstruous*
«So long as Nature's seed remains in the center, it can indifferently produce a tree or a metal, a herb or a stone and, in like manner, according to the purity of the place, it will produce what is less or more pure.» — lo que dice de la simiente mientras sigue en el centro: puede dar indistintamente árbol o metal, hierba o piedra, y según la pureza del lugar dará algo más o menos puro
«But how do the elements generate the sperm or seed? There are four elements, two heavy and two light, two dry and two moist, but one driest and one moistest of all; and these are male and female.» — el reparto de los cuatro elementos que da: dos pesados y dos ligeros, dos secos y dos húmedos, con uno el más seco y otro el más húmedo, macho y hembra
«By God's Will each of these is constantly striving to produce things like to itself in its own sphere. Moreover, they are constantly acting on one another, and the subtle essences of all are combined in the center, where they are well mixed and sent forth again by Archeus, the servant of Nature» — lo que hacen esos elementos: producir semejantes en su esfera, obrar unos sobre otros y mandar sus esencias sutiles al centro, de donde las devuelve Archeus, servidor de la Naturaleza
«The first matter of metals is twofold, and one without the other cannot create a metal.» — la doctrina de la doble primera materia de los metales: ninguna crea metal sin la otra
«The first and principal substance is the moisture of air mingled with warmth. This substance the Sages have called Mercury, and in the philosophical sea it is governed by the rays of the Sun and the Moon.» — la primera de las dos: humedad del aire mezclada con calor, que los Sabios llamaron Mercurio, gobernada en el mar filosófico por los rayos del Sol y la Luna
«The second substance is the dry heat of the earth, which is called Sulphur.» — la segunda: el calor seco de la tierra, llamado Azufre
«But as this substance has always been kept a great mystery, let us declare it more fully, and especially its weight, ignorance of which mars the whole work.» — la advertencia que añade sobre el peso de esa sustancia: ignorarlo echaría a perder toda la obra
«The right substance, if the quantity of it which is taken be wrong, can produce nothing but an abortion.» — la consecuencia que le pone: la sustancia correcta en cantidad equivocada solo daría un aborto
«There are some who take the entire body for their matter, that is, for their seed or sperm; others take only a part of it: both are on the wrong track.» — los dos errores que señala: tomar el cuerpo entero como simiente o tomar solo una parte
«If anyone, for instance, were to attempt the creation of a man out of a man's hand and a woman's foot, he would fail.» — el ejemplo con que ilustra el segundo: crear un hombre de una mano de hombre y un pie de mujer
«For there is in every body a central atom, or vital point of the seed (its 1/8200 part), even in a grain of wheat.» — la fracción con que cifra el punto vital de la simiente, hasta en un grano de trigo
«Neither the body nor the grain is all seed, but every body has a small seminal spark, which the other parts protect from all excess of heat and cold.» — lo que se sigue de eso: ni el cuerpo ni el grano son todo simiente, sino que llevan una chispa seminal que el resto protege del calor y del frío. El tramo cruza el corte de plana
«As the male seed is emitted into the womb of the female, where only so much as is needed is retained while the rest is driven out again, so the magnetic force of our earth-center attracts to itself as much as is needed of the cognate seminal substance, while that which cannot be» — el símil con que explica la selección en el centro de la tierra: la matriz retiene lo necesario y expulsa el resto; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«used for vital generation is thrust forth in the shape of stones and other rubbish. This is the fountainhead of all things terrestrial.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: lo que no sirve a la generación vital sale como piedras y desecho, y ese centro sería la fuente de todo lo terrestre
«If you have ears and eyes treasure up this fact, and be on your guard against those who would use the whole grain as seed, and those who strive to produce a highly rarefied metallic substance by the vain solution and mixture of different metals.» — la advertencia con que Sendivogius cierra esa doctrina: guardarse de quien use el grano entero como simiente y de quien mezcle metales por disolución
«For even the purest metals contain a certain element of impurity, while in the inferior the proportion is greater.» — lo que dice de la pureza de los metales: hasta los más puros llevan impureza, y más los inferiores
«You will have all you want if you find the point of Nature which you must not, however, look for in the vulgar metals; it is not to be found therein, for all these and common gold more especially, are dead.» — dónde manda buscar el punto de la Naturaleza y dónde no: no en los metales vulgares, que estarían muertos, el oro común el primero
«But the metals which we advise you to take are living and have vital spirits. Fire is the life of metals while they are still in their ore, and the fire of smelting is their death.» — el criterio que opone: metales vivos y con espíritus vitales, porque el fuego sería su vida en la mena y la fundición su muerte
«But the first matter of metals is a certain moisture mixed with warm air. Its appearance is that of oily water adhering to all pure and impure things» — cómo describe la primera materia de los metales: humedad mezclada con aire cálido, de aspecto de agua oleosa adherida a todo
«yet in some places it is found more abundantly than in others, because the earth is more open and porous in one place than in another, and has a greater magnetic force.» — de qué hace depender su abundancia: tierra más abierta y porosa, con mayor fuerza magnética
«When it becomes manifest, it is clothed in a certain vesture, especially in places where it has nothing to cling to.» — lo que dice de su manifestación: se viste de cierta vestidura, sobre todo donde no tiene a qué adherirse
«It is known by the fact that it is composed of three principles but, as a metallic substance, it is only one without any visible sign of conjunction, except that which may be called its vesture or shadow, namely, sulphur, etc.”» — la señal por la que se reconoce: compuesta de tres principios y a la vez una sola como sustancia metálica, con el azufre por vestidura o sombra
«Now to quote Paracelsus, that genius of the early sixteenth century, who long before Hahnemann, the supposed founder of homeopathy, and Prof. Liebig, the famous German chemist (both of whom are quoted in another chapter), explained why trituration is essential in the administering of medications.» — el modo en que introduce a Paracelso: genio de principios del siglo XVI que habría explicado la necesidad de la trituración mucho antes que Hahnemann y Liebig
«As will be seen from the following, not only Hahnemann, but Paracelsus before him, also taught the principles of homeopathy to the masses» — la tesis de precedencia que sostiene: Paracelso habría enseñado los principios homeopáticos antes que Hahnemann, tenido por fundador
«We speak also in like manner concerning the magisteries of herbs which, indeed, are so efficacious that half an ounce of them operates more than a hundred ounces of their body, because scarcely the hundredth part is Quintessence.» — el pasaje que cita de Paracelso sobre los magisterios de las hierbas: media onza obraría más que cien onzas del cuerpo, porque apenas la centésima parte sería Quintaesencia
«So, then, the quantity thereof being so very small, a greater mass of it has to be used and administered, which is not required in the case of magisteries» — el contraste que Paracelso hace en esa cita entre la quintaesencia extraída y el magisterio, que no exigiría masa grande
«for in these the whole quantity of the herbs is reduced into a magistery, which is not then on account of its artificial character, to be judged inferior to the true extracted Quintessence itself.» — lo que Paracelso dice del magisterio: reduce la hierba entera y no sería inferior a la quintaesencia extraída por su carácter artificial
«One part of this being exhibited is of more avail than a hundred parts of a similar body, for this reason, because the magisteries are prepared and rendered acute to the highest degree, and are brought to a quality equal to a Quintessence in which magistery all the virtues and powers of the body are present» — la potencia que Paracelso le atribuye: una parte valdría más que cien del cuerpo semejante, por estar agudizado al grado máximo
«In conclusion, may the wisdom that speaks out of Paracelsus remind us always that “Alchemy indeed brings forth many excellent and sublime arcana to the light, which have been accidentally discovered rather than sought for. Wherefore let Alchemy be great and venerable in the sight of everyone, for many arcana are in tartar, in juniper, in melissa, in tincture, in vitriol, in salt, in alum, in Luna and in Sol.”» — el pasaje de Paracelso con que cierra el capítulo séptimo: la alquimia sacaría a la luz arcanos sublimes hallados más por accidente que por busca, y habría arcanos en el tártaro, el enebro, la melisa, la tintura, el vitriolo, la sal, el alumbre, la Luna y el Sol. El volumen lo atribuye a *Be Caducis*, párrafo IV, con esa grafía
«On the Sulphur which is in the Mercury of the Sages. It is a marvelous fact that our Mercury contains active Sulphur, and yet preserves the form and all the properties of Mercury.» — la nota al pie sobre el Azufre en el Mercurio de los Sabios: llevaría Azufre activo conservando la forma y las propiedades del Mercurio
«Hence it is necessary that a form be introduced therein by our preparation, which form is a metallic sulphur.» — lo que esa nota deriva de ahí: la preparación tendría que introducir una forma, que sería azufre metálico
«This Sulphur is the inward fire which causes the putrefaction of the composite Sun.» — el papel que la nota le da a ese azufre: fuego interior que causa la putrefacción del Sol compuesto
«This sulphureous fire is the spiritual seed which our Virgin (still remaining immaculate) has conceived. For an uncorrupted virginity admits of a spiritual love, as experience and authority affirm.» — la figura con que la nota lo nombra: simiente espiritual concebida por la Virgen que sigue inmaculada, porque la virginidad incorrupta admitiría amor espiritual
«The two (the passive and the active principle) combined we call our Hermaphrodite. When joined to the Sun, it softens, liquefies, and dissolves it with a gentle heat. By means of the same fire it coagulates itself; and by its coagulation produces the Sun.» — el nombre que la nota da a los dos principios unidos, y lo que hacen: el Hermafrodita, que ablanda y disuelve el Sol con calor suave y luego se coagula
«Our pure and homogeneous Mercury having conceived inward Sulphur (through our Art), coagulates itself under the influence of gentle outward heat, like the cream of milk—a subtle earth floating on the water.» — el símil con que la nota describe esa coagulación: como la nata de la leche, tierra sutil flotando sobre el agua
«When it is united to the Sun, it is not only not coagulated, but the composite substance becomes softer day by day; the bodies are almost dissolved, and the spirits begin to be coagulated, with a black color and a most fetid smell.» — lo que la nota dice de esa unión con el Sol: la sustancia se ablanda día a día, los cuerpos casi se disuelven y los espíritus empiezan a coagularse en negro y hedor
«Hence it appears that this spiritual metallic Sulphur is in truth the moving principle in our Art; it is really volatile or unmatured gold, and by proper digestion is changed into that metal.» — la conclusión de la nota: ese Azufre espiritual metálico sería el principio motor del arte, oro volátil o inmaduro que la digestión convierte en metal
«If joined to perfect gold, it is not coagulated but dissolves the corporal gold and remains with it, having dissolved, under one form, although before the perfect union death must precede, that so they may be united after death, not simply in a perfect unity, but in a thousand times more than perfect perfection.”» — el remate de la nota: unido al oro perfecto lo disuelve y permanece con él, con muerte previa a la unión y perfección mil veces más que perfecta
«Here is the key. What planet rules Aries? What metal does this planet rule? Saturn rules what metal? Where can the sulphur be extracted from the “unripe” Mercury. Now you have the secret unfolded.» — la nota al pie que remite en preguntas a la Casa del Carnero: qué planeta rige Aries, qué metal ese planeta, qué metal Saturno, y de dónde se extrae el azufre del Mercurio inmaduro
«in which magistery all the virtues and powers of the body are present, and from these its own helping power» — lo que Paracelso adjudica al magisterio en esa cita: todas las virtudes y potencias del cuerpo estarían presentes en él; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«arises to it. For in them the penetrability and the power of the whole body exist from the mixture that is made with it.” (The Archidoxies, Book VI» — la continuación en la plana siguiente y la procedencia que el volumen le pone: la penetrabilidad y la potencia del cuerpo entero vendrían de la mezcla, según *The Archidoxies*, libro VI
«The curious and extraordinary aura surrounding the mystical alchemists is overwhelming even to the casual reader of their works.» — el arranque de la Conclusión: el aura de los alquimistas místicos abrumaría aun al lector casual
«Even today, in our rapidly evolving, so-called modern times, when newer systems of both a physical and psychological nature are continuously confronting the inquiring minds of searchers for cosmic realization, it is astounding to find that these great philosophers, doctors of medicine, and alchemists are still too far advanced even for our “enlightened” age.» — lo que sostiene contra la idea de progreso: esos filósofos, médicos y alquimistas seguirían siendo demasiado avanzados para la época que se llama ilustrada
«Even individuals who have been only partly initiated into certain cosmic secrets and who—after due preparation—have found the keys to unlock the purposely strange and allegorically concealed formulas of the great alchemists, have been awed by the immense possibilities opening before them.» — lo que dice de los parcialmente iniciados que hallaron las llaves de esas fórmulas veladas: quedaron pasmados ante lo que se les abría
«If alchemists, then, are such truly great scientists and if their teachings are of such tremendous benefit to mankind, why, the reader will complain, have they concealed their wisdom behind allegorical symbols that only confuse and mislead a searching mind?» — la objeción que él mismo formula: por qué esconder tras símbolos alegóricos una sabiduría de tanto provecho
«To ask such a question is not only natural, it is even justified. There is an answer to be given, and a very simple one: “It had to be done.» — la respuesta breve que da a esa objeción, y la legitimidad que le concede a la pregunta
«What follows is a feeble attempt to vindicate the works of these great personages in the eyes of the searching, and so far unsuccessful, student. In reality, they need no vindication, for their names deserve to be pronounced with deepest reverence as divinely ordained cosmic ambassadors.» — cómo califica su propia respuesta y qué le concede a esos autores: no necesitarían vindicación, y sus nombres merecerían reverencia como embajadores cósmicos ordenados por lo divino
«To be specific, for instance, Paracelsus did not teach new laws. He merely promulgated more openly and in a newer version what others before him had known and kept secret.» — lo que sostiene de Paracelso: no enseñó leyes nuevas, promulgó más abiertamente lo que otros antes guardaban
«He added to and perfected different methods for obtaining in simpler forms and in various ways, results that mundane science, as we understand it, cannot accomplish at present.» — lo que sí le adjudica: añadió y perfeccionó métodos para lograr en formas más simples lo que la ciencia mundana no lograría hoy
«Many discoveries that are common knowledge today were once the well guarded secrets of medieval alchemists. At one time, corrosive waters such as nitric acid (NHO3) represented secret knowledge. Today we may purchase them for a few cents and put them to many common uses.» — el ejemplo histórico que da: el ácido nítrico fue secreto medieval y hoy se compra por unos centavos
«However, we also find divine laws being employed by men for selfish purposes, and we must bear in mind that these laws work equally well in the hands of those unfortunate souls who place their egoism above the welfare of mankind.» — la objeción que él mismo se pone: las leyes divinas obran igual en manos egoístas
«Laws do not operate successfully only in the hands of the good or the righteous, as we have seen to our cost in the annals of recorded history.» — el corolario que saca: las leyes no obran solo para los buenos, como lo mostraría la historia
«Because of this, many laws known to the great alchemists were—and still are—kept concealed.» — la conclusión práctica: por eso muchas leyes siguen ocultas
«Individual progress cannot be measured on a common scale. Inherent powers may be activated for various uses, producing results of different proportions, and yet they emanate from the same fundamental source or identical law.» — el principio de escala que enuncia: los poderes se activan para usos distintos y con resultados distintos aunque salgan de la misma ley
«The arcane force creating heat in a terrestrial, visible fire is a manifestation of the same law that produces heat in an electric arc hot enough to melt metals.» — el ejemplo con que lo ilustra: la misma ley en el calor del fuego visible y en el arco eléctrico que funde metales
«Once the workings of this law have been revealed and become the property of the individual, they may be used for either constructive or destructive purposes.» — lo que se sigue de eso: revelada la ley, sirve para construir o para destruir
«The evolution of the human intellect depends on the cosmic permission for cosmic consciousness to penetrate and activate the functions of the brain, allowing always for the individual's free will and willingness to function as an agent of that consciousness.» — de qué hace depender la evolución del intelecto: el permiso cósmico para que la consciencia cósmica penetre el cerebro, salvado el libre albedrío
«If Paracelsus and other alchemists, through cosmic permission and karma, were permitted to have revealed to them profound cosmic laws still generally unknown to the masses, then, instead of ridiculing these men, attempts should be made to unlock the mysteries of their work, and incorporate them for the beneficial use of mankind.» — lo que propone en lugar del ridículo: intentar abrir los misterios de esa obra y ponerla al servicio de la humanidad
«Those who have demonstrated some of the teachings and formulas of Paracelsus know of it, but keep profound silence about their findings, as they are of such immense scope.» — lo que dice de quienes ya demostraron algunas fórmulas de Paracelso: guardan silencio profundo por el alcance de lo hallado
«If available as common knowledge, it would produce more good than most people could possibly stand without also doing undue harm.» — la razón que da para ese silencio, con la reserva de que la frase suene a mente siniestra
«Alchemically, it may be accomplished by means of a comparatively simple process, presenting unlimited possibilities. How is this possible?1 By knowing the secret.» — lo que opone a ese costo: alquímicamente sería proceso comparativamente simple, con posibilidades ilimitadas, y la respuesta que da a su propia pregunta
«What would be the natural result if a child had easy access to nitric acid even though he had been warned of its inherent poisonous qualities? He would either be afraid and shun it entirely, having before his eyes a mental picture of physical agony or even death; or curiosity would get the better of him to the extent that he would find out if the substance would do what is claimed of it.» — la analogía del niño y el ácido nítrico con que explica el secreto: o lo rehuiría por miedo o probaría por curiosidad
«However, immaturity is not limited to the very young. Even today, all things are not for the use of everyone, although they were created for the benefit of all.» — la fórmula que repite dos veces en la Conclusión: no todo es para uso de todos, aunque todo se creó para provecho de todos
«It is because the parent loves the child, that he withholds certain knowledge until the child is prepared to receive it.» — la analogía con que justifica el silencio de los custodios: el padre calla por amor al hijo hasta que el hijo esté listo
«Mankind as a whole, at present, is not ready to receive this knowledge fully. In spite of the relatively high degree of civilization we have reached, mankind in its totality has not advanced very far.» — el juicio con que lo aplica a su época: la humanidad entera no habría avanzado mucho pese al grado de civilización
«Its educational forces are being used deliberately for disruptive, not constructive, purposes.» — el reproche que hace a las fuerzas educativas: se usarían deliberadamente con fines disruptivos
«Wanton slaughter and annihilation are being perpetrated even by men who possess a belief in and knowledge of divine laws. Yet they clamor to leam greater and more sublime laws, while tragically demonstrating their inability to adhere to and master the lesser ones.» — lo que señala como contradicción: quienes matan y aniquilan claman por leyes más sublimes sin dominar las menores. El troceo imprime *leam* por *learn*
«When we review the record of man's thoughtless abuse of the powers his knowledge of cosmic law has given him, we begin to understand the selective eye and secretive ways of the early alchemists. We can appreciate as never before the wisdom of their ancient maxim, still operative today, that only when the pupil is ready will the master appear.» — lo que ese repaso haría comprensible, según él: el ojo selectivo y las vías secretas de los primeros alquimistas, y su máxima sobre el discípulo y el maestro
«Emphasis is placed on the initiated. For those standing outside the realm of Alchemy, it is impossible to convey any proof.» — el límite que declara: a quien está fuera del arte no se le puede dar prueba
«It is for this reason that true alchemists, from remotest times to the present day, have worked unknown, sometimes even to their own families.» — lo que atribuye a los alquimistas verdaderos de todos los tiempos: trabajaron desconocidos, a veces incluso para sus familias
«Alchemists labor primarily for the benefit of mankind. To concoct potent medicines from herbs and metals in order to heal the sick and restore normal body functions, is one of their prime activities.» — el fin que asigna a los alquimistas: preparar medicinas potentes de hierbas y metales para sanar
«Nature, with its diverse herbs, roots, barks, minerals, and metals, is their true doctor. Alchemists act only as instruments.» — el reparto de papeles que hace: la Naturaleza sería el médico verdadero y el alquimista solo el instrumento
«It is contrary to their character to offer Aesculapian sacrifices on the altar of ignorance, nor do they consider it wise to purposely adorn themselves with divinely revealed cosmic knowledge.» — lo que declara ajeno a su carácter: ofrecer sacrificios esculapios en el altar de la ignorancia o adornarse con el conocimiento revelado
«They realize their own impotence in this great universe, and scrupulously exercise modesty and benevolence to the fullest degree.» — las dos virtudes que les atribuye, nacidas de reconocerse impotentes en el universo
«Many people think of alchemists as strange, mysterious individuals, half crazy, if not completely insane, who belong more properly to the Dark Ages.» — la imagen corriente del alquimista que sale a objetar: extraño, medio loco y propio de la Edad Oscura
«But the remarkable fact remains that even to this day, unknown to the world at large, alchemists continue to practice their art and science, faithful to a centuries-old tradition.» — lo que afirma contra esa imagen: los alquimistas siguen practicando hoy, desconocidos para el mundo
«More often than not, those apparent miracles that happen here and there are the results of the deeds of these unselfish men and women.» — a quiénes adjudica los milagros aparentes que ocurren aquí y allá, con la mención expresa de hombres y mujeres
«In most cases, the identity of the benefactor remains unknown even to those who have benefitted.» — lo que añade sobre esos benefactores: su identidad quedaría oculta hasta para los beneficiados
«After all the scoffers have finished explaining away what they do not understand, the evidence for these miracles, as they have been termed, still remains.» — lo que sostiene frente a los burlones: la evidencia de esos hechos permanecería
«Many of the greatest practitioners of Alchemy, following a tradition of service to mankind, have concealed themselves behind mysterious pseudonyms or chosen the cloak of total anonymity.» — lo que dice de los mayores practicantes del arte: se escondieron tras seudónimos misteriosos o en el anonimato total
«The dust of history, by their own choosing, has covered their individual personalities. But the solid record of their achievement remains, to baffle—and to challenge—the modern scientific mind.» — el balance con que cierra esa sección: el polvo de la historia cubrió sus personas y quedó el registro de sus logros
«It is here that one of the secrets is to be found. At present mundane science cannot accomplish it, yet mundane science is of arcane birth.» — el secreto que señala en ese punto: la ciencia mundana no puede lograrlo hoy, y a la vez sería de nacimiento arcano
«It represents the cosmic permission for segments of the arcane to become mundane. From time to time» — lo que la ciencia mundana representaría, según él: el permiso cósmico para que segmentos de lo arcano se vuelvan mundanos; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«kept hidden from the profane, will be permitted to reach the consciousness of individuals in greater proportions. In the future, as in the past, it will do so through preordained channels.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: más sabiduría arcana llegaría a la consciencia de los individuos por canales preordenados
«The transmutation of base metals into precious ones may be cited as an exemplary case. Mundane science has, with complicated physical processes, produced very small yet encouraging results.» — el caso ejemplar que trae para el secreto: la ciencia mundana habría logrado por procesos físicos complicados resultados pequeños pero alentadores
«If one realizes that—on the surface at least—alchemical laboratory practice does not appear to differ from conventional chemical experimentation, it is not difficult to understand how alchemists in» — cómo explica que los alquimistas pasaran inadvertidos: en la superficie su práctica no se distinguiría de la química; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«the past and in the present have been able to escape detection while still achieving valid alchemical accomplishments.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: así habrían escapado a la detección logrando obra alquímica válida
«How can a dividing line be drawn between chemistry and Alchemy? This question has often been asked.» — la pregunta que da título a la sección: dónde trazar la línea entre química y alquimia
«If chemistry is an outgrowth of medieval Alchemy, how can anything of benefit still remain in Alchemy?» — la objeción que sale a responder: si la química salió de la alquimia medieval, qué quedaría de provecho en la alquimia
«When the tincture of an herb has been extracted, only impotent leaves are left. The strength has been withdrawn.» — el símil que da fuerza a esa objeción: extraída la tintura, quedan hojas impotentes
«If this be true of Alchemy, then only a crude historical husk remains, and the essence, during the intervening centuries, has been extracted by modern chemistry.» — la conclusión que la objeción sacaría: de la alquimia quedaría una cáscara histórica y la química moderna se habría llevado la esencia
«Not only does he retain the knowledge he has given away, but other, untold knowledge remains within him, which he may convey to others whenever he sees fit.» — la continuación de ese símil: le queda además saber sin contar que puede transmitir cuando quiera
«Much knowledge of the ancient alchemists that was formerly secret has become public property and been seized upon by others who proceeded to build various hypotheses upon it, out of which newer results developed.» — lo que concede sobre el traspaso histórico: mucho saber alquímico pasó al dominio público y de ahí salieron hipótesis y resultados nuevos
«But not all alchemical knowledge has become public property. Much more yet remains to be expounded in university laboratories.» — lo que retiene de esa concesión: no todo pasó, y quedaría mucho por exponer en los laboratorios universitarios
«No one can accomplish anything alchemically in the laboratory without the Philosopher's Mercury, so-called. But this is not common metallic mercury or quicksilver.» — el primero de los dos puntos con que resume la diferencia: sin el llamado Mercurio de los Filósofos no se logra nada, y no sería mercurio metálico
«The tincture (Philosopher's Mercury) including its Sulphur and the feces are to be first separated and then united again by proper processes.» — el segundo punto del resumen: tintura, azufre y heces se separan primero y se vuelven a unir por los procesos debidos
«There seems to be a tendency to go over the above statements too casually, not recognizing the importance of Mercury.» — lo que advierte sobre esos dos puntos: se leen demasiado a la ligera
«This Philosopher's Mercury has been the troublemaker for centuries. Scientists, and by far the overwhelming majority of them, complain that it does not exist. It has not been discovered, they claim, nor can» — el papel que le da a ese Mercurio y la posición de los científicos: la mayoría diría que no existe ni puede existir; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«it be. And there they let the matter rest. Tampering with metallic mercury has brought about some results. Mercury bichloride and similar mercurial medications have been developed but, due to mercury's great venomous properties, only limited success has been obtained.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: ahí dejarían el asunto, y con el mercurio metálico solo se habría llegado al bicloruro y a medicaciones limitadas por lo venenoso
«Another striking difference is that any poison can be removed alchemically from any herb or metal and its healing and curing properties set free.» — la segunda diferencia que declara: alquímicamente se quitaría el veneno de cualquier hierba o metal liberando sus virtudes curativas
«This represents another stumbling block on the road of chemistry and medical science.» — dónde sitúa ese punto respecto de la química y la medicina: un tropiezo en su camino
«Very seldom is a curative agent found that has not some poisonous substances adhering to it.» — lo que dice de los agentes curativos: rara vez uno viene sin sustancias venenosas adheridas
«To remove the venomous qualities, and to set free the curative agents, represents a heroic struggle that science, thus far, has not conquered.» — lo que declara no conquistado por la ciencia: quitar lo venenoso y liberar lo curativo
«For humanity's sake,” the public will exclaim, “for all the miseries existing in the world today, why don't the alchemists reveal their secrets? Why have people suffered and died in agony when there is help to be had?”» — la interpelación que pone en boca del público: por qué no revelan su secreto los alquimistas si hay auxilio a mano
«It is this cry of humanity that pains the true alchemist most. Here the temptation to transgress the alchemist's oath is great indeed.» — lo que declara del efecto de ese clamor sobre el alquimista: sería lo que más le duele, y la tentación de romper el juramento sería grande
«Truly, the sorrows of mankind appear to afford well-founded, humanitarian reasons for overstepping the bounds of secrecy.» — lo que concede a esa tentación: los dolores de la humanidad parecerían razón humanitaria bastante para saltarse el secreto
«What good, then, is Alchemy, if it cannot be utilized for the general good? Chemistry is an open door for all mankind to enter and to benefit from.” Here, truly, critics have ground on which to stand.» — la objeción siguiente que se plantea, y lo que le concede: la química estaría abierta a todos, y ahí los críticos tendrían dónde apoyarse
«The one and only excuse, if there is any at all in this difficult issue, must be repeated, as stated earlier: “All things are not for the use of everyone, although they were created for the benefit of all.» — la única excusa que dice tener, con la fórmula repetida
«If the author had to coin the above phrase, it was only with the object in mind of illustrating the cosmic wisdom, and not with the intention of excluding anyone from benefiting from alchemical knowledge.» — el sentido en que dice haber acuñado esa frase: ilustrar la sabiduría cósmica, no excluir a nadie
«Certainly no one in his right mind would feed an infant raw cabbage.» — el ejemplo con que la defiende: nadie en su sano juicio daría col cruda a un lactante
«Even critics will concede that those subjects belonging to psychology and representing the threshold to transcendental regions must be taken into account.» — lo que pide tener en cuenta: los asuntos de la psicología, umbral de las regiones trascendentales
«That is why insufficient knowledge about such immensely important subjects only results in frustration and faulty conclusions.» — lo que atribuye al conocimiento insuficiente en materias así: frustración y conclusiones erradas
«Such far-reaching hypotheses as the law of karma may yet serve to close the open circle that still confronts today's puzzled scientific mind.» — la hipótesis con que sugiere cerrar el círculo abierto ante la ciencia: la ley del karma
«But with Alchemy, this is not so. We may compare it to a teacher who gives his knowledge to his pupils, and they again in turn to others. Although this knowledge may be worked» — la respuesta que da con el símil del maestro que enseña; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«with, the teacher has lost nothing by giving freely to others. Not only does he retain the knowledge he has given away, but other, untold knowledge remains within him, which he may convey to others whenever he sees fit.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el maestro no pierde nada al dar, y le queda saber sin contar
«be accomplished by such revelations, may also be used for the opposite, for so-called evil, or rather, negative manifestations of the same laws. This presents so great a danger, in terms of the laws involved, that the general good could, through ignorance, be completely annihilated.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: lo mismo serviría a manifestaciones negativas de las mismas leyes, con peligro de aniquilar por ignorancia el bien general
«And yet, as we stated on previous pages, the good that could» — la razón con que rechaza romper el juramento; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«encouraging results. However, the cost is so enormous that the» — la objeción de costo que le pone a ese logro de la ciencia mundana; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«process is unprofitable at present. Alchemically, it may be accomplished by means of a comparatively simple process, presenting unlimited possibilities.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el proceso no sería rentable por ahora, y alquímicamente se lograría por vía comparativamente simple y de posibilidades ilimitadas
«Students of medicine and surgery will shake their heads over efforts to connect Alchemy and therapeutics.» — la objeción con que abre la sección de alquimia y terapéutica
«Yet who has not stood in awe before the first corpse that revealed its marvelous anatomy to the student's searching eye? The physical organism was present—but the life force—life itself—that mystery of mysteries—had vanished.» — el contraargumento que opone: ante el primer cadáver, el organismo estaba y la fuerza vital había desaparecido
«If the power of cosmic organization is so evident in the human body, why disregard the primary force that animates our total physical functioning?» — la pregunta que saca de eso: por qué desatender la fuerza primaria que anima el funcionamiento físico
«Primary force! Here is the portal to the great halls of arcane science, to the Temple of Cosmic Wisdom wherein lies the secret of creation. The Hyle of Alchemy.» — el nombre que da a esa fuerza primaria y el lugar que le asigna: portal de la ciencia arcana, secreto de la creación, la Hyle de la alquimia
«Science must, of necessity, be demonstrable. It can be demonstrated, since it is a physical process depending upon the performer.» — la condición que acepta para la ciencia y cómo dice cumplirla: proceso físico que depende de quien lo ejecuta
«Suppose, then, that a surgeon performs an operation. His success with one patient encourages him to repeat the same method on another and still another, only to be confronted, finally, with a failure of his procedure or operative technique on a patient who fails to respond.» — el caso con que mide esa demostrabilidad: el cirujano que repite su método hasta topar con un paciente que no responde
«Patients may, and in fact, do respond differently to identical treatments. What makes them respond differently?» — la pregunta que le saca a ese caso, con el hecho de que pacientes iguales respondan distinto. El tramo cruza el corte de plana
«Excluding abnormalities, all are endowed with the same basic organism, unless tampered with.» — lo que da por común a todos, salvo anomalía: el mismo organismo básico
«I may be accused of philosophizing, but how can a physician be of help without being a philosopher, when normal or abnormal physical functioning produces different responses in different patients, and a multitude of philosophical and psychological factors influence what those responses will be?» — la objeción que él mismo se pone y su respuesta: el médico no podría ayudar sin ser filósofo
«Let us ask, then, “How can a physician afford to pretend to a knowledge of physical functioning, when he is ignorant of the ‘thing-in-itself,’ which can only be found in the realm of psychology?”» — la pregunta que dirige al médico: cómo pretender saber del funcionamiento físico ignorando la cosa en sí, que estaría en la psicología
«He cannot afford to practice as a true son of the Hippocratic art unless he understands the invincible laws of psychology as well as he understands the techniques of wielding the scalpel or the dosage of vials of medicine.» — lo que exige al hijo verdadero del arte hipocrático: entender las leyes de la psicología como entiende el bisturí y la dosis
«It is the combination of his understanding of the psychological as well as the physical that will result in the third point of perfection, according to the cosmic law of the triangle: the restoration of normal functioning as cosmically decreed for the individual.» — lo que promete de esa combinación, según la ley cósmica del triángulo: el tercer punto de perfección, la restauración del funcionamiento normal
«It is important to note that we emphasize the individual. As we have pointed out in previous pages, inherent powers may be activated to various uses producing results of different proportions.» — el acento que subraya: el individuo, porque los poderes inherentes se activan para usos distintos y con resultados de proporción distinta
«In the on-going search for greater knowledge and truth, the physicians of our own day are still distinctly idealistic materialists. This is exemplified by their procedures on the surgical table.» — el juicio que hace de los médicos de su tiempo: seguirían siendo materialistas idealistas, como lo mostraría su proceder en la mesa
«The diseased object attracts their first attention. In most cases, they consider its removal to be a cure.» — el proceder que describe: la atención va al objeto enfermo y se toma su extirpación por cura
«But can it be? That which is no more, how can it be cured?» — la objeción con que lo rebate: lo que ya no está, cómo va a estar curado
«We remove the thyroid gland of a child, and what will result? Will such a dwarfed imbecile be “cured”?» — el caso con que lo ilustra: quitada la tiroides a un niño, y la pregunta sobre si eso lo cura
«We may feed the child thyroid glands orally, and growth will be resumed. But is its thyroid gland “cured”? No! The thyroid gland is missing, and this little ductless shield has not been cured, because it simply is not there any more, and the myxedema becomes evident.» — el desarrollo del caso: el aporte oral reanuda el crecimiento sin curar la glándula, y aparece el mixedema
«Gland hormones may be fed to accumulate directly in the bloodstream, but what will act internally to produce more thyroid hormones? The pituitary gland? Not likely. This endocrine is of a different consciousness.» — la pregunta que deja abierta: qué obraría dentro para producir más hormona tiroidea, dado que la hipófisis sería de otra consciencia
«It is here that we find ourselves up against the locked portal of psychological phenomena.» — dónde sitúa el límite de todo ese argumento: el portal cerrado de los fenómenos psicológicos
«Does surgical skill really cure that which has been removed? Has the medical profession begun to realize its inadequacy in employing physical therapy only?» — las dos preguntas que dirige a la cirugía y a la profesión médica sobre su propia suficiencia
«If it has, then the time has arrived to delve into alchemical mysteries. Here, with honest endeavor, the medical profession may succeed in discovering undreamed-of marvels, to the praise and glory of a cosmic intelligence that reserves them for the honest, searching mind, and not merely for the servants on the Aesculapian altar.» — lo que propone si la profesión reconoce esa insuficiencia: entrar en los misterios alquímicos, donde habría maravillas reservadas a la mente honesta
«Medical science has progressed tremendously. But has not Galen triumphed for over 1400 years only to be succeeded?» — lo que concede al progreso médico y la objeción histórica que le pone: Galeno triunfó mil cuatrocientos años y fue sucedido
«Does not medical science still search within the human body to locate what, in its estimation, is superfluous, what parts are to be removed as nonessential?» — el reproche que hace a la medicina: seguiría buscando en el cuerpo qué es superfluo para quitarlo
«Yet it is nature that produces; humans can only imitate her. No substitute ever replaced an original. It may resemble but can never replace it.» — el principio que opone: la naturaleza produce y el hombre solo imita, y ningún sustituto reemplazó nunca a un original
«If then, out of an attempted imitation, a new result is produced, then it is original because it manifests in a newer, different form.» — el matiz que le añade: si de la imitación sale un resultado nuevo, sería original por manifestarse en forma distinta
«So if human organs change due to natural environment, they will naturally adjust themselves.» — lo que dice del cambio natural de los órganos: se ajustarían solos
«In most cases, changes are onesided and are brought about artificially and too rapidly, thus hindering other organs in their natural, progressive adjustment.» — lo que dice del cambio artificial: unilateral y demasiado rápido, estorbaría el ajuste progresivo de los demás órganos
«To instigate one rapid improvement in a given area will logically overtax other organs, which, due to insufficient yet accelerated power, will begin to overwork and eventually collapse, creating disorder and disease.» — la cadena que describe: una mejora rápida sobrecarga otros órganos hasta el colapso, el desorden y la enfermedad
«To continue to inject stimulants under these circumstances will prove harmful and disruptive, causing the vital life force to seek more harmonious surroundings, forcing it, in extreme cases, to leave the physical body, and thus bringing about stagnation and death.» — adónde llevaría insistir con estimulantes: la fuerza vital buscaría entorno más armónico y en casos extremos dejaría el cuerpo
«The physician's work, therefore, should be, first of all, to help to prevent bodily disorders and disease. Second, to help to restore diseased organs to normal functioning, not by removing, but by curing them.» — el orden de tareas que asigna al médico: prevenir primero, y restaurar el órgano curándolo y no quitándolo
«Only if he is incapable of curing them, may he remove organs, in order to prevent them from spreading disease to other areas of the body.» — la única licencia que concede a la extirpación: impedir que la enfermedad se propague
«This definitely does not permit him to use the surgical scalpel in all cases. Every time he makes use of the knife, he is taking refuge under the surgeon's emergency permission.» — el límite que pone al bisturí: cada uso se acogería a un permiso de emergencia
«Bearing in mind the exception noted above, his ultimate object will be to discard surgery almost entirely.» — el objetivo último que le fija a la medicina: prescindir casi por completo de la cirugía
«We neither deny nor disparage the great skill of the medical men of today. We only urge that some among them may have the courage to go beyond their present orthodoxy, rich in accomplishment though it is, to dare to study with an open mind the works of Paracelsus and others who propounded the teachings of Alchemy.» — el matiz con que cierra: no niega la pericia médica, solo pide valor para estudiar sin prejuicio a Paracelso y a los demás
«It is men such as these, both in the profession of medicine and elsewhere, who will help in the great cosmic cycle of evolution to elevate humanity and to bring the human body to its preordained state of perfection.» — lo que espera de quienes lo hagan: ayudarían al ciclo cósmico de evolución hacia la perfección del cuerpo humano
«It was Plato's contention that ideas are the realization of all that matter is not.» — la tesis que atribuye a Platón al abrir la sección de alquimia y filosofía
«This concept has become so all-prevailing that many have forgotten the contention of his pupil, Aristotle, that ideas are in matter, not separated from it.» — la tesis que le opone, atribuida a Aristóteles: las ideas están en la materia
«Present teachings have become so confused and confusing that, for instance, in our present day tabulation of more than one hundred elements, there are, according to scientific postulations, substances which are reduced to their first nature and cannot be changed.» — el estado que describe en la tabla de más de cien elementos: sustancias reducidas a su primera naturaleza e inmutables
«The “infallibility” of this statement has been demonstrated by science itself in its successful smashing of certain elements into quite different ones.» — lo que objeta a esa inmutabilidad, con la propia ciencia por testigo: el rompimiento de elementos en otros distintos
«The ancients declared that there are only four elements that cannot be changed; namely, fire, water, air and earth.» — la tesis antigua que reivindica: solo cuatro elementos inmutables
«Exoteric science and professional theorists have been busy for 2,400 years working to discredit this idea and proceeding to construct intellectual Towers of Babel, which they maintained were sound and enduring.» — el juicio que hace de la ciencia exotérica: dos mil cuatrocientos años desacreditando esa idea y levantando Torres de Babel intelectuales
«These very structures are now beginning to collapse about their heads. The return to the road of true science, woefully neglected, must again be considered, if valid and lasting results are to be obtaned.» — lo que declara de esas estructuras y lo que propone: volver al camino de la ciencia verdadera. El troceo imprime *obtaned*
«So many “laws” in the past were accepted as irrefutable and eternal, only to be superseded by newer developments in research, as illustrated above in the successful changing of so-called “unchangeable” elements.» — el argumento histórico con que lo sostiene: leyes tenidas por irrefutables fueron superadas
«From the remote times of Thales to Anaxagoras (the latter is credited with the hypothesis that there must be more than four elements, causing a by-passing of some of Aristotle's fundamental laws), science and philosophy have followed for over two thousand years an apparently misleading theory.» — el tramo de historia que declara desviado: de Tales a Anaxágoras, a quien adjudica la hipótesis de más de cuatro elementos
«Democritus) were correct. Democritus, for instance, insisted that there are many elements—it is safe to say he meant many atomic structures—in fact, that the whole universe is composed of atomic structures.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: los Atomistas griegos tenían razón, y Demócrito sostenía muchos elementos, que él lee como estructuras atómicas
«We may say that it is here that our present atomic theory has its commencement, as far as man's positive search begins.» — dónde sitúa el comienzo de la teoría atómica moderna
«Who knows of anyone changing the four elements of the ancient philosophers into different ones?» — la pregunta que devuelve sobre los cuatro elementos antiguos
«An easy escape may be attempted by saying water (liquid) can be changed into hydrogen and oxygen. It cannot be changed into hydrogen and oxygen because it represents both.» — la salida fácil que anticipa y su respuesta: el agua no se cambiaría en hidrógeno y oxígeno porque los representa a los dos
«H2O is water (liquid). One may separate and analyze it, but it cannot be changed.» — el deslinde que hace entre separar o analizar y cambiar
«Therefore, it is unlikely that an element is what abstract science has postulated it to be. What are now termed elements are atomic components.» — la conclusión que saca: lo que se llama elemento sería componente atómico
«Atoms are matterized, segmentary entities of cosmic consciousness, manifesting in one of the three elements of physical phenomena, i.e., solid, liquid or gaseous.» — la definición de átomo que da: entidad segmentaria y materializada de consciencia cósmica que se manifiesta en sólido, líquido o gas
«Atomic structures can be rearranged, but the results will manifest in one of the three elements as mentioned, changes being brought about through heat (the fourth).» — el papel que asigna al calor: cuarto elemento por el que se reordenan las estructuras atómicas
«All motion is due to force and all force emanates from heat (energy), having its origin in the universal plasma, which is a coagulation of gaseous, liquid and solid substance.» — de dónde hace venir todo movimiento: de la fuerza, y la fuerza del calor, con origen en el plasma universal
«Heat, or fire, as confusingly (yet understandably) misnamed in former times, is another element. However, visible fire is combustion, a rearrangement of atomic structures, and has its origin in either solid, liquid, or gaseous combustible atomic structures.» — el deslinde que hace entre calor y fuego visible, que sería combustión y reordenamiento de estructuras
«But solids (matter is a term used to describe any one of the electronic manifestations) can be liquified and liquids can become gases, and gases condensed into liquids, science will reply.» — la objeción que pone en boca de la ciencia sobre los cambios de estado
«True, but this is as far as it will go. An ultimate end must be reached within the realm of these elements. It can only be one of the three at one time, because all three are in one, namely heat, energy, the universal plasma.» — su respuesta a esa objeción: habría un fin dentro de esos elementos, porque los tres estarían en uno, el calor o plasma universal
«Anything that manifests to our senses does so within the three elements through the fourth. It can be only one at a time, never all three at the same instant, except in pristine form.» — la regla que enuncia: lo que se manifiesta a los sentidos lo hace en tres elementos por el cuarto, uno a la vez salvo en forma prístina
«Our present day misnamed elements are therefore only electronic combinations into atomic premonstrations, and these manifestations are now only approximately over 100 in number.» — el nombre que da a la tabla periódica: combinaciones electrónicas en premonstraciones atómicas
«If then any substance (erroneously called an element) represents the three actual elements that are in reality but one (the philosophical seeds, or Philosopher's Mercury), this hypothetical one must be found, for herein lies the secret of all matter, whether solid, liquid or gaseous.» — la consecuencia con que cierra: habría que hallar ese uno hipotético, la simiente filosófica o Mercurio de los Filósofos, donde estaría el secreto de toda la materia
«It cannot be common heat, because the latter represents activated force to manifest the first three.» — el descarte que hace del calor común como ese uno
«What gives each gland a different consciousness, so that each» — la primera de dos preguntas sobre la consciencia de las glándulas; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«produces a different hormone? Why does a cell of a different consciousness create a tumor if mislocated in the body?» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: por qué cada glándula produce hormona distinta y por qué una célula mal ubicada crea un tumor
«After being permitted to practice what he learned during his college days, if the physician does not endeavor to gain more knowledge as physician, rather than as an expert in surgical removal of certain» — lo que reprocha al médico que no busca más saber; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«organs or areas of the body, he may be considered failing in his calling to serve mankind.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: quien se limite a extirpar órganos estaría fallando a su vocación de servir
«solid, has inherent heat (fire), can be melted into a liquid that gives off gases (air), to cool again, without activated heat, into a solid (or if burned long enough, into ferric oxide, etc.). The same may be accomplished with gases.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el hierro sería sólido con calor inherente, fundible en líquido que da gases y solidificable de nuevo
«Since these constitute facts, and truth cannot be changed (knowledge can be changed), no author can take credit for it because the idea is incorporated in matter (substance) and of cosmic entity. There is no “origin” to it, only an entity.» — el deslinde que hace entre verdad y conocimiento, y la consecuencia: ningún autor podría reclamar crédito por lo incorporado en la materia
«This entity is in itself, as mind is conscious entity. This conscious entity is the IDEA of Aristotle, inherent in the fifth essence or quintessence of the alchemists' four elements (they included fire as an element), to represent it in its oneness or first substance, the prima materia.» — la identificación que propone: esa entidad consciente sería la IDEA de Aristóteles, inherente a la quintaesencia de los cuatro elementos, y representaría la primera sustancia
«Now all alchemists claim that this quintessentia must be obtained before anything can be accomplished in Alchemy. Can it be obtained? The answer is yes.» — la exigencia común que atribuye a los alquimistas y su propia respuesta a si puede obtenerse
«For that which exists as “idea” also exists in matter, incorporated as heat. Therefore, sensible heat exists, just as the “idea” of the quintessentia must be incorporated in the latter. One without the other cannot exist.» — el argumento con que la sostiene: lo que existe como idea existe también incorporado como calor, y uno sin otro no existiría
«Their allegorical phraseology is employed merely as a method of concealment. “Red lion,” “green dragon,” “dragon's blood”—these are not terms to be taken literally, any more than the Philosopher's Mercury, Sulphur and Salt are the common substances we know by those names.» — la lectura que propone de la fraseología alegórica: método de ocultamiento, y el León Rojo, el Dragón Verde y la Sangre de Dragón no se tomarían al pie de la letra
«Experimentation based on such literal readings of the alchemists' works is bound to end in failure.» — el pronóstico que da a la lectura literal de esos textos
«It will be evident from the foregoing that through conscientious study, a new path must be hewn for science to become worthy of man's destiny of becoming one with the absolute.» — lo que declara necesario según todo lo anterior: abrir a la ciencia un camino nuevo digno del destino humano
«Realizing that it is the inherent “idea” that is real, not the sensible manifestation, will help to make the preparatory work easier.» — lo que facilitaría el trabajo preparatorio: reconocer que lo real es la idea inherente y no la manifestación sensible
«But first of all, individuals must learn to examine more carefully the concepts presented to them, and not merely accept them blindly without inquiring into their rationality.» — lo que pide antes que nada: examinar los conceptos en vez de aceptarlos a ciegas
«A new dispensation is dawning for humanity when the portals of Alchemy will be opened wider to admit the honest searcher for cosmic truth.» — lo que anuncia: una dispensación nueva con los portales del arte más abiertos al buscador honesto
«But let it not be forgotten that even such small gates as Paracelsus and others are presently large enough to admit, one by one into the outer court of creation, those students diligent enough to search out the keys to their work.» — la salvedad que añade: las puertas pequeñas de Paracelso y otros ya bastan para admitir uno por uno al atrio de la creación
«Each writer explains the life of this great sage according to his own individual interpretation. Who, then, is to be believed?» — la pregunta que saca de esa divergencia entre biógrafos
«If one is fortunate enough to acquire an actual unabridged copy of an alchemical author's original work, such copy, in whatever form, may safely be considered authentic.» — el criterio de fuente que da: una copia íntegra del original de un autor alquímico podría tenerse por auténtica
«It is always best to obtain information from the original source rather than through various interpretative channels.» — la regla de lectura que enuncia: ir a la fuente antes que a los canales interpretativos
«Then, after thoughtful, intensive study of the original, the student can form his own conclusions.» — lo que pide después de esa lectura: que el estudiante saque sus propias conclusiones
«If the conclusions arrived at are correct, they will be found to correspond with other findings, also acquired independently, and upon these one may make further formulations» — el criterio de verificación que propone: las conclusiones correctas concordarían con hallazgos logrados de modo independiente
«Just as there is no end to atomic rearrangements, so there is no end to formulating conclusions based on correct premises.» — el paralelo con que lo cierra: como no hay fin al reordenamiento atómico, no lo habría al formular conclusiones desde premisas correctas
«Settlement of one conclusion is the beginning of a higher and more advanced hypothesis.» — lo que dice de cada conclusión asentada: sería el comienzo de una hipótesis más alta
«In formulating laws, it is necessary to have a norm to go by. Time, or its mathematical equivalent in numerical symbols, thanks to Pythagoras, constitutes the norm in the formulation of all man-made laws.» — la norma que reconoce en las leyes humanas: el tiempo o su equivalente numérico, con el crédito a Pitágoras
«However, cosmic laws are not themselves limited by our time and number concepts; their vibratory activity constitutes an entity superseding the Pythagorean laws of numbers.» — el límite que pone a esa norma: las leyes cósmicas no estarían limitadas por tiempo ni número
«Although certain vibrations can be recorded and measured by man, making them comprehensible to him, these vibratory rates are only physical actualities, not absolute realities.» — el deslinde que hace entre actualidad física y realidad absoluta
«For instance, if red, as science claims, vibrates at a rate of between 47,000,000,000 and 52,000,000,000 per second (or a wavelength of approximately 7,000 angstrom units), producing specific chromatic conditions in the retina, this constitutes a man-made concept of the physical actuality being described.» — el ejemplo con que lo ilustra: la frecuencia y la longitud de onda del rojo serían un concepto humano de la actualidad física
«The postulation of seven prismatic colors, three primary and three secondary, leaves one (indigo) to be classified by itself.» — el problema que plantea con los siete colores del prisma: el índigo queda solo, fuera de primarios y secundarios
«This classification is purely physical, as light waves can be measured and even their physical origin can be determined by spectro-analysis. Yet all seven analyzed colors are the product of a single ray of so-called white light penetrating the prism.» — lo que concede a esa clasificación y lo que subraya: los siete colores salen de un solo rayo de luz blanca
«Now alchemists have an answer for a similar problem concerning metals by explaining that there are also seven primary metals: namely, gold, silver, copper, tin, iron, lead and mercury.» — el paralelo que traza con los metales: los alquimistas contarían siete primarios, con el mercurio entre ellos
«Paracelsus discovered zinc, a solid metal comparable to the unstable mercury.» — el hallazgo que adjudica a Paracelso: el cinc, metal sólido comparable al mercurio inestable
«Mercury, although a metal, is not of the same malleable nature as the first six metals.» — el deslinde que hace del mercurio respecto de los otros seis
«Indigo has a bluish mixed tint, just as mercury has a silvery appearance, yet neither one is what its apparent color indicates. Indigo is not blue, nor is mercury (quicksilver) silver.» — la segunda simetría: ninguno de los dos es lo que su color aparenta
«If all colors can be produced from white light, then it is possible to reduce them again into white light.» — la reversibilidad que postula para los colores
«What indigo's place may be in this schematic arrangement has not yet been satisfactorily answered, but it is my hypothesis that it is the agent to dispel and to reorganize the different vibrations of color, similar to the role played by quicksilver among the metals.» — la hipótesis propia que declara sobre el índigo: sería el agente que disipa y reorganiza las vibraciones del color, como el azogue entre los metales
«Metals are of similar origin. All seven primary metals are of one nature, just as the seven prismatic colors are drawn from a single beam of white light.» — la tesis de origen común de los siete metales, sostenida por el paralelo del prisma
«If the origin of the prime metals has not been solved, it is due to the reluctance of science to accept the findings of the alchemists.» — a qué atribuye que no se haya resuelto ese origen: la reticencia de la ciencia a aceptar lo hallado por los alquimistas
«Newton tried without success to win acceptance of his theory of light. Paracelsus and others also tried in vain to interest science in their findings, only to be confronted by the unseeing eye and deaf ear of prejudice.» — los casos que trae para esa reticencia: Newton con su teoría de la luz, Paracelso y otros con sus hallazgos
«In my careful study of the writings of the ancients, I have dared to venture beyond the familiar paths of scientific orthodoxy and conventional scholarship—yes, even traveling at times in opposite directions to see if something has not been overlooked or discarded that deserves to be recovered and more carefully examined.» — el método propio que declara: salirse de la ortodoxia científica y andar a veces en dirección contraria por si algo quedó descartado
«In the course of these studies, I have come to the realization that the Philosopher's Mercury is the source of all seven primary metals, as, in like manner, white light is the source of the seven prismatic colors.» — la conclusión propia que declara: el Mercurio de los Filósofos sería la fuente de los siete metales primarios como la luz blanca lo es de los colores
«In making this statement, I am fully aware that many will scoff, and ask, “Very well, where is your Philosopher's Mercury? Show it to us and prove your theory, and we will believe you.” But for the reasons cited previously, this question, for the time being, must remain unanswered.» — la objeción que anticipa a esa conclusión —mostrarlo y probarlo— y su respuesta: quedaría sin contestar por ahora
«All phenomena are threefold; there is no physical oneness. All physical manifestations, even those apparently single and individual in nature, have a threefold origin; otherwise, manifestation could not occur. This basic trinity is represented by the Philosophical Sulphur, Salt and Mercury, always constituting apparent oneness.» — la doctrina de la trinidad física que enuncia: nada sería uno en lo físico, y la trinidad básica serían Azufre, Sal y Mercurio filosóficos
«Duality, negative and positive, is merely an individual concept to describe physical manifestation.» — el rango que da a la dualidad: concepto individual para describir la manifestación física
«Since physical actualities are not absolute realities, but change due to constant atomic rearrangement, the conclusions formed constitute only a hypothesis based on physical experience and do not represent an absolute reality.» — lo que se sigue de eso para las conclusiones: serían hipótesis basadas en experiencia física
«A thing that IS may be interpreted as perfectly good by one person and horribly evil by another, both interpretations being applied to the same entity that IS. In reality, it cannot be both, but only one.» — el ejemplo con que niega la dualidad: lo mismo puede leerse como bueno o malo y no sería las dos cosas
«This absolute one, or as Kant has called it, the “thing-in-itself” (“Das Ding an Sich”), constitutes consciousness of itself inherent in every cell or wherever consciousness makes itself manifest.» — el nombre ajeno con que identifica ese uno absoluto: la cosa en sí de Kant, con la fórmula alemana que el volumen imprime
«Every duality has its origin in one cosmic consciousness. Here again it is the alchemist who diligently advocates this vital principle of the oneness of all» — quién sostendría con empeño ese principio de unidad, según él: el alquimista. El renglón se corta al fin de plana
«What is it that differentiates and distinguishes individual concepts? From what source do we derive our power to form concepts (if we continue in the Socraric manner to search for answers)? It is based on consciousness.» — la pregunta por el origen de los conceptos y la respuesta que da. El troceo imprime *Socraric* por *Socratic*
«To conceive without being conscious is impossible. We may, however, subconsciously receive and register impressions, because we are conscious of our own individuality.» — el límite que pone a esa respuesta y la salvedad de lo subconsciente
«All that has individuality is conscious, and all that is conscious is individual, though emanating from one source.» — la equivalencia que enuncia entre individualidad y consciencia, con origen único
«This one source is the absolute cosmic consciousness, the only absolute reality, of which individual consciousness is a segment. This sole reality IS in itself.» — el nombre que da a esa fuente: la consciencia cósmica absoluta, única realidad, de la que la individual sería segmento
«Because of it, the individual consciousness is prima intelligentia, and so it finds itself subject to a recurring law of cycles; this is not, however, the mere repetition of a common circle closing over itself again and again, but a progressive upward spiral of attainment that ultimately brings the individual into full cosmic consciousness.» — la ley de ciclos que enuncia para la *prima intelligentia*: no círculo que se cierra sino espiral ascendente hacia la consciencia cósmica plena
«The step that follows is beyond our present comprehension, as the highest conceivable physical entity has not been reached as yet. When it is, another hypothetical line may be drawn, and a new set of theories formulated.» — el límite que pone a esa espiral: el paso siguiente excedería la comprensión actual
«To think is to be conscious, and our terrestrial thinking occurs in time. When Aristotle explains that the distinguishing feature of man is his reason, it only means evolution from animal instinct to a higher degree of consciousness.» — la lectura que hace de la razón aristotélica como rasgo distintivo del hombre: evolución del instinto animal a un grado más alto de consciencia
«An animal, though not “self-conscious” as we experience it, is just as aware of its own being as it is of a tree or herb.» — lo que concede al animal: sin consciencia de sí como la humana, tendría conciencia de su propio ser
«Conscious animal instinct differs from man's conscious thinking and the reasoning power it evolved, just as reasoning ability itself is undeveloped in comparison to cosmic consciousness.» — la escala que traza: el instinto difiere del pensamiento razonante como este del cósmico
«Cosmic consciousness does not have to reason, for it is the source of all that IS. It is the highest conceivable norm by which man can reason.» — lo que dice de la consciencia cósmica: no necesitaría razonar por ser fuente de todo lo que ES
«Attaining the summit of alchemical knowledge, wherein cosmic consciousness is experienced as subject and the quintessentia as object, has climaxed the noble quest of sages since time immemorial.» — la cima que fija para el conocimiento alquímico: la consciencia cósmica como sujeto y la *quintessentia* como objeto
«It represents man's zenith, his mastership over matter and the eventual merging into one with the Absolute, the realization of cosmic consciousness.» — lo que declara de esa cima: cenit del hombre, maestría sobre la materia y fusión con el Absoluto
«The common Norwegian rat, if permitted to multiply without restriction, would cover the earth in a relatively short time, making it theoretically impossible for humans to exist. The majority of men do not know how this law functions. Nevertheless, it functions irrespective of their ignorance as to why this law prevents the spread of rodents in such proportions, even though it is theoretically possible. It is under the operation of the same law that Alchemy is reserved for only a few. Eventually, the individual will master those laws which are now secret. But first man must attain to greater spiritual heights in order to comprehend, understand, and at last master himself.» — la nota al pie con la analogía de la rata noruega: una ley que nadie sabe explicar impediría su multiplicación sin límite, y por esa misma ley la alquimia estaría reservada a pocos hasta que el hombre se domine a sí mismo
«For example, a common piece of metal, say iron, may be pounded, and it will become so hot» — el ejemplo del hierro con que ilustra los tres estados y el calor; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«that a fire can be kindled with it. This substance (iron) represents a solid, has inherent heat (fire), can be melted into a liquid that gives off gases (air), to cool again, without activated heat, into a solid (or if burned long enough, into ferric oxide, etc.). The same may be accomplished with gases.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: el hierro sería sólido con calor inherente, fundible en líquido que da gases y solidificable otra vez
«Unfortunately, compilers and expounders have added so much of their own opinions and ideas to the writings of philosophers and alchemists that one can take, for instance, three versions by three» — el reproche que dirige a compiladores y expositores; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«different authors of the fife of Paracelsus, only to put them down more confused than when he began.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: tres versiones de la vida de Paracelso dejarían al lector más confuso. El troceo imprime *the fife of Paracelsus*
«or three secondary colors, but represents a seventh factor, separate from the others.» — la continuación de esa simetría: el índigo sería un séptimo factor aparte
«Therefore, that which IS, exists because of its own consciousness. That which IS embraces all that» — la fórmula con que nombra lo real; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«consciously or subconsciously. To think of that which IS as dual is only an individual concept based on physical manifestation.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: tener por dual lo que ES sería concepto individual basado en la manifestación física
«Extensive conscious reasoning must eventually arrive at a hypothetical dividing line of its own entity» — el desenlace que asigna al razonamiento extenso; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«this has been accomplished. The hypothetical line has thereupon been drawn, and the new entity of cosmic consciousness based upon it.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: trazada esa línea, se funda sobre ella la nueva entidad de consciencia cósmica
«In a like manner, indigo, in the prismatic color» — la simetría que empieza a trazar entre el índigo y el mercurio; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«To encourage neophytes in their noble alchemical quest for the attempted procurement of the Philosopher's Stone, it may not be amiss to mention a few of the varied experiences of the writer in his many years of mental, spiritual and practical research.» — el fin que declara para el Apéndice: alentar a los neófitos contando algunas experiencias propias
«Not everyone will have the good fortune to have access to the numerous books published on Alchemy, as many of them have become exceedingly rare and difficult to obtain. Most of these works are now out of print, and those who own and treasure them are not likely to part with them.» — el obstáculo bibliográfico que señala: muchos libros de alquimia serían rarísimos y quien los tiene no se desprende
«However, we cannot overestimate the true value of certain of these works, such as The Hermetical and Alchemical Writings of Paracelsus in two volumes, edited by A. E. Waite; Basil Valentine's Triumphant Chariot of Antimony; Collectanea Chemica; Turba Philosophorum; The New Pearl of Great Price by Bonus of Ferrara, and other works that will prove of great value to the student.» — la lista de obras que declara de valor difícil de exagerar: los escritos herméticos y alquímicos de Paracelso en dos tomos editados por A. E. Waite, el *Triumphant Chariot of Antimony* de Basil Valentine, la *Collectanea Chemica*, la *Turba Philosophorum* y *The New Pearl of Great Price* de Bonus de Ferrara
«Another monumental publication is the famous Secret Symbols of the Rosicrucians of the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries (Geheime Figuren der Rosenkreuzer, aus dem 16ten und 17ten Jahrhundert, Altona, Germany, 1785-88, 2 vols.» — la obra que llama monumental, con su título alemán y su pie de Altona 1785-88 en dos tomos
«Dr. Franz Hartmann brought one copy of this extremely rare work to America and had it partly translated into English. (Dr. Hartmann's published version omits about a third of the original plates and part of the German text» — lo que consigna de la edición de Hartmann: trajo un ejemplar a América y lo hizo traducir en parte, omitiendo un tercio de las láminas y parte del texto alemán
«It was the writer's good fortune to obtain a copy of the complete work. It made necessary a trip to Europe, where his amanuensis, at the same time, obtained another copy also.» — lo que declara de su propio ejemplar completo: obtenerlo exigió un viaje a Europa, donde su amanuense consiguió otro
«It is remarkable how the Divine Will operates to open ways and provide means for the sincere searcher to obtain some of the arcane wisdom as well as the equipment requisite to his work.» — la lectura providencial que hace de ese episodio: la Voluntad Divina abriría caminos y daría medios al buscador sincero
«Of the lamentably few contemporary works on Alchemy, we would cite Alchemy Rediscovered and Restored by Archibald Cockren. In spite of the obvious omission of certain phrases, this work will prove valuable in providing answers to the problems involved.» — la única obra contemporánea que recomienda: *Alchemy Rediscovered and Restored* de Archibald Cockren, con la reserva de que omite ciertas frases
«Although we cannot mention in detail the numerous successes it has been our good fortune to achieve in the laboratory, many landmarks stand out in our memory: when, after a long and wearisome process, the essence of gold was first extracted» — el primer hito de laboratorio que declara: la extracción de la esencia del oro tras un proceso largo y fatigoso
«When we recall these experiences, it does not matter any more what sceptics say, or that scoffers deride the claims of Valentine that this balm of antimony would cure leprosy and ulcers that have been alive with worms or cancer.» — lo que declara ante los escépticos tras esas experiencias, con la afirmación de Valentine de que el bálsamo de antimonio curaría lepra, úlceras y cáncer
«Theodore Kerckringius, Valentine's commentator and himself a physician, demonstrated the truth of Valentine's assertions when other surgeons requested the amputation of a patient's breast that was twice the size of the other and filled with cancerous matter.» — el caso clínico que atribuye a Theodore Kerckringius, comentarista de Valentine y él mismo médico. El nombre se imprime aquí *Kerckringius* y en la plana 86 *Kerkringius*: las dos grafías van tal cual
«How well we recall the scene when, more than twenty-five years ago, we first obtained the essence (or oil, as we prefer to call it) of copper. It was such a small quantity. But how grateful we felt» — el tercer hito que declara: el aceite de cobre obtenido hace más de veinticinco años, en cantidad pequeñísima
«The test tube containing it is still in our possession and stands as an encouraging testimony when failure in experimentations with different substances occasionally occurs.» — lo que hace con ese tubo de ensayo: guardarlo como testimonio de aliento cuando algún experimento falla
«Likewise, the oil of lead was extracted. What a glorious moment it was, when unwavering faith was finally substantiated.» — el cuarto hito: el aceite de plomo, y lo que dice de ese momento
«Now when I open the incubator door, look through the inner glass door, and see the Erlenmeyer flasks standing there with the essence of gold exhibiting a rich golden color where before only a nonacetous menstruum, clear and pure as water, showed no color at all; or where the herbal extracts in their high potency, mingle with their own purified salts, nestling among other flasks in the gentle warmth, beside containers of equal or greater importance—what do I care then for those who ridicule Alchemy?» — la escena de laboratorio con que responde a la burla: los matraces con la esencia de oro ya coloreada y los extractos vegetales mezclados con sus sales purificadas
«The time will come, and it is not far off, as the masters of our art have stated, when more and more of our secret art will be made known to worthy searchers.» — lo que anuncia sobre la difusión del arte, apoyándose en los maestros
«More and more people are leaving the narrow confines of their religious creeds, not to denounce them—O, no!—but thankful that they have helped them to receive the greater light, always remembering gratefully the wonderful instructions they have received, which made it possible to venture into the great seeming void that begins now to take shape in recognizable dimensions.» — lo que observa de su época en materia religiosa, con el cuidado de no denunciar los credos que se dejan atrás
«Those searching souls, likewise, will have similar experiences. They, too, will find the truth hidden behind the simplest principles and laws of nature.» — lo que promete a las almas que buscan: hallarían la verdad tras los principios más simples de la naturaleza
«Whatever the cost in time, labor or money, rest assured it will prove itself worth your while; and if you should be unable to procure the Philosopher's Stone in this life, remember that you have laid the foundation for another, better one, in which you will be enabled to attain your goal, after serving your apprenticeship.» — la garantía que da: aunque no se logre la Piedra en esta vida, quedaría puesto el cimiento para otra mejor
«And yet, who knows but that the Divine Will, through its karmic wisdom, may grant you the ability to obtain this priceless gem.» — la salvedad con que matiza esa garantía: la Voluntad Divina podría conceder la joya por sabiduría kármica
«To have been found worthy to be initiated into such profound wisdom alone constitutes a great blessing.» — lo que declara bendición bastante: haber sido hallado digno de la iniciación en esa sabiduría
«With the Hermetic Masters, since time immemorial, through the Middle Ages and up to the present day, I can acclaim, NOT in a vain religious way, but devoutly and piously, from the bottom of a grateful heart: God be praised, for He is so good to us, children.» — la aclamación con que cierra el Apéndice, puesta en boca de los Maestros Herméticos de todos los tiempos y explícitamente no en sentido religioso vano
«when the vinegar of antimony was likewise produced from the Spiessglas glass of antimony), according to the formula of Val» — el segundo hito de laboratorio: el vinagre de antimonio sacado del vidrio de antimonio. El troceo imprime *Spiessglas glass of antimony)* con paréntesis sin abrir, y el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«tincture produced. When we recall these experiences, it does not matter any more what sceptics say, or that scoffers deride the claims of Valentine that this balm of antimony would cure leprosy and ulcers that have been alive with worms or cancer.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: producida una tintura roja, ya no importarían los escépticos que se burlan de la afirmación de Valentine sobre el bálsamo de antimonio contra la lepra, las úlceras y el cáncer
«My work is not to revolutionize the scientific world. As a humble» — el lugar que se asigna a sí mismo; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«servant for a greater one yet to come, who, as in former times, had a great work to perform and will do so again— in his service do I find happiness and contentment.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: se dice servidor humilde de uno mayor por venir, y en ese servicio pondría su contento
«Because the term Alchemy is associated by most people solely with the Philosopher's Stone and the making of gold, it is essential that this false notion be corrected.» — el error que el Manifiesto Alquímico sale a negar de entrada: que la alquimia sea solo la Piedra y la fabricación de oro
«Alchemy, as such, covers an enormous area and is concerned primarily with the raising of vibrations.» — la definición que repite en el Manifiesto: campo enorme, ocupado ante todo en la elevación de las vibraciones
«Since only a few, among the billions of people inhabiting this globe, are actively engaged in the alchemical work, it is vitally important that we concern ourselves with a correct approach to this subject.» — el hecho que declara y lo que concluye de él: siendo poquísimos los activos en la obra, importaría acertar el planteamiento
«The immense scope of alchemystical investigations makes it difficult to understand why so few are actively engaged in this work, for its manifestations are of such tremendous importance they transcend the common belief of the casual observer.» — la extrañeza que expresa: con un alcance así, no se entendería que tan pocos trabajen en ello
«In former ages, Alchemists concealed themselves in damp cellars and sweltering garrets. Their hideaways were hard to detect.» — cómo describe el ocultamiento antiguo: sótanos húmedos y buhardillas sofocantes, difíciles de detectar
«Likewise, their mode of communication with brother and sister adepts was confined to a symbolic and hidden nature. All this and many other difficulties and restrictions were imposed by the circumstances prevailing in previous historical periods.» — lo que dice de la comunicación entre adeptos, nombrando a hermanos y hermanas: simbólica y oculta por las circunstancias de la época
«Even in this new cycle of alchemystical awakening, there still exists a certain necessity to commence our work cautiously.» — lo que declara del ciclo presente: haría falta empezar con cautela aun ahora
«In spite of freedoms not enjoyed in former times, we must exercise a due degree of care as we proceed to make contact with those of like mind and similar aspirations—aspirations that may have lain dormant for many years, and interests that, in fact, antedate their present incarnation.» — el cuidado que pide al contactar con afines, con intereses que él sitúa antes de la encarnación presente
«Why do the Alchemists of the Paracelsus Research Society give no street address, only a post office box number?» — la primera de las cuatro preguntas que el Manifiesto se propone contestar: por qué solo un apartado postal
«Why are the names of those representing or governing the society not given out to the public?» — la segunda pregunta: por qué no se dan los nombres de quienes representan o gobiernan la sociedad
«The present quarters of the Paracelsus Research Society are moderate, and, just as in former times, not designed for the purpose of making itself known to the general public. The reasons for this are as valid today as they were in ages gone by.» — la respuesta a la primera: la sede es modesta y no está pensada para darse a conocer, por razones tan válidas hoy como antes
«As we stated clearly in the first Bulletin issued in this dispensation, no publicity is desired. To seek it would do no good, and in the long run, would only result in the misrepresentation of the Society.» — lo que declara sobre la publicidad: no se desea, no haría bien y a la larga solo daría lugar a tergiversaciones
«As stated also in the same Bulletin, no names of present-day contributors will be published or made known. This announcement was based on the age-old tradition that all those actively engaged in the Hermetic work do not do so in search of fame.» — la respuesta a la segunda pregunta, apoyada en la tradición: quienes trabajan en lo hermético no buscarían fama
«Since no Alchemist covets praise and glory, it should not be hard to understand that there is no need for personal acknowledgment. Furthermore, it could lead, with some, to a personality cult, and this is entirely irrelevant. The work itself is the important thing, never personalities.» — el riesgo que añade a esa respuesta: el reconocimiento personal podría derivar en culto a la personalidad
«There is no necessity for individuals to become affiliated members who pay dues or become confined within the sort of restrictions one necessarily finds in any organized group or society. Alchemical aspirants should be free—free in their thinking and free in their actions.» — la respuesta a la tercera pregunta: los aspirantes deberían ser libres en pensamiento y acción, sin cuotas ni restricciones de grupo
«There is a right time and place for the obligations of group activity and group discipline, and many who are emerging into awareness of the alchemystical work are already members of fraternal organizations designed for that specific type of activity.» — lo que concede a la vida de grupo: tendría su tiempo y su lugar, y muchos aspirantes ya pertenecen a organizaciones fraternales
«These persons will find themselves becoming better and more devout members of their respective fraternal affiliations, deriving from them a greater understanding of the beauty and value of rightly performed rituals.» — lo que promete a esos afiliados: serían mejores miembros de sus fraternidades y entenderían mejor el valor del ritual bien ejecutado
«Some have suggested that Alchemists should group themselves into colonies and devote their time and efforts exclusively to the pursuit of alchemical work, unmolested by outsiders.» — la propuesta ajena que sale a rechazar: colonias de alquimistas dedicadas al arte sin injerencias
«However sincere such a suggestion may be, it is entirely inconsistent with the work to be performed by the Paracelsus Research Society. Those urging restricted alchemical “communes” are not far enough advanced to realize that nothing would be gained by such a procedure.» — el rechazo que le opone, sin negar la sinceridad de quien la hace
«Our work is here, among mankind. Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life is the place for us to overcome the shortcomings still adhering to us as humans.» — dónde sitúa el trabajo en cambio: entre los hombres, en el ajetreo diario, que sería el sitio de vencer las propias carencias
«But this is not the case with the average student of Alchemy, and only rarely with the advanced ones.» — el límite que le pone: no sería el caso del estudiante medio ni casi del avanzado
«True, advanced students of the Hermetic work will be given an opportunity to conceal themselves for a period of seven weeks at the utmost, in a retreat in a high mountainous place here in the western part of the United States.» — lo que sí ofrece a los avanzados: un retiro de siete semanas como máximo en un lugar montañoso del oeste de Estados Unidos
«But that will be the case only in limited instances and only after thorough and proper preparation. After this period of study and meditation, even these advanced aspirants will return to the ways of everyday life to apply what they have learned in their daily lives.» — las condiciones de ese retiro y su desenlace: preparación previa y vuelta a la vida diaria para aplicar lo aprendido
«When such individuals are chosen, it will be solely upon their merits and absolutely free of any fee, cost or remittance of a pecuniary nature.» — el criterio de selección y la gratuidad expresa que declara para ese retiro
«Since there will never be more than twelve aspirants together at one time, one can well imagine how limited such opportunities are.» — el aforo que fija: nunca más de doce aspirantes a la vez
«No restriction, however, will be placed on the individual's social, racial, religious, fraternal, financial or educational standing. The spiritual development will be the decisive factor.» — lo que declara indiferente para la selección —lo social, racial, religioso, fraternal, financiero y educativo— y lo que sería decisivo
«Bulletins have been received by individuals who have never done any alchemical laboratory work. Some, perhaps, are only vaguely acquainted with the subject. The reason is that either a previous contact with the work had been established, or the individual concerned may contact another person, who is ready to commence the work.» — la respuesta a la cuarta pregunta: el Boletín llega a quien tuvo contacto previo con la obra o a quien podría contactar a otro que sí está listo
«Contacts are made at times in rather strange ways. Only later, after considerable time has elapsed, will the purpose of such contacts become fully understood.» — lo que dice del modo de esos contactos: a veces extraños, y su propósito solo se entendería mucho después
«Anyone suspecting this work of being a commercialized enterprise, utilized for the personal gain or profit of any individual connected with its administration, is, in the first place, not qualified merely by harboring such thoughts» — la respuesta que da a la sospecha de lucro: quien la abriga quedaría descalificado por eso mismo
«and, secondly, he has only to engage in some simple arithmetic to allay his suspicions. It will be apparent to anyone familiar with today's astronomically high printing, mailing and correspondence costs, that our modest subscription fee can scarcely be said to cover even these expenses.» — el segundo argumento contra esa sospecha: la cuota de suscripción apenas cubriría impresión, franqueo y correspondencia
«But we were not intended to be a commercially rewarding enterprise. The ways and means to accomplish the work set forth for the Paracelsus Research Society will be available as they are needed. The resources will be found, and more cannot be said.» — lo que declara del sostén material de la sociedad: los medios aparecerían según hicieran falta, y más no se diría
«But there is no rush about this. Some of our Bulletins, not fully subscribed, are being held back for others with whom contact will be made later.» — lo que hace con los Boletines no suscritos: guardarlos para contactos posteriores, sin prisa
«Our Alchemical Laboratory Bulletins, though numbered, are timeless. A hundred years from now, they will be as applicable as they are today.» — lo que declara de esos Boletines: numerados pero intemporales, aplicables dentro de cien años
«Anyone reading this Manifesto is hereby invited to give this matter serious consideration. Not everything that greets our senses is met with full understanding on first contact.» — la invitación con que se dirige al lector del Manifiesto
«Psychologists have likened our conscious mind to that visible portion of an iceberg that represents only a fraction of its actual dimensions.» — el símil del iceberg que toma de los psicólogos para la mente consciente
«For some of us, making contact with the Paracelsus Research Society is like viewing that iceberg. Meditation will open up what has been, and for some still is, concealed from our understanding.» — cómo aplica ese símil al contacto con la sociedad, y qué abriría lo oculto: la meditación
«This is the key that will open the portal to the new world of the Alchemists, a world that you are already aware of and acquainted with, through karma, through previous incarnations, or whatever terms may be applied.» — lo que declara de ese mundo nuevo: el lector ya lo conocería por karma, por encarnaciones previas o como quiera llamarse
«May the Cosmic Light guide and direct you in your sincere endeavors, and may you be one of those to glorify the works of the Divine by becoming an administrator of the heavenly bounties among mankind.» — la bendición con que empieza a cerrar el Manifiesto
«Surely it is better to be one of those actively engaged in the Hermetic work, leaving for posterity a record of accomplishment, than to remain an outsider who only reads about others and what they have been able to perform.» — el argumento final que dirige al lector: mejor trabajar en lo hermético y dejar constancia que quedarse leyendo lo que otros hicieron
«May a deep and abiding PEACE permeate your whole being, and may you be engulfed in the radiations from the endless Love of the God of your Heart.» — la fórmula de paz con que cierra, con la palabra en versalitas tal como la imprime el troceo
«Why are the Bulletins received by individuals who, in terms of» — la cuarta pregunta; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«laboratory work, have hardly done anything of an alchemical nature? We may answer the above question as follows» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: quienes casi no han hecho trabajo de laboratorio reciben los Boletines, y el Manifiesto anuncia que va a contestar
«society will come only after a prolonged—and successful—period of preliminary work. Only then will he receive higher instructions in order to perform a specific work.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: solo tras un período largo y logrado de trabajo previo, y con instrucciones superiores para una obra determinada
«Since this work is of an unselfish nature, it will be evident that our Bulletins, limited to a printing of 500 copies, have sometimes been sent out to» — la consecuencia práctica que consigna: los Boletines, con tirada de quinientos ejemplares, se han mandado a suscriptores que no respondieron; el renglón se corta al fin de plana
«subscribers who have not responded; that in some cases, no significant contact is made.» — la continuación en la plana siguiente: en algunos casos no llegaría a haber contacto significativo
«Given at the sixth day in May, A.D. 1960.» — la data del Manifiesto, que coincide con la del prefacio a la primera edición
«Why are there no memberships? Why are the Bulletins received by individuals» — la tercera y la cuarta de las preguntas que el Manifiesto se propone contestar: por qué no hay membresías y por qué reciben los Boletines quienes casi no han trabajado
«burdock cherry tree earth chestnuts chickpease columbine coltsfoot cudweed cowslip crab's claw crosswort daisy devil s bit eringo featherfew dropwort figwort foxglove golden rod gromel gooseberry groundsel herb-robert true-love kidney wort ladies' mantle marshmallow french mercury dog mercury mint moneywort motherwort mugwort nep or catmint orchis parsley piert parsnip pennyroyal pear tree» — la continuación de la lista de hierbas de Venus, que ocupa la plana entera, de la bardana al peral; sigue en la plana siguiente hasta la milenrama
«periwinkle plantain plum tree poppy purslane primrose privet queen of the meadows ragwort rye woodsage sanicle self-heal soapwort sorrel sow-thistle spignel strawberry tansey teasel vervain wheat yarrow» — el cierre de la lista de hierbas de Venus, de la vincapervinca a la milenrama
«The “I” loses its meaning; it becomes submerged in the Cosmic All. “I” becomes many, as part of many that has its ultimate in one. Individuality, though still existing, becomes» — lo que le pasa al *yo* en ese estado: se sumerge en el Todo Cósmico como parte de los muchos cuyo término está en uno. La frase sigue con el compuesto *All-individuality*, partido por el guion de fin de renglón, y la cita se corta antes
«Hence we begin to realize that the “I” is only a segment of the Divine, an entity in itself but not the true self» — lo que concluye de eso: el *yo* sería solo un segmento de lo Divino, entidad en sí pero no el verdadero sí mismo
«Let us choose an herb that is easily available—for example, Melissa» — la hierba que elige para el primer experimento; el nombre latino sigue con *Lemon-balm* partido por el guion de fin de renglón, y la cita se corta antes
«Since it is an important herb and any supply house can furnish it, we shall use it as an example in our first experiment.» — la razón que da para elegirla: es importante y la surte cualquier proveedor
«true and simple way. Nature, then, is one, true, simple, self» — el arranque de la definición de Naturaleza que enuncia; el compuesto *self-contained* va partido por el guion de fin de renglón y la cita se corta ahí
«created by God and informed with a certain universal spirit. Its end and origin are God. Its unity is also found in God, because God made all things.» — la continuación de esa definición: creada por Dios, informada por un espíritu universal, con su fin y su origen en Dios
«The seed, if anything, is more useful to the artist than Nature herself; for Nature without seed is what a goldsmith is without silver and gold, or a husbandman without» — el símil con que sostiene la primacía de la simiente: sin ella la Naturaleza sería orfebre sin oro ni plata, o labrador sin *seed-corn*, compuesto partido por el guion de fin de renglón
«The writings of Franz Hartmann also deserve mention for those students who can fathom the» — la mención aparte que hace de los escritos de Franz Hartmann; la condición que les pone remata con *thought-world*, compuesto partido por el guion de fin de renglón
About the work
35 entries — what the apparatus and scholarship say about it«BY THE SAME AUTHOR Drei Novellen, 1932 The Alchemist's Handbook, 1960 Second Edition, 1972 Third Edition, 1981 First Paper Edition, 1987 Spanish Edition, 1980 Italian Edition, 1980 French Edition, 1980 From One to Ten, 1966 German Edition, 1973 Praxis Spagyrica Philosophica, 1966 The Seven Rays of the QBL, 1968 Revised and Expanded Edition, 1985 Praktiche Alchemie im Zwanzigstem Jahrhundert, 1970 Men and the Cycles of the Universe, 1970 Spanish Edition, 1975 The Alchemist of the Rocky Mountains, 1976 German Edition, 1980 Gently I Answered and Said, 1978 German Edition, 1979» — la lista de obras del mismo autor con que abre el volumen, sin nombre civil de quien las firma; fecha el manual en 1960 y sus reediciones en 1972, 1981 y 1987, y registra al lado la novelística de 1932, la *Praxis Spagyrica Philosophica* de 1966, *The Seven Rays of the QBL* de 1968 y las versiones española, italiana, francesa y alemana. Es aparato editorial, no voz de la obra
«Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 74-21127 ISBN 0-87728-655-8 Printed in the United States of America» — los datos de catalogación que imprime la misma plana: número de la Library of Congress e ISBN de esta edición
«This revised and expanded edition First published in 1974 by Red Wheel/Weiser, LLC York Beach, ME With editorial offices at: 368 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 www.redwheelweiser.com 06 05 04 13 12 11 10 9 Copyright © 1974 The estate of Frater Albertus All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from Red Wheel/Weiser, LLC. Reviewers may quote brief passages. First published in 1960 by the Paracelsus Research Society.» — la página de derechos: la edición revisada y ampliada se declara publicada por primera vez en 1974 por Red Wheel/Weiser en York Beach, con el copyright a nombre del patrimonio de Frater Albertus y la primera edición de 1960 a cargo de la Paracelsus Research Society. La lista de la plana 2 fecha en cambio la segunda edición en 1972; las dos planas discrepan y no se armonizan
«CONTENTS Foreword Preface to the First Edition Preface to the Second Revised Edition Chapter I Introduction to Alchemy Chapter II The Lesser Circulation Chapter III The Herbal Elixir Chapter IV Medicinal Uses Chapter V Herbs and Stars Chapter VI Symbols in Alchemy Chapter VII Wisdom of the Sages Conclusion Appendix Alchemical Manifesto» — el índice del volumen, que reparte el manual en prólogo, dos prefacios, siete capítulos, conclusión, apéndice y manifiesto
«ILLUSTRATIONS On the Way to the Temple Soxhlet Extractor Basement Laboratory Essential Equipment Qabalistic Tree of Life Alchemical Signs» — la lista de ilustraciones que sigue al índice: seis láminas, de la alegoría de apertura al árbol cabalístico y la tabla de signos
«This is the age of “how to do it” books. There is one on almost any subject you can think of. Since they fill a variety of needs, they have proven a boon. From them you can learn to paint, sew, plant a herb garden, build a brick barbecue in the backyard, become an interior decorator, and re-wire your own home. Almost every imaginable topic has been covered by these books. So if you assumed that this Manual falls in this category, you would be right—save for the simple fact that it is a great deal more.» — así abre Israel Regardie el prólogo: sitúa el manual en la moda de los libros de instrucciones y añade en el mismo movimiento que lo excede. La firma va al pie de la plana 9
«Alchemy has exerted a strange fascination over mankind for centuries. The underlying philosophical theorem was that if the Divine Will had originally acted upon the prima materia to produce the precious metals and all else, why should not the alchemist— purified in mind and body, and an expert in the then known laboratory techniques—seek to emulate the same natural process in a shorter span of time?» — el teorema que Regardie pone bajo la fascinación del arte: si la Voluntad Divina obró sobre la prima materia para producir los metales preciosos, el alquimista purificado querría emular ese mismo proceso natural en menos tiempo
«Men have left homes and families, squandered fortunes, incurred sickness and disease, gambled away prestige, social and other positions in quest of the goals perceived in the alchemical dream—longevity, perfect health, and the ability to transmute base metals into gold.» — el precio que Regardie enumera —casas, familias, fortunas, salud, prestigio— y los tres fines del sueño alquímico: longevidad, salud perfecta y transmutación
«One must not be deluded by superficialities here. The alchemical adepts were patently dedicated and God-fearing men, holding the highest spiritual ideals conceivable.» — la advertencia con que Regardie enmienda la lectura fácil: los adeptos habrían sido hombres consagrados y temerosos de Dios, con los ideales espirituales más altos
«Only recently, a journalist wrote that the Paracelsus Research Society which sponsors this Manual, offered to teach alchemy in two weeks. How could one be so myopic? Or illiterate?» — el episodio que Regardie objeta: un periodista escribió que la Paracelsus Research Society, patrocinadora del manual, ofrecía enseñar alquimia en dos semanas
«In the early fourteenth century, Bonus of Ferrara spoke of Alchemy as “the key of all good things, the Art of Art, the Science of Sciences.”» — la definición que Regardie cita de Bonus de Ferrara, del siglo XIV: la alquimia como llave de todas las cosas buenas, arte de las artes y ciencia de las ciencias
«Not only was the alchemist to be concerned with the purification of metals and the elimination of sickness and disease from the human race, but he affirmed that Alchemy as Science and Art provided both a means to synthesize all the other sciences and a training of the intellectual and spiritual faculties.» — lo que Regardie hace decir a esa misma fuente: la alquimia no solo purificaría metales y quitaría enfermedades, sino que sintetizaría las demás ciencias y adiestraría las facultades intelectuales y espirituales
«No doubt, after the manner of the mysterious seventeenth century Rosicrucians, individual disciples were selected and trained by a master alchemist.» — el modo de transmisión que Regardie supone para el arte: discípulos escogidos y adiestrados uno a uno por un maestro, a la manera de los rosacruces del siglo XVII
«In the vast literature on the subject, there is nothing that I have ever found that even pretended to demonstrate fundamental principles.» — la falta que Regardie declara en toda la literatura del ramo: nada que siquiera pretendiera demostrar principios fundamentales
«Traditional alchemy, with its emphasis on piety, secrecy and allegory, is admittedly obscure.» — el diagnóstico que da de la alquimia tradicional: piedad, secreto y alegoría la vuelven, dice, reconocidamente oscura
«Over the years, I have met many men who could talk a good line about alchemy, but nothing practical ever emerged from them. Nor did anyone volunteer to demonstrate its basic truths in a laboratory or over the kitchen stove.» — la experiencia con que Regardie funda el reproche: mucha gente sabía hablar de alquimia y nadie se ofrecía a demostrar sus verdades básicas en un laboratorio o sobre la estufa
«Not one—until I read the first limited edition of this Manual which literally is worth its weight in gold.» — la excepción que declara, y la valoración con que la cierra: la primera edición limitada de este manual valdría literalmente su peso en oro
«Incidentally, a few years ago I wrote something in recommendation of this manual, yet expressing criticism of its literary style, its form of expression, the innumerable typographical errors. This was silly and arrogant.» — la retractación que Regardie imprime aquí: años antes recomendó el manual criticándole el estilo, la expresión y las erratas, y llama a eso una necedad arrogante
«For even if, theoretically, the book were written in the worst possible style, it would still be unique and a genuine masterpiece. Had it not been written and published, we wpuld be the losers by far.» — el argumento con que la sostiene: aun escrito en el peor estilo posible, el libro seguiría siendo único, y sin él la pérdida sería nuestra. El renglón imprime *wpuld* por *would*, tal cual el troceo
«It teaches with clarity, simplicity and accuracy the technical means whereby the lesser circulation may be accomplished.» — lo que Regardie declara que enseña el manual: los medios técnicos de la circulación menor, con claridad, sencillez y exactitud
«The Great Work is said to be essentially an extension of the same process, the same techniques, with the same universal philosophy.» — la relación que enuncia entre la obra menor y la mayor: la Gran Obra sería una extensión del mismo proceso y las mismas técnicas, con la misma filosofía universal. El giro *is said to be* deja la afirmación en boca ajena
«Many an alchemist of former years would have given his eyeteeth—or surely a small fortune—for this information.» — lo que Regardie dice que habrían pagado los alquimistas de antaño por esta información
«Descriptions of the alchemical processes are not readily understood in terms of modern chemistry.» — el muro de traducción que señala: los procesos alquímicos no se entienden sin más en términos de química moderna
«But even if it were possible to translate the one system into the terminology of the other, the alchemists are haunted by the fear of revealing too much, too easily,» — el motivo que Regardie adjudica a los alquimistas para no traducir su sistema: el miedo a revelar demasiado, demasiado fácil. El tramo se corta donde acaba la plana
«or too soon—thus opening the way to abuse. Modern man has shown himself to be an adept in the art of abusing nature, as all our current emphasis on ecology and environmental pollution has indicated.» — la continuación del argumento en la plana siguiente, con el ejemplo contemporáneo que le da: el hombre moderno se habría vuelto experto en abusar de la naturaleza, como lo indicarían la ecología y la contaminación
«But do not be deceived. Simply as this book is written, alchemy is a hard taskmaster. It demands patient and laborious service. There is no simple or easy path to the Great Work. It requires great dedication of purpose, sincerity and willingness to pursue this path to the bitter end—no matter at what cost.» — la advertencia que Regardie pone contra la sencillez del libro: la alquimia sería un capataz duro, sin camino simple ni fácil hacia la Gran Obra
«One of the older alchemists stated that the fundamental process is so simple that even women and children could accomplish it. Maybe!» — el dicho que Regardie recoge de un alquimista antiguo —el proceso sería tan simple que hasta mujeres y niños podrían lograrlo— y el *Maybe!* con que lo deja en suspenso
«It is only after one has arrived at the other shore, as it were, that one can realize that “except ye become as little children ye cannot enter the kingdom of heaven.”» — la lectura que le da: solo llegado a la otra orilla se entendería el dicho evangélico de volverse como niños para entrar en el reino de los cielos
«Meanwhile, it requires effort, labor and prayer—or its equivalents—to achieve the simple child—like state capable of achieving the goals of alchemy.» — lo que exige mientras tanto, según Regardie: esfuerzo, trabajo y oración —o sus equivalentes— para alcanzar ese estado infantil
«Not many have been blessed with the special genetic or psychological structure, or the perseverance, or the grace of God to find it.» — quiénes lo alcanzarían, según él: pocos, por estructura genética o psicológica, por perseverancia o por gracia de Dios
«But, if you really want to learn the basic principles of practical alchemy, here they are in this wonderful little Manual.» — la recomendación con que cierra: los principios básicos de la alquimia práctica estarían aquí
«There is no other book that I have ever encountered in all my long years in this movement that is one fraction as clear or as helpful.» — el alcance que le da a esa recomendación, medido contra sus años en el movimiento
«Forty years ago, I would have found it far more intriguing and illuminating than Mrs. Atwood's heavy and ponderous tome on which I exercised my wisdom teeth.» — la comparación con que la remata: cuarenta años antes lo habría encontrado más intrigante y esclarecedor que el tomo de Mrs. Atwood, en el que dice haberse afilado los dientes
«Study it—and work at the processes described. Practice is so much more rewarding and enlightening than a sterile “head-trip.”» — la instrucción que da al lector: estudiarlo y trabajar los procesos, porque la práctica rendiría más que un viaje mental estéril
«Ora et labore. Pry and work—but work. Without this you cannot even begin. And this book describes how to go to work, and with what.» — el lema con que Regardie cierra el prólogo. El troceo imprime *labore* por *labora* y *Pry* por *Pray*, tal cual
Concepts treated
Piedra filosofal (lapis philosophorum) — Meta declarada de todo principiante y a la vez advertencia del libro: se la llama Piedra de los Filósofos porque solo la alcanza quien vive según lo que entiende; el volumen la sitúa como forma más alta de las sales y esencias minerales y metálicas, llevada a perfección solo por el hombre, y la deslinda expresamente de la piedra vegetal que su método vegetal puede dar.
Materia prima — Nombrada *prima materia* en las dos puntas del libro: en el prólogo de Regardie como aquello sobre lo que obró la Voluntad Divina para producir los metales preciosos, y en la Conclusión como la primera sustancia, unidad de los cuatro elementos que el volumen identifica con la IDEA de Aristóteles inherente a la quintaesencia.
Quintaesencia (quinta essentia) — Definida como la quinta de las cuatro —fuerza vital que llena el universo y no se origina en fuego, tierra, aire ni agua—, es lo que el alquimista debe hallar y separar; se la identifica con el *prana* sánscrito y con el objeto que ni la homeopatía ni la bioquímica liberarían, y la cima del arte se enuncia como experimentarla por objeto con la consciencia cósmica por sujeto.
Mercurio de los filósofos (Mercurius) — Primero de los tres principios y clave declarada de toda la Conclusión: no sería azogue común sino la energía dadora de vida presente en los tres reinos con vibración distinta en cada uno, y sin él, dice el libro, nada se logra alquímicamente. La Conclusión lo postula además como fuente de los siete metales primarios, como la luz blanca lo es de los siete colores del prisma.
Azufre (principio sulfúreo) — Segundo principio: sustancia oleosa que se halla adherida al Mercurio y que la extracción alcohólica común no liberaría del todo, separable por destilación; en la obra vegetal esa separación no sería esencial y el principiante une Mercurio y Azufre en un solo líquido antes de juntarlos con la Sal.
Atanor (el horno de fuego constante) — El horno donde se mantiene el fuego; el volumen atribuye el término a Paracelso en nota al pie, y manda pintar la palabra PACIENCIA en letras grandes para colgarla encima.
Putrefacción (putrefactio) — Medio declarado para poner en marcha el calor central: las menas resistirían la putrefacción en todo proceso conocido, y de ahí el tueste previo; en la Gran Obra, la negrura de la negrura o cabeza del cuervo se declara la putrefacción perfecta de la simiente.
Nigredo (la obra al negro) — La primera fase deseable de la generación filosófica según la *Collectanea Chemica* que el volumen cita: vapores oscuros, película que retiene el vapor y una masa negra entera al fondo del vaso, llamada negrura de la negrura y cabeza del cuervo.
Albedo (la obra al blanco) — Tras la *Cauda Pavonis* y un verde general, la materia asume blancura perfecta: la Tintura Blanca, que transmutaría los metales inferiores en plata y sería potente como medicina.
Rubedo (la obra al rojo) — La cocción ulterior lleva del amarillo al naranja o cidra y, con fuego de cuarto grado, a un rojo como de sangre de persona sana, señal de cocción cumplida; la masa fría queda escarlata y se llama Panacea.
Secreto (lo que se jura no fijar por escrito) — El libro sostiene a la vez las dos posiciones y no las armoniza: el manto de secreto sobre los procesos debe permanecer, y la enseñanza abierta de más de una década sin juramento de silencio es el argumento de validez del segundo prefacio. Las razones que da para el secreto son el abuso posible de las mismas leyes y la fórmula de que no todo es para uso de todos aunque todo se creó para provecho de todos.
Iniciación (recepción por grados / metamorfosis del ser) — El volumen reserva sus experimentos a quien lleve tiempo en investigación espagírica, declara imposible dar prueba a quien esté fuera del arte y repite la máxima de que el maestro aparece cuando el discípulo está listo; el retiro de siete semanas del Manifiesto se concede solo por mérito espiritual y sin cuota.
Cuatro elementos (fuego, aire, agua, tierra) — Fuego, agua, aire y tierra bastan para que una semilla crezca, pero la fuerza vital no se originaría en ellos; la Conclusión los reinterpreta como sólido, líquido y gas más el calor por cuarto, y reivindica contra la tabla periódica que solo esos cuatro serían inmutables.
Microcosmos (el hombre-mundo) — El átomo de radio como cosmos en miniatura, sistema solar en microcosmos, es el paso con que el capítulo quinto pide aceptar que el Macrocosmos influye igual sobre la superficie y bajo ella, apoyado en el axioma hermético.
Decknamen (nombres cubiertos) — El volumen declara que la fraseología alegórica es método de ocultamiento: el León Rojo, la Cola del Pavo Real, el Dragón Verde y la Sangre de Dragón no se tomarían al pie de la letra, ni el Mercurio, el Azufre y la Sal filosóficos por las sustancias comunes del mismo nombre; los símbolos rosacruces se usaron para que el secreto no cayera en malas manos.
Cadena de transmisión (quién tomó de quién) — El libro traza su propia línea: Hermes el Egipcio y unos Sabios antes de Salomón, Geber y Raymond Lullius, Basil Valentine, Paracelso, la convención rosacruz de 1777 recogida en un manuscrito de Praga, y la Paracelsus Research Society como cabo presente.