Key 14 - The Alchemist
Traditional Title: Temperance
Sagittarius
The Alchemist archetype measures the accuracy of beliefs by means of experimentation.
Affirmation: I harmonize opposing forces to experience profound transmutation.
UPRIGHT: Patience, Harmony, Transmutation, Equilibrium, Moderation
REVERSE: Volatility, Lack of Harmony, Haste, Extremes, Excess
Platonic level (Metaphysical Principles):
Sagittarius is diurnal, mutable fire, and ruled by Jupiter. The nature is hot and dry. Sagittarius, which represents the principle of experimentation, is lively, always in search of new experiences.
Jungian level (Psychological Principles):
Positives
- Adaptive and dynamic.
- Optimistic and exploratory.
- Adventurous and experimental.
- A sense of idealism.
- Good-humored.
Negatives
- A tendency toward self-righteousness.
- Restlessness.
Mythic level (Mythic Deities and Figures):
Greek God: Asclepius
Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing, governs the processes of transformation and spiritual alchemy. His nature is one of mastery over life and death, symbolized by his serpent-entwined rod, representing the transmutation of base elements into higher forms. This mirrors The Alchemist archetype, which is focused on spiritual refinement and the harmonizing of opposing forces in the pursuit of the Great Work.
