Editing Hermeticism (section)

==Hermetic practices==
"The three parts of the wisdom of the whole universe" is a phrase derived from the [[Emerald Tablet]] referring to three disciplines of Hermeticism. Hermetic practices are diverse and deeply rooted in the esoteric traditions of [[alchemy]], [[astrology]], [[theurgy]], and other [[occult]] disciplines. These practices are not merely ritualistic but are aimed at achieving spiritual transformation, aligning the practitioner with the divine order, and unlocking hidden knowledge about the self and the cosmos.

===Alchemy===
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[[Alchemy]], or the operation of the [[Sun]], is perhaps the most well-known of the Hermetic practices, often misunderstood as merely a [[proto-scientific]] attempt to turn [[base metal]]s into gold. In Hermeticism, however, alchemy is primarily a spiritual discipline, where the physical transformation of materials is a metaphor for the spiritual purification and perfection of the soul. The ultimate goal of alchemical work is the creation of the [[philosopher's stone]], which symbolizes the attainment of spiritual enlightenment and immortality. Alchemy is not merely the changing of lead into gold, which is called [[chrysopoeia]].{{sfn|Principe|2013|pp=13, 170}} It is an investigation into the spiritual constitution, or life, of matter and material existence through an application of the mysteries of birth, death, and resurrection.{{sfn|Eliade|1978|pp=149, 155–157}} 

The alchemical process is divided into stages, such as ''[[nigredo]]'' (blackening), ''[[albedo]]'' (whitening), and ''[[rubedo]]'' (reddening), each representing different phases of spiritual purification and enlightenment. ''[[Prima materia]]'', or the original chaotic substance from which all things are formed, is central to alchemy. The various stages of chemical [[distillation]] and [[fermentation]], among other processes, are aspects of these mysteries that, when applied, quicken nature's processes to bring a natural body to perfection.{{sfn|Geber|1991}} By transmuting prima materia into the philosopher's stone, the alchemist seeks to achieve unity with the divine and realize their true nature as a divine being.{{sfnm|1a1=Fowden|1y=1986|2a1=Copenhaver|2y=1992|3a1=Hanegraaff|3y=2012}} This perfection is the accomplishment of the [[Great Work (Hermeticism)|Great Work]] ({{langx|la|[[Magnum opus (alchemy)|magnum opus]]}}).

===Astrology===
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[[Western astrology|Astrology]] in Hermeticism is not merely the study of celestial bodies' influence on human affairs but a means of understanding the divine order of the cosmos. The positions and movements of the [[Classical planets|planets]] and [[Fixed stars|stars]] are seen as reflections of divine will and the structure of the universe, holding metaphorical value as symbols in the mind of [[the All]]. Hermetic astrology seeks to decode these celestial messages to align the practitioner’s life with the divine plan. It also plays a role in determining the timing of rituals and alchemical operations, as certain astrological conditions are believed to be more conducive to spiritual work.{{sfnm|1a1=Copenhaver|1y=1992|2a1=Hanegraaff|2y=2012}} The discovery of astrology is attributed to [[Zoroaster]], who is said to have discovered this part of the wisdom of the whole universe and taught it to man.<ref>{{harvnb|Powell|1991|pp=19–20}}.</ref>

===Theurgy===
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[[Theurgy]] is a practice focused on [[Invocation|invoking]] the presence of gods or divine powers to purify the soul and facilitate its ascent through the heavenly spheres. Unlike purely magical operations aimed at influencing the physical world, theurgical practices are intended to bring the practitioner into direct contact with the divine. By engaging in theurgy, the Hermetic practitioner seeks to align their soul with higher spiritual realities, ultimately leading to union with The One. This practice often involves the [[assumption of godforms]] or the use of sacred names and symbols to draw down divine energy.{{sfnm|1a1=Fowden|1y=1986|2a1=Ebeling|2y=2007}} In [[Hermetic Qabalah|forms of Hermeticism]] influenced by [[Christian Kabbalah]], this divine magic is reliant upon a [[Hierarchy of angels#Christianity|hierarchy]] of [[angel]]s, [[archangel]]s, and the [[Names of God in Judaism|names of God]].{{sfn|Garstin|2004|p=v}}

"Theurgy" translates to the "science or art of divine works" and is the practical aspect of the Hermetic art of alchemy.{{sfn|Garstin|2004|p=6}} Furthermore, alchemy is seen as the "key" to theurgy,{{sfn|Garstin|2004|p=vi}} the ultimate goal of which is to become united with higher counterparts, leading to the attainment of divine consciousness.{{sfn|Garstin|2004|p=6}}

===Hermetic Qabalah===
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Hermetic Qabalah is an adaptation and expansion of Jewish [[Kabbalistic]] thought within the context of [[Western esotericism]]. It plays a significant role in Hermetic practices by providing a framework for understanding the relationship between the divine, the cosmos, and the self. The central symbol in Hermetic Qabalah is the [[Tree of life (Kabbalah)|Tree of Life]], which represents the structure of creation and the path of spiritual ascent. Each of the ten spheres ([[sephiroth]]) on the Tree corresponds to different aspects of divinity and stages of spiritual development.

Hermetic Qabalah integrates alchemical, astrological, and theurgical elements, allowing practitioners to work with these disciplines in a unified system. Through the study and application of Qabalistic principles, Hermetic practitioners seek to achieve self-knowledge, spiritual enlightenment, and ultimately, unity with the divine.{{sfnm|1a1=Copenhaver|1y=1992|2a1=Hanegraaff|2y=2012}}