The Rebis
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When the alchemist has achieved a high stage of integration, soul and spirit combine to form a "double thing" known as the rebis. In this picture we see the alchemist as a double thing; in this case a hermaphroditic figure integrating masculine and feminine energies. He holds measuring tools that are used to draw circles and squares. These are the shapes of the spiritual and earthly realm. He stands triumphantly upon the dragon of chaos that represents primitive unconsciousness - the lead, the devouring mother, etc. Notice that the shape of the overall picture is spherical, suggesting the alchemical image of the philosophical egg. In this egg, the alchemist is mirroring the biological stages of his physical birth. This picture then depicts his involution into consciousness. He has given wings to the earthen reality upon which he stands - he literally 'understands' life with gnosis wisdom. Surrounding his head are the powers of the heavenly spirit: (clockwise) Mars, Venus, the Sun (Sol), the Moon (Luna), Jupiter and Saturn. |
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