Ouroboros
The serpent or dragon devouring its own tail, symbolizing eternal cyclic renewal, the unity of opposites, and the self-contained nature of the alchemical process.
circulatiosolve et-coagula
Historical Origin
Ancient Egyptian symbol adopted by Greek alchemists. Appears in the Chrysopoeia of Cleopatra (3rd century) with the inscription "hen to pan" (one is the all).
Alchemical Meaning
The vessel of transformation, the circulatory nature of the opus, and the unity of volatile and fixed. Represents the prima materia as self-generating.
Psychological Interpretation
The self-regulatory nature of the psyche, the endless cycle of death and rebirth, and the integration of conscious and unconscious.
Sources & Further Reading
- Neumann, E. Origins of Consciousness
- Jung, C.G. Psychology and Alchemy