The Gospel of Transformation: Alchemy, the Bible, and the Soul’s Journey
- michelleakozak
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
So this is a neat concept I came across, that revolves around Hermetic ideas on alchemy. This concept from what I understand molds Egyptian, Gnostic, and Christian mysticism.
As of now I generally am familiar with the bible and base my interpretations on reality on that, but I'm trying to introduce other ideas, concepts and vocabulary to broaden what I already know.
The process of inner alchemy describes the inner transformation of the ego into being aware it is not just an ego. When you can witness your thoughts for the first time, you question who the observer is. How can you question your mind, when you thought your mind was the only one who could think or participate in your head? In this case, 2 parties are seen as dwelling the same space within your psyche.
Having this 3rd party perspective in your own body, is very transient and forces a person to dissolve their past interpretation of reality as they knew it. Since you see your not just a mind, but also an observer ( spirit ) this perspective forces the person to extend beyond their 3D realm, or their body, because they're tapping into something that goes beyond the physical plane.
The below concepts I'll lay out, that dine this inner alchemy that starts with Adam, then fast forwards to Abraham and ends with Jesus.
Nigredo is called the blackening. This is akin to the darkness we experience when our minds are the only source of direction in our life, when we're un aware it's in control.
1. Nigredo (Blackening)
Origin: Latin for “blackness.”Tradition: Rooted in Hermetic alchemy, practiced during the Middle Ages and Renaissance (e.g., Paracelsus, later echoed by Carl Jung). Meaning:
The stage of decay, dissolution, or breaking down.
In spiritual terms, it's the ego death, dark night of the soul, or the confrontation with the shadow.
Symbolized by black — a time of confusion, loss, or despair, but also the fertile soil from which transformation begins.
In the Biblical framework, Adam’s fall, Cain’s jealousy, and Noah's story that causes the flood can all be seen as nigredo — early, raw ego learning through collapse.
Next we have Albedo, after transcending the lower nature of the ego, the story of Abram focuses on sacrificing the material world. This is primarily exemplified through his willingness to sacrifice Isaac ( his son ) as well as leaving his hometown of Ur ( his familiarity to reality. Home is symbolic of comfort, and Abram willingly leaves his comfort to asnwer a higher calling. This theme is seen in your awakening as well, you leave what's familiar and follow the unknown because though it is unknown it feels correct. )
2. Albedo (Whitening)
Origin: Latin for “whiteness.”Tradition: Classical alchemy, where it followed the blackening. Meaning:
The stage of purification, coming into clarity after the darkness.
The ego begins to be cleansed, often through discernment, discipline, or spiritual practice.
Associated with the moon, water, and introspection.
Inner dualities begin to reconcile.
In Biblical allegory: Abraham’s surrender, Moses receiving the Law, David’s repentance, and Solomon’s temple-building all reflect aspects of albedo — the ego beginning to align with something higher.
Lastly we have Rubedo, which is symbolic of easing into being the higher nature of awareness as your new state of observation and viewing reality. This perspective comes from the lens of the soul, where the blackening in the beginning is a perspective that comes from the ego.
3. Rubedo (Reddening)
Origin: Latin for “redness.”Tradition: The culmination of the Magnum Opus (“Great Work”) in alchemy. Meaning:
The final stage of integration, where spirit and matter unite.
It is the embodied soul, or the Christened self.
Symbolized by blood, fire, and the sun — signifying life, resurrection, and divine union.
Jesus represents Rubedo in its fullness — ego no longer dominating but fully transfigured and in service to Spirit. His resurrection is this alchemical “reddening,” a perfected being who unites heaven and earth.
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