THE MODERN ALCHEMIST
An Introduction to Metaphysics


The  intent of this course is to develop tools for self-discovery  and
realization.  It  is based on a new book (same title) which has used a
14th-Century  alchemical  text  to draw parallels  with  the  mystical
quest. Specific images of the Soul and Spirit are developed for use in
daily living.  It tells you what to expect on your journey.  This is a
"first course" in metaphysics.

In our modern culture,  traditional religion has not been able to meet
the  spiritual needs of many individuals.  Still,  these seekers yearn
for a greater understanding of self and the Higher Power,  however one
conceives that force. To fill that gap many forms of sacred psychology
have arisen. Some of these are based in the ancient mystic arts, while
others have emerged from the work of psychologists like Carl Jung, who
first introduced notions of transpersonal forces into his field.

The  direct  experience of the sacred dimensions of life  yields  many
positive  results both for the personality and the spirit.  First  and
foremost,  it reunites us with alienated or "lost"  parts of ourselves
and  allows us to find greater fulfillment.  The path of individuation
is a process of "coming to wholeness." Through it we can actualize our
birthright,  each  in  our own unique way.  Saint Paul referred  to  a
variation  on  this theme when he proclaimed,  "It is sown  a  natural
body; it is raised a spiritual body."

Our  task in this course is to discover these transpersonal  meanings,
whether  they  are  presented to  us  through  dreams,  attitudes,  or
behavior  patterns.  If  the meaning were consciously  understood,  it
would  not be presented as a symbol.  Therefore,  once its meaning  is
realized  over  a period of time,  another symbol appears to take  its
place, reflecting the new situation.


The following is an outline for use during this course:

PART I: METAMORPHOSIS OF SOUL (Therapy or Personal Growth)

  (1) The Prima Materia
      (Persona, Calcinatio); "Two fish swim in our sea."

  (2) The Nigredo
      (Shadow); "A cruel black dragon lurks in the wood." 

  (3) Union of Opposites
      (Anima); "A stag and unicorn in the forest go."

  (4) Participation Mystique
      (Animus); "A male and female stand hidden in darkness."

  (5) Solutio
      (The Adversary); "The wolf and dog are in the land."

  (6) Coagulatio
      (Great Mother); "A poisonous dragon inhabits the forest."

  (7) Sublimatio
      (Wise Old Man); "Two birds lie within the nest." 

  (8) Albedo & Rubedo
      (Summary,   Coniunctio);   "A  white  and  red  bird  are  bound
together." 


PART II: PERSONIFICATION OF SPIRIT (Mystical or Spiritual Aspiration)

  (9) Solificatio
      (Hero); "The Lord of the wood takes his kindom's throne."

 (10) The Philosopher's Stone
      (Mana Personality); "The salamande comes from the fire."

 (11) Puer/Senex
      (Magickal  Child);  "Father,  Son  and Guide hold  each  other's
hand."

 (12) The Transcendent Function
      (Self or God-image); "The Son speaks to his Guide."

 (13) Devouring Father
      (Conception); "The Father swallows up the Son."

 (14) Anima Consciousness
      (Incubation); "The Father strongly sweats and glows."

 (15) Individuation and Rebirth
      (Rebirth); "The new Father brings forth a new Son."

 (16) Ultima Materia
      (The Master or God-Man); "The completion of the Great Work."


Instructor: DrRam
Course Meets: Mondays, 9pm EDT
Registration Fee: $20


TEACHER PROFILE:

Philo  Stone is a pen-name for Richard and Iona Miller,  a husband and
wife   writing  team.   Iona  has  background  in  Jungian  Psychology
(Imaginal) and is an artist. Richard (aka DrRam) is a Physicist (Solid
State).  Together they represent more than 50 years of active research
into Philosophy, Alternative Health, and Self-Development. 

They  are  already published with Gordon &  Breach,  Inner  Traditions
(Destiny),  Ten Speed Press, and a number of small-press publishers. A
complete list is available. 14 books in print.