The Enchanted Initiate
A Journal of Traditional Symbolism, Hermeticism & the Occult Sciences

Quadrature Of The Circle

Quadrature of the circle is described as a part of the Great Work, suggesting it's a ritual or method to solve the impossible geometric problem.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

The Messenger Fleece and the Quadrature of the Circle are both deeply rooted in alchemy as alchemical goals and impossible problems within the field. These concepts are interconnected and symbolize the pursuit of solutions to what are often seen as insurmountable challenges through the framework of alchemy. Both the Messenger Fleece and the Quadrature of the Circle are associated with the Great Work, a central and often enigmatic goal of alchemists, which involves not only the transformation of base metals into gold but also the spiritual and mystical aspects of achieving perfection. The Quadrature of the Circle, traditionally an impossible problem in geometry, is thus reinterpreted in alchemical contexts to represent the impossible yet noble task of solving complex and intricate problems within the practice of alchemy. Together, the Messenger Fleece and the Quadrature of the Circle encapsulate the spirit of perseverance and the quest for knowledge within the domain of alchemical pursuits.

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

Both are impossible problems in science, symbolically part of the Great Work.

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesPentagram →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Pentagram

The proportions of the Athanor, necessary for the Great Work, are measured by the Pentagram’s figure, ensuring the accomplishment of the Great Work.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesHermes →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Hermes

Hermes is central to the Hermetic philosophy that underpins the Great Work in alchemy.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughPerpetual MotionilluminatesMagic →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Perpetual Motion

Both are impossible problems in science, symbolically part of the Great Work.

II. Perpetual Motion & Magic

The discovery of perpetual motion is a significant goal in the practice of Magic, as it represents a key to tapping into the unseen powers of nature

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesMagician →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Magician

The Great Work is a concept that true magicians achieve, representing the culmination of their knowledge and power. It is a goal that they strive for, and those who reach it are seen as true adepts.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesMercury →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Mercury

Mercury is a key component of The Great Work in alchemy.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesInitiation →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Initiation

Both Great Work and Initiation are closely bound, with Initiation serving as a foundational step necessary for the pursuit of the Great Work. Initiation plays a essential part by providing the spiritual and practical knowledge essential for approaching and ultimately achieving the Great Work. This process often marks the beginning of a profound journey aimed at accomplishing lofty and significant goals. Through Initiation, individuals are prepared with the necessary tools and understanding to embark on and successfully complete the Great Work.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesSphinx →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Sphinx

The sphinx represents the enigma or challenge that must be overcome to achieve the Great Work

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughMessenger FleetilluminatesPhilosophical Stone →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Messenger Fleet

The Messenger Fleece and the Quadrature of the Circle are both deeply rooted in alchemy as alchemical goals and impossible problems within the field. These concepts are interconnected and symbolize the pursuit of solutions to what are often seen as insurmountable challenges through the framework of alchemy. Both the Messenger Fleece and the Quadrature of the Circle are associated with the Great Work, a central and often enigmatic goal of alchemists, which involves not only the transformation of base metals into gold but also the spiritual and mystical aspects of achieving perfection. The Quadrature of the Circle, traditionally an impossible problem in geometry, is thus reinterpreted in alchemical contexts to represent the impossible yet noble task of solving complex and intricate problems within the practice of alchemy. Together, the Messenger Fleece and the Quadrature of the Circle encapsulate the spirit of perseverance and the quest for knowledge within the domain of alchemical pursuits.

II. Messenger Fleet & Philosophical Stone

The Messenger Fleece, closely tied to the Philosophical Stone, is a pivotal element within alchemy. Both entities are central goals and objectives within the realm of this ancient practice, sharing a connection through the concept of the Great Work, which encompasses the key alchemical pursuits of transforming base materials into more valuable substances and achieving higher spiritual or philosophical virtues. This association demonstrates the significant roles both play in the theoretical and practical aspects of alchemy, linking the tangible goals of material transformation with deeper philosophical undertakings.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesSalt →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Salt

Salt is a key component of The Great Work in alchemy.

Quadrature Of The CirclethroughGreat WorkilluminatesRaymond Lully →
I. Quadrature Of The Circle & Great Work

Quadrature of the circle represents an impossible task often associated with the ultimate pursuit of knowledge or perfection

II. Great Work & Raymond Lully

Raymond Lully pursued the Great Work but faced its perils, emphasizing the complexity of its practice.