Hermes Trismegistus
Emerald Tablet
The Legendary Emerald Tablet and its Secrets of the Universe
The origins of Western alchemy can be traced back to Hellenistic Egypt, in particular
to the city of Alexandria. One of the most important characters in the mythology of
alchemy is Hermes Trismegistus (Hermes the Thrice-Great). The name of this figure is
derived from the Egyptian god of wisdom, Thoth, and his Greek counterpart, Hermes.
The Hermetica, which is said to be written by Hermes Trismegistus, is generally regarded
as the basis of Western alchemical philosophy and practice. In addition, Hermes Trismegistus
is also believed to be the author of the Emerald Tablet.
Legends of the Emerald Tablet
The Emerald Tablet is said to be a tablet of emerald or green stone inscribed with the secrets
of the universe. The source of the original Emerald Tablet is unclear; hence it is surrounded by
legends. The most common story claims that the tablet was found in a caved tomb under the statue
of Hermes in Tyana, clutched in the hands of the corpse of Hermes Trismegistus himself.