The Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz, Anno 1459
In the twenty-first century, The Chymical Wedding by Johann Valentin Andreae continues to be acknowledged as a literary gem, an exceptional story written in the Western esoteric tradition. The story follows the narrator, Christian Rosenkreutz, on his path toward spiritual knowledge and inner transformation. The whole experience of what he first witnesses, then in which he participates, and finally for which he takes responsibility, profoundly challenges him.
This is an important book for the present critical time of change that is facing humanity. We are witnessing the dazzling development of scientific and technological thought, yet modern thinking is ill equipped to solve the deeper human mysteries and the social questions. The Chymical Wedding invites the reader to transform the power of scientific thinking into new and more positive ways of viewing the world without losing one’s clarity and certainty.
The illuminating illustrations by David Newbatt—along with the text, which has been adapted to modern English—bring a fresh approach to this important alchemical tale. This beautifully illustrated edition can help awaken a better understanding of the Rosicrucian initiation path and the spirit and philosophy behind it. Beneath the veil of fascinating imagery in this book is a guide for developing a more meaningful inner life today.
About the Author
Johann Valentin Andreae (1586-1654), a German theologian, claimed to be the author of the Chymische Hochzeit Christiani Rosencreutz, anno 1459 (1616) one of the three founding works of Rosicrucianism. Andreae was born at Herrenberg, Württemberg, the son of Johannes Andreae, and studied theology and natural sciences as a young man. He became a deacon in Vaihingen an der Enz, and in 1620 a priest in Calw, where he reformed the school and social institutions and established institutions for charity and other aids. Consequently, he initiated the Christliche Gottliebende Gesellschaft (“Christian God-loving Society”). As a preacher in Stuttgart, he he advocated a fundamental church reform. In his later works, alchemy became the object of ridicule, compared to music, art, theater, and astrology as a less serious science.
David Newbatt is an artist and teacher who lives and works at a Camphill Community for young adults with special needs in Aberdeen, Scotland. He also teaches art at the Aberdeen Waldorf School. David works in a wide variety of mediums, mainly watercolors, pastels, and acrylics. He has illustrated various books, including a story by Novalis, the poem of Olaf Åsteson, and Goethe’s fairy tale. He is also a prolific mural painter. His works have been exhibited throughout Europe.
Christopher Becton (verified owner) –