The Ouroboros is one of the oldest symbols found in both Hermetic philosophy and Alchemy. It depicts a serpent or dragon in the shape of a circle, devouring its own tail. At its most basic level, it represents an eternal cycle where every ending becomes a new beginning. Alchemically, it is often a symbol of the Philosopher’s Stone itself and represents the unity of opposing or opposite forces. It is often depicted with words meaning “All is One.” Alchemists would sometimes refer to the Ouroborus as the “Agathos Daimon” (“Good Spirit”) which was also another name for Thoth, who was the father of Alchemy(1). It is also a symbol of the “Great Work” which is the alchemical name for a spiritual journey of transformation of oneself from Lead into Gold, which often included actual physical transformations of the self into a state of perfect health and longevity.
Hermetically, the Ouroboros represents the idea that everything comes from source, undergoes transformation, and returns to source. It represents the connectivity and the inherent cycle of all things. Qabalistically, it can be seen as both the directions on the Qabalistic Tree of Life as one cycle; the path of drawing down divinity into manifestation, as well as the Path of Return. Initiates of the Mysteries and other spiritual seekers traverse these two paths at the same time, a journey which embraces the essence of the Ouroboros.
Psychologically, the Ouroboros can represent the constant refinement of consciousness. Old patterns and ways of thinking that no longer serve must be dissolved to let new insights form and be integrated. The Ouroboros reminds us to participate in the cycle of our own transformations, to continuously evolve and not be becomes stuck in ways. Each completion results in a new seed, and if we embrace this cycle of transformation we can experience the true essence of what means to thrive.
Note: the Inscriptions on the image:
”Vista Interiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem” translates to:
”Visit the Interior of the Earth, and by Rectifying, you will Find the Hidden Stone”
The phrase becomes the motto “V.I.T.R.I.O.L”
“Unus Mundus, Una Materia” translates to “One World, One Material”
Sources:
(1) The Idiot’s Complete Guide to Alchemy by Dennis William Hauck
The Secret Teachings of All Ages by Manly P. Hall