Authors/Albert Hageman

Poems

• Poem, (1602), [Albert Hageman] to Johann Thölde; German (Source: BP.BasVal.1602-01) (#5821)

from: Basilius Valentinus, Ein kurtzer summarischer Tractat. Von dem grossen Stein der vhralten, ed. Johann Thölde, Johann Schleer (Zerbst) for Jacob Apel (Leipzig), 1602

This poem is both a commendation of Thölde's work in alchemy and a critique of contemporary scholarly practices. The poem praises Thölde, referred to as Janus, for his dedication to making alchemical knowledge accessible and beneficial to a wider audience. It highlights his ability to explain complex alchemical concepts in a clear and logical manner, akin to a bee carefully organizing its treasures. This approach is contrasted with the behavior of some contemporary scholars, who are criticized for their pretentiousness and lack of substance. These scholars are likened to donkeys disguised as majestic horses, indicating their superficiality and lack of genuine expertise.
The poem also condemns a particular individual from Leipzig for his blasphemous treatment of sacred religious mysteries, particularly his profanation of the Christian Trinity. This individual is accused of misrepresenting religious texts and symbols to falsely teach about the Philosopher's Stone, a legendary alchemical substance believed to transmute base metals into gold. The author mocks the notion of the Philosopher's Stone as a creation of philosophers, suggesting it is either a divine entity or a non-existent concept predating the creation of the world.
The poem concludes by encouraging Thölde to continue his scholarly pursuits, extracting wisdom from ancient texts and revealing it to virtuous men. The author expresses confidence that Thölde's sincere and valuable contributions to knowledge will earn him lasting gratitude and fame from future generations.