Transformation
The process of meaningful change in which matter, understanding, symbol, practice, or the self moves from one condition into another.
Definition
Transformation is the process of meaningful change from one state, form, condition, or level of understanding into another.
In alchemical and Hermetic symbolism, transformation often involves dissolution, purification, refinement, recombination, and the movement from the unrefined toward the more complete.
Expanded Explanation
Transformation is one of the central ideas of alchemy and Hermetic study.
It is more than simple change. Change may happen randomly or superficially. Transformation implies depth, process, and direction. Something is worked upon, opened, refined, clarified, and brought into a new condition.
In alchemy, transformation may appear through fire, water, vessel, metal, color, stage, symbol, and operation. In Hermetic study, transformation may occur through knowledge, correspondence, contemplation, discipline, and practice.
Within hermetic alchemy, transformation is studied as both symbolic process and lived discipline. The student is not only collecting information. Through careful study, repeated return, and practice, the student learns to see differently.
Transformation is the work becoming visible.