Turba Philosophorum Or Assembly Of The Sages

The Turba Philosophorum (Called also The Book of Truth in the Art and the Third Pythagorical Synod (reprint of a 1914 edition) or assembly of the alchemical philosophers, is one of the earliest Latin alchemical texts, probably dating from the 12th century. It introduced many of the key themes of the alchemical tradition and was often quoted in later writings.

"The Turba Philosophorum is indisputably the most ancient extant treatise on Alchemy in the Latin tongue."

The intent and structure of this book are as important as its mystical contents. You will find Truth in these pages. This text is in English.



About the author

Arthur Edward Waite (October 2, 1857 - May 19, 1942) was an occultist and co-creator of the the popular and widely used Rider-Waite Tarot deck and author of its companion volume, the Pictorial Key to the Tarot. This was notable for being one of the first decks to illustrate all 78 cards fully, as opposed to the 22 major arcana.

Waite was a prolific author with many of his works being well received in academic circles. He wrote occult texts on subjects including divination, Rosicrucianism, freemasonry, black and ceremonial magic, Kabbalism and alchemy; he also translated and reissued several important mystical and alchemical works. His works on the Holy Grail, influenced by his friendship with Arthur Machen, were particularly notable. A number of his volumes remain in print, The Book of Ceremonial Magic, The Holy Kabbalah, and New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry having seen reprints in recent years.