Allegory #4 - The Trees of Life and Knowledge
Submitted by J on December 14 2001 04:53:02
In reply to What about the stone that gives eternal life? submitted by Nate on December 14 2001 01:15:46
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Dear Nate, Good eye - the philosopher's stone itself presents a really good allegory. What also struck me was its name and function being tied to the two trees which were present in the Garden of Eden: In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Genesis 2:9 Its name (philosopher's) is related to the second tree, which was associated with knowledge and the pursuit of wisdom (cf. Genesis 3:6) and its function (source of the Elixir of Life) is associated with the first tree, which provides eternal life (cf. Genesis 3:22). I just wanted to blast this post off quickly but would very much like to pursue the allegory further along the line that you started - striking the rock, living water flowing from it, Jesus as the cornerstone, etc. Thanks for your comments. Take care and God bless, J |
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