

The basis of the Chinese elixir of immortality is found in Taoist alchemy, which in turn is rooted in the doctrines of Taoism. This elixir, however, not only failed to prolong their lives, but may have poisoned them, and even caused their deaths. In Chinese history, however, it was possible for mortals to attain the elixir of immortality, and many, normally members of the elite, are documented to have consumed it. In the examples above, the elixir of immortality is largely confined to the realm of myth and legend, well beyond the reach of mortal hands. The Last Supper painting where Jesus was believed to have drunk from the Holy Grail, which was believed to be an elixir of life. Although Flamel was a real person who might not have dabbled in alchemy, he gained a reputation as a master alchemist centuries after his death.

Lastly, medieval alchemists sought to create the elixir of life, and Nicolas Flamel is reputed to have succeeded in this endeavor. Those who drank from the grail are believed to be granted immortality. In Arthurian legend, there is the Holy Grail, the cup believed to have been used by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper.

In this myth, ‘amrita’ was the last of the fourteen treasures to have emerged during the churning of the ocean.ĭepiction of the ‘Churning of the Ocean of Milk’, the elixir of life from Hindu mythology.

The ancient Greeks believed that the gods attained their immortality by consuming this substance.Ī similar substance, known as ‘amrita’ is found in Hindu mythology, specifically in the story of the ‘Churning of the Ocean of Milk’. In ancient Greece, for example, this substance was known as ‘ambrosia’, or the ‘nectar of the gods’. The elixir of immortality is found in various cultures throughout history. Still, this did not deter the Chinese elite from seeking the elixir of immortality, and this deadly substance is documented to have been consumed as late as the 18 th century. In reality, however, the elixir shortened their lives, and even caused their deaths, as its ingredients often included highly toxic substances. In the history of China, however, many emperors, nobles, and officials are recorded to have consumed the elixir of immortality, in the hopes of living forever. Nevertheless, they are, for the most part, limited to the realm of myth and legend. Various civilizations throughout human history have their own version of the elixir of immortality. It is also unclear as to how the Elixir of Life differs from its prototype in terms of ingredients or creation process.The elixir of immortality (known also as the elixir of life) is a mythical substance believed to grant those who consume it eternal life.
#ELIXIR OF IMMORTALITY FAYGO FULL#
