V.I.T.R.I.O.L.

Have you ever come across the term in your studies or in the field of occultism? It might need some explanation due to its esoteric nature, even though its history stretches back to ancient Sumer. Today, those working in chemistry are well aware of it, as it concerns iron and copper sulfates.

Vitriol oil, on the other hand, is an old name for corrosive sulfuric acid. Therefore, vitriol has been used metaphorically as a symbol of severe condemnation and bitter rage. The expression is also associated with alchemy and esotericism, particularly the process of spiritual transformation aiming for enlightenment. In this context, the combination of letters takes on the following meaning: Visita Interiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem, which means ”Visit the interior of the earth, and by purifying you will find the hidden stone.”

Alchemically, VITRIOL signifies the transmutation of metals into gold or performing the *Magnum Opus, whose goal is to create the philosopher’s stone (*Latin: lapis philosophorum*). The philosopher’s stone is a mythical substance believed to have the ability to turn base metals into gold and grant immortality through the Elixir of Life.

*"The Alchymist, in Search of the Philosopher's Stone". Joseph Wright of Derby, 1771*

At Tuonen Portti, we are interested in the deeper spiritual meaning of the expression. In that context, vitriol refers to embarking on a journey of self-discovery, or in Jungian terms, the individuation process—diving into the depths of one’s psyche to cleanse and transform oneself. This inner transformation process is often symbolized by the purification of metals and the creation of the philosopher’s stone in alchemical texts.

Vitriol can also be associated with the hermetic principle ”As above, so below”, according to which the microcosm, i.e., the individual, is a reflection of the macrocosm, i.e., the universe. The concept encourages understanding the interconnectedness of things and emphasizes the importance of self-mastery in influencing the greater whole.

Overall, vitriol represents an esoteric concept of spiritual transformation and self-development, encouraging individuals to introspection and self-discovery to achieve a higher state of being. Although it is often associated with alchemy, it has a deeper meaning and serves as an allegory for personal growth and enlightenment.

The process is also familiar in the context of Freemasonry, and indeed, a death metal band has been named after the term, whose frontman, Kyle Rasmussen, was recently interviewed on our Mycelium Signal podcast.

Scholar of religion and nonfiction author Matti Rautaniemi visited Konstantin Tuonihovi’s Terminus Chapel in the Pit four years ago and wrote about it in the Porvoon Kipinä magazine in an article titled ”Katabasis—A Nocturnal Travelogue”:

…today I realized that in that underground temple there are already many of those elements that are used in the Freemasons’ Chamber of Reflection.

So where can one find their own VITRIOL chamber for growth? There is no one definitive answer to this. Perhaps it is written in our karma or destiny? For me, it has been this entire life, which has led, through repeated relinquishments and many encounters with death, finally to an artist collective called Tuonen Portti. Understanding the resistance of fate has gradually transformed into better comprehension and acceptance of it. Belonging to the Freemasons or some religion is certainly not a prerequisite for enlightenment.

Although dying is one of the most certain things in life, unfortunately our Western society does not prepare us for it in any way—neither our own nor others’. Instead, death has been grossly commercialized, especially at this time of year when Halloween and Christmas trinkets are sold in abundance widely outside America as well. In this sense, the Mexican Day of the Dead, Día de Muertos, might be a more useful addition to our culture.

Originally, the sulfate crystals found in mines resembled small colored shards of glass. Therefore, the expression vitriol derives from the Latin word *vitriolus*, which literally means ”little glass.” Ultimately, life itself offers growth into death, and not always in a suitable measure. Sometimes it feels like crushed glass is being rubbed against your face.

Regardless of the maturity level of the culture, creators of dark art deal with the ending of life and its dark sides in their works. Such creators we seek to join our artist collective Tuonen Portti. And not without reason—such an impressive network has already been revealed around the world.

*"V.I.T.R.I.O.L." Oil on canvas. Carita Hännikäinen, 2024*

Welcome to work with us, our chthonic kindred spirits!

Text and painting: Carita Hännikäinen