It is a spiritual force that binds all of us together and governs all things and that speaks with us in the language of signs or omens. Soul of the WorldĪ term which comes up repeatedly in the text, the Soul of the World is sometimes equated with God. SimumĪ wind which blows through the desert and destroys everything in its path. To cut, specifically the wool from a sheep. They believed that it symbolized the Sun and spiritual rebirth. ScarabĪ type of desert beetle which was sacred to the Ancient Egyptians.

The desert that runs across the width of the African continent. Room where the vestments of the church are kept. The story of The Alchemist is the story of Santiago realizing his Personal Legend. This is different from other selfish desires in that the universe conspires to help you realize your personal legend. Personal LegendĪ Personal Legend is a true desire, which comes from the Soul of the Universe.

Spanish and European name for the Arabs that ruled the Iberian peninsula for almost 500 years. MaktubĪn Arabic word meaning 'written.' The shopkeeper uses it to refer to those thing preordained, or written, by Allah. Santiago thinks that it brings the scent of exotic women and adventure. So called because it comes from 'the Levant.' It is related to the conquest of Spain by the Moors. The name of the wind that blows off of Africa into Spain. By remaining open to these omens, Santiago is able to learn more about the world and about himself. Omens, coincidences and dreams are the means by which the universe seeks to communicate. Travelers band together for mutual protection. CaravanĪ group which travels through the desert. It is used for self defense, but can also be decorative. Large metal plate worn on the chest as part of a suit of armor. Nomadic tribes that live in the African desert. The occult science which claims to be able to turn any common metal into gold.

The alchemist book meaning