Iron and Mars: Symbols of Strength and Action in Alchemy
In the ancient world, iron’s fiery nature and Mars’ connection to action, conflict, and willpower made them revered by mystics and priests alike. These spiritual seekers harnessed Mars/Iron energy to confront their deepest fears, rid themselves of unnecessary behaviors, and assert their individual willpower—becoming masters of their own destinies.
Among the seven classical metals, iron is distinctly tied to the Earth. Unlike other metals, it aligns with the Earth's magnetic field, giving it a unique relationship with the material world. Iron is also abundant in the Earth's crust, symbolizing its grounding, "earthy" nature. But iron is more than just a passive element of the earth—it burns. From the glowing light of falling stars to the bright bursts in fireworks, iron displays a fiery, passionate energy that mirrors Mars’ essence.
Iron’s fiery qualities not only made it vital to human civilization through tools and weaponry but also gave it spiritual significance. Alchemists saw iron as the metal of action and transformation, mirroring Mars' role as a force of creation and destruction. Mars/Iron energy was harnessed for both material dominance and spiritual growth, allowing humanity to shape and control nature through force.
In ancient alchemy, Mars and iron were associated with the gallbladder, pancreas, and blood flow, all organs connected to the life force and physical strength. Iron’s role in the body—especially in blood metabolism—reflected the dynamism of Mars, the planet of action and vitality. In a metaphorical sense, iron gave humans the strength to dominate their environment, and the alchemist's goal was to transmute that raw power into a higher spiritual purpose.
This transformation is also tied to iron’s interaction with copper, the metal of Venus. Just as Mars and Venus represent the union of opposites—masculine and feminine, war and love—iron and copper work together in the body. Copper aids iron metabolism, reflecting a dynamic balance between Mars’ fiery action and Venus’ harmonious, nurturing qualities. This relationship is mirrored in nature, where copper and iron are often found together in the Earth, suggesting an alchemical union that produces life-sustaining energy, much like the dynamo that creates electricity from the interaction of these two metals.
On Earth, Mars/Iron’s energy is connected to the third chakra, the solar plexus, which governs personal power, self-confidence, and the processing of thoughts and emotions. This chakra, located just above the navel, stores judgments, opinions, and beliefs about the self, making it a critical center for understanding one’s identity. Mars’ influence on this energy center encourages action, assertiveness, and the ability to go after what one desires. This chakra governs the "digesting" of emotional experiences and external influences, helping individuals develop their own worldview rather than conforming to the opinions of others. Mars energy, then, fuels the courage to face inner fears and confront the challenges of life, pushing us toward personal growth.
For the modern seeker, working with Mars/Iron energy provides the vitality needed to face life’s challenges, forge new paths, and unlock the full potential of the solar plexus chakra—becoming a master of both body and spirit.