Understanding the Conjunction Phase of Alchemy in Spiritual Purification and Its Cosmic Connections

Kerri Ferhaoui
Dec 26, 2025
4 min read

Alchemy is often misunderstood as merely a quest to turn base metals into gold. In reality, it represents a profound spiritual journey toward transformation and purification. One of the most critical stages in this process is the conjunction phase, the third phase of alchemy. This phase symbolizes the union of opposites and marks a pivotal moment in spiritual purification. It also has fascinating connections to certain planets, tarot cards, and astrological signs, which deepen its meaning and offer practical ways to activate this phase in one’s spiritual practice.

What Is the Conjunction Phase in Alchemy?

The conjunction phase, also known as coniunctio, follows the earlier stages of nigredo (blackening or decomposition) and albedo (whitening or purification). During conjunction, the alchemist seeks to unite the purified elements into a harmonious whole. This union represents the merging of dualities such as masculine and feminine, conscious and unconscious, or spirit and matter.

Spiritually, conjunction is about integrating fragmented parts of the self to create balance and wholeness. It is a moment of synthesis where transformation becomes visible and tangible. The alchemist’s work moves from breaking down and cleansing to building a new, unified self.

Cosmic Connections: Planets, Tarot Cards, and Signs

Alchemy’s conjunction phase is deeply intertwined with cosmic symbolism. Ancient alchemists often linked their work to celestial bodies and archetypes, believing that the cosmos mirrored inner transformation.

Planets

Venus: Venus represents love, harmony, and union, making it the primary planetary symbol of conjunction. It governs relationships and the blending of opposites, reflecting the alchemical goal of merging dualities.
Mercury: Mercury symbolizes communication, transformation, and the fluid connection between different states of being. It supports the conjunction phase by facilitating the integration of opposites.
Moon: The Moon’s influence relates to intuition, emotions, and the unconscious. It helps reveal hidden aspects of the self that must unite during conjunction.

Tarot Cards

Certain tarot cards resonate with the conjunction phase’s themes:

The Lovers (Major Arcana VI): This card directly symbolizes union, choice, and harmony between dual forces. It reflects the alchemical marriage of opposites.
Temperance (Major Arcana XIV): Temperance embodies balance, moderation, and the blending of elements, echoing the synthesis achieved in conjunction.
The Magician (Major Arcana I): The Magician represents mastery and the ability to combine different energies into a new creation, much like the alchemist’s work in conjunction.

Astrological Signs

Libra: Libra’s focus on balance, partnership, and harmony aligns with conjunction’s goal of uniting opposites.
Gemini: Gemini’s dual nature and adaptability reflect the merging and communication between different parts of the self.
Pisces: Pisces symbolizes spiritual unity and transcendence, representing the deeper mystical aspect of conjunction.

How to Activate the Conjunction Phase in Spiritual Practice

Activating the conjunction phase involves intentional inner work that encourages integration and balance. Here are practical steps to engage this phase:

1. Embrace Inner Opposites

Identify conflicting parts of yourself—such as fear and courage, logic and intuition, or independence and connection. Instead of rejecting these opposites, explore how they can coexist and complement each other.

Practice journaling to write dialogues between opposing feelings or thoughts.
Use meditation to observe these dualities without judgment.

2. Use Symbolic Tools

Incorporate planetary and tarot symbolism into your spiritual routine to deepen your connection with conjunction energies.

Meditate on Venus or Mercury to invite harmony and transformation.
Draw or reflect on The Lovers or Temperance tarot cards to focus on balance and union.
Align your practice with the energy of Libra or Gemini during their astrological seasons.

3. Cultivate Relationships That Reflect Balance

Since conjunction involves union, relationships can serve as mirrors for this phase.

Seek partnerships that encourage growth and integration.
Practice conscious communication to bridge differences and foster understanding.

4. Engage in Creative Synthesis

Create art, music, or writing that blends contrasting themes or styles. This externalizes the internal process of conjunction and helps solidify the union of opposites.

5. Practice Mindful Rituals

Design rituals that symbolize union, such as lighting two candles together or combining elements like water and earth in a small altar. These acts reinforce the intention to unite and harmonize.

The Spiritual Significance of Conjunction

The conjunction phase is not just a step in alchemical theory but a profound metaphor for personal growth. It teaches that transformation requires embracing complexity and contradiction rather than seeking simple solutions. By uniting fragmented parts of the self, individuals move toward greater wholeness and spiritual clarity.

This phase also prepares the way for the final stages of alchemy, where the new self is solidified and brought into the world. Without conjunction, spiritual purification remains incomplete.

Summary and Next Steps

The conjunction phase of alchemy represents a powerful moment of union and synthesis in spiritual purification. Its connections to Venus, Mercury, the Moon, tarot cards like The Lovers and Temperance, and signs such as Libra and Gemini enrich its meaning and offer practical ways to engage this phase.

To activate conjunction, focus on embracing inner opposites, using symbolic tools, nurturing balanced relationships, expressing creative synthesis, and practicing mindful rituals. These steps support the integration necessary for true transformation.

Exploring conjunction invites a deeper understanding of yourself and your spiritual path. Consider incorporating these practices into your routine and observe how the union of opposites can bring harmony and growth.