The alchemical Apocalypse of Isaac Newton

An analysis of Newton’s main life events and works highlights how his scientific commitment has always been followed by a living interest for theology, Biblical exegesis and alchemy. Chiefly due to a late re-discovery of a great bulk of Newtonian manuscripts, scholars have been able to enquire into the true nature of these documents. Yet nothing has been said about a possible influence of alchemical knowledge over Newton’s Biblical exegesis. One of the main goals of this Ph.D. thesis of mine is to suggest some possible hypotheses about the interaction between Newton’s alchemical mind and his millenarianism. A key role in the development of my criticism will be played by the analysis of some previously unpublished manuscripts gathered in the Yahuda Collection (Jewish National and University Library of Jerusalem).