Yet, one must not be deceived into thinking this ascent is simple or easily attained. Man, in his primordial state, is weak and lowly, his soul clouded by the veils of worldly attachment and base desire. Just as a mirror tarnished by rust and grime cannot reflect the sun, a soul burdened with impurities cannot reflect the divine light. Therefore, without sincere striving and diligent effort, he will never be able to cleanse these impurities to reach his state of completeness. This path demands struggle, for a treasure of such immense value is not won without toil.
Consider the worldly alchemists. They speak of a science, a *keemiya*, by which they can transform base copper or bronze into shining, precious gold. This art is notoriously difficult to master, its secrets guarded and unreachable to the common man. It is a pursuit that consumes lifetimes, often ending in failure.
Know then, that the spiritual alchemy — the transformation of the soul from its beastly qualities to its angelic potential — is a far greater and more subtle science. It is the true Alchemy. To transmute the lead of a heart enslaved by lust and anger into the gold of a heart filled with divine love and contentment is the most noble work. Yet, this path is even more hidden and unknown to normal people than the secrets of the worldly alchemists. They are busy with the transformation of metals, oblivious to the corrosion within their own souls.
It is for this very reason that I have compiled this book. Seeing this great need and this profound ignorance, I have sought to outline the principles of this sacred science. This book is a guide to that true and everlasting success. It reveals the methods to purify the heart, to discipline the self, and to polish the spirit. Therefore, I have given it the name **’Keemiya-e-Sa’adat’ — ‘The Alchemy of Happiness.’**
For what greater happiness can there be than to achieve success in the sight of your Lord? What wealth compares to a soul at peace? What kingdom rivals the everlasting gardens of proximity to the Divine? This, then, is the chemistry of that success. This is the guide for transforming the base element of your earthly existence into the gold of eternal bliss. Let the one who seeks true and lasting fortune read on, and with an open heart, begin the greatest work of his life.