Alchemically, the "black" step when the material is "decomposed" into strata, it separates into air, water and earth. Within the water, there will be several layers of things which involves the mastery of the mineral, plant and animal kingdom. In physical alchemy, the time between something becoming moldy until it turns into alcohol.
Putrefaction is ruled by Saturn. The beginning of putrefaction is the true beginning of alchemy, both internal and external.
The next step is distillation, then sublimation. This is the step that you can separate/eliminate what isn't you and perfect/purify the parts that are you and examine them and name them. Then one has the equivalent of a puzzle to fit back together in a better, more effective self.
The sign of the end of the putrefaction step is the peacock's tail (the coat of many colors) symbolizing unlimited potential. See Separation.
Simple experiments with putrefaction can enlighten a person during The Black Night of the Soul. So, if you know you're there,
let something spoil and pay close attention! Watch for any sort of "slick", i.e.
oil slick, that may develop out of this mess. Because, out of this mess is where you want
to be and the rainbow symbolizes this.
See: | Alchemy | Harold's Credentials | The Great Work | Physical Alchemy on Silver | Lead into Gold | The Stone | LUXSource-ry | Lapis - Harold is Successful | Transformative Waters |