Theriac (θηριακός)

Multi-component formula used in religious rites and medicine without distinction between the two. The Beast. What humans called gods was molecular interaction.

Orphic Vox

Hidden cult language within ancient texts. A language within a language. Concept attributed to Otto Kern.

Purple Dye

Toxic substance extracted from Mediterranean mollusks. Used in royal and priestly contexts. The substance itself was the power, not the color.

Pharmakeia

Greek term for pharmacy/sorcery/witchcraft. No distinction in original meaning. What became 'religion' was originally chemistry.