Hermeticism – Ancient wisdom for a better life

Have you ever wondered how ancient wisdom could help you navigate modern life? What if ancient wisdom held the key to mastering your own life, welcome back to conscious power where we dive into the inner workings of the mind to unlock its full potential. From this article, I will unravel the universal wisdom of “The Kybalion” a book based on the teachings that originated from Hermes Trismegistus. The Kybalion penned by the enigmatic 3 initiates was published in 1908 and has become a cornerstone of hermetic philosophy. It offers insight into seven fundamental principles that govern our universe. this ancient wisdom originating from Egypt and Greece is encapsulated in the teachings of Hermes Trismegistus or thrice great. A key part of this philosophy and the teachings of The Kybalion is the seven hermetic principles. These principles, though ancient, remain as relevant today as when they were first penned. They offer us guidelines to understand the fundamental workings of the universe. and more importantly our place within it.  

Hermeticism combines elements of Greek philosophy, Egyptian religion, and Jewish mysticism. At its core, Hermeticism emphasizes the idea that there is a hidden, divine wisdom or knowledge that can be attained through spiritual and intellectual development. It explores the relationship between the divine, the cosmos, and humanity. Hermetic teachings propose that humans can achieve a deeper understanding of the universe by aligning their consciousness with the divine. Hermeticism's influence can still be seen today, particularly in the fields of spirituality, esotericism, and occultism. It continues to inspire individuals seeking mystical and spiritual knowledge, as well as those interested in the hidden dimensions of reality and personal transformation.

1.     The principle of mentalism

“The all is mind the universe is mental”

This principle in essence conveys that the universe is mental in nature. What does this mean? Well, imagine the universe is a vast boundless mind where everything we see touch, and experience is a manifestation of this cosmic consciousness. You see according to the Kybalion, the universe isn't just made up of physical matter and empty space. Instead, it's a vibrant field of energy where everything is in constant motion, and everything vibrates. It’s a principle that modern science supports quantum physics showing us that even the seemingly solid objects around us are at their most basic level made up of energy. The principle of mentalism also implies that our individual minds are part of this universal mind. and our thoughts hold incredible power in shaping the reality around us. your own thoughts, feelings, and attitudes. Have you ever noticed that when you are in a positive state of mind, positive outcomes are more likely to follow? and vice versa when your thoughts are negative it seems as though the world is against you. That’s because your thoughts are not just in your head, they're vibrations you send out into the universe influencing your reality. Your mind is a powerful tool. use it wisely and you could shape your world in a way that best serves you.

2.    The principle of correspondence

“As above so below. As below so above”

The phrase, as above so below is all about mirroring or reflection. It suggests that what happens on a larger scale, for instance in the cosmos, is mirrored on a smaller scale like here on Earth. Similarly, as within so without means what's happening inside of us is reflected in our outside world. the macrocosm (the universe) is in the microcosm (the individual) and vice versa in a practical sense. This means our external reality reflects our internal state. The attitudes, feelings, and thoughts we hold within ourselves can directly influence the circumstances and events we encounter in our daily lives. That’s why it's so crucial to understand this principle when aiming for personal growth and transformation.

3.     The principle of vibration

“Nothing rests everything moves everything vibrates.”

According to this principle, vibrations interact and influence each other. This means that different vibrations can harmonize or clash, affecting the overall state of being and reality. It suggests that all forms of matter, energy, and consciousness are essentially vibrations of varying frequencies. The Principle of Vibration has implications across different aspects of life and existence. It suggests that thoughts and emotions also have their own vibrational frequencies, and they can affect and attract corresponding vibrations or energies. It highlights the interconnectedness and interplay of vibrations within the universe. Understanding this principle can empower individuals to become more aware of the vibrations they emit through their thoughts, emotions, and actions. By consciously aligning their vibrations with positive and harmonious frequencies, individuals can potentially influence their own experiences and attract desirable outcomes.

4.    The principle of polarity

“Everything is due everything has poles opposite in degree extremes meet all truths are but half-truths all paradoxes may be reconciled.”

This principle helps us understand the dual nature of everything in our universe. Every situation, every emotion, every concept has its opposite. they are identical in nature but different in degree. think about it hot and cold are the same thing in temperature but are different in degree. light and dark are varying degrees of light. love and hate are degrees of the same thing emotion. this principle illustrates that these opposites are merely 2 extremes of the same thing with many varying degrees between them. but how does this apply to our daily lives, our emotions, and our personal growth? The principle of polarity suggests that we have the power to shift our feelings along this spectrum by focusing on the opposite pole. imagine our emotions are like a thermometer. feeling down or sad is like being down in the cold zone but we're not stuck there we can turn up the heat toward positivity. This means when we're feeling anxious, we can consciously direct our thoughts and emotions toward calm and visualize ourselves in a peaceful situation. maybe sitting by a quiet lake or walking in a serene forest. When feeling despair or sadness, we can shift our focus toward hope or happiness. recall a happy memory or visual guys achieving.

By acknowledging the existence of polarity, one can seek balance and integration rather than being stuck in extreme viewpoints or behaviors. The Principle of Polarity can be applied to various aspects of life, including relationships, emotions, and personal development. By recognizing that opposing qualities coexist, and that one can learn from both positive and negative experiences, individuals can strive for greater harmony and wholeness in their lives.

5.    The principle of rhythm

“Everything flows out and in everything has its tides all things rise and fall the pendulum swing manifests in everything the measure of the swing to the right is the measure of the swing to the left rhythm compensates.”

The Principle of Rhythm states that everything in the universe operates in a rhythmic and cyclical manner. It suggests that there are patterns, cycles, and rhythms that govern the movement and flow of energy and existence. According to the Principle of Rhythm, everything has its own natural rhythm or cycle. This rhythm can be observed in the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of life. Just as the seasons change, tides rise and fall, and day turns into night, all things experience cycles of growth, decline, and renewal. This principle emphasizes the dynamic nature of existence, highlighting that nothing remains stagnant or fixed. It suggests that understanding and aligning with these natural rhythms can lead to a greater sense of balance, harmony, and flow. The Principle of Rhythm encourages individuals to embrace change and impermanence, recognizing that challenging periods or difficult experiences are temporary and part of a larger rhythm. It invites individuals to flow with the rhythms of life rather than resisting or attempting to control them.

By being aware of the rhythms and cycles that operate within and around them, individuals can make better choices, take advantage of opportune moments, and navigate through challenges more effectively. This principle reminds individuals that just as there are times of expansion and abundance, there are also times of contraction and introspection, and both are integral parts of the overall rhythm of life. This principle encourages individuals to cultivate patience, adaptability, and resilience. It reminds them to honor their own natural rhythms, such as rest and activity cycles, and to seek a balance between action and rest in their daily lives. Also encourages individuals to embrace the ebb and flow of emotions, recognizing that emotions, too, have their own rhythms and cycles. By understanding and accepting these rhythms, individuals can develop a greater sense of emotional well-being and navigate their inner experiences with more ease and understanding.

6.     The principle of cause and effect

“Every cause has its effect every effect has its because everything happens according to law chances but a name for law not recognized there are many planes of causation, but nothing escapes the law.”

This principle is often summarized as every cause has its effect and every effect has its cause. There are no accidents, everything happens according to law. It is deeply embedded in our understanding of the world, even scientifically. It’s the basis for the laws of physics and in a broader sense the concept of karma.

According to this principle, there is an underlying order and interconnectedness in the universe. Nothing occurs randomly or without a reason. Every event, circumstance, and experience have preceding causes that led to its manifestation. Similarly, every action or choice made by an individual will have corresponding effects. The Principle of Cause and Effect suggests that there are underlying laws and mechanisms that govern the relationship between causes and their effects. By understanding and aligning with these causes, individuals can bring about desired effects and outcomes. This principle invites individuals to take responsibility for their actions and choices, recognizing that they play a role in shaping their experiences and reality. It emphasizes that individuals are not mere victims of circumstance but active participants in the unfolding of their lives. Practically, the Principle of Cause and Effect encourages individuals to consider the potential consequences of their thoughts, words, and actions. It invites individuals to be mindful of their intentions and to make choices that align with their desired outcomes. By understanding the principle of cause and effect, individuals can also develop a greater sense of empowerment and self-mastery. They can identify the causes that contribute to their challenges or limitations and work towards addressing and transforming those causes to bring about more positive effects in their lives.

7.   The principle of gender

In the context of this principle, gender does not solely refer to biological sex or human gender identities. Instead, it is a broader concept that recognizes the existence of masculine and feminine energies or qualities in all aspects of existence, both in the physical and metaphysical realms. The Principle of Gender suggests that these masculine and feminine energies are not opposing or conflicting forces, but rather complementary and interdependent aspects that work together to create balance and harmony. They are two poles of a spectrum and can be seen as the yin and yang, active and receptive, or expansive and contractive forces. This principle highlights the idea that creation and manifestation occur through the interaction and integration of masculine and feminine energies. It is through the blending and harmonization of these energies that new forms, ideas, and experiences come into being. In practical terms, the Principle of Gender invites individuals to recognize and embrace the qualities and characteristics associated with both masculine and feminine energies within themselves. It encourages individuals to cultivate a balance between assertiveness, action, and strength (masculine), as well as receptivity, intuition, and nurturing (feminine).

It also underscores the importance of honoring and respecting the diverse expressions of gender within individuals and in society. It recognizes that individuals may embody a combination of masculine and feminine qualities, regardless of their biological sex or gender identity. The Principle of Gender extends beyond the individual and can be applied to relationships, dynamics, and creation in various areas of life. It emphasizes the significance of finding equilibrium and harmonizing the masculine and feminine aspects within oneself and in relationships with others. By understanding and working with the Principle of Gender, individuals can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the interplay of energies, embrace the diversity within themselves and others, and contribute to a more balanced and harmonious existence.