The 7 Hermetic Principles of the Kybalion and their meanings

Hermetic philosophy, based on the teachings of Hermes Trismegistus, has profoundly influenced various systems of thought throughout history. The book “The Kybalion” gathers this wisdom through seven fundamental principles that seek to explain the workings of the universe and human life. In this article we explore these principles and their application in daily life, providing a clearer vision of how to understand and use these universal laws.

The book “The Kybalion” and hermetic principles

“The Kybalion” is a text published in 1908 by the Three Initiates, which brings together Hermetic teachings in seven principles. This book seeks to make the ancient Hermetic philosophy accessible to a wider public. The principles explain the laws that govern the universe and offer tools to achieve greater self-knowledge and spiritual growth.

The principles presented in “The Kybalion” cover fundamental aspects of human experience, enabling readers to apply these universal laws in their daily lives. In this way, a deeper understanding of reality is promoted and personal and spiritual development is facilitated.

The 7 Hermetic Laws

The seven Hermetic principles explored in “The Kybalion” are the pillars of Hermetic philosophy: mentalism, correspondence, vibration, polarity, rhythm, cause and effect, and gender. Below, we discuss each of these principles and their significance.

The principle of mentalism: the universal mind

“The whole is Mind; the universe is mental.”

This principle holds that reality is a creation of the universal mind. Everything that exists is the result of infinite mind, and our thoughts are fundamental in the creation of our experience. This implies that consciousness is the source of what we perceive, and suggests that the universe is mental in nature.

By understanding this principle, it is recognized that our thoughts are creative forces. This invites us to cultivate positive thoughts, as we can consciously influence our reality and that of the collective, as all minds are interconnected.

The principle of correspondence: the law of analogy

“The above is as the below. The inside is like the outside.”

This principle establishes a direct relationship between the different planes of existence: physical, mental and spiritual. The patterns that operate in the larger universe (macrocosm) are also reflected in the smaller (microcosm). Thus, we understand the universe better by observing its manifestations at different levels.

It invites us to recognize that our inner thoughts and actions influence our outer reality. By living in a balanced way, we can better attune ourselves to the natural flow of the universe, creating harmony in our lives.

The principle of vibration: constant motion

“Nothing is still, everything moves, everything vibrates.”

This principle explains that everything in the universe is in constant motion. From the smallest particles to celestial bodies, everything vibrates at different frequencies. This reminds us that change is inevitable and constant, and that absolute stability is an illusion.

Every object, thought and emotion has its own vibrational frequency. Maintaining a high and positive vibration allows us to attract harmonious experiences, while a low vibration can generate conflicts or difficulties. This principle teaches us the importance of being aware of the energy we emit.

The principle of polarity: duality and opposites

“Everything is double; everything has two poles; everything has its opposite. Equal and unequal are the same. The extremes touch.”

This principle holds that everything in the universe has two extremes or polar opposites, but that in reality these are different degrees of the same thing. Opposites do not contradict each other, but complement and enrich each other. Understanding this principle allows us to reconcile paradoxes and overcome conflicts.

It teaches us that we can transform our perception of opposites, finding the balance between extremes. By understanding that both good and evil, light and darkness, are aspects of the same reality, we can reach a state of greater peace and understanding.

The principle of rhythm: cycles and tides

“Everything ebbs and flows; everything has its periods of advance and retreat.”

This principle speaks to us of the cyclical nature of life and the universe. Everything follows a rhythm, like the tides of the ocean or the seasons of the year. Life is full of ups and downs, expansion and contraction. The principle of rhythm helps us understand that these fluctuations are normal and necessary for growth.

By accepting natural cycles, we can live with greater patience and understanding, knowing that after every low will come a high. It helps us to navigate the difficult times with confidence and to seize the moments of advancement with wisdom.

The principle of cause and effect: the law of causation

“Every cause has its effect; every effect has its cause.”

This principle states that nothing happens by chance. Every action has a consequence, and every event is the result of a previous cause. Understanding this law allows us to take control of our lives, recognizing that our actions and decisions have a direct impact on our future.

The law of cause and effect motivates us to act consciously and responsibly, knowing that our actions affect both ourselves and others. By understanding the different planes of causality, we can align our intentions with our goals, creating a more harmonious life.

The gender principle: male and female energies

“Gender is in everything; everything has its male and female principles.”

This principle does not refer only to physical sex, but to the presence of masculine and feminine energies throughout the universe. Masculine energy is associated with action, logic and structure, while feminine energy is linked to intuition, receptivity and creativity. Both energies are complementary and are present in all planes of existence.

By seeking a balance between these two energies in our daily lives, we can develop greater internal and external harmony. This principle invites us to integrate both masculine and feminine qualities, allowing us to make more balanced and effective decisions.

Hermetic laws and quantum physics

Hermetic laws have striking similarities with the principles of quantum physics, especially in how both currents view the influence of consciousness on reality. In quantum physics, phenomena such as wave-particle duality and the observer effect highlight the active role that mind can have on matter. This resonates with the principle of mentalism, which holds that the universe is a manifestation of mind.

Similarly, the principle of vibration, which states that everything is in constant motion, finds a reflection in quantum concepts such as fluctuations and the perpetual motion of subatomic particles. Both systems of thought suggest that the universe is in a state of continuous change and that everything is connected at a fundamental level. This connection also relates to the law of correspondence and the rhythmic cycles that govern all existence.

These parallels between hermetic philosophy and quantum physics provide a unique perspective that combines spirituality and science, offering a deeper way of understanding the universe and our relationship with it.

Hermes Trismegistus and the Hermetic Philosophy

Hermes Trismegistus, a mythical figure fusing the Egyptian god Thoth and the Greek god Hermes, is considered the founder of the Hermetic tradition. He is credited with esoteric texts such as the “Corpus Hermeticum” and the “Emerald Tablet”, in which the universal laws and secrets of the cosmos are explored. These teachings have been fundamental in the development of various spiritual and philosophical currents.

Hermetic philosophy is based on the idea that the universe and the human being are intrinsically connected, and that knowledge of this relationship can lead to self-discovery and spiritual evolution. This approach has influenced thinkers and alchemists throughout the centuries, as it goes beyond physical alchemy to focus on spiritual transmutation, or the process of purification and elevation of the soul.

Hermes Trismegistus’ influence was particularly notable during the Renaissance, when his texts were rediscovered and studied by renowned philosophers and scientists. Today, his legacy lives on in those who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and the universe, providing a framework for personal and spiritual growth through the study of his teachings.

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