The 7 Hermetic Principles, also referred to as the Principles of Natural Law or the 7 Universal Laws, form the bedrock of modern Hermetic philosophy. Based upon the ancient Hermetic texts and the teachings of Hermes Trismegistus, (the founder of Hermeticism) these principles are universal truths that apply to everything in existence. They are the keys to understanding and mastery of the universe.
Join us as we embark on this journey to unravel the secrets of the 7 Hermetic Principles, and delve into the heart of an ancient wisdom tradition that has shaped cultures, nations, and philosophies for thousands of years.
1. The Principle of Mentalism: The All is Mind
“THE ALL IS MIND; The Universe is Mental.” – The Kybalion. This statement encapsulates the first of the 7 Hermetic Principles – the Principle of Mentalism. It proclaims that the entire universe, with all its material manifestations and phenomena, is fundamentally a product of a divine, cosmic mind. This mind, referred to as THE ALL, is best understood as an infinite, living, universal mind.
The Principle of Mentalism asserts that everything we perceive – matter, energy, and even life itself – is a manifestation of THE ALL, which is essentially divine spirit ,pure consciousness, and the Hermetic concept of what most would call God. The Hermeticists considerd this spirit to be unknowable and undefinable, but the closest definition would be to think of it as an omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient cosmic mind. We exist within this mind, and our existence is shaped by its manifestations.
Understanding this principle equips us with the ability to comprehend the laws of the mental universe and apply them for our own well-being and advancement. By acknowledging that all is mind, we can better control our mental vibrations and navigate the mental and psychic phenomena that baffle many. This understanding is the master-key that unlocks the doors to the temple of knowledge.
2. The Principle of Correspondence: As Above, So Below
“As above, so below; as below, so above.” This axiom succinctly captures the second Hermetic Principle – the Principle of Correspondence. It states that the laws and phenomena on various planes of existence correspond with each other. This principle provides a means for us to comprehend the unknown by studying its correspondence with the known.
The Principle of Correspondence asserts that the patterns we see on one level of reality also play out on other levels, like a cosmic mirror. The microcosm reflects the macrocosm and vice versa. There is a consistent symmetry between the physical, mental, and spiritual realms. By understanding this, we can make sense of the mysteries and paradoxes of nature.
By applying this principle, we can extrapolate the known to explore the unknown. Just as a geometer uses principles of geometry to measure distant suns, we can use the Principle of Correspondence to reason from the seen to the unseen. By understanding the smallest particle, we can comprehend the cosmos.
3. The Principle of Vibration: The Universe is in Constant Motion
“Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.” This is the axiom of the third Hermetic Principle – the Principle of Vibration. It reveals the universal truth that everything in existence is in a state of perpetual motion and vibrates at various frequencies.
This principle states that everything, from the most ethereal spirit to the densest matter, is in a state of vibration. These vibrations range from extremely high frequencies, where motion is so fast it can appear to be at rest, to very low frequencies, which also seem to be at rest due to their slow pace. (As above, so below)
Understanding the Principle of Vibration allows us to control our own mental vibrations and guard against those of others. By mastering this principle, we gain the ability to harness the power of vibration and use it to influence our reality. As The Kybalion notes, (A book on Hermetic philosophy by William Walker Atkinson written under the pseudonym “Three Initiates”) “He who understands the Principle of Vibration has grasped the scepter of power.”
4. The Principle of Polarity: Duality in the All
“Everything is Dual; everything has poles; everything has its pair of opposites.” This is the tenet of the fourth Hermetic Principle – the Principle of Polarity. It conveys the duality inherent in everything in the universe.
The Principle of Polarity presents the concept that all things have two poles or opposites. However, these opposites are merely different degrees of the same thing. For instance, hot and cold are two poles of the same phenomenon, (what we call “temperature”) with the only difference being their degree of intensity and a matter of perception.
Knowing this principle allows us to transmute one state into another. We can change our mental states, and even those of others, from hate to love or fear to courage. This transmutation forms the crux of mental alchemy and is a valuable tool for personal growth and transformation.
5. The Principle of Rhythm: Everything Flows
“Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides.” This is the principle of the fifth Hermetic Principle – the Principle of Rhythm. It embodies the truth that everything exists in a cyclic pattern of ebb and flow, rise and fall.
The Principle of Rhythm explains the cyclical nature of all phenomena. It reveals that there is a rhythm to everything in the universe – a to and fro, an in and out, a swing back and forth. This principle plays out in everything, from the creation and destruction of worlds to the rise and fall of nations, and even our personal lives and mental states.
By understanding and harnessing the power of rhythm, we can rise above its effects to some extent. Through the use of mental neutralization, Hermetic students learn to polarize themselves and neutralize the rhythmic swing of life’s pendulum, achieving a state of poise and mental firmness.
6. The Principle of Cause and Effect: Everything Happens According to Natural Law
“Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its Cause; everything happens according to Law.” This is the essence of the sixth Hermetic Principle – the Principle of Cause and Effect. It encapsulates the law of causality – the concept that nothing happens by chance and everything is subject to the law.
The Principle of Cause and Effect states that every cause has an effect, and every effect arises from a cause. It negates the concept of chance, asserting that even if we are unaware of the causes, they still exist. There is a law governing every event, and nothing can escape this law.
By mastering this principle, we can rise above the plane of blind cause and effect and become conscious causers. We can use this principle to shape our own destiny, make our own “luck”, and become active players in the game of life rather than passive pawns moved by external forces.
7. The Principle of Gender: Yin and Yang are in Everything
“Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine and Feminine Principles.” This forms the basis of the seventh Hermetic Principle – the Principle of Gender. It proclaims that gender exists on all planes of existence and is vital for creation, regeneration, and transformation.
The Principle of Gender denotes that there are masculine and feminine aspects in everything. The most popular representation of this in modern society is the widely known symbol for Yin and Yang. This gender principle is not confined to generation between the two sexes on the physical plane, but also operates on the mental and spiritual planes. It is instrumental in all creation, be it physical, mental, or spiritual.
Understanding this principle illuminates many of life’s mysteries. By recognizing the masculine (yang) and feminine (yin) aspects within ourselves and in the world around us, we can harness the power of both to create and transform our reality.
The 7 Hermetic Principles provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and mastering the universe. By understanding and applying these principles, we can harness the power of Hermetic wisdom, enhance our lives, and become masters of our own destiny.
To learn more about The 7 Hermetic Principles, you can find a copy of “The Kybalion” here
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