The Kybalion is a book that purports to describe the principles of the ancient philosophy known as Hermeticism. The book was first published in 1908 and is attributed to three “initiates” known only as “the three initiates.” The Kybalion is based on the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Hermes Trismegistus, who is believed to have lived in the second or third century AD and is considered the patron saint of alchemy and hermeticism.
According to the Kybalion, the universe is governed by seven fundamental principles, known as the “Seven Hermetic Principles.” These principles are:
- The Principle of Mentalism: The universe is made up of pure thought, and everything in the universe is a product of consciousness.
- The Principle of Correspondence: There is a correspondence between the physical world and the spiritual world, and between different levels of consciousness.
- The Principle of Vibration: Everything in the universe is in a state of vibration, and the nature of any object or phenomenon is determined by its rate of vibration.
- The Principle of Polarity: Everything in the universe has its opposite, and these opposites are interconnected and interdependent.
- The Principle of Rhythm: Everything in the universe is subject to cyclical patterns of action and reaction, expansion and contraction, and rise and fall.
- The Principle of Cause and Effect: Every action has an equal and opposite reaction, and everything in the universe is connected in a web of cause and effect.
- The Principle of Gender: Gender is not limited to the physical realm, but is present in all things, and all things have both masculine and feminine qualities.
According to the Kybalion, these principles are the key to understanding the nature of the universe and to achieving spiritual enlightenment. The book also includes guidance on how to apply these principles in daily life, including techniques for meditation and visualization, as well as advice on how to cultivate positive mental attitudes and overcome negative thoughts and emotions.
