The ancient wisdom of Hermeticism has long influenced spiritual seekers, philosophers and mystics. While many New Thought teachings focus on the power of thought and manifestation, there is a deeper, older source of this knowledge: the Hermetic principles. These principles, rooted in ancient Egypt and Greece, were passed down through the ages and distilled into one essential text—The Kybalion.
If you’re a student of New Thought and manifestation, The Kybalion is a must-read. Written by William Walker Atkinson under the pseudonym “The Three Initiates,” it offers profound insights into how the universe operates and, more importantly, how we can work with these universal laws to create the life we desire.
Interestingly, the word Kybalion itself is not an ancient term—it is a made-up word, most likely invented by Atkinson as a way of introducing Hermetic thinking into the New Thought movement. By blending Hermetic principles with New Thought philosophy, Atkinson crafted a bridge between esoteric wisdom and modern spiritual practice, making ancient teachings more accessible to a wider audience. The result is a text that continues to influence spiritual seekers to this day.
Let’s explore the first two of the seven Hermetic principles outlined in The Kybalion, and see how they serve as the foundation for mastering reality.
1. The Principle of Mentalism: “The All is Mind; The Universe is Mental.”
The first Hermetic principle, the Principle of Mentalism, teaches us that everything in existence is created and shaped by the mind. The entire universe—every experience, every outcome—is a manifestation of thought. This principle is fundamental to New Thought teachings, which emphasise the power of thought in shaping reality.
Imagine for a moment that the universe is like a vast mental canvas and our thoughts are the brushstrokes. Just as an artist brings a vision to life on a blank canvas, we bring our desires, fears, beliefs and expectations into existence through our minds. Everything begins in the realm of thought before it becomes manifest in the physical world.
For those practicing manifestation, this principle is incredibly empowering. It reminds us that we are not passive observers in life, but active creators. Every thought we think has the potential to shape our experience, and the more conscious we are of our mental patterns, the more control we have over the outcomes we experience.
How to Apply the Principle of Mentalism:
- Mind your thoughts: Recognise that every thought is a seed. Whether you focus on abundance or lack, love or fear, the universe reflects your dominant thoughts back to you.
- Affirmation practice: Use affirmations to consciously direct your thoughts toward your desires. Affirm what you want, not what you fear.
- Mental visualization: Visualise your goals as already accomplished. Feel the emotions associated with your success, knowing that the universe will respond to the vibration of your mind.
2. The Principle of Correspondence: “As above, so below; as below, so above.”
The second Hermetic principle is the Principle of Correspondence, which reveals the inherent connection between the macrocosm (the larger universe) and the microcosm (our individual experience). This principle teaches us that the patterns, laws, and truths that govern the cosmos also govern us.
On a metaphysical level, this principle shows us that we are not separate from the universe; rather, we are reflections of it. The same laws that govern the movement of planets and stars also govern our thoughts, emotions and actions. Understanding this principle allows us to recognise that by mastering our inner world, we can influence the outer world.
In the context of New Thought and manifestation, this principle helps us understand that our inner state—the thoughts we hold, the emotions we feel—correspond directly with our outer circumstances. If we want to change the conditions of our life, we must first change what’s happening within.
How to Apply the Principle of Correspondence:
- Align your inner world: If you want to manifest abundance, start by cultivating a mindset of abundance. Practice gratitude for what you already have, and focus on the feelings of prosperity, even before the external evidence appears.
- Mirror effect: Notice how your outer reality mirrors your inner state. If there is chaos in your life, reflect on the inner turbulence that might be creating it. If you desire peace, start by fostering peace within.
- Inner mastery leads to outer mastery: Recognise that everything happening “out there” is a reflection of what’s happening “in here.” By mastering your thoughts, emotions and beliefs, you master your reality.
The Kybalion: A Must-Read for Every New Thought Student
The Kybalion is essential reading for anyone serious about understanding the deeper metaphysical principles that govern our universe. William Walker Atkinson, one of the early pioneers of the New Thought movement, captured the essence of ancient Hermetic teachings in this timeless work, making it accessible to modern spiritual seekers.
While New Thought often emphasises the power of positive thinking and affirmations, The Kybalion takes us deeper into the metaphysical laws that explain why our thoughts are so powerful. It provides a philosophical foundation that complements modern practices of manifestation and self-empowerment.
In many ways, The Kybalion offers the “why” behind the teachings of New Thought. Why do affirmations work? Why do thoughts create reality? Why does inner change lead to outer change? The Hermetic principles answer these questions and more, providing a universal framework that can be applied to every aspect of life.
The first two Hermetic principles—Mentalism and Correspondence—form the foundation of understanding how we can shape our reality through thought and consciousness. By recognising that the universe is mental in nature and that there is a direct correspondence between our inner and outer worlds, we gain the power to manifest the life we desire.
As you explore these principles, remember that The Kybalion is more than just a book—it’s a roadmap to mastering reality. Whether you’re new to New Thought or a seasoned practitioner, this timeless text offers valuable insights that will deepen your understanding of how the universe works.
By studying and applying these principles, you can unlock the true potential of your mind and create a life that reflects your highest aspirations. The power is within you—are you ready to use it?
