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Hermeticism
Hermeticism is the philosophical and esoteric tradition that refers to the mythical Hermes Trismegistus, "the thrice greatest", a syncretic Greco-Egyptian figure identified with the god Thoth. The founding texts are the Corpus Hermeticum (2nd-3rd century AD) and the Emerald Tablet, which deeply influenced Renaissance alchemy, astrology and magic.
Hermetic principles
The famous Emerald Tablet summarises the doctrine: "as above, so below" (correspondence between microcosm and macrocosm). The Kybalion (a 1908 text by anonymous authors) elaborates seven hermetic principles: mentalism, correspondence, vibration, polarity, rhythm, cause-effect, gender. The Kybalion is considered a 20th-century popular text, not an ancient historical document.
Historical influence
Hermeticism was rediscovered in the 15th century by Marsilio Ficino, who translated the Corpus Hermeticum for Cosimo de Medici. It influenced Pico della Mirandola, Giordano Bruno, Tommaso Campanella, John Dee and the Rosicrucians. It lies at the root of modern Western esotericism and has left symbols (caduceus, alchemical signs) still in use.
FAQ
Did Hermes Trismegistus exist?
Not as a historical figure. He is a syncretism of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian Thoth. The hermetic texts are by various Greco-Egyptian authors of the Hellenistic age.
Is the Kybalion authentic?
No. It is a 1908 text signed by "three initiates" presenting popular syntheses of hermetic philosophy. It is not an ancient document.
Is it still studied?
Yes, both academically (history of religions, Neoplatonism) and in contemporary esoteric currents (Golden Dawn, OTO, Rosicrucian groups).