Hermeticism is derived from the teachings of Hermes Trismegistus, a notable figure in Greek and Egyptian history. He is often defined as the combination of the Greek God Hermes and the Egyptian God Thoth, whose divine revelation through writings became the source of the early hermetic text. Some findings also suggest that Hermes Trismegistus was the contemporary of Moses and the founder of the early Christian traditions. Whatever the ancient history of Hermes Trismegistus, one thing is clear—the hermetic text consists of some of the most profound theological ideas that lie in the centre of all religions.
Hermetic philosophy in ‘Emerald Tablet’ includes many aspects like Nous, Esoterism, Gnosis, Initiation, the divine nature, and revelations. Thus, it is a collaborative philosophy that brings together traditions worldwide over time. At the same time, the writings suggest a path to seek God through initiation and fulfil human nature’s potential. So, let’s see what the esoteric philosophy holds for us in this modern world.
Historical Mystery of the Term
Hermeticism is an occult philosophy whose roots are spread in Greek tradition through Hermes, the God of language and the Egyptian God of writing, Thoth. Together, these two figures form the figure of Hermes Trismegistus. Additionally, there are instances where the figure has been linked to Moses. Through early hermetic text, one can see the prediction of the forthcoming of Christ—which would ultimately be the reality. The text also has revelations about the divine nature and its trinitarian aspect, making it a predecessor to Christianity.
According to the early hermetic texts, there is the only truth revealed to mankind in every civilisation through messengers. However, over time, the development of religions and cultures suppressed some truth, and thus, there is partial truth left in the core of every religion and culture. Therefore, there is some similarity in the ancient religious texts of different religions even though there are differences on the outside.
As Above, So Below
The phrase. ‘As Above, So Below’ is at the heart of hermetic philosophy as it signifies the relation of the divine sphere with our reality. For instance, the cosmos is one significant entity with celestial planes and objects. Similarly, the human body comprises the same elements in the universe’s macrocosm. A notable distinction suggests the human body’s complexity with the cosmos.
- Universe: Macrocosm
- Human Body: Microcosm
Esoteric Path to Revelation
According to early hermetic, the path to divine revelation is not easy and can only be understood by a small minority. It is a self-realisation process whose basis is kept within people and can not be put in words or language. Moreover, the spiritual path requires a master who initiates the individual on the process, and the divine revelation is termed as Nous—the knowledge and awareness of the divinity.
Awakening Through Master
A master or guide can teach a person the right path of occult spirituality. First of all, the student needs to have the realisation of the truth and the way then only he can fulfil his potential. Secondly, there has to be a search for a capable master who understands the concepts beyond human knowledge. Thirdly, the master will initiate the person by providing the necessitate of the whole process. It is hidden from the outer world, but some explain the attainment of Nous is the sole emphasis of the process.
Concept of Nous and Gnosis
Nous and Gnosis are interchangeable terms for knowledge. However, it is not the human knowledge gathered through rationality; something beyond that lies in the human soul. Nous is the ultimate knowledge of being, which connects us to the divine and helps the initiates reach their destination and potential as human beings. It is not wrong to say that by Gnosis, to be a part of the ultimate source of life—God.
Human Soul: Battleground of Light Against Dark
It is challenging to attain Nous or act out right in our lives. Our body comprises elements which are divergent and have the ability to shape our will. Ancient stoicism teaches us about the virtues of human nature and why we should strive towards them. It’s because our soul is in battle against darkness, which prevents us from reaching the light. Once we overcome the dark traits through our virtues, we can initiate the path of mysticism.
Virtues to Develop And Overcome the Darkness of Our Souls
- Truth
- Wisdom
- Justice
- Courage
- Moderation
Ascension To Higher Realms
After taking control of our body, the person can initiate to the higher realms through the knowledge and practices offered by the master. All these acts should be harmonious and under nature; only one can fulfil the actual process. Once the person delves into the inner spirituality through meditation, they ascend to the realm where ‘All is one and one is all.’ It is the place of divine and ultimate truth.
Embody The Spiritual World
Once the initiation is complete, the pupil is in sync with the cosmos or the divine. Now, everything is more connected to the person because the ultimate truth lies in the spirit of the being. However, hermeticism places good emphasis on the duty of the initiate to bring truth and beauty into the real world. It is a cycle where the spiritual masters become the teachers and ascend to their place while the initiates take their place once they can be the master.
Key Highlights
- Hermeticism is derived from the teachings of Hermes Trismegistus, a notable figure in Greek and Egyptian history.
- Some findings also suggest that Hermes Trismegistus was the contemporary of Moses and the founder of the early Christian traditions.
- Whatever the ancient history of Hermes Trismegistus, one thing is clear—the hermetic text consists of some of the most profound theological ideas that lie in the centre of all religions.
- According to early hermetic, the path to divine revelation is not easy and can only be understood by a small minority.
- Moreover, the spiritual path requires a master who initiates the individual on the process, and the divine revelation is termed as Nous—the knowledge and awareness of the divinity.
- Awakening Through MasterA master or guide can teach a person the right path of occult spirituality.
- Secondly, there has to be a search for a capable master who understands the concepts beyond human knowledge.
- Ancient stoicism teaches us about the virtues of human nature and why we should strive towards them.
- Now, everything is more connected to the person because the ultimate truth lies in the spirit of the being.
- However, hermeticism places good emphasis on the duty of the initiate to bring truth and beauty into the real world.
Some Great Quotes Regarding Hermeticism
- All is one, and one is all
- As Above, So Below
- Man on Earth is Mortal God, while God in heaven is an immortal man
- Speech which comes from silence is salvation
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