For skeptics, astrology often demands concrete proof to be considered valid. However, ancient astrological texts offer an intriguing perspective on its practical applications. Regarded by many as an enigmatic science, astrology finds its roots in universal principles that transcend eras. One of the most notable of these texts is the Emerald Tablet, attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. This iconic document contains the famous Hermetic inscription: "As above, so below; as below, so above." This statement encapsulates the principle of correspondence, one of the foundations of Hermeticism. It suggests a profound interconnection between the macrocosm [the universe] and the microcosm [the individual], asserting that the laws governing the cosmos also apply to human experience. The Emerald Tablet is not only a landmark in alchemical and esoteric traditions but also a source of inspiration for mystics, philosophers, and scientists throughout the centuries. It presents the universe as an integrated and interconnected system, where each part reflects the whole. This holistic view has resonated through the ages, offering insights into the relationship between the cosmos and the human being. The expression "as above, so below" has intrigued people for centuries and is often associated with the phrase "as within, so without." These two expressions are interchangeable and carry a profound meaning that resonates across different esoteric and philosophical traditions. To fully understand this axiom, it is essential to explore a bit of its history. The origin of this phrase traces back to Hermes Trismegistus, a mythical figure symbolizing the fusion of the Greek god Hermes, the Roman god Mercury, and the Egyptian god Thoth. Hermes, in Greek mythology, is the messenger of the gods, while Mercury plays a similar role in Roman mythology. Thoth, on the other hand, is the scribe of the Egyptian gods, creator of hieroglyphs, and revered as a supreme sage. Thoth is often associated with the legend of Atlantis. He is described as a survivor of the destruction of this mythical continent who fled to Egypt. He was worshipped as the creator of alchemy, which later evolved into modern chemistry, and astrology, which transformed into astronomy. Additionally, Thoth was considered the architect of the pyramids and a divine judge in the afterlife. The phrase "as above, so below" reflects the principle of correspondence, one of the pillars of Hermeticism, suggesting that the laws of the macrocosm [the universe] are reflected in the microcosm [the individual]. This principle invites us to perceive the universe as an integrated and harmonious system, where each part mirrors the whole. Similarly, "as within, so without" suggests that our inner world is a reflection of the outer world and vice versa, indicating a profound interconnection between our internal and external lives. Even though these ideas may seem abstract, they are deeply intertwined with the human quest for meaning and understanding, representing the conviction in the relationship between the macro and micro levels, indicating that celestial events impact the terrestrial and vice versa. This rule is essential in alchemy, philosophy, and various esoteric traditions. It proposes that the same laws governing the universe also influence our internal aspects. The ideas of Hermes Trismegistus have had a lasting impact on the realm of esoteric and philosophical thought. His texts, called the Hermetica, address issues of unity and universal correspondence, influencing philosophers throughout the ages and encouraging us to investigate the connection between the macrocosm and the microcosm, thus enabling a deeper understanding of our existence and the world around us. In the book "The Law of One," the concept of social memory is fundamental to Ra's philosophy, describing the conscious union of thoughts, experiences, and knowledge of a society or group. This union results in the formation of a collective mind, where consciousness and understanding are elevated beyond the sum of the individual parts. This allows the society to function as a unified entity, with a significantly higher level of harmony and mutual understanding. The formation of a social memory complex is seen as a crucial step in a civilization's spiritual evolution. When a society reaches this level of unity, telepathic communication becomes the norm, eliminating misunderstandings and promoting a more efficient and clear exchange of information. The wisdom and lessons learned by any individual within this complex are instantly accessible to all members, accelerating collective growth and learning. In Egyptian mythology, Ra is often linked to a versatile entity, encompassing not only the characteristics of the Egyptian god Thoth but also the Greek god Hermes. Thoth, often depicted with the head of an ibis or symbolized by a baboon, is responsible for transmitting divine knowledge to humans, being the scribe and messenger of the gods. In contrast, Hermes, known for his winged sandals and winged hat, is also famous as the swift messenger of the gods in Greek mythology. The Hermetic axiom "as above, so below" carries a depth that transcends the simple correspondence between the macrocosm and the microcosm. This principle is essential for understanding alchemy and the workings of the universe. In the Emerald Tablets, Hermes explores universal laws and alchemical practices, highlighting the interdependence between the individual's inner world and the outer world. This concept not only emphasizes the connection between different levels of existence but also suggests that personal and spiritual transformation can have a direct impact on physical reality. Carl Jung, an avid scholar of ancient wisdom, had a profound respect for the Hermetica a collection of texts that have endured since classical antiquity and significantly influenced medieval alchemists' thinking. He saw in these texts a deep connection between the human psyche and the universe, reflecting a worldview where the macrocosm and the microcosm were interconnected. The influence of the Hermetica on Jung's work is evident in his frequent use of alchemical symbols to illustrate psychological processes. He believed that, just as alchemists sought to transform lead into gold, individuals could transform their darkest aspects into enlightenment and wisdom. The worldview in which the Law of Correspondence operated was notably distinct, and this can be observed in two fundamental ways. First, the ancient and medieval proponents of this law recognized the existence of various "planes" of reality, such as the physical, mental, and spiritual planes, each differentiated by their rates of vibration. The physical plane, being the slowest and densest, corresponds to the material world, while the spiritual plane, the fastest and most subtle, corresponds to the spiritual realm. These planes did not exist in isolation; rather, they interpenetrated one another. According to the Law of Correspondence, an event on one plane would be reflected in the others. Therefore, to gain insights into spiritual reality, a person could examine aspects of their physical life, such as health and wealth. Similarly, to better understand a health issue, one could seek guidance from the spiritual plane, observing dreams and signs. Second, understanding this law also involves the concept of "Unus Mundus," or the unity of all things. Ancient and medieval philosophers believed that everything was interconnected, and thanks to the "sympathy of all things," something seemingly unrelated could influence another thing. In this context, the human body was seen as a microcosm of the world, [the macrocosm.] The individual soul was connected to the Soul of the World [anima mundi]. The seven metals used by alchemists were associated not only with the planets but also with alchemical materials, phases of human life, and zodiac signs. This interconnection also underlies astrology: the heavens the "above"... correspond to the individual, and the configuration of the planets at the moment of birth can provide insights into talents, health, challenges, and destiny. Plotinus, one of the foremost Neoplatonic philosophers, proposed that everything emanated from a single source, the One, and that the material world was a manifestation of this divine source. In practice, this view encouraged a life of balance and harmony, where individuals sought to align their actions with universal laws, recognizing that each thought and action reverberated through the different planes of existence. This idea suggests that the structure of the universe is reflected in our cells, and our electromagnetic structures align with those of the cosmos and the zodiac, as evidenced in horoscopes and astrological charts. Our bodies house energy centers and axiatonal lines, observable in practices such as acupuncture and in chakras, which correspond to the sacred geometry present in the universe. This reveals that there is much more to our being and the universe than we perceive. "As above, so below" means that everything we see down here is reflected up there, and vice versa. The sacred geometry of the universe is also present in the human body, with the constellations reflecting in us. Additionally, the planets exert a tangible influence on our lives on Earth, as demonstrated by horoscopes. The seven chakras, or energy centers along the spine, correspond to the Earth's energy centers, known as the "Axis Mundi," the backbone of the planet. This correspondence between the energy centers of the human body and the Earth reveals a profound interconnection between us and the universe and this next video discusses precisely this topic. If this video made sense to you, write in the comments: "It made sense to me."
