THE KYBALION --- 10 CHAPTER 10. POLARITY

CHAPTER 10. POLARITY

"Everything is dual; everything has poles; everything
has its pair of opposites; like and unlike are the same;
opposites are identical in nature, but different in degree;
extremes meet; all truths are but half-truths; all paradoxes
may be reconciled."--The Kybalion.
The great Fourth Hermetic Principle--the Principle of Polarity embodies
the truth that all manifested things have "two sides"; "two aspects"; "two
poles"; a "pair of opposites," with manifold degrees between the two
extremes. The old paradoxes, which have ever perplexed the mind of
men, are explained by an understanding of this Principle. Man has
always recognized something akin to this Principle, and has endeavored
to express it by such sayings, maxims and aphorisms as the following:
"Everything is and isn't, at the same time"; "all truths are but halftruths"; "every truth is half-false"; "there are two sides to everything"--
"there is a reverse side to every shield," etc., etc.
The Hermetic Teachings are to the effect that the difference between
things seemingly diametrically opposed to each other is merely a matter
of degree. It teaches that "the pairs of opposites may be reconciled," and
that "thesis and anti-thesis are identical in nature, but different in
degree"; and that the "universal reconciliation of opposites" is effected by
a recognition of this Principle of Polarity. The teachers claim that
illustrations of this Principle may be had on every hand, and from an
examination into the real nature of anything. They begin by showing that
Spirit and Matter are but the two poles of the same thing, the
intermediate planes being merely degrees of vibration. They show that
THE ALL and The Many are the same, the difference being merely a
matter of degree of Mental Manifestation. Thus the LAW and Laws are
the two opposite poles of one thing. Likewise, PRINCIPLE and
Principles. Infinite Mind and finite minds.
Then passing on to the Physical Plane, they illustrate the Principle by
showing that Heat and Cold are identical in nature, the differences being
merely a matter of degrees. The thermometer shows many degrees of
temperature, the lowest pole being called "cold," and the highest "heat."
60
Between these two poles are many degrees of "heat" or "cold," call them
either and you are equally correct. The higher of two degrees is always
"warmer," while the lower is always "colder." There is no absolute
standard-all is a matter of degree. There is no place on the thermometer
where heat ceases and cold begins. It is all a matter of higher or lower
vibrations. The very terms "high" and "low," which we are compelled to
use, are but poles of the same thing-the terms are relative. So with "East
and West"--travel around the world in an eastward direction, and you
reach a point which is called west at your starting point, and you return
from that westward point. Travel far enough North, and you will find
yourself traveling South, or vice versa.
Light and Darkness are poles of the same thing, with many degrees
between them. The musical scale is the same--starting with "C" you move
upward until you reach another "C" and so on, the differences between
the two ends of the board being the same, with many degrees between
the two extremes. The scale of color is the same-higher and lower
vibrations being the only difference between high violet and low red.
Large and Small are relative. So are Noise and Quiet; Hard and Soft
follow the rule. Likewise Sharp and Dull. Positive and Negative are two
poles of the same thing, with countless degrees between them.
Good and Bad are not absolute--we call one end of the scale Good and
the other Bad, or one end Good and the other Evil, according to the use
of the terms. A thing is "less good" than the thing higher in the scale; but
that "less good" thing, in turn, is "more good" than the thing next below
it--and so on, the "more or less" being regulated by the position on the
scale.
And so it is on the Mental Plane. "Love and. Hate" are generally regarded
as being things diametrically opposed to each other; entirely different;
unreconcilable. But we apply the Principle of Polarity; we find that there
is no such thing as Absolute Love or Absolute Hate, as distinguished
from each other. The two are merely terms applied to the two poles of
the same thing. Beginning at any point of the scale we find "more love,"
or "less hate," as we ascend the scale; and "more hate" or "less love" as
we descend this being true no matter from what point, high or low, we
may start. There are degrees of Love and Hate, and there is a middle
point where "Like and Dislike" become so faint that it is difficult to
61
distinguish between them. Courage and Fear come under the same rule.
The Pairs of Opposites exist everywhere. Where you find one thing you
find its opposite-the two poles.
And it is this fact that enables the Hermetist to transmute one mental
state into another, along the lines of Polarization. Things belonging to
different classes cannot be transmuted into each other, but things of the
same class may be changed, that is, may have their polarity changed.
Thus Love never becomes East or West, or Red or Violet-but it may and
often does turn into Hate and likewise Hate may be transformed into
Love, by changing its polarity. Courage may be transmuted into Fear,
and the reverse. Hard things may be rendered Soft. Dull things become
Sharp. Hot things become Cold. And so on, the transmutation always
being between things of the same kind of different degrees. Take the case
of a Fearful man. By raising his mental vibrations along the line of FearCourage, he can be filled with the highest degree of Courage and
Fearlessness. And, likewise, the Slothful man may change himself into an
Active, Energetic individual simply by polarizing along the lines of the
desired quality.
The student who is familiar with the processes by which the various
schools of Mental Science, etc., produce changes in the mental states of
those following their teachings, may not readily understand the principle
underlying many of these changes. When, however, the Principle of
Polarity is once grasped, and it is seen that the mental changes are
occasioned by a change of polarity-a sliding along the same scale-the
hatter is readily understood. The change is not in the nature of a
transmutation of one thing into another thing entirely different-but is
merely a change of degree in the same things, a vastly important
difference. For instance, borrowing an analogy from the Physical Plane,
it is impossible to change Heat into Sharpness, Loudness, Highness, etc.,
but Heat may readily be transmuted into Cold, simply by lowering the
vibrations. In the same way Hate and Love are mutually transmutable;
so are Fear and Courage. But Fear cannot be transformed into Love, nor
can Courage be transmuted into Hate. The mental states belong to
innumerable classes, each class of which has its opposite poles, along
which transmutation is possible.
62
The student will readily recognize that in the mental states, as well as in
the phenomena of the Physical Plane, the two poles may be classified as
Positive and Negative, respectively. Thus Love is Positive to Hate;
Courage to Fear; Activity to Non-Activity, etc., etc. And it will also be
noticed that even to those unfamiliar with the Principle of Vibration, the
Positive pole seems to be of a higher degree than the Negative, and
readily dominates it. The tendency of Nature is in the direction of the
dominant activity of the Positive pole.
In addition to the changing of the poles of one's own mental states by the
operation of the art of Polarization, the phenomena of Mental Influence,
in its manifold phases, shows us that the principle may be extended so as
to embrace the phenomena of the influence of one mind over that of
another, of which so much has been written and taught of late years.
When it is understood that Mental Induction is possible, that is that
mental states may be produced by "induction" from others, then we can
readily see how a certain rate of vibration, or polarization of a certain
mental state, may be communicated to another person, and his polarity
in that class of mental states thus changed. It is along this principle that
the results of many of the "mental treatments" are obtained. For
instance, a person is "blue," melancholy and full of fear. A mental
scientist bringing his own mind up to the desired vibration by his trained
will, and thus obtaining the desired polarization in his own case, then
produces a similar mental state in the other by induction, the result
being that the vibrations are raised and the person polarizes toward the
Positive end of the scale instead toward the Negative, and his Fear and
other negative emotions are transmuted to Courage and similar positive
mental states. A little study will show you that these mental changes are
nearly all along the line of Polarization, the change being one of degree
rather than of kind.
A knowledge of the existence of this great Hermetic Principle will enable
the student to better understand his own mental states, and those of
other people. He will see that these states are all matters of degree, and
seeing thus, he will be able to raise or lower the vibration at will--to
change his mental poles, and thus be Master of his mental states, instead
of being their servant and slave. And by his knowledge he will be able to
aid his fellows intelligently and by the appropriate methods change the
polarity when the same is desirable. We advise all students to familiarize
63
themselves with this Principle of Polarity, for a correct understanding of
the same will throw light on many difficult subjects.

THE KYBALION --- 09 CHAPTER 9. VIBRATION

CHAPTER 9. VIBRATION

"Nothing rests; everything moves; everything
vibrates."--The Kybalion.
The great Third Hermetic Principle--the Principle of Vibration--
embodies the truth that Motion is manifest in everything in the
Universe--that nothing is at rest--that everything moves, vibrates, and
circles. This Hermetic Principle was recognized by some of the early
Greek philosophers who embodied it in their systems. But, then, for
centuries it was lost sight of by the thinkers outside of the Hermetic
ranks. But in the Nineteenth Century physical science re-discovered the
truth and the Twentieth Century scientific discoveries have added
additional proof of the correctness and truth of this centuries-old
Hermetic doctrine.
The Hermetic Teachings are that not only is everything in constant
movement and vibration, but that the "differences" between the various
manifestations of the universal power are due entirely to the varying rate
and mode of vibrations. Not only this, but that even THE ALL, in itself,
manifests a constant vibration of such an infinite degree of intensity and
rapid motion that it may be practically considered as at rest, the teachers
directing the attention of the students to the fact that even on the
physical plane a rapidly moving object (such as a revolving wheel) seems
to be at rest. The Teachings are to the effect that Spirit is at one end of
the Pole of Vibration, the other Pole being certain extremely gross forms
of Matter. Between these two poles are millions upon millions of
different rates and modes of vibration.
Modern Science has proven that all that we call Matter and Energy are
but "modes of vibratory motion," and some of the more advanced
scientists are rapidly moving toward the positions of the occultists who
hold that the phenomena of Mind are likewise modes of vibration or
motion. Let us see what science has to say regarding the question of
vibrations in matter and energy.
In the first place, science teaches that all matter manifests, in some
degree, the vibrations arising from temperature or heat. Be an object
55
cold or hot--both being but degrees of the same things--it manifests
certain heat vibrations, and in that sense is in motion and vibration.
Then all particles of Matter are in circular movement, from corpuscle to
suns. The planets revolve around suns, and many of them turn on their
axes. The suns move around greater central points, and these are
believed to move around still greater, and so on, ad infinitum. The
molecules of which the particular kinds of Matter are composed are in a
state of constant vibration and movement around each other and against
each other. The molecules are composed of Atoms, which, likewise, are
in a state of constant movement and vibration. The atoms are composed
of Corpuscles, sometimes called "electrons," "ions," etc., which also are
in a state of rapid motion, revolving around each other, and which
manifest a very rapid state and mode of vibration. And, so we see that all
forms of Matter manifest Vibration, in accordance with the Hermetic
Principle of Vibration.
And so it is with the various forms of Energy. Science teaches that Light,
Heat, Magnetism and Electricity are but forms of vibratory motion
connected in some way with, and probably emanating from the Ether.
Science does not as yet attempt to explain the nature of the phenomena
known as Cohesion, which is the principle of Molecular Attraction; nor
Chemical Affinity, which is the principle of Atomic Attraction; nor
Gravitation (the greatest mystery of the three), which is the principle of
attraction by which every particle or mass of Matter is bound to every
other particle or mass. These three forms of Energy are not as yet
understood by science, yet the writers incline to the opinion that these
too are manifestations of some form of vibratory energy, a fact which the
Hermetists have held and taught for ages past.
The Universal Ether, which is postulated by science without its nature
being understood clearly, is held by the Hermetists to be but a higher
manifestation of that which is erroneously called matter--that is to say,
Matter at a higher degree of vibration--and is called by them "The
Ethereal Substance." The Hermetists teach that this Ethereal Substance
is of extreme tenuity and elasticity, and pervades universal space, serving
as a medium of transmission of waves of vibratory energy, such as heat,
light, electricity, magnetism, etc. The Teachings are that The Ethereal
Substance is a connecting link between the forms of vibratory energy
known as "Matter" on the one hand, and "Energy or Force" on the other;
56
and also that it manifests a degree of vibration, in rate and mode,
entirely its own.
Scientists have offered the illustration of a rapidly moving wheel, top, or
cylinder, to show the effects of increasing rates of vibration. The
illustration supposes a wheel, top, or revolving cylinder, running at a low
rate of speed--we will call this revolving thing "the object" in following
out the illustration. Let us suppose the object moving slowly. It may be
seen readily, but no sound of its movement reaches the ear. The speed is
gradually increased. In a few moments its movement becomes so rapid
that a deep growl or low note may be heard. Then as the rate is increased
the note rises one in the musical scale. Then, the motion being still
further increased, the next highest note is distinguished. Then, one after
another, all the notes of the musical scale appear, rising higher and
higher as the motion is increased. Finally when the motions have
reached a certain rate the final note perceptible to human ears is reached
and the shrill, piercing shriek dies away, and silence follows. No sound is
heard from the revolving object, the rate of motion being so high that the
human ear cannot register the vibrations. Then comes the perception of
rising degrees of Heat. Then after quite a time the eye catches a glimpse
of the object becoming a dull dark reddish color. As the rate increases,
the red becomes brighter. Then as the speed is increased, the red melts
into an orange. Then the orange melts into a yellow. Then follow,
successively, the shades of green, blue, indigo, and finally violet, as the
rate of sped increases. Then the violet shades away, and all color
disappears, the human eye not being able to register them. But there are
invisible rays emanating from the revolving object, the rays that are used
in photographing, and other subtle rays of light. Then begin to manifest
the peculiar rays known as the "X Rays," etc., as the constitution of the
object changes. Electricity and Magnetism are emitted when the
appropriate rate of vibration is attained.
When the object reaches a certain rate of vibration its molecules
disintegrate, and resolve themselves into the original elements or atoms.
Then the atoms, following the Principle of Vibration, are separated into
the countless corpuscles of which they are composed. And finally, even
the corpuscles disappear and the object may be said to Be composed of
The Ethereal Substance. Science does not dare to follow the illustration
further, but the Hermetists teach that if the vibrations be continually
57
increased the object would mount up the successive states of
manifestation and would in turn manifest the various mental stages, and
then on Spiritward, until it would finally re-enter THE ALL, which is
Absolute Spirit. The "object," however, would have ceased to be an
"object" long before the stage of Ethereal Substance was reached, but
otherwise the illustration is correct inasmuch as it shows the effect of
constantly increased rates and modes of vibration. It must be
remembered, in the above illustration, that at the stages at which the
"object" throws off vibrations of light, heat, etc., it is not actually
"resolved" into those forms of energy (which are much higher in the
scale), but simply that it reaches a degree of vibration in which those
forms of energy are liberated, in a degree, from the confining influences
of its molecules, atoms and corpuscles, as the case may be. These forms
of energy, although much higher in the scale than matter, are imprisoned
and confined in the material combinations, by reason of the energies
manifesting through, and using material forms, but thus becoming
entangled and confined in their creations of material forms, which, to an
extent, is true of all creations, the creating force becoming involved in its
creation.
But the Hermetic Teachings go much further than do those of modern
science. They teach that all manifestation of thought, emotion, reason,
will or desire, or any mental state or condition, are accompanied by
vibrations, a portion of which are thrown off and which tend to affect the
minds of other persons by "induction." This is the principle which
produces the phenomena of "telepathy"; mental influence, and other
forms of the action and power of mind over mind, with which the general
public is rapidly becoming acquainted, owing to the wide dissemination
of occult knowledge by the various schools, cults and teachers along
these lines at this time.
Every thought, emotion or mental state has its corresponding rate and
mode of vibration. And by an effort of the will of the person, or of other
persons, these mental states may be reproduced, just as a musical tone
may be reproduced by causing an instrument to vibrate at a certain rate-
-just as color may be reproduced in the same may. By a knowledge of the
Principle of Vibration, as applied to Mental Phenomena, one may
polarize his mind at any degree he wishes, thus gaining a perfect control
over his mental states, moods, etc. In the same way he may affect the
58
minds of others, producing the desired mental states in them. In short,
he may be able to produce on the Mental Plane that which science
produces on the Physical Plane--namely, "Vibrations at Will." This power
of course may be acquired only by the proper instruction, exercises,
practice, etc., the science being that of Mental Transmutation, one of the
branches of the Hermetic Art.
A little reflection on what we have said will show the student that the
Principle of Vibration underlies the wonderful phenomena of the power
manifested by the Masters and Adepts, who are able to apparently set
aside the Laws of Nature, but who, in reality, are simply using one law
against another; one principle against others; and who accomplish their
results by changing the vibrations of material objects, or forms of energy,
and thus perform what are commonly called "miracles."
As one of the old Hermetic writers has truly said: "He who understands
the Principle of Vibration, has grasped the scepter of Power."

THE KYBALION --- 08 CHAPTER 8. PLANES OF CORRESPONDENCE

CHAPTER 8. PLANES OF CORRESPONDENCE

"As above, so below; as below, so above."--The Kybalion.
The great Second Hermetic Principle embodies the truth that there is a
harmony, agreement, and correspondence between the several planes of
Manifestation, Life and Being. This truth is a truth because all that is
included in the Universe emanates from the same source, and the same
laws, principles, and characteristics apply to each unit, or combination of
units, of activity, as each manifests its own phenomena upon its own
plane.
For the purpose of convenience of thought and study, the Hermetic
Philosophy considers that the Universe may be divided into three great
classes of phenomena, known as the Three Great Planes, namely:
1. The Great Physical Plane.
2. The Great Mental Plane.
3. The Great Spiritual Plane.
These divisions are more or less artificial and arbitrary, for the truth is
that all of the three divisions are but ascending degrees of the great scale
of Life, the lowest point of which is undifferentiated Matter, and the
highest point that of Spirit. And, moreover, the different Planes shade
into each other, so that no hard and fast division may be made between
the higher phenomena of the Physical and the lower of the Mental; or
between the higher of the Mental and the lower of the Physical.
In short, the Three Great Planes may be regarded as three great groups
of degrees of Life Manifestation. While the purposes of this little book do
not allow us to enter into an extended discussion of, or explanation of,
the subject of these different planes, still we think it well to give a general
description of the same at this point.
At the beginning we may as well consider the question so often asked by
the neophyte, who desires to be informed regarding the meaning of the
word "Plane", which term has been very freely used, and very poorly
explained, in many recent works upon the subject of occultism. The
question is generally about as follows: "Is a Plane a place having
45
dimensions, or is it merely a condition or state?" We answer: "No, not a
place, nor ordinary dimension of space; and yet more than a state or
condition. It may be considered as a state or condition, and yet the state
or condition is a degree of dimension, in a scale subject to
measurement." Somewhat paradoxical, is it not? But let us examine the
matter. A "dimension," you know, is "a measure in a straight line,
relating to measure," etc. The ordinary dimensions of space are length,
breadth, and height, or perhaps length, breadth, height, thickness or
circumference. But there is another dimension of "created things" or
"measure in a straight line," known to occultists, and to scientists as well,
although the latter have not as yet applied the term "dimension" to it--
and this new dimension, which, by the way, is the much speculated -
about "Fourth Dimension," is the standard used in determining the
degrees or "planes."
This Fourth Dimension may be called "The Dimension of Vibration" It is
a fact well known to modern science, as well as to the Hermetists who
have embodied the truth in their "Third Hermetic Principle," that
"everything is in motion; everything vibrates; nothing is at rest." From
the highest manifestation, to the lowest, everything and all things
Vibrate. Not only do they vibrate at different rates of motion, but as in
different directions and in a different manner. The degrees of the rate of
vibrations constitute the degrees of measurement on the Scale of
Vibrations--in other words the degrees of the Fourth Dimension. And
these degrees form what occultists call "Planes" The higher the degree of
rate of vibration, the higher the plane, and the higher the manifestation
of Life occupying that plane. So that while a plane is not "a place," nor
yet "a state or condition," yet it possesses qualities common to both. We
shall have more to say regarding the subject of the scale of Vibrations in
our next lessons, in which we shall consider the Hermetic Principle of
Vibration.
You will kindly remember, however, that the Three Great Planes are not
actual divisions of the phenomena of the Universe, but merely arbitrary
terms used by the Hermetists in order to aid in the thought and study of
the various degrees and Forms of universal activity and life. The atom of
matter, the unit of force, the mind of man, and the being of the arch -
angel are all but degrees in one scale, and all fundamentally the same,
the difference between solely a matter of degree, and rate of vibration--
46
all are creations of THE ALL, and have their existence solely within the
Infinite Mind of THE ALL.
The Hermetists sub-divide each of the Three Great Planes into Seven
Minor Planes, and each of these latter are also sub-divided into seven
sub-planes, all divisions being more or less arbitrary, shading into each
other, and adopted merely for convenience of scientific study and
thought.
The Great Physical Plane, and its Seven Minor Planes, is that division of
the phenomena of the Universe which includes all that relates to physics,
or material things, forces, and manifestations. It includes all forms of
that which we call Matter, and all forms of that which we call Energy or
Force. But you must remember that the Hermetic Philosophy does not
recognize Matter as a thing in itself, or as having a separate existence
even in the Mind of THE ALL. The Teachings are that Matter is but a
form of Energy--.that is, Energy at a low rate of vibrations of a certain
kind. And accordingly the Hermetists classify Matter under the head of
Energy, and give to it three of the Seven Minor Planes of the Great
Physical Plane.
These Seven Minor Physical Planes are as follows:
1. The Plane of Matter (A)
2. The Plane of Matter (B)
3. The Plane of Matter (C)
4. The Plane of Ethereal Substance
5. The Plane of Energy (A)
6. The Plane of Energy (B)
7. The Plane of Energy (C)
The Plane of Matter (A) comprises the forms of Matter in its form of
solids, liquids, and gases, as generally recognized by the text-books on
physics. The Plane of Matter (B) comprises certain higher and more
subtle forms of Matter of the existence of which modern science is but
now recognizing, the phenomena of Radiant Matter, in its phases of
radium, etc., belonging to the lower sub-division of this Minor Plane.
The Plane of Matter (C) comprises forms of the most subtle and tenuous
Matter, the existence of which is not suspected by ordinary scientists.
The Plane of Ethereal Substance comprises that which science speaks of
47
as "The Ether", a substance of extreme tenuity and elasticity, pervading
all Universal Space, and acting as a medium for the transmission of
waves of energy, such as light, heat, electricity, etc. This Ethereal
Substance forms a connecting link between Matter (so-called) and
Energy, and partakes of the nature of each. The Hermetic Teachings,
however, instruct that this plane has seven sub-divisions (as have all of
the Minor Planes), and that in fact there are seven ethers, instead of but
one.
Next above the Plane of Ethereal Substance comes the Plane of Energy
(A), which comprises the ordinary forms of Energy known to science, its
seven sub-planes being, respectively, Heat; Light; Magnetism;
Electricity, and Attraction (including Gravitation, Cohesion, Chemical
Affinity, etc.) and several other forms of energy indicated by scientific
experiments but not as yet named or classified. The Plane of Energy (B)
comprises seven subplanes of higher forms of energy not as yet
discovered by science, but which have been called "Nature's Finer
Forces" and which are called into operation in manifestations of certain
forms of mental phenomena, and by which such phenomena becomes
possible. The Plane of Energy (C) comprises seven sub-planes of energy
so highly organized that it bears many of the characteristics of "life," but
which is not recognized by the minds of men on the ordinary plane of
development, being available for the use on beings of the Spiritual Plane
alone--such energy is unthinkable to ordinary man, and may be
considered almost as "the divine power." The beings employing the same
are as "gods" compared even to the highest human types known to us.
The Great Mental Plane comprises those forms of "living things" known
to us in ordinary life, as well as certain other forms not so well known
except to the occultist. The classification of the Seven Minor Mental
Planes is more or less satisfactory and arbitrary (unless accompanied by
elaborate explanations which are foreign to the purpose of this particular
work), but we may as well mention them. They are as follows:
1. The Plane of Mineral Mind
2. The Plane of Elemental Mind (A)
3. The Plane of Plant Mind
4. The Plane of Elemental Mind (B)
5. The Plane of Animal Mind
48
6. The Plane of Elemental Mind (C)
7. The Plane of Human Mind
The Plane of Mineral Mind comprises the "states or conditions" of the
units or entities, or groups and combinations of the same, which animate
the forms known to us as "minerals, chemicals, etc." These entities must
not be confounded with the molecules, atoms and corpuscles themselves,
the latter being merely the material bodies or forms of these entities, just
as a man's body is but his material form and not "himself." These entities
may be called "souls" in one sense, and are living beings of a low degree
of development, life, and mind--just a little more than the units of "living
energy" which comprise the higher sub-divisions of the highest Physical
Plane. The average mind does not generally attribute the possession of
mind, soul, or life, to the mineral kingdom, but all occultists recognize
the existence of the same, and modern science is rapidly moving forward
to the point-of-view of the Hermetic, in this respect. The molecules,
atoms and corpuscles have their "loves and hates"; "likes and dislikes";
"attractions and repulsions". "affinities and non-affinities," etc., and
some of the more daring of modern scientific minds have expressed the
opinion that the desire and will, emotions and feelings, of the atoms
differ only in degree from those of men. We have no time or space to
argue this matter here. All occultists know it to be a fact, and others are
referred to some of the more recent scientific works for outside
corroboration. There are the usual seven sub-divisions to this plane.
The Plane of Elemental Mind (A) comprises the state or condition, and
degree of mental and vital development of a class of entities unknown to
the average man, but recognized to occultists. They are invisible to the
ordinary senses of man, but, nevertheless, exist and play their part of the
Drama of the Universe. Their degree of intelligence is between that of the
mineral and chemical entities on the one hand, and of the entities of the
plant kingdom on the other. There are seven subdivisions to this plane,
also.
The Plane of Plant Mind, in its seven sub-divisions, comprises the states
or conditions of the entities comprising the kingdoms of the Plant World,
the vital and mental phenomena of which is fairly well understood by the
average intelligent person, many new and interesting scientific works
regarding "Mind and Life in Plants" having been published during the
49
last decade. Plants have life, mind and "souls," as well as have the
animals, man, and super-man.
The Plane of Elemental Mind (B), in its seven sub-divisions, comprises
the states and conditions of a higher form of "elemental" or unseen
entities, playing their part in the general work of the Universe, the mind
and life of which form a part of the scale between the Plane of Plant
Mind and the Plane of Animal Mind, the entities partaking of the nature
of both.
The Plane of Animal Mind, in its seven sub-divisions, comprises the
states and conditions of the entities, beings, or souls, animating the
animal forms of life, familiar to us all. It is not necessary to go into
details regarding this kingdom or plane of life, for the animal world is as
familiar to us as is our own.
The Plane of Elemental Mind (C), in its seven sub-divisions, comprises
those entities or beings, invisible as are all such elemental forms, which
partake of the nature of both animal and human life in a degree and in
certain combinations. The highest forms are semi-human in intelligence.
The Plane of Human Mind, in its seven sub-divisions, comprises those
manifestations of life and mentality which are common to Man, in his
various grades, degrees, and divisions. In this connection, we wish to
point out the fact that the average man of today occupies but the fourth
sub-division of the Plane of Human Mind, and only the most intelligent
have crossed the borders of the Fifth Sub-Division. It has taken the race
millions of years to reach this stage, and it will take many more years for
the race to move on to the sixth and seventh sub-divisions, and beyond.
But, remember, that there have been races before us which have passed
through these degrees, and then on to higher planes. Our own race is the
fifth (with stragglers from the fourth) which has set foot upon The Path.
And, then there are a few advanced souls of our own race who have
outstripped the masses, and who have passed on to the sixth and seventh
sub-division, and some few being still further on. The man of the Sixth
Sub-Division will be "The Super-Man"; he of the Seventh will be "The
Over-Man."
In our consideration of the Seven Minor Mental Planes, we have merely
referred to the Three Elementary Planes in a general way. We do not
50
wish to go into this subject in detail in this work, for it does not belong to
this part of the general philosophy and teachings. But we may say this
much, in order to give you a little clearer idea, of the relations of these
planes to the more familiar ones--the Elementary Planes bear the same
relation to the Planes of Mineral, Plant, Animal and Human Mentality
and Life, that the black keys on the piano do to the white keys. The white
keys are sufficient to produce music, but there are certain scales,
melodies, and harmonies, in which the black keys play their part, and in
which their presence is necessary. They are also necessary as "connecting
links" of soul-condition; entity states, etc., between the several other
planes, certain forms of development being attained therein--this last
fact giving to the reader who can "read between the lines" a new light
upon the processes of Evolution, and a new key to the secret door of the
"leaps of life" between kingdom and kingdom. The great kingdoms of
Elementals are fully recognized by all occultists, and the esoteric writings
are full of mention of them. The readers of Bulwer's "Sanoni" and similar
tales will recognize the entities inhabiting these planes of life.
Passing on from the Great Mental Plane to the Great Spiritual Plane,
what shall we say? How can we explain these higher states of Being, Life
and Mind, to minds as yet unable to grasp and understand the higher
subdivisions of the Plane of Human Mind? The task is impossible. We
can speak only in the most general terms. How may Light be described to
a man born blind--how sugar, to a man who has never tasted anything
sweet--how harmony, to one born deaf?
All that we can say is that the Seven Minor Planes of the Great Spiritual
Plane (each Minor Plane having its seven sub-divisions) comprise Beings
possessing Life, Mind and Form as far above that of Man of to-day as the
latter is above the earth-worm, mineral or even certain forms of Energy
or Matter. The Life of these Beings so far transcends ours, that we cannot
even think of the details of the same; their minds so far transcend ours,
that to them we scarcely seem to "think," and our mental processes seem
almost akin to material processes; the Matter of which their forms are
composed is of the highest Planes of Matter, nay, some are even said to
be "clothed in Pure Energy." What may be said of such Beings?
On the Seven Minor Planes of the Great Spiritual Plane exist Beings of
whom we may speak as Angels; Archangels; Demi-Gods. On the lower
51
Minor Planes dwell those great souls whom we call Masters and Adepts.
Above them come the Great Hierarchies of the Angelic Hosts,
unthinkable to man; and above those come those who may without
irreverence be called "The Gods," so high in the scale of Being are they,
their being, intelligence and power being akin to those attributed by the
races of men to their conceptions of Deity. These Beings are beyond even
the highest flights of the human imagination, the word "Divine" being
the only one applicable to them. Many of these Beings, as well as the
Angelic Host, take the greatest interest in the affairs of the Universe and
play an important part in its affairs. These Unseen Divinities and Angelic
Helpers extend their influence freely and powerfully, in the process of
Evolution, and Cosmic Progress. Their occasional intervention and
assistance in human affairs have led to the many legends, beliefs,
religions and traditions of the race, past and present. They have
superimposed their knowledge and power upon the world, again and
again, all under the Law of THE ALL, of course.
But, yet, even the highest of these advanced Beings exist merely as
creations of, and in, the Mind of THE ALL, and are subject to the Cosmic
Processes and Universal Laws. They are still Mortal. We may call them
"gods" if we like, but still they are but the Elder Brethren of the Race,--
the advanced souls who have outstripped their brethren, and who have
foregone the ecstasy of Absorption by THE ALL, in order to help the race
on its upward journey along The Path. But, they belong to the Universe,
and are subject to its conditions--they are mortal--and their plane is
below that of Absolute Spirit.
Only the most advanced Hermetists are able to grasp the Inner
Teachings regarding the state of existence, and the powers manifested on
the Spiritual Planes. The phenomena is so much higher than that of the
Mental Planes that a confusion of ideas would surely result from an
attempt to describe the same. Only those whose minds have been
carefully trained along the lines of the Hermetic Philosophy for years--
yes, those who have brought with them from other incarnations the
knowledge acquired previously--can comprehend just what is meant by
the Teaching regarding these Spiritual Planes. And much of these Inner
Teachings is held by the Hermetists as being too sacred, important and
even dangerous for general public dissemination. The intelligent student
may recognize what we mean by this when we state that the meaning of
52
"Spirit" as used by the Hermetists is akin to "Living Power"; "Animated
Force;" "Inner Essence;" "Essence of Life," etc., which meaning must not
be confounded with that usually and commonly employed in connection
with the term, i.e., "religious; ecclesiastical; spiritual; ethereal; holy,"
etc., etc. To occultists the word "Spirit" is used in the sense of "The
Animating Principle," carrying with it the idea of Power, Living Energy,
Mystic Force, etc. And occultists know that that which is known to them
as "Spiritual Power" may be employed for evil as well as good ends (in
accordance with the Principle of Polarity), a fact which has been
recognized by the majority of religions in their conceptions of Satan,
Beelzebub, the Devil, Lucifer, Fallen Angels, etc. And so the knowledge
regarding these Planes has been kept in the Holy of Holies in all Esoteric
Fraternities and Occult Orders,--in the Secret Chamber of the Temple.
But this may be said here, that those who have attained high spiritual
powers and have misused them, have a terrible fate in store for them,
and the swing of the pendulum of Rhythm will inevitably swing them
back to the furthest extreme of Material existence, from which point they
must retrace their steps Spiritward, along the weary rounds of The Path,
but always with the added torture of having always with them a lingering
memory of the heights from which they fell owing to their evil actions.
The legends of the Fallen Angels have a basis in actual facts, as all
advanced occultists know. The striving for selfish power on the Spiritual
Planes inevitably results in the selfish soul losing its spiritual balance
and falling back as far as it had previously risen. But to even such a soul,
the opportunity of a return is given--and such souls make the return
journey, paying the terrible penalty according to the invariable Law.
In conclusion we would again remind you that according to the Principle
of Correspondence, which embodies the truth: "As Above so Below; as
Below, so Above," all of the Seven Hermetic Principles are in full
operation on all of the many planes, Physical Mental and Spiritual. The
Principle of Mental Substance of course applies to all the planes, for all
are held in the Mind of THE ALL. The Principle of Correspondence
manifests in all, for there is a correspondence, harmony and agreement
between the several planes. The Principle of Vibration manifests on all
planes, in fact the very differences that go to make the "planes" arise
from Vibration, as we have explained. The Principle of Polarity manifests
on each plane, the extremes of the Poles being apparently opposite and
53
contradictory. The Principle of Rhythm manifests on each Plane, the
movement of the phenomena having its ebb and flow, rise and flow,
incoming and outgoing. The Principle of Cause and Effect manifests on
each Plane, every Effect having its Cause and every Cause having its
effect. The Principle of Gender manifests on each Plane, the Creative
Energy being always manifest, and operating along the lines of its
Masculine and Feminine Aspects.
"As Above so Below; as Below, so Above." This centuries old Hermetic
axiom embodies one of the great Principles of Universal Phenomena. As
we proceed with our consideration of the remaining Principles, we will
see even more clearly the truth of the universal nature of this great
Principle of Correspondence.

THE KYBALION --- 07 CHAPTER 7. "THE ALL" IN ALL

CHAPTER 7. "THE ALL" IN ALL

"While All is in THE ALL, it is equally true that THE
ALL is in ALL. To him who truly understands this
truth hath come great knowledge."--The Kybalion.
How often have the majority of people heard repeated the statement that
their Deity (called by many names) was "All in All" and how little have
they suspected the inner occult truth concealed by these carelessly
uttered words? The commonly used expression is a survival of the
ancient Hermetic Maxim quoted above. As the Kybalion says: "To him
who truly understands this truth, hath come great knowledge." And, this
being so, let us seek this truth, the understanding of which means so
much. In this statement of truth--this Hermetic Maxim--is concealed one
of the greatest philosophical, scientific and religious truths.
We have given you the Hermetic Teaching regarding the Mental Nature
of the Universe--the truth that "the Universe is Mental--held in the Mind
of THE ALL." As the Kybalion says, in the passage quoted above: "All is
in THE ALL." But note also the co-related statement, that: "It is equally
true that THE ALL is in ALL." This apparently contradictory statement is
reconcilable under the Law of Paradox. It is, moreover, an exact
Hermetic statement of the relations existing between THE ALL and its
Mental Universe. We have seen how "All is in THE ALL"--now let us
examine the other aspect of the subject.
The Hermetic Teachings are to the effect that THE ALL is Imminent in
("remaining within; inherent; abiding within") its Universe, and in every
part, particle, unit, or combination, within the Universe. This statement
is usually illustrated by the Teachers by a reference to the Principle of
Correspondence. The Teacher instructs the student to form a Mental
Image of something, a person, an idea, something having a mental form,
the favorite example being that of the author or dramatist forming an
idea of his characters; or a painter or sculptor forming an image of an
ideal that he wishes to express by his art. In each case, the student will
find that while the image has its existence, and being, solely within his
own mind, yet he, the student, author, dramatist, painter, or sculptor, is,
38
in a sense, immanent in; remaining within; or abiding within, the mental
image also. In other words, the entire virtue, life, spirit, of reality in the
mental image is derived from the "immanent mind" of the thinker.
Consider this for a moment, until the idea is grasped.
To take a modern example, let us say that Othello, Iago, Hamlet, Lear,
Richard III, existed merely in the mind of Shakespeare, at the time of
their conception or creation. And yet, Shakespeare also existed within
each of these characters, giving them their vitality, spirit, and action.
Whose is the "spirit" of the characters that we know as Micawber, Oliver
Twist, Uriah Heep--is it Dickens, or have each of these characters a
personal spirit, independent of their creator? Have the Venus of Medici,
the Sistine Madonna, the Apollo Belvidere, spirits and reality of their
own, or do they represent the spiritual and mental power of their
creators? The Law of Paradox explains that both propositions are true,
viewed from the proper viewpoints. Micawber is both Micawber, and yet
Dickens. And, again, while Micawber may be said to be Dickens, yet
Dickens is not identical with Micawber. Man, like Micawber, may
exclaim: "The Spirit of my Creator is inherent within me-- and yet I am
not HE!" How different this from the shocking half-truth so vociferously
announced by certain of the half-wise, who fill the air with their raucous
cries of: "I am God!" Imagine poor Micawber, or the sneaky Uriah Heep,
crying: "I Am Dickens"; or some of the lowly clods in one of
Shakespeare's plays, eloquently announcing that: "I Am Shakespeare!"
THE ALL is in the earthworm, and yet the earth-worm is far from being
THE ALL. And still the wonder remains, that though the earth-worm
exists merely as a lowly thing, created and having its being solely within
the Mind of THE ALL--yet THE ALL is immanent in the earthworm, and
in the particles that go to make up the earth-worm. Can there be any
greater mystery than this of "All in THE ALL; and THE ALL in All?"
The student will, of course, realize that the illustrations given above are
necessarily imperfect and inadequate, for they represent the creation of
mental images in finite minds, while the Universe is a creation of Infinite
Mind--and the difference between the two poles separates them. And yet
it is merely a matter of degree--the same Principle is in operation--the
Principle of Correspondence manifests in each--"As above, so Below; as
Below, so above."
39
And, in the degree that Man realizes the existence of the Indwelling
Spirit immanent within his being, so will he rise in the spiritual scale of
life. This is what spiritual development means--the recognition,
realization, and manifestation of the Spirit within us. Try to remember
this last definition--that of spiritual development. It contains the Truth
of True Religion.
There are many planes of Being--many sub-planes of Life--many degrees
of existence in the Universe. And all depend upon the advancement of
beings in the scale, of which scale the lowest point is the grossest matter,
the highest being separated only by the thinnest division from the
SPIRIT of THE ALL. And, upward and onward along this Scale of Life,
everything is moving. All are on the Path, whose end is THE ALL. All
progress is a Returning Home. All is Upward and Onward, in spite of all
seemingly contradictory appearances. Such is the message of the
Illumined.
The Hermetic Teachings concerning the process of the Mental Creation
of the Universe, are that at the beginning of the Creative Cycle, THE
ALL, in its aspect of Being, projects its Will toward its aspect of
"Becoming" and the process of creation begins. It is taught that the
process consists of the lowering of Vibration until a very low degree of
vibratory energy is reached, at which point the grossest possible form of
Matter is manifested. This process is called the stage of Involution, in
which THE ALL becomes "involved," or "wrapped up," in its creation.
This process is believed by the Hermetists to have a Correspondence to
the mental process of an artist, writer, or inventor, who becomes so
wrapped up in his mental creation as to almost forget his own existence
and who, for the time being, almost "lives in his creation," If instead of
"wrapped" we use the word "rapt," perhaps we will give a better idea of
what is meant.
This Involuntary stage of Creation is sometimes called the "Outpouring"
of the Divine Energy, just as the Evolutionary state is called the
"Indrawing." The extreme pole of the Creative process is considered to
be the furthest removed from THE ALL, while the beginning of the
Evolutionary stage is regarded as the beginning of the return swing of
the pendulum of Rhythm--a "coming home" idea being held in all of the
Hermetic Teachings.
40
The Teachings are that during the "Outpouring," the vibrations become
lower and lower until finally the urge ceases, and the return swing
begins. But there is this difference, that while in the "Outpouring" the
creative forces manifest compactly and as a whole, yet from the
beginning of the Evolutionary or "Indrawing" stage, there is manifested
the Law of Individualization--that is, the tendency to separate into Units
of Force, so that finally that which left THE ALL as unindividualized
energy returns to its source as countless highly developed Units of Life,
having risen higher and higher in the scale by means of Physical, Mental
and Spiritual Evolution.
The ancient Hermetists use the word "Meditation" in describing the
process of the mental creation of the Universe in the Mind of THE ALL,
the word "Contemplation" also being frequently employed. But the idea
intended seems to be that of the employment of the Divine Attention.
"Attention" is a word derived from the Latin root, meaning "to reach out;
to stretch out," and so the act of Attention is really a mental "reaching
out; extension" of mental energy, so that the underlying idea is readily
understood when we examine into the real meaning of "Attention."
The Hermetic Teachings regarding the process of Evolution are that,
THE ALL, having meditated upon the beginning of the Creation--having
thus established the material foundations of the Universe--having
thought it into existence--then gradually awakens or rouses from its
Meditation and in so doing starts into manifestation the process of
Evolution, on the material mental and spiritual planes, successively and
in order. Thus the upward movement begins--and all begins to move
Spiritward. Matter becomes less gross; the Units spring into being; the
combinations begin to form; Life appears and manifests in higher and
higher forms; and Mind becomes more and more in evidence--the
vibrations constantly becoming higher. In short, the entire process of
Evolution, in all of its phases, begins, and proceeds according to the
established "Laws of the Indrawing" process. All of this occupies aeons
upon aeons of Man's time, each aeon containing countless millions of
years, but yet the Illumined inform us that the entire creation, including
Involution and Evolution, of an Universe, is but "as the twinkle of the
eye" to THE ALL. At the end of countless cycles of aeons of time, THE
ALL withdraws its Attention--its Contemplation and Meditation--of the
Universe, for the Great Work is finished--and All is withdrawn into THE
41
ALL from which it emerged. But Mystery of Mysteries--the Spirit of each
soul is not annihilated, but is infinitely expanded--the Created and the
Creator are merged. Such is the report of the Illumined!
The above illustration of the "meditation," and subsequent "awakening
from meditation," of THE ALL, is of course but an attempt of the
teachers to describe the Infinite process by a finite example. And, yet:
"As Below, so Above." The difference is merely in degree. And just as
THE ALL arouses itself from the meditation upon the Universe, so does
Man (in time) cease from manifesting upon the Material Plane, and
withdraws himself more and more into the Indwelling Spirit, which is
indeed "The Divine Ego."
There is one more matter of which we desire to speak in this lesson, and
that comes very near to an invasion of the Metaphysical field of
speculation, although our purpose is merely to show the futility of such
speculation. We allude to the question which inevitably comes to the
mind of all thinkers who have ventured to seek the Truth. The question
is: "WHY does THE ALL create Universes" The question may be asked in
different forms, but the above is the gist of the inquiry.
Men have striven hard to answer this question, but still there is no
answer worthy of the name. Some have imagined that THE ALL had
something to gain by it, but this is absurd, for what could THE ALL gain
that it did not already possess? Others have sought the answer in the
idea that THE ALL "wished something to love" and others that it created
for pleasure, or amusement; or because it "was lonely" or to manifest its
power;--all puerile explanations and ideas, belonging to the childish
period of thought.
Others have sought to explain the mystery by assuming that THE ALL
found itself "compelled" to create, by reason of its own "internal nature"-
-its "creative instinct." This idea is in advance of the others, but its weak
point lies in the idea of THE ALL being "compelled" by anything,
internal or external. If its "internal nature," or "creative instinct,"
compelled it to do anything, then the "internal nature" or "creative
instinct" would be the Absolute, instead of THE ALL, and so accordingly
that part of the proposition falls. And, yet, THE ALL does create and
manifest, and seems to find some kind of satisfaction in so doing. And it
is difficult to escape the conclusion that in some infinite degree it must
42
have what would correspond to an "inner nature," or "creative instinct,"
in man, with correspondingly infinite Desire and Will. It could not act
unless it Willed to Act; and it would not Will to Act, unless it Desired to
Act and it would not Desire to Act unless it obtained some Satisfaction
thereby. And all of these things would belong to an "Inner Nature," and
might be postulated as existing according to the Law of Correspondence.
But, still, we prefer to think of THE ALL as acting entirely FREE from
any influence, internal as well as external. That is the problem which lies
at the root of difficulty--and the difficulty that lies at the root of the
problem.
Strictly speaking, there cannot be said to be any "Reason" whatsoever for
THE ALL to act, for a "reason" implies a "cause," and THE ALL is above
Cause and Effect, except when it Wills to become a Cause, at which time
the Principle is set into motion. So, you see, the matter is Unthinkable,
just as THE ALL is Unknowable. Just as we say THE ALL merely "IS"--so
we are compelled to say that "THE ALL ACTS BECAUSE IT ACTS." At
the last, THE ALL is All Reason in Itself; All Law in Itself; All Action in
Itself--and it may be said, truthfully, that THE ALL is Its Own Reason;
its own Law; its own Act--or still further, that THE ALL; Its Reason; Its
Act; is Law; are ONE, all being names for the same thing. In the opinion
of those who are giving you these present lessons, the answer is locked
up in the INNER SELF of THE ALL, along with its Secret of Being. The
Law of Correspondence, in our opinion, reaches only to that aspect of
THE ALL, which may be spoken of as "The Aspect of BECOMING." Back
of that Aspect is "The Aspect of BEING" in which all Laws are lost in
LAW; all Principles merge into PRINCIPLE--and THE ALL;
PRINCIPLE; and BEING; are IDENTICAL, ONE AND THE SAME.
Therefore, Metaphysical speculation on this point is futile. We go into
the matter here, merely to show that we recognize the question, and also
the absurdity of the ordinary answers of metaphysics and theology.
In conclusion, it may be of interest to our students to learn that while
some of the ancient, and modern, Hermetic Teachers have rather
inclined in the direction of applying the Principle of Correspondence to
the question, with the result of the "Inner Nature" conclusion,--still the
legends have it that HERMES, the Great, when asked this question by his
advanced students, answered them by PRESSING HIS LIPS TIGHTLY
TOGETHER and saying not a word, indicating that there WAS NO
43
ANSWER. But, then, he may have intended to apply the axiom of his
philosophy, that: "The lips of Wisdom are closed, except to the ears of
Understanding," believing that even his advanced students did not
possess the Understanding which entitled them to the Teaching. At any
rate, if Hermes possessed the Secret, he failed to impart it, and so far as
the world is concerned THE LIPS OF HERMES ARE CLOSED regarding
it. And where the Great Hermes hesitated to speak, what mortal may
dare to teach?
But, remember, that whatever be the answer to this problem, if indeed
there be an answer the truth remains that: "While All is in THE ALL, it is
equally true that THE ALL is in All." The Teaching on this point is
emphatic. And, we may add the concluding words of the quotation: "To
him who truly understands this truth, hath come great knowledge."

THE KYBALION --- 06 CHAPTER 6. THE DIVINE PARADOX

CHAPTER 6. THE DIVINE PARADOX

"The half-wise, recognizing the comparative unreality of
the Universe, imagine that they may defy its Laws--such
are vain and presumptuous fools, and they are broken against
the rocks and torn asunder by the elements by reason of
their folly. The truly wise, knowing the nature of the Universe,
use Law against laws; the higher against the lower; and by
the Art of Alchemy transmute that which is undesirable into
that which is worthy, and thus triumph. Mastery consists not
in abnormal dreams, visions and fantastic imaginings or
living, but in using the higher forces against the lower--escaping
the pains of the lower planes by vibrating on the higher.
Transmutation, not presumptuous denial, is the weapon of the
Master."--The Kybalion.
This is the Paradox of the Universe, resulting from the Principle of
Polarity which manifests when THE ALL begins to Create--hearken to it
for it points the difference between half-wisdom and wisdom. While to
THE INFINITE ALL, the Universe, its Laws, its Powers, its life, its
Phenomena, are as things witnessed in the state of Meditation or Dream;
yet to all that is Finite, the Universe must be treated as Real, and life, and
action, and thought, must be based thereupon, accordingly, although
with an ever understanding of the Higher Truth. Each according to its
own Plane and Laws. Were THE ALL to imagine that the Universe were
indeed Reality, then woe to the Universe, for there would be then no
escape from lower to higher, divineward--then would the Universe
become a fixity and progress would become impossible. And if Man,
owing to half-wisdom, acts and lives and thinks of the Universe as
merely a dream (akin to his own finite dreams) then indeed does it so
become for him, and like a sleep-walker he stumbles ever around and
around in a circle, making no progress, and being forced into an
awakening at last by his falling bruised and bleeding over the Natural
Laws which he ignored. Keep your mind ever on the Star, but let your
eyes watch over your footsteps, lest you fall into the mire by reason of
your upward gaze. Remember the Divine Paradox, that while the
30
Universe IS NOT, still IT IS. Remember ever the Two Poles of Truth the
Absolute and the Relative. Beware of Half-Truths.
What Hermetists know as "the Law of Paradox" is an aspect of the
Principle of Polarity. The Hermetic writings are filled with references to
the appearance of the Paradox in the consideration of the problems of
Life and Being. The Teachers are constantly warning their students
against the error of omitting the "other side" of any question. And their
warnings are particularly directed to the problems of the Absolute and
the Relative, which perplex all students of philosophy, and which cause
so many to think and act contrary to what is generally known as
"common sense." And we caution all students to be sure to grasp the
Divine Paradox of the Absolute and Relative, lest they become entangled
in the mire of the Half-Truth. With this in view this particular lesson has
been written. Read it carefully!
The first thought that comes to the thinking man after he realizes the
truth that the Universe is a Mental Creation of THE ALL, is that the
Universe and all that it contains is a mere illusion; an unreality; against
which idea his instincts revolt. But this, like all other great truths, must
be considered both from the Absolute and the Relative points of view.
From the Absolute viewpoint, of course, the Universe is in the nature of
an illusion, a dream, a phantasmagoria, as compared to THE ALL in
itself. We recognize this even in our ordinary view, for we speak of the
world as "a fleeting show" that comes and goes, is born and dies--for the
element of impermanence and change, finiteness and unsubstantiality,
must ever be connected with the idea of a created Universe when it is
contrasted with the idea of THE ALL, no matter what may be our beliefs
concerning the nature of both. Philosopher, metaphysician, scientist and
theologian all agree upon this idea, and the thought is found in all forms
of philosophical thought and religious conceptions, as well as in the
theories of the respective schools of metaphysics and theology.
So, the Hermetic Teachings do not preach the unsubstantiality of the
Universe in any stronger terms than those more familiar to you, although
their presentation of the subject may seem somewhat more startling.
Anything that has a beginning and an ending must be, in a sense, unreal
and untrue, and the Universe comes under the rule, in all schools of
thought. From the Absolute point of view, there is nothing Real except
31
THE ALL, no matter what terms we may use in thinking of, or discussing
the subject. Whether the Universe be created of Matter, or whether it be
a Mental Creation in the Mind of THE ALL--it is unsubstantial, nonenduring, a thing of time, space and change. We want you to realize this
fact thoroughly, before you pass judgment on the Hermetic conception of
the Mental nature of the Universe. Think over any and all of the other
conceptions, and see whether this be not true of them.
But the Absolute point of view shows merely one side of the picture--the
other side is the Relative one. Absolute Truth has been defined as
"Things as the mind of God knows them," while Relative Truth is "Things
as the highest reason of Man understands them." And so while to THE
ALL the Universe must be unreal and illusionary, a mere dream or result
of meditation,--nevertheless, to the finite minds forming a part of that
Universe, and viewing it through mortal faculties, the Universe is very
real indeed, and must be so considered. In recognizing the Absolute
view, we must not make the mistake of ignoring or denying the facts and
phenomena of the Universe as they present themselves to our mortal
faculties--we are not THE ALL, remember.
To take familiar illustrations, we all recognize the fact that matter
"exists" to our senses--we will fare badly if we do not. And yet, even our
finite minds understand the scientific dictum that there is no such thing
as Matter from a scientific point of view--that which we call Matter is
held to be merely an aggregation of atoms, which atoms themselves are
merely a grouping of units of force, called electrons or "ions," vibrating
and in constant circular motion. We kick a stone and we feel the impact--
it seems to be real, notwithstanding that we know it to be merely what
we have stated above. But remember that our foot, which feels the
impact by means of our brains, is likewise Matter, so constituted of
electrons, and for that matter so are our brains. And, at the best, if it
were not by reason of our Mind, we would not know the foot or stone at
all.
Then again, the ideal of the artist or sculptor, which he is endeavoring to
reproduce in stone or on canvas, seems very real to him. So do the
characters in the mind of the author; or dramatist, which he seeks to
express so that others may recognize them. And if this be true in the case
of our finite minds, what must be the degree of Reality in the Mental
32
Images created in the Mind of the Infinite? Oh, friends, to mortals this
Universe of Mentality is very real indeed--it is the only one we can ever
know, though we rise from plane to plane, higher and higher in it. To
know it otherwise, but actual experience, we must be THE ALL itself. It
is true that the higher we rise in the scale--the nearer to "the mind of the
Father" we reach--the more apparent becomes the illusory nature of
finite things, but not until THE ALL finally withdraws us into itself does
the vision actually vanish.
So, we need not dwell upon the feature of illusion. Rather let us,
recognizing the real nature of the Universe, seek to understand its
mental laws, and endeavor to use them to the best effect in our upward
progress through life, as we travel from plane to plane of being. The
Laws of the Universe are none the less "Iron Laws" because of the mental
nature. All, except THE ALL, are bound by them. What is IN THE
INFINITE MIND OF THE ALL is REAL in a degree second only to that
Reality itself which is vested in the nature of THE ALL.
So, do not feel insecure or afraid--we are all HELD FIRMLY IN THE
INFINITE MIND OF THE ALL, and there is naught to hurt us or for us
to fear. There is no Power outside of THE ALL to affect us. So we may
rest calm and secure. There is a world of comfort and security in this
realization when once attained. Then "calm and peaceful do we sleep,
rocked in the Cradle of the Deep"--resting safely on the bosom of the
Ocean of Infinite Mind, which is THE ALL. In THE ALL, indeed, do "we
live and move and have our being."
Matter is none the less Matter to us, while we dwell on the plane of
Matter, although we know it to be merely an aggregation of "electrons,"
or particles of Force, vibrating rapidly and gyrating around each other in
the formations of atoms; the atoms in turn vibrating and gyrating,
forming molecules, which latter in turn form larger masses of Matter.
Nor does Matter become less Matter, when we follow the inquiry still
further, and learn from the Hermetic Teachings, that the "Force" of
which the electrons are but units is merely a manifestation of the Mind
of THE ALL, and like all else in the Universe is purely Mental in its
nature. While on the Plane of matter, we must recognize its phenomena-
- we may control Matter (as all Masters of higher or lesser degree do),
but we do so by applying the higher forces. We commit a folly when we
33
attempt to deny the existence of Matter in the relative aspect. We may
deny its mastery over us--and rightly so--but we should not attempt to
ignore it in its relative aspect, at least so long as we dwell upon its plane.
Nor do the Laws of Nature become less constant or effective, when we
know them, likewise, to be merely mental creations. They are in full
effect on the various planes. We overcome the lower laws, by applying
still higher ones--and in this way only. But we cannot escape Law or rise
above it entirely. Nothing but THE ALL can escape Law--and that
because THE ALL is LAW itself, from which all Laws emerge. The most
advanced Masters may acquire the powers usually attributed to the gods
of men; and there are countless ranks of being, in the great hierarchy of
life, whose being and power transcends even that of the highest Masters
among men to a degree unthinkable by mortals, but even the highest
Master, and the highest Being, must bow to the Law, and be as Nothing
in the eye of THE ALL. So that if even these highest Beings, whose
powers exceed even those attributed by men to their gods--if even these
are bound by and are subservient to Law, then imagine the presumption
of mortal man, of our race and grade, when he dares to consider the
Laws of Nature as "unreal!" visionary and illusory, because he happens
to be able to grasp the truth that the Laws are Mental in nature, and
simply Mental Creations of THE ALL. Those Laws which THE ALL
intends to be governing Laws are not to be defied or argued away. So
long as the Universe endures, will they endure--for the Universe exists by
virtue of these Laws which form its framework and which hold it
together.
The Hermetic Principle of Mentalism, while explaining the true nature of
the Universe upon the principle that all is Mental, does not change the
scientific conceptions of the Universe, Life, or Evolution. In fact, science
merely corroborates the Hermetic Teachings. The latter merely teaches
that the nature of the Universe is "Mental," while modern science has
taught that it is "Material"; or (of late) that it is "Energy" at the last
analysis. The Hermetic Teachings have no fault to find with Herbert
Spencer's basic principle which postulates the existence of an "Infinite
and Eternal Energy, from which all things proceed." In fact, the
Hermetics recognize in Spencer's philosophy the highest outside
statement of the workings of the Natural Laws that have ever been
promulgated, and they believe Spencer to have been a reincarnation of
34
an ancient philosopher who dwelt in ancient Egypt thousands of years
ago, and who later incarnated as Heraclitus, the Grecian philosopher
who lived B. C. 500. And they regard his statement of the "Infinite and
Eternal Energy" as directly in the line of the Hermetic Teachings, always
with the addition of their own doctrine that his "Energy" is the Energy of
the Mind of THE ALL. With the Master-Key of the Hermetic Philosophy,
the student of Spencer will be able to unlock many doors of the inner
philosophical conceptions of the great English philosopher, whose work
shows the results of the preparation of his previous incarnations. His
teachings regarding Evolution and Rhythm are in almost perfect
agreement with the Hermetic Teachings regarding the Principle of
Rhythm.
So, the student of Hermetics need not lay aside any of his cherished
scientific views regarding the Universe. All he is asked to do is to grasp
the underlying principle of "THE ALL is Mind; the Universe is Mental--
held in the mind of THE ALL."
He will find that the other six of the Seven Principles will "fit into" his
scientific knowledge, and will serve to bring out obscure points and to
throw light in dark corners. This is not to be wondered at, when we
realize the influence of the Hermetic thought of the early philosophers of
Greece, upon whose foundations of thought the theories of modern
science largely rest. The acceptance of the First Hermetic Principle
(Mentalism) is the only great point of difference between Modern
Science and Hermetic students, and Science is gradually moving toward
the Hermetic position in its groping in the dark for a way out of the
Labyrinth into which it has wandered in its search for Reality.
The purpose of this lesson is to impress upon the minds of our students
the fact that, to all intents and purposes, the Universe and its laws, and
its phenomena, are just as REAL, so far as Man is concerned, as they
would be under the hypotheses of Materialism or Energism.
Under any hypothesis the Universe in its outer aspect is changing, everflowing, and transitory--and therefore devoid of substantiality and
reality. But (note the other pole of the truth) under the same hypotheses,
we are compelled to ACT AND LIVE as if the fleeting things were real
and substantial. With this difference, always, between the various
hypotheses--that under the old views Mental Power was ignored as a
35
Natural Force, while under Mentalism it becomes the Greatest Natural
Force. And this one difference revolutionizes Life, to those who
understand the Principle and its resulting laws and practice.
So, finally, students all, grasp the advantage of Mentalism, and learn to
know, use and apply the laws resulting therefrom. But do not yield to the
temptation which, as The Kybalion states, overcomes the half-wise and
which causes them to be hypnotized by the apparent unreality of things,
the consequence being that they wander about like dream-people
dwelling in a world of dreams, ignoring the practical work and life of
man, the end being that "they are broken against the rocks and torn
asunder by the elements, by reason of their folly." Rather follow the
example of the wise, which the same authority states, "use Law against
Laws; the higher against the lower; and by the Art of Alchemy transmute
that which is undesirable into that which is worthy, and thus triumph."
Following the authority, let us avoid the half-wisdom (which is folly)
which ignores the truth that: "Mastery consists not in abnormal dreams,
visions, and fantastic imaginings or living, but in using the higher forces
against the lower--escaping the pains of the lower planes by vibrating on
the higher." Remember always, student, that "Transmutation, not
presumptuous denial, is the weapon of the Master." The above
quotations are from The Kybalion, and are worthy of being committed to
memory by the student.
We do not live in a world of dreams, but in an Universe which while
relative, is real so far as our lives and actions are concerned. Our
business in the Universe is not to deny its existence, but to LIVE, using
the Laws to rise from lower to higher--living on, doing the best that we
can under the circumstances arising each day, and living, so far as is
possible, to our biggest ideas and ideals. The true Meaning of Life is not
known to men on this plane if, indeed, to any--but the highest
authorities, and our own intuitions, teach us that we will make no
mistake in living up to the best that is in us, so far as is possible, and
realising the Universal tendency in the same direction in spite of
apparent evidence to the contrary. We are all on The Path--and the road
leads upward ever, with frequent resting places.
36
Read the message of The Kybalion--and follow the example of "the wise"-
-avoiding the mistake of "the half-wise" who perish by reason of their
folly.

THE KYBALION --- 05 CHAPTER 5. THE MENTAL UNIVERSE

CHAPTER 5. THE MENTAL UNIVERSE

"The Universe is Mental--held in the Mind of THE
ALL."--The Kybalion.
THE ALL is SPIRIT! But what is Spirit? This question cannot be
answered, for the reason that its definition is practically that of THE
ALL, which cannot be explained or defined. Spirit is simply a name that
men give to the highest conception of Infinite Living Mind--it means "the
Real Essence"--it means Living Mind, as much superior to Life and Mind
as we know them, as the latter are superior to mechanical Energy and
Matter. Spirit transcends our understanding, and we use the term merely
that we may think or speak of THE ALL. For the purposes of thought and
understanding, we are justified in thinking of Spirit as Infinite Living
Mind, at the same time acknowledging that we cannot fully understand
it. We must either do this or stop thinking of the matter at all.
Let us now proceed to a consideration of the nature of the Universe, as a
whole and in its parts. What is the Universe? We have seen that there
can be nothing outside of THE ALL. Then is the Universe THE ALL? No,
this cannot be, because the Universe seems to be made up of MANY, and
is constantly changing, and in other ways it does not measure up to the
ideas that we are compelled to accept regarding THE ALL, as stated in
our last lesson. Then if the Universe be not THE ALL, then it must be
Nothing--such is the inevitable conclusion of the mind at first thought.
But this will not satisfy the question, for we are sensible of the existence
of the Universe. Then if the Universe is neither THE ALL, nor Nothing,
what Can it be? Let us examine this question.
If the Universe exists at all, or seems to exist, it must proceed in some
way from THE ALL--it must be a creation of THE ALL. But as something
can never come from nothing, from what could THE ALL have created it.
Some philosophers have answered this question by saying that THE ALL
created the Universe from ITSELF--that is, from the being and substance
of THE ALL. But this will not do, for THE ALL cannot be subtracted
from, nor divided, as we have seen, and then again if this be so, would
not each particle in the Universe be aware of its being THE ALL--THE
25
ALL could not lose its knowledge of itself, nor actually BECOME an
atom, or blind force, or lowly living thing. Some men, indeed, realizing
that THE ALL is indeed ALL, and also recognizing that they, the men,
existed, have jumped to the conclusion that they and THE ALL were
identical, and they have filled the air with shouts of "I AM GOD," to the
amusement of the multitude and the sorrow of sages. The claim of the
corpuscle that: "I am Man!" would be modest in comparison.
But, what indeed is the Universe, if it be not THE ALL, not yet created by
THE ALL having separated itself into fragments? What else can it be-- of
what else can it be made? This is the great question. Let us examine it
carefully. We find here that the "Principle of Correspondence" (see
Lesson I.) comes to our aid here. The old Hermetic axiom, "As above so
below," may be pressed into service at this point. Let us endeavor to get a
glimpse of the workings on higher planes by examining those on our
own. The Principle of Correspondence must apply to this as well as to
other problems.
Let us see! On his own plane of being, how does Man create? Well, first,
he may create by making something out of outside materials. But this
will not do, for there are no materials outside of THE ALL with which it
may create. Well, then, secondly, Man pro-creates or reproduces his kind
by the process of begetting, which is self-multiplication accomplished by
transferring a portion of his substance to his offspring. But this will not
do, because THE ALL cannot transfer or subtract a portion of itself, nor
can it reproduce or multiply itself--in the first place there would be a
taking away, and in the second case a multiplication or addition to THE
ALL, both thoughts being an absurdity. Is there no third way in which
MAN creates? Yes, there is--he CREATES MENTALLY! And in so doing
he uses no outside materials, nor does he reproduce himself, and yet his
Spirit pervades the Mental Creation.
Following the Principle of Correspondence, we are justified in
considering that THE ALL creates the Universe MENTALLY, in a
manner akin to the process whereby Man creates Mental Images. And,
here is where the report of Reason tallies precisely with the report of the
Illumined, as shown by their teachings and writings. Such are the
teachings of the Wise Men. Such was the Teaching of Hermes.
26
THE ALL can create in no other way except mentally, without either
using material (and there is none to use), or else reproducing itself
(which is also impossible). There is no escape from this conclusion of the
Reason, which, as we have said, agrees with the highest teachings of the
Illumined. Just as you, student, may create a Universe of your own in
your mentality, so does THE ALL create Universes in its own Mentality.
But your Universe is the mental creation of a Finite Mind, whereas that
of THE ALL is the creation of an Infinite. The two are similar in kind, but
infinitely different in degree. We shall examine more closely into the
process of creation and manifestation as we proceed. But this is the point
to fix in your minds at this stage: THE UNIVERSE, AND ALL IT
CONTAINS, IS A MENTAL CREATION OF THE ALL. Verily indeed,
ALL IS MIND!
"THE ALL creates in its Infinite Mind countless Universes,
which exist for aeons of Time--and yet, to THE ALL, the
creation, development, decline and death of a million Universes
is as the time of the twinkling of an eye."--The Kybalion.
"The Infinite Mind of THE ALL is the womb of Universes."--The
Kybalion.
The Principle of Gender (see Lesson I. and other lessons to follow) is
manifested on all planes of life, material mental and spiritual. But, as we
have said before, "Gender" does not mean "Sex" sex is merely a material
manifestation of gender. "Gender" means "relating to generation or
creation." And whenever anything is generated or created, on any plane,
the Principle of Gender must be manifested. And this is true even in the
creation of Universes.
Now do not jump to the conclusion that we are teaching that there is a
male and female God, or Creator. That idea is merely a distortion of the
ancient teachings on the subject. The true teaching is that THE ALL, in
itself, is above Gender, as it is above every other Law, including those of
Time and Space. It is the Law, from which the Laws proceed, and it is not
subject to them. But when THE ALL manifests on the plane of
generation or creation, then it acts according to Law and Principle, for it
is moving on a lower plane of Being. And consequently it manifests the
Principle of Gender, in its Masculine and Feminine aspects, on the
Mental Plane, of course.
27
This idea may seem startling to some of you who hear it for the first time,
but you have all really passively accepted it in your everyday
conceptions. You speak of the Fatherhood of God, and the Motherhood
of Nature--of God, the Divine Father, and Nature the Universal Mother--
and have thus instinctively acknowledged the Principle of Gender in the
Universe. Is this not so?
But, the Hermetic teaching does not imply a real duality--THE ALL is
ONE--the Two Aspects are merely aspects of manifestation. The teaching
is that The Masculine Principle manifested by THE ALL stands, in a way,
apart from the actual mental creation of the Universe. It projects its Will
toward the Feminine Principle (which may be called "Nature")
whereupon the latter begins the actual work of the evolution of the
Universe, from simple "centers of activity" on to man, and then on and
on still higher, all according to well-established and firmly enforced
Laws of Nature. If you prefer the old figures of thought, you may think of
the Masculine Principle as GOD, the Father, and of the Feminine
Principle as NATURE, the Universal Mother, from whose womb all
things have been born. This is more than a mere poetic figure of speech--
it is an idea of the actual process of the creation of the Universe. But
always remember, that THE ALL is but One, and that in its Infinite Mind
the Universe is generated, created and exists.
It may help you to get the proper idea, if you will apply the Law of
Correspondence to yourself, and your own mind. You know that the part
of You which you call "I," in a sense, stands apart and witnesses the
creation of mental Images in your own mind. The part of your mind in
which the mental generation is accomplished may be called the "Me" in
distinction from the "I" which stands apart and witnesses and examines
the thoughts, ideas and images of the "Me." "As above, so below,"
remember, and the phenomena of one plane may be employed to solve
the riddles of higher or lower planes.
Is it any wonder that You, the child, feel that instinctive reverence for
THE ALL, which feeling we call "religion"--that respect, and reverence
for THE FATHER MIND? Is it any wonder that, when you consider the
works and wonders of Nature, you are overcome with a mighty feeling
which has its roots away down in your inmost being? It is the MOTHER
MIND that you are pressing close up to, like a babe to the breast.
28
Do not make the mistake of supposing that the little world you see
around you--the Earth, which is a mere grain of dust in the Universe--is
the Universe itself. There are millions upon millions of such worlds, and
greater. And there are millions of millions of such Universes in existence
within the Infinite Mind of THE ALL. And even in our own little solar
system there are regions and planes of life far higher than ours, and
beings compared to which we earth-bound mortals are as the slimy lifeforms that dwell on the ocean's bed when compared to Man. There are
beings with powers and attributes higher than Man has ever dreamed of
the gods' possessing. And yet these beings were once as you, and still
lower--and you will be even as they, and still higher, in time, for such is
the Destiny of Man as reported by the Illumined.
And Death is not real, even in the Relative sense--it is but Birth to a new
life--and You shall go on, and on, and on, to higher and still higher
planes of life, for aeons upon aeons of time. The Universe is your home,
and you shall explore its farthest recesses before the end of Time. You
are dwelling in the Infinite Mind of THE ALL, and your possibilities and
opportunities are infinite, both in time and space. And at the end of the
Grand Cycle of Aeons, when THE ALL shall draw back into itself all of its
creations--you will go gladly for you will then be able to know the Whole
Truth of being At One with THE ALL. Such is the report of the
Illumined--those who have advanced well along The Path.
And, in the meantime, rest calm and serene--you are safe and protected
by the Infinite Power of the FATHER-MOTHER MIND.
"Within the Father-Mother Mind, mortal children are at
home."--The Kybalion.
"There is not one who is Fatherless, nor Motherless in the
Universe."--The Kybalion.

THE KYBALION --- 04 CHAPTER 4. THE ALL

CHAPTER 4. THE ALL

"Under, and back of, the Universe of Time, Space and Change,
is ever to be found The Substantial Reality--the Fundamental
Truth."--The Kybalion.
"Substance" means: "that which underlies all outward manifestations;
the essence; the essential reality; the thing in itself," etc. "Substantial"
means: "actually existing; being the essential element; being real," etc.
"Reality" means: "the state of being real; true, enduring; valid; fixed;
permanent; actual," etc.
Under and behind all outward appearances or manifestations, there
must always be a Substantial Reality. This is the Law. Man considering
the Universe, of which he is a unit, sees nothing but change in matter,
forces, and mental states. He sees that nothing really IS, but that
everything is BECOMING and CHANGING. Nothing stands stilleverything is being born, growing, dying-the very instant a thing reaches
its height, it begins to decline--the law of rhythm is in constant
operation--there is no reality, enduring quality, fixity, or substantiality in
anything-- nothing is permanent but Change. He sees all things evolving
from other things, and resolving into other things--constant action and
reaction; inflow and outflow; building up and tearing down; creation and
destruction; birth, growth and death. Nothing endures but Change. And
if he be a thinking man, he realizes that all of these changing things must
be but outward appearances or manifestations of some Underlying
Power--some Substantial Reality.
All thinkers, in all lands and in all times, have assumed the necessity for
postulating the existence of this Substantial Reality. All philosophies
worthy of the name have been based upon this thought. Men have given
to this Substantial Reality many names-some have called it by the term
of Deity (under many titles). Others have called it "The Infinite and
Eternal Energy" others have tried to call it "Matter"--but all have
acknowledged its existence. It is self-evident it needs no argument.
In these lessons we have followed the example of some of the world's
greatest thinkers, both ancient and modern--the Hermetic. Masters--and
20
have called this Underlying Power--this Substantial Reality--by the
Hermetic name of "THE ALL," which term we consider the most
comprehensive of the many terms applied by Man to THAT which
transcends names and terms.
We accept and teach the view of the great Hermetic thinkers of all times,
as well as of those illumined souls who have reached higher planes of
being, both of whom assert that the inner nature of THE ALL is
UNKNOWABLE. This must be so, for naught by THE ALL itself can
comprehend its own nature and being.
The Hermetists believe and teach that THE ALL, "in itself," is and must
ever be UNKNOWABLE. They regard all the theories, guesses and
speculations of the theologians and metaphysicians regarding the inner
nature of THE ALL, as but the childish efforts of mortal minds to grasp
the secret of the Infinite. Such efforts have always failed and will always
fail, from the very nature of the task. One pursuing such inquiries travels
around and around in the labyrinth of thought, until he is lost to all sane
reasoning, action or conduct, and is utterly unfitted for the work of life.
He is like the squirrel which frantically runs around and around the
circling treadmill wheel of his cage, traveling ever and yet reaching
nowhere--at the end a prisoner still, and standing just where he started.
And still more presumptuous are those who attempt to ascribe to THE
ALL the personality, qualities, properties, characteristics and attributes
of themselves, ascribing to THE ALL the human emotions, feelings, and
characteristics, even down to the pettiest qualities of mankind, such as
jealousy, susceptibility to flattery and praise, desire for offerings and
worship, and all the other survivals from the days of the childhood of the
race. Such ideas are not worthy of grown men and women, and are
rapidly being discarded.
(At this point, it may be proper for me to state that we make a distinction
between Religion and Theology--between Philosophy and Metaphysics.
Religion, to us, means that intuitional realization of the existence of THE
ALL, and one's relationship to it; while Theology means the attempts of
men to ascribe personality, qualities, and characteristics to it; their
theories regarding its affairs, will, desires, plans, and designs, and their
assumption of the office of '' middle-men'' between THE ALL and the
people. Philosophy, to us, means the inquiry after knowledge of things
21
knowable and thinkable; while Metaphysics means the attempt to carry
the inquiry over and beyond the boundaries and into regions
unknowable and unthinkable, and with the same tendency as that of
Theology. And consequently, both Religion and Philosophy mean to us
things having roots in Reality, while Theology and Metaphysics seem like
broken reeds, rooted in the quicksands of ignorance, and affording
naught but the most insecure support for the mind or soul of Man. we do
not insist upon our students accepting these definitions--we mention
them merely to show our position. At any rate, you shall hear very little
about Theology and Metaphysics in these lessons.)
But while the essential nature of THE ALL is Unknowable, there are
certain truths connected with its existence which the human mind finds
itself compelled to accept. And an examination of these reports form a
proper subject of inquiry, particularly as they agree with the reports of
the Illumined on higher planes. And to this inquiry we now invite you.
"THAT which is the Fundamental Truth--the Substantial
Reality--is beyond true naming, but the Wise Men call
it THE ALL."--The Kybalion.
"In its Essence, THE ALL is UNKNOWABLE."--The Kybalion.
"But, the report of Reason must be hospitably received,
and treated with respect."--The Kybalion.
The human reason, whose reports we must accept so long as we think at
all, informs us as follows regarding THE ALL, and that without
attempting to remove the veil of the Unknowable:
(1) THE ALL must be ALL that REALLY IS. There can be
nothing existing outside of THE ALL, else THE ALL would
not be THE ALL.
(2) THE ALL must be INFINITE, for there is nothing else
to define, confine, bound, limit; or restrict THE ALL.
It must be Infinite in Time, or ETERNAL,--it must have
always continuously existed, for there is nothing else to
have ever created it, and something can never evolve from
nothing, and if it had ever "not been," even for a moment,
it would not "be" now,--it must continuously exist forever,
22
for there is nothing to destroy it, and it can never
"not-be," even for a moment, because something can never
become nothing. It must be Infinite in Space--it must be
Everywhere, for there is no place outside of THE ALL--it
cannot be otherwise than continuous in Space, without break,
cessation, separation, or interruption, for there is nothing
to break, separate, or interrupt its continuity, and nothing
with which to "fill in the gaps." It must be Infinite in
Power, or Absolute, for there is nothing to limit, restrict,
restrain, confine, disturb or condition it--it is subject to
no other Power, for there is no other Power.
(3) THE ALL must be IMMUTABLE, or not subject to change in
its real nature, for there is nothing to work changes upon it
nothing into which it could change, nor from which it could
have changed. It cannot be added to nor subtracted from;
increased nor diminished; nor become greater or lesser in any
respect whatsoever. It must have always been, and must always
remain, just what it is now--THE ALL--there has never been,
is not now, and never will be, anything else into which it
can change.
THE ALL being Infinite, Absolute, Eternal and Unchangeable it must
follow that anything finite, changeable, fleeting, and conditioned cannot
be THE ALL. And as there is Nothing outside of THE ALL, in Reality,
then any and all such finite things must be as Nothing in Reality. Now do
not become befogged, nor frightened--we are not trying to lead you into
the Christian Science field under cover of Hermetic Philosophy. There is
a Reconciliation of this apparently contradictory state of affairs. Be
patient, we will reach it in time.
We see around us that which is called "Matter," which forms the physical
foundation for all forms. Is THE ALL merely Matter? Not at all! Matter
cannot manifest Life or Mind, and as Life and Mind are manifested in
the Universe, THE ALL cannot be Matter, for nothing rises higher than
its own source--nothing is ever manifested in an effect that is not in the
cause--nothing is evolved as a consequent that is not involved as an
antecedent. And then Modern Science informs us that there is really no
such thing as Matter--that what we call Matter is merely "interrupted
23
energy or force," that is, energy or force at a low rate of vibration. As a
recent writer has said "Matter has melted into Mystery." Even Material
Science has abandoned the theory of Matter, and now rests on the basis
of "Energy."
Then is THE ALL mere Energy or Force? Not Energy or Force as the
materialists use the terms, for their energy and force are blind,
mechanical things, devoid of Life or Mind. Life and Mind can never
evolve from blind Energy or Force, for the reason given a moment ago:
"Nothing can rise higher than its source--nothing is evolved unless it is
involved--nothing manifests in the effect, unless it is in the cause. " And
so THE ALL cannot be mere Energy or Force, for, if it were, then there
would be no such things as Life and Mind in existence, and we know
better than that, for we are Alive and using Mind to consider this very
question, and so are those who claim that Energy or Force is Everything.
What is there then higher than Matter or Energy that we know to be
existent in the Universe? LIFE AND MIND! Life and Mind in all their
varying degrees of unfoldment! "Then," you ask, "do you mean to tell us
that THE ALL is LIFE and MIND?" Yes! and No! is our answer. If you
mean Life and Mind as we poor petty mortals know them, we say No!
THE ALL is not that! "But what kind of Life and Mind do you mean?"
you ask.
The answer is "LIVING MIND," as far above that which mortals know by
those words, as Life and Mind are higher than mechanical forces, or
matter--INFINITE LIVING MIND as compared to finite "Life and
Mind." We mean that which the illumined souls mean when they
reverently pronounce the word: "SPIRIT!"
"THE ALL" is Infinite Living Mind--the Illumined call it SPIRIT!