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1. Welcome to "HighSol," a podcast dedicated to exploring the ancient spiritual and philosophical traditions of the Ancient past. Today, we're going to be discussing the principle of "As above, so below," a fundamental principle in Hermeticism that reminds us of the connection between the microcosm and macrocosm, and how the same principles that govern the universe also apply to our inner worlds.
2. The principle of "As above, so below" is a reminder that we are all connected to the universe, and the universe is connected to us. It highlights the interconnectedness of all things and encourages us to look at our inner selves and the universe as one. One way this principle is expressed is through the concept of correspondences. Hermeticism teaches that there are correspondences between the different levels of reality, from the physical to the spiritual. For example, the seven planets in traditional astrology correspond to the seven chakras in the human body. By understanding and working with these correspondences, we can align ourselves with the natural rhythms and laws of the universe and bring balance to our inner worlds.
3. The principle of the "The Law of Correspondence", states that there is a correspondence between the different levels of reality and that by understanding and working with these correspondences, we can achieve a deeper understanding of the universe and our place within it. This principle is often represented by the symbol of the caduceus, which shows the connection between the two principles. The two snakes represent the microcosm and macrocosm, and the wings represent the connection between the two.
4. Another example of this is Da Vinci's drawing of the Vitruvian Man. It is a representation of the human form and its relationship to the universe. It is based on the principles of the Roman architect Vitruvius, who wrote about the ideal proportions of the human body with the cosmos. The drawing depicts a man standing in two different positions, one with his arms and legs outstretched, and the other with his arms and legs folded inwards. In both positions, the man's body is inscribed within a circle and a square, symbolizing the connection between the microcosm (the human body) and the macrocosm (the universe).
5. This drawing is a representation of the hermetic principle of "As above, so below," which states that the same principles that govern the universe also apply to the individual. The Vitruvian Man is a visual representation of this principle, as it shows the connection between the human body and the cosmos, and how the mathematical proportions of the human body are in harmony with the mathematical proportions of the universe.
6. One of these mathematical proportions seen embedded in nature is the Fibonacci sequence. The Fibonacci sequence is a mathematical pattern found throughout nature, both in the microcosm and the macrocosm. In the microcosm, the Fibonacci sequence can be observed in the growth patterns of plants and animals. For example, the number of petals on a flower often follows the Fibonacci sequence, with most flowers having either 3, 5, 8, 13, or 21 petals. Similarly, the number of branches on a tree, the number of leaves on a stem, and the arrangement of seeds in a sunflower are also examples of the Fibonacci sequence in the microcosm.
7. In the macrocosm, the Fibonacci sequence can also be observed in the natural world. For example, the spiral patterns found in the shells of mollusks, such as snails and nautiluses, follow the Fibonacci sequence. The spiral patterns of galaxies, such as our own Milky Way, and the spiral arms of spiral galaxies in general, also follow the Fibonacci sequence. Additionally, the Fibonacci sequence can be observed in the patterns of waves, such as the waves in the ocean, as well as in the formation of hurricanes and other natural phenomena.
8. The Fibonacci sequence is also related to the Golden Ratio, which is a proportion that is present in many natural forms such as spiral in shells, the nautilus, pine cone and the spiral galaxy. This ratio is found in many parts of the human body, such as the proportions of the face and fingers and the spirals in the ear.
9. In conclusion, the Fibonacci sequence is a mathematical pattern that can be observed in a wide range of natural phenomena, both in the microcosm and the macrocosm. From the growth patterns of plants and animals to the spiral patterns in shells and galaxies, the Fibonacci sequence is a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things in the universe and the underlying harmony and beauty that can be found in nature.
10. Furthermore, the concept of correspondences is not limited to just astrology and the human body, it also applies to other areas of life. The principles of numerology and tarot cards, for instance, also correspond to the human experience. The number 4 represents stability and structure, and the tarot card The Emperor represents authority and leadership. By understanding and working with these correspondences, we can gain insight into the workings of the universe and our place within it.
11. Another way this principle is applied is through the practice of alchemy. Alchemy is the medieval forerunner of modern chemistry, and alchemists believed that the same processes that occur in nature, such as the transmutation of base metals into gold, also occur within the human soul. They used laboratory experimentation as an allegory to understand the inner workings of the soul and achieve spiritual enlightenment. Alchemists believed that by understanding the processes of nature, they could also understand the processes of the soul. They believed that the key to spiritual enlightenment was understanding the connection between the microcosm and macrocosm and how the same principles that govern the universe also govern the individual. The alchemist's ultimate goal was to achieve spiritual transcendence, by understanding the laws of nature and applying them to the soul.
12. Another example of an experiment that alchemists conducted is the search for the "Philosopher's Stone," a substance that was believed to have the power to turn base metals into gold and also to grant immortality. Alchemists believed that the Philosopher's Stone represented the ultimate spiritual goal, and that by discovering it, they would be able to achieve enlightenment. I believe this is analogous or a metaphor for, the chemical and physiological transmutation of self that occurs during deep states of meditation where your “3rd eye” or pineal gland begins to produce and secrete the psychoactive substance or entheogen, “dimethyltryptamine”, thus resulting in visions or feelings of nirvana, bliss, or enlightenment.
13. The principle of "As above, so below" can also be applied in the realm of psychology and self-development. Our inner thoughts, beliefs, and emotions shape our external reality and experiences. For example, if we believe that we are not worthy of love, that belief will manifest in our interactions with others and attract experiences that confirm that belief. The principle of "As above, so below" reminds us that our inner world is just as important as our outer world and that by understanding and working with the connection between the two, we can bring balance and harmony to our lives. This is the reason some people choose to meditate or practice manifestation rituals during certain celestial planetary alignments. It's important to note that the principle of "As above, so below" is not only limited to our personal growth, it also applies to how we interact with the world around us. Our beliefs and emotions shape the way we perceive and interact with the world, and by understanding this principle, we can work towards creating a more harmonious reality for ourselves and others.
14. The principle of "As above, so below" is a powerful reminder that the same laws and principles that govern the universe also govern the individual. It encourages us to understand the interconnectedness of all things and to strive for balance and harmony within ourselves to align with the natural rhythms and laws of the universe. By understanding and working with the correspondences between the different levels of reality, and applying the principles of alchemy and psychology, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. The principle of "As above, so below" is not just a philosophy, but a way of life that can be applied to every aspect of our existence.
15. The principle of "As above, so below" is not limited to Hermeticism, it is found in many spiritual and philosophical traditions. The principle is not only relevant to ancient spiritual practices but it can also be applied to modern-day life. It is a fundamental principle in Hermeticism that reminds us of the connection between the microcosm and macrocosm, and how the same principles that govern the universe also apply to our inner worlds. By understanding and working with this principle, we can gain insight into the workings of the universe and our place within it, and bring balance and harmony to our lives. This principle can be applied to every aspect of our existence, whether it's in our personal relationships, our work, or our community. It's a reminder that we are all connected, and that by understanding and working with this connection, we can create a more harmonious reality for ourselves and others.
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