The Kybalion

In brief

A short book published in Chicago in 1908 by 'Three Initiates', now generally attributed to the New Thought writer William Walker Atkinson. It presents seven 'Hermetic Principles' as ancient teachings. Despite its title and claims, it is a modern work that blends Hermetic themes with American New Thought, but it remains one of the most widely read introductions to Hermetic ideas.

Key ideas

• ✦Mentalism: 'The All is Mind'
• ✦Correspondence: as above, so below
• ✦Vibration: nothing rests; everything moves
• ✦Polarity, Rhythm, Cause and Effect, and Gender

Why it matters

The seven principles give beginners a clear, memorable framework for thinking symbolically. Knowing that the book is modern helps you read it well: as an inspiring synthesis, not an ancient scripture.

“THE ALL IS MIND; The Universe is Mental.”