The Hermetic Traditions refer to a set of philosophical and spiritual beliefs based on the writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, a legendary figure combining elements of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth. These traditions emphasize the pursuit of knowledge, the interconnectedness of all things, and the idea that understanding the universe can lead to personal transformation.
Central to Hermeticism is the concept of as above, so below, which suggests that the macrocosm (the universe) and the microcosm (the individual) reflect each other. Hermetic texts, such as the Emerald Tablet, explore themes of alchemy, astrology, and theurgy, influencing various esoteric movements throughout history, including Gnosticism and Renaissance magic.