Themes

• Principle of mentalism

• Principle of correspondence

• Principle of vibration

• Principle of polarity

• Principle of rhythm

• Principle of cause and effect

• Principle of gender

Setting

The Kybalion was published in 1908 during a period of growing interest in occultism and esoteric philosophy in the Western world. The early 20th century saw a surge in spiritual movements and alternative belief systems, providing fertile ground for the book's teachings on Hermetic principles.

While the text claims to convey ancient Egyptian and Greek wisdom, it is firmly rooted in the New Thought movement that flourished in the United States at the time. The book's ideas reflect the intellectual climate of its era, blending traditional Hermetic concepts with more modern philosophical and spiritual notions popular in American metaphysical circles.

Though The Kybalion does not specify particular geographical settings, its teachings are presented as universal principles applicable across time and space. The work draws on a mixture of Western esoteric traditions, positioning itself as a guide to timeless wisdom rather than being tied to any specific location. Its enduring popularity has made it a cornerstone text in New Age and occult studies worldwide.

Key Figures

• Three Initiates: The mysterious authors credited with writing The Kybalion. They chose to remain anonymous, presenting themselves as keepers of ancient Hermetic wisdom. Their true identity has been the subject of much speculation, with many attributing the work to William Walker Atkinson, a prominent figure in the New Thought movement.

• Hermes Trismegistus: A legendary figure associated with ancient wisdom and occult knowledge. Though not directly featured in the book, Hermes Trismegistus is considered the mythical source of the Hermetic teachings that The Kybalion claims to explicate.

• The All: A central concept in the book, representing the ultimate reality or universal mind. The All is described as the source of all manifestation and the underlying substance of the universe.

Quick facts

• Published anonymously in 1908 by “Three Initiates,” though likely authored by William Walker Atkinson.

• Presents seven Hermetic principles, including mentalism, correspondence, and vibration.

• Became a founding text of the New Thought movement in the early 20th century.

• Combines ancient Hermetic concepts with modern occult and New Age ideas.

• The title “Kybalion” is not found in historical Hermetic texts and was likely invented by the author(s).

• Has remained continuously in print since its first publication over a century ago.

• Influenced many modern esoteric and occult traditions, including some forms of Wicca.

• Contains philosophical ideas that differ significantly from classical Hermetic texts.

• Has been translated into numerous languages and sold millions of copies worldwide.

• Its enduring popularity led to a centenary edition being published in 2018.

About the Author

The “Three Initiates” is the mysterious pseudonym used for the authorship of The Kybalion, an influential 1908 book on Hermetic philosophy. While the true identities of these authors remain unknown, many scholars believe William Walker Atkinson was likely involved in writing the text, possibly as the sole author.

Atkinson was a prolific writer in the New Thought and occult movements of the early 20th century, publishing under numerous pseudonyms. The style and content of The Kybalion closely match Atkinson's other works, particularly his series The Arcane Teaching. As the founder of the Yogi Publication Society that published The Kybalion, Atkinson had means and motive to use the “Three Initiates” pen name.

However, some researchers speculate that Atkinson may have collaborated with other occult writers like Paul Foster Case or Michael Whitty. The use of “Three Initiates” could reference the book's exploration of Hermetic trinities or simply add an air of mystery. Ultimately, conclusive proof of authorship remains elusive, leaving room for continued debate.

Regardless of its true origins, The Kybalion became highly influential in New Thought and occult circles. Its concise explanation of seven Hermetic principles provided an accessible introduction to esoteric philosophy for many readers. The intrigue surrounding its authorship has only added to the book's enduring mystique over the past century.