!flux11 What is the meaning of 'As above so below' ?

The phrase **"As above, so below"** is derived from the **Emerald Tablet** of Hermes Trismegistus and is a fundamental tenet in many esoteric traditions, including Hermeticism, alchemy, and various occult teachings. Here's what it typically means:

1. **Universal Harmony**: It signifies that the microcosm (smaller parts) reflects the macrocosm (the larger universe). There is a perceived unity or interconnectedness in all levels of reality.

2. **Correspondence**: There are patterns and reflections between different planes of existence. What happens on one level of reality also happens on another. This idea can be seen in:
- Spiritual beliefs where heaven (above) is reflected in earthly life (below).
- In human life, where internal thoughts and consciousness (above) can be mirrored in our physical actions or environment (below).
- In the natural world, where the laws and patterns of nature are consistent from the smallest particles to vast cosmic structures.

3. **Spiritual and Physical**: It suggests a mystical relationship between the spiritual realm and the physical world, where knowledge of one can lead to understanding of the other.

4. **Alchemy**: In alchemical work, this principle would mean that changes in the material world (like transmuting base metals into gold) are thought to correspond with transformations in the alchemist's own nature or soul.

5. **Symbolism**: Often used symbolically to indicate that the esoteric truths hidden in the cosmos are accessible to those who understand how everything is interconnected.

This phrase serves as:
- **A reminder** of the unity of all things.
- **An invitation** to seek correspondences between the mundane and the divine.
- **A philosophical tool** for understanding how higher laws apply to lower ones, and vice versa.

In popular culture and contemporary usage, this idea has appeared in movies, music, and art, often portraying the concept of symmetry or reflection between worlds or states of being. However, its true essence invites deeper contemplation on the nature of existence, the self, and the cosmos.