The Legacy of Thoth and Hermes Trismegistus

9 min readJul 22, 2024

Mystic Wisdom #1

The enigmatic figure of Thoth, later syncretized as Hermes Trismegistus, has left an indelible mark on human history, shaping our understanding of wisdom, magic, and the divine. This journey through time begins in the heart of Ancient Egypt, where Thoth was revered as the god of wisdom and knowledge, and unfolds through the Hellenistic period, where he transformed into Hermes Trismegistus, a symbol of profound philosophical inquiry.

In Ancient Egypt, Thoth was more than just a deity; he was the embodiment of intellect and the keeper of sacred knowledge. Often depicted as an ibis-headed man holding a stylus and a writing tablet, Thoth was seen as the divine scribe, recording the words and deeds of the gods. His association with writing and record-keeping positioned him as a mediator between the divine and human realms, a bridge that allowed the sacred to be documented and preserved.

Thoth’s influence extended beyond mere documentation. He was also the god of magic, mathematics, astronomy, and the moon. His mastery of these domains made him a multifaceted deity whose wisdom was sought by many. As the psychopomp, Thoth guided the souls of the dead through the underworld, ensuring their safe passage and reinforcing his role as a caretaker of both the living and the dead. His reputation as a divine magician further solidified his status, as he was believed to have invented magic itself, crafting spells and incantations that could alter reality.

The Hellenistic period brought about a fusion of cultures and deities, leading to the creation of Hermes Trismegistus, a syncretic figure that combined the attributes of the Greek god Hermes with those of Thoth. This amalgamation was more than just a blending of names; it represented the merging of Greek and Egyptian religious and philosophical traditions. Hermes, known in Greek mythology as the messenger of the gods and a guide of souls to the underworld, was a natural counterpart to Thoth. Together, they formed a figure of immense wisdom and knowledge, revered as the author of the Hermetica.

The Hermetica, a collection of mystical and philosophical texts attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, covered a wide range of topics, including alchemy, astrology, and the nature of the divine. These writings became foundational to Western esoteric thought, influencing later traditions of mysticism and philosophy. Hermes Trismegistus, known as the “thrice-greatest,” symbolized the pinnacle of wisdom, alchemical mastery, and theological insight.

The influence of Thoth and Hermes Trismegistus did not stop at the borders of Egypt and Greece. Their legacy extended into various religious and mystical traditions. In the Bible, Enoch, sometimes called Akhnookh, is a patriarch who walks with God and is taken to heaven without experiencing death. This narrative sets Enoch apart as a figure of extraordinary piety and divine favor, reminiscent of Thoth’s role as a divine scribe. In Islamic tradition, Enoch is identified with Idris, a prophet endowed with great wisdom and knowledge. The Qur’an acknowledges Idris’s high status and contributions to human understanding.

In Jewish mysticism, Enoch is associated with Metatron, a powerful angelic being and celestial scribe. Metatron’s role as a recorder of divine decrees mirrors Thoth’s function in the Egyptian pantheon. This connection across different cultures and religions highlights the universal appeal and enduring significance of these figures.

Thoth’s presence is also noted in The Book of Dzyan, a seminal text in Theosophical literature. The Book of Dzyan, considered one of the oldest texts, includes references to Thoth/Hermes as a primordial teacher. His role as a bearer of sacred knowledge and wisdom resonates with the text’s themes of cosmic law and spiritual evolution. This appearance further cements Thoth’s status as a timeless guide, influencing diverse spiritual traditions and esoteric philosophies.

The teachings and attributes of Thoth and Hermes Trismegistus have had a profound impact on human thought and culture. The Hermetica influenced the development of alchemy, introducing concepts of transformation and the pursuit of enlightenment through the refinement of matter and spirit. Thoth’s association with the moon and timekeeping contributed to ancient astronomical and astrological systems, enhancing our understanding of celestial phenomena and their influence on human life.

The Emerald Tablets of Thoth the Atlantean

Adding another layer to the mystique of Thoth is the pseudohistorical book “The Emerald Tablets of Thoth the Atlantean,” authored by cult leader Maurice Doreal in 1930. This work emerged in the wake of the Theosophical movement, his work exposes particularly about ancient, reptilian civilizations. Doreal’s book claimed to be a translation of a set of tablets he found in the Great Pyramid of Giza in 1925.

Doreal’s “Emerald Tablets” consists of 15 cryptic tablet-chapters, each presenting poetic discourses on various topics such as alchemy, spirituality, the nature of the universe, and Atlantis. The titles of these chapters include:

The History of Thoth, The Atlantean
The Halls of Amenti
The Key of Wisdom
The Space Born
The Dweller of Unal
The Key of Magic
The Seven Lords
The Key of Mysteries
The Key of Freedom of Space
The Key of Time
The Key to Above and Below
The Law of Cause and Effect and The Key of Prophecy
The Keys of Life and Death
Atlantis
Secret of Secrets

Doreal’s work claimed that Thoth was an ancient god from the 4th Race, who was one of the precursors to teach the 5th Race, our current humanity, the primordial teachings to thrive and live in harmony with The Cosmic Law and Nature. Although not historically authenticated, this narrative added a mystical dimension to the figure of Thoth, portraying him as a timeless guide for humanity’s spiritual evolution.

Transcending the Twelve Torments: A Path to Inner and Outer Harmony

In the profound teachings of Hermes Trismegistus, the twelve torments of the soul represent the fundamental challenges that each individual must confront and transcend in order to achieve true harmony. These torments — ignorance, grief, inconstancy, desire, injustice, greed, error, envy, deceit, anger, recklessness, and malevolence — are not merely obstacles to be overcome; they are catalysts for growth and self-awareness. By understanding and addressing these torments, we can transform our lives and the world around us.

The Philosophical Imperative of Understanding Torments

Understanding the nature of these torments is the first step towards transcending them. Philosophically, the torments can be seen as the shadows that obscure the light of our true selves. Each torment reflects a deeper existential struggle, challenging us to rise above our base instincts and align with higher principles of wisdom and compassion.

Ignorance, for example, is more than just a lack of knowledge; it is a disconnection from universal truth and self-awareness. To transcend ignorance, we must cultivate a lifelong commitment to learning and self-discovery. This not only enhances our personal growth but also enriches our interactions with others, fostering a more enlightened society.

The Journey of Transcendence

The journey to transcend the torments is both an internal and external process. Internally, it requires self-reflection, mindfulness, and the cultivation of virtues that counteract each torment. Externally, it involves creating environments and systems that support and reflect these virtues.

Grief teaches us about the impermanence of life and the importance of acceptance. By embracing grief and understanding its place in the human experience, we can develop resilience and empathy. Practices such as meditation on impermanence and rituals of remembrance can help us navigate grief and find peace.

Inconstancy, or the lack of self-restraint, can be transcended through mindfulness and discipline. Regular meditation and setting personal boundaries help us maintain balance and focus. This not only improves our personal well-being but also contributes to a more stable and harmonious society.

Desire often leads us astray, diverting us from our true path. By understanding the nature of our desires and aligning them with our higher goals, we can transform them into powerful motivators for positive action. Keeping a desire journal and reflecting on our true needs versus wants can help us achieve this alignment.

Injustice is a reflection of societal disharmony. By promoting justice and fairness in our actions and supporting systems that uphold these values, we can create a more equitable world. Understanding and practicing the principles of karma and ethical living are essential in this pursuit.

Practical Examples of Transcendence

Throughout history, individuals and societies have demonstrated the power of transcending torments. Consider the life of Mahatma Gandhi, who transcended anger and injustice through nonviolent resistance and a profound commitment to truth. His actions not only brought about significant social change but also inspired countless others to follow a path of peace and integrity.

In modern times, the movement towards sustainable living exemplifies the transcendence of greed. By prioritizing ecological balance and community well-being over short-term profit, individuals and organizations are creating a more sustainable future. This shift reflects a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness and the importance of stewardship.

The Ripple Effect of Transcendence

The process of transcending torments has a ripple effect, extending beyond the individual to influence families, communities, and societies. When we address and transform our inner struggles, we become beacons of change, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and growth.

Envy can be transformed into compassion by celebrating others’ successes and recognizing our unique paths. This shift not only enhances our personal satisfaction but also fosters a supportive and collaborative community.

Deceit can be countered by cultivating honesty and integrity in all our dealings. This builds trust and strengthens the social fabric, creating a foundation for lasting relationships and societal stability.

Anger, when managed and transformed, becomes a powerful force for change. By channeling anger into constructive actions and advocating for justice, we can address the root causes of our discontent and contribute to a more just and harmonious world.

Conclusion

Understanding and transcending the twelve torments of the soul is essential for achieving inner and outer harmony. This journey requires a deep commitment to self-awareness, ethical living, and compassionate action. By addressing these torments, we not only transform our own lives but also contribute to the creation of a more enlightened and harmonious world. Let us embrace this path with courage and determination, knowing that each step we take brings us closer to our true selves and to a world where virtues prevail over torments.

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Calling all seekers of hidden truths!

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