What does hermeticism mean?
Hermeticism denotes the philosophical, religious, and occult tradition associated with the Hermetic Corpus, a collection of writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. Its central ideas concern the relationship between God or the divine principle, the cosmos, and human beings, as well as concepts such as correspondence, microcosm, and macrocosm. The tradition had substantial influence on later Western esotericism, including alchemy, astrology, and certain Renaissance philosophical movements. In modern usage, the word is primarily encountered in academic writing, religious history, and discussions of occult philosophy. It is a specialized term rather than a general description of secrecy or isolation. Although “hermetism” is also used, “Hermeticism” is the more recognizable modern spelling. The term should also be distinguished from the adjective “hermetic,” which commonly describes something sealed or insulated from outside influences.
nounHermeticism is the body of philosophical, religious, and occult teachings associated with the Hermetic tradition, especially the writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. It is also spelled hermetism.
- The body of philosophical, religious, and occult teachings associated with the Hermetic tradition and the writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus.
"The study of Hermeticism examines the influence of the Hermetic Corpus on alchemy and later Western esotericism."
"The study of Hermeticism examines the influence of the Hermetic Corpus on later Western esotericism."
"The scholar's account of Hermeticism situates it within the history of religion, philosophy, and occult thought."
The plural is rare and is used chiefly when different Hermetic traditions or interpretations are being distinguished.
"The book compares two hermeticisms that developed in different historical settings."
Hermes Trismegistus—“Hermes the Greatest”—was a symbolic figure whose name became the gateway to a hidden body of writings that influenced alchemy and Western esotericism.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hermeticism
Hermeticism derives from “Hermetic,” which comes through Latin from the Greek name Hermes. In the context of the Hermetic writings, the name refers especially to Hermes Trismegistus, the legendary or symbolic author associated with the Hermetic Corpus. English later formed “hermeticism” to name the broader teachings and tradition connected with those texts.
Related word forms
How hermeticism is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon scholarly term and is normally capitalized when referring to the historical tradition. It is often interchangeable with the variant spelling hermetism, but it should not be confused with hermetic sealing or with the adjective hermetic.
Easily confused with hermeticism
Hermetic is an adjective meaning sealed or protected against influences from outside, whereas hermeticism names the esoteric body of teachings associated with the Hermetic tradition.