The phrase “As Above, So Below” is a ancient Hermetic axiom that has been used for centuries to convey a deep spiritual and philosophical truth. This phrase has been used in various forms of art, literature, and even tattoo designs. In this post, we will explore the different meanings of “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs and what they symbolize.
What is the Meaning of "As Above, So Below"?
The phrase “As Above, So Below” is a translation of the Latin phrase “Quod est inferius est sicut quod est superius,” which means “What is below is like what is above.” This phrase is a fundamental concept in Hermeticism, a spiritual and philosophical tradition based on the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Hermes Trismegistus.
In essence, “As Above, So Below” suggests that there is a fundamental unity and interconnectedness between the spiritual and material realms. The phrase implies that what is true on one level of reality is also true on other levels. This idea is often represented in tattoo designs that feature motifs from both the spiritual and material worlds.
1. Spiritual Unity and Interconnectedness
One of the most common meanings of “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs is spiritual unity and interconnectedness. These designs often feature symbols and motifs that represent the connection between the spiritual and material realms. For example, a tattoo design that features a pair of wings, one above and one below, can represent the unity and balance between the spiritual and material aspects of the self.
2. Balance and Harmony
Another meaning of “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs is balance and harmony. These designs often feature elements that represent the balance between opposites, such as light and dark, masculine and feminine, or good and evil. For example, a tattoo design that features a pair of scales, one above and one below, can represent the balance and harmony that is necessary for spiritual growth and development.
3. Cosmic Order and Harmony
“As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can also represent the cosmic order and harmony that exists in the universe. These designs often feature motifs from astronomy and astrology, such as stars, planets, and galaxies. For example, a tattoo design that features a spiral galaxy, with the spiral arms extending above and below, can represent the harmony and order that exists in the universe.
4. Personal Growth and Transformation
Some “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can also represent personal growth and transformation. These designs often feature elements that represent the journey of the soul, such as the phoenix, the ouroboros, or the lotus flower. For example, a tattoo design that features a phoenix rising from the ashes, with the flames extending above and below, can represent the transformative power of personal growth and development.
5. Duality and Polarity
“As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can also represent the duality and polarity that exists in the universe. These designs often feature elements that represent the opposites, such as yin and yang, or masculine and feminine. For example, a tattoo design that features a yin-yang symbol, with the yin and yang elements extending above and below, can represent the interplay between opposites.
6. Microcosm and Macrocosm
Some “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can also represent the relationship between the microcosm and the macrocosm. These designs often feature elements that represent the connection between the individual and the universe, such as the human body and the cosmos. For example, a tattoo design that features a human body with the universe extending above and below, can represent the connection between the individual and the cosmos.
7. Spiritual Awakening and Enlightenment
Finally, “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can also represent spiritual awakening and enlightenment. These designs often feature elements that represent the attainment of spiritual knowledge and understanding, such as the all-seeing eye, the OM symbol, or the Buddhist wheel of dharma. For example, a tattoo design that features an all-seeing eye, with the eye extending above and below, can represent the attainment of spiritual knowledge and understanding.
💡 Note: When getting a tattoo, it's essential to understand the meaning and symbolism behind the design. "As Above, So Below" tattoo designs can have different meanings depending on the individual and their personal experiences.
In conclusion, “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can have a range of meanings, from spiritual unity and interconnectedness to personal growth and transformation. These designs often feature motifs and symbols that represent the connection between the spiritual and material realms, and can be used to symbolize balance, harmony, and cosmic order.
What is the meaning of “As Above, So Below”?
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“As Above, So Below” is a phrase that suggests that there is a fundamental unity and interconnectedness between the spiritual and material realms. It implies that what is true on one level of reality is also true on other levels.
What are some common meanings of “As Above, So Below” tattoo designs?
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“As Above, So Below” tattoo designs can represent spiritual unity and interconnectedness, balance and harmony, cosmic order and harmony, personal growth and transformation, duality and polarity, microcosm and macrocosm, and spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
What is the significance of “As Above, So Below” in Hermeticism?
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In Hermeticism, “As Above, So Below” is a fundamental concept that represents the unity and interconnectedness between the spiritual and material realms. It is a central idea in Hermetic philosophy and is often used to describe the nature of reality and the human condition.
