We shall not enter into an extended discussion of, or description of, the varied phenomena of mental influence or psychic activity.  There are many books, many of them quite good, which have been written and published on this subject of late years.  The main facts stated in these various books are correct, although the several writers have attempted to explain the phenomena by various pet theories of their own.  The student may acquaint himself with these matters, and by using the theory of Mental Gender he will be able to bring order out of the chaos of conflicting theory and teachings, and may, moreover, readily make himself a master of the subject if he be so inclined.  The purpose of this work is not to give an extended account of psychic phenomena but rather to give to the student a master-key whereby He may unlock the many doors leading into the parts of the Temple of Knowledge which he may wish to explore.  We feel that in this consideration of the teachings of The Kybalion, one may find an explanation which will serve to clear away many perplexing difficulties—­a key that will unlock many doors.  What is the use of going into detail regarding all of the many features of psychic phenomena and mental science, provided we place in the hands of the student the means whereby he may acquaint himself fully regarding any phase of the subject which may interest him.  With the aid of The Kybalion one may go through any occult library anew, the old Light from Egypt illuminating many dark pages, and obscure subjects.  That is the purpose of this book.  We do not come expounding a new philosophy, but rather furnishing the outlines of a great world-old teaching which will make clear the teachings of others-which will serve as a Great Reconciler of differing:  theories, and opposing doctrines.

CHAPTER XV

HERMETIC AXIOMS

“The possession of Knowledge, unless accompanied by a manifestation and expression in Action, is like the hoarding of precious metals-a vain and foolish thing.  Knowledge, like wealth, is intended for Use.  The Law of Use is Universal, and he who violates it suffers by reason of his conflict with natural forces.”—­The Kybalion.

The Hermetic Teachings, while always having been kept securely locked up in the minds of the fortunate possessors thereof, for reasons which we have already stated, were never intended to be merely stored away and secreted.  The Law of Use is dwelt upon in the Teachings, as you may see by reference to the above quotation from The Kybalion, which states it forcibly.  Knowledge without Use and Expression is a vain thing, bringing no good to its possessor, or to the race.  Beware of Mental Miserliness, and express into Action that which you have learned.  Study the Axioms and Aphorisms, but practice them also.

We give below some of the more important Hermetic Axioms, from The Kybalion, with a few comments added to each.  Make these your own, and practice and use them, for they are not really your own until you have Used them.