Introduction
Understanding Modern Theosophy
The Theosophy affirms the existence of a primordial wisdom common to religions. It combines Western traditions, Indian and Buddhist concepts, spiritual evolution and teachings attributed to Masters of Wisdom.
Blavatsky published Isis revealed and then The Secret Doctrine.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- The Theosophy affirms the existence of a primary wisdom common to religions.
- Blavatsky published Isis revealed and then The Secret Doctrine.
- Karma, reincarnation, subtle planes, evolution of consciousness and cosmic cycles structure several teachings.
- theosophy wanted to regain universal wisdom, while reflecting the colonial tensions of his time.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
Blavatsky published Isis revealed and then The Secret Doctrine.
Historical developments
She and Olcott settled in India and supported a Buddhist revival in Ceylon, while interpreting Asia through their own categories.
Ritual life and teachings
Karma, reincarnation, subtle planes, evolution of consciousness and cosmic cycles structure several teachings.
A living and plural tradition
Under Annie Besant, the Society participated in Indian education and nationalism.
History and development
Blavatsky published Isis unveiled and then La Doctrine Secret. Olcott and she settled in India and supported a Buddhist revival in Ceylon, while interpreting Asia through their own categories.
Under Annie Besant, the Society participated in Indian education and nationalism. The proclamation of Jiddu Krishnamurti as the future World Teacher ended when he dissolved the order created around him in 1929.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
Karma, reincarnation, subtle plans, evolution of consciousness and cosmic cycles structure several teachings. Study, meditation, vegetarism and service are valued, without identical mandatory dogma in all branches.
Texts, symbols and transmission
The secret Doctrine, The Voice of Silence, works by Besant and Leadbeater. The theosophical seal combines Uroboros, triangles, ancient svastika, antique cross and O.; its meaning precedes and rejects the Nazi use of the svastika.
What research can and cannot say
The "root races" are an occult cosmology without biological foundation and have problematic hierarchies. Theosophy has influenced modern art, religious movements, independences and New Age culture.
References