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This is an intellectual history of occult and esoteric currents in the English-speaking world from the early Romantic period to the early twentieth century. The Theosophical Society, founded in 1875 by Helena P. Blavatsky, holds a crucial position as the place where all these currents temporarily united, before again diverging. The book's ambiguous title points to the author's thesis that Theosophy owed as much to the skeptical Enlightenment of the eighteenth century as it did to the concept of spiritual enlightenment with which it is more readily associated. The author respects his sources sufficiently to allow that their world, so different from that of academic reductionism, has a right to be exhibited on its own terms. At the same time he does not conceal the fact that he considers many of them deluded and deluding. In the context of theosophical history, this book is neither on the side of the blind votaries of Madame Blavatsky, nor on that of her enemies. It may, therefore, be expected to mildly annoy both sides.
An enticing intellectual history of various esoteric currents from the early Romantic period to the early twentieth century. The author maintains that the Theosophical Society held a crucial position as the place where all those currents temporarily united, before diverging again.
Theosophy across Boundaries brings a global history approach to the study of esotericism, highlighting the important role of Theosophy in the general histories of religion, science, philosophy, art, and politics. The first half of the book consists of seven perspectives on the activities of the Theosophical Society in very different regional contexts, ranging from India, Vietnam, China, and Japan to Victorian Britain and Israel, shedding new light on the entanglement of "Western" and "Oriental" ideas around 1900. The second half explores specific cultural influences that Theosophy exerted in the spheres of literature, art, and politics, using case studies from Sri Lanka, Burma, India, Japan, Ireland, Germany, and Russia. The examples clearly show that Theosophy was part of a truly global movement, thus providing an outstanding example of the complex entanglements of the global religious history of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
This peer-reviewed study represents a culmination of years of research into the history of the Theosophical Society. In this unique project which combines biographies with source analyses, Jeffrey D. Lavoie records a detailed history of the early Theosophical Society and examines its relationship with the modern Spiritualist movement between the years 1875-1891. Special attention has been paid to some of the neglected figures associated with these organizations including Arthur Lillie- the Gnostic-occultist and early critic of the Theosophical Society; the Davenport Brothers- the Spiritualist mediums who developed many of the standard elements which became associated with modern Spiritualism; Alfred Wallace- the prominent scientist, Spiritualist, and supposed member of the Theosophical Society and many others. This work will appeal to a wide array of readers including those interested in modern religious movements, Western Esotericism, South Asian history, and Victorian studies.
" For those intimidated by Madame Blavatsky's massive and complex tome, The Secret Doctrine, Annie Besant presents the basic tenets of Theosophical thought in a concise, easy-to-digest format. Although much easier to read, this book still offers the full spectrum and depth of Theosophical philosophy." "The Ancient Wisdom" by Annie Besant - A Thorough Guide to Theosophical Teachings and Spiritual Enlightenment Discover the path to spiritual enlightenment with "The Ancient Wisdom," an insightful work by Annie Besant, a prominent theosophist of the 19th century. This profound exploration into the teachings of Theosophy, rooted in ancient wisdom traditions, offers readers an in-depth understanding of the laws and principles of the Universe, human evolution, and spiritual development. In this significant text, Besant meticulously elucidates the central tenets of Theosophy, including the spiritual hierarchy of beings, the complex structure of the human being, and the process of reincarnation. She delves into the intricate connection between humanity and the cosmos, presenting an interconnected universe where spiritual evolution is an inherent part of the cosmic order. The book further delves into the mysteries of life and death, the spiritual realms, the cycles of reincarnation, and the ultimate purpose of human existence. Besant encourages readers to engage with these profound concepts and to foster a deeper understanding of their own spiritual journey. "The Ancient Wisdom" serves as a comprehensive guide to those seeking spiritual growth, offering insight into the fundamental principles of Theosophy and providing practical guidance for spiritual development. Besant's work invites readers to venture into the realms of the metaphysical, to question, to learn, and ultimately to understand the spiritual truths of existence. Keywords: The Ancient Wisdom, Annie Besant, Theosophy, spiritual development, human evolution, reincarnation, spiritual hierarchy, metaphysical truths, spiritual enlightenment, ancient wisdom traditions, cosmic order, spiritual journey.
In 'The Changing World, and Lectures to Theosophical Students' by Annie Besant, the author delves into a profound exploration of the ever-changing nature of the world and the secrets of existence. Besant's writing is characterized by a blend of spiritual wisdom, philosophical insights, and metaphysical inquiries, making it a valuable contribution to the theosophical literature of the time. Through a series of lectures, Besant discusses topics such as karma, reincarnation, and the interconnectedness of all beings, drawing readers into a deeper understanding of the mysteries of life and the universe. Her eloquent prose and deep knowledge of theosophy provide readers with a rich and enlightening reading experience. Annie Besant's 'The Changing World, and Lectures to Theosophical Students' showcases her expertise in theosophical teachings and her dedication to spreading spiritual enlightenment. As a prominent theosophist, social reformer, and writer, Besant's personal journey and profound insights inform her work, making this book a must-read for those interested in spiritual wisdom and metaphysical exploration.
A historical and interpretive study of three aspects of Western esotericism from the Renaissance to the twentieth century.
The author examines the careers of the most distinguished disciples of the Theosophical Masters. He begins by examining the concept of initiation promoted by the Theosophical movement's founders. Each section investigates a separate category of initiates, focusing consecutively on Hindus, Muslims, Bahais, Buddhists, and the Western female occultists. More than just a study of Theosophy, this book explores many related developments in political and religious history. Among the figures it illumines in new ways are Anagarika Dharmapala, Alexandra David-Neel, George Ivanovitch Gurdjieff, and Isabelle Eberhardt. Its approach brings needed objectivity and balance to a topic too long mythologized by cultists and ignored by scholars.
Recent years have seen a spectacular rise of the New Age movement and an ever-increasing interest in its beliefs and manifestations. This fascinating work presents the first-ever comprehensive analysis of New Age Religion and its historical backgrounds, thus providing the reader with a means of orientation in the bewildering variety of the movement. Making extensive use of primary sources, the author thematically analyses New Age beliefs from the perspective of the study of religions. While looking at the historical backgrounds of the movement, he convincingly argues that its foundations were laid by so-called western esoteric traditions during the Renaissance. Hanegraaff finally shows how the modern New Age movement emerged from the increasing secularization of those esoteric traditions during the 19th century. This ground-breaking publication is compulsive reading for all those involved or interested in the New Age movement.