The following is the list of International Vice Presidents of the Theosophical Society (TS) since its founding:

A word coined by T. H. Huxley (1825-95) to convey the idea that knowledge, from the Greek gnosis, is impossible in much of the matters embraced by religious doctrines and philosophy. He suggested that on these matters, unless science can offer a valid comment, it is better to remain silent.

This is a concept the importance of which is difficult to overestimate as far as practitioners of spiritual path techniques are concerned. Because most persons think that they know the meaning of the word “awareness,” they may misunderstand the use of the word in the special context. To be aware, according to the dictionary, is to be watchful, on one’s guard, informed, cognizant, conscious.

(Āveśa Avatāra) (Sk. for “descent by possession). In the Hindu religion an Avatara is a divine incarnation or the descent of God in a tangible form; thus the Sanskrit term Avesa Avatara might be interpreted as a special purpose Avatara where, according to the teaching, a pure person is used for a period by an influx of the Divine Life.

While it is now taken as a matter of course that indigenous Australian spirituality has a place in any encyclopaedia of world religions, it must be remembered that this facet of indigenous Australian life was not given due recognition until fairly recently. W. H.

An envelope that contains all the principles of a human being, from the Atma to the physical body, and is the synthesizing element of the human principles. It is also called the Atmic Aura, but it is not the same as the human aura as the term is usually used, though the latter is part of the Auric Egg. It endures throughout the cycles of reincarnation of the human being.

A sacred syllable in the Hindu religion where it is called the pranava. It is considered to be a powerful mantra said to invoke divine energy, peace, and harmony. The word is usually uttered at the commencement of all Hindu hymns and prayers.

(Gk.). The immortal self in human beings, the Atma, or divine spirit within. Bulwer Lytton used this term in his famous novel Zanoni when the latter was said to be face to face with his Augoeides.

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An Adept who, according to the Mahatma KOOT HOOMI, “ordered” Helena P.

The words “atom” and “molecule” are used in theosophy in a different sense from that in chemistry. This article uses the words in the theosophical sense, except when preceded by the word “chemical” in which case they refer to the atom or molecule of modern science.

(Ātma-Vidyā) A Sanskrit term meaning “knowledge of the Self.” It also is used to mean “spiritual wisdom.”

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(Ātma-Jñāna) A Sanskrit term meaning “Self-knowledge” or knowledge of Atman, the spirit. The term refers essentially to “true wisdom.” It is also known as Atma-vidya.

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A legendary island said to be located in the Atlantic ocean. While the myths and legends about Atlantis are not a part of mainstream theosophy, it is a fact that the subject seems to have fascinated many people during the 19th century and many references to it are to be found scattered amongst theosophical literature.

(PUB.) A classic of theosophical literature written by J. Krishnamurti under the pseudonym Alcyone (pronounced al-kee-o-nee). It was first published in December 1910 when Krishnamurti was fifteen years of age and has remained in print since that time.

The worship of the stars. All the heavenly bodies, singly or together, have, at one time or another, been the object of worship. As is well-known, the Ancient Egyptians worshiped the sun which they named Ra. Many early religions included the worship of the moon and when called Luna (L) the term is usually a reference to a personified moon.

(Astānga-Yoga) The eight-limbed yoga. See RAJA Yoga.

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In BUDDHISM, a “non-learner” or one who has “finished his learning.” It refers to the highest attainment of an ARHAT, the last of the four stages of spiritual development in Buddhism.

The practice of rigorous self-denial, sometimes called tapas. The term is most often encountered regarding the spiritual practices of monks and hermits, hence an ascetic is one who retires into solitude to practice rigid self-denial and meditation.

Evolution proceeds in cycles-within-cycles, descending from the more spiritual, or unity condition, to the more material or diversity, and re-ascending to spirit. Such cycles may fall into seven stages, the last three constituting the Ascending Arc, rising from the fourth which is the most material.

A Sanskrit word meaning “non-being,” “not existing,” or “unreal,” and by extension “untrue” or “false.” In theosophy the word is sometimes used to denote the illusion of reality presented by objective Nature. 

See MAYA.

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(Āryāvarta, Ārya āvarta). Sanskrit for “Land of the Aryans.” A name given by some to India, but Helena P. . BLAVATSKY states that to do so is incorrect. She defines the word (in TG, p.

The word Aryan is derived from the Sanskrit root ārya meaning “noble.” The name was first used to identify a race given to the worship of the gods by the Hindu priests (brāhmaṇas in Sanskrit, often written “brahmins”).

(Arūpa-Loka) A Sanskrit compound from arupa, without form, and loka, world or plane, hence “Formless World.” This term appears several times in The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett and subsequent theosophical writings.

See:  Mental Body

(Arūpa Devas) A Sanskrit term meaning “formless shining ones.” In theosophical terminology it refers to entities existing on the three highest levels of the MENTAL PLANE. 

See also DEVAS.

(Arūpa) A Sanskrit term meaning formless or bodiless. The three subtlest of seven “worlds” or “beings” may be termed arupa which does not exclude matter, but allows for a subtle sheath of energy-substance.

M.A.

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Helena P. BLAVATSKY considered the art of her time as being already in deep decline.

(Gk). Alternatively called, by ancient philosophers, “cosmocratores,” Archontes were the types or paradigms which exist on the higher Planes of Nature and give rise to forms on the lower Planes, such as ELEMENTALS or NATURE-SPIRITS.

(Gk). Used in theosophical literature to denote primordial planetary spirits (the seven highest hierarchies corresponding to the Christian archangels). A term used in GNOSTICISM to describe a power subordinate to the Deity responsible for the creation of the world.

The ideal, abstract type from which others may be derived. The word has been used in several senses. In Plato’s metaphysics, archetypes refer to primordial abstract forms from which objects in the universe are patterned. In Kabbalah, they are the models in the archetypal world. Helena P. Blavatsky stated however that the word “Archetypal” in the Kabbalistic system “must not be taken . . .

(Kab). The world made as a first model, from which the objective world emanates. Same as W. Wynn Westcott’s “Archetypal Universe” (see BLAVATSKY’s Theosophical Glossary, p. 29) or Blavatsky’s archetypal man.

(Āraṇyakas) A Sanskrit name given to a section of the VEDAS; it interprets the ritual portion by turning them into allegories and describing certain methods of meditation. It appears to have been intended for use by forest dwelling ascetics. The term was also used by Helena P.

A cycle of approximately 2155 years. It is determined by the point where the sun crosses the equator each spring. That point of crossing precesses westward at about 50.2 seconds of arc per year. Hence it requires about 2155 years to pass through one-twelfth part of the sky, or the distance of one sign.

A term used in psychical research to refer to the paranormal transmission of objects from a distance into an enclosed space. While there are numerous cases that have been reported of claimed apport, the writer knows of no cases of such taking place under scientifically controlled conditions.

Also known as specters, phantoms, or ghosts. These appearances may be categorized as those of the dead or of the living. Of these there are those seen by one person only and those seen by more than one at the same moment. Probably no subject has such a voluminous reporting in the literature of psychic phenomena as that of the apparition.

A Christian doctrine, espoused by Origen and his followers, that all intelligent beings (angels, humans, and even devils) shall eventually be saved, as opposed to the view that sinners will be condemned to hell forever. It is from a Greek term meaning “complete restoration.” Origen taught that while unrepentant souls will be punished, they will ultimately come to salvation.

(Anupādaka Tattva) A Sanskrit term meaning “that which is born by transformation from something higher than itself.” It also relates to the first differentiation on the plane of being.

See also TATTVA.

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A Chaldean God, king of angels and spirits, and lord of the city of Erech. It is the highest of a trinity, the other two being Bel and Hea. Helena P.

(Aṇu) Anu (with dotted “n”) means an atom, minute part. In The Secret Doctrine it refers to the “Primordial Atom” (Vol. I, p. 148). In Vol. II, Helena P. BLAVATSKY refers to the Chaldean Cosmogony where Anu is “the concealed deity, the One, whose name . . .

(Antarātma, ātman). Sanskrit for “inner Self” and used by Helena P. Blavatsky to denote the latent spirit present in the five tanmatras (lit.

The dictionary defines “annihilate” as, “to reduce to nothing.” In connection with Buddhism, Western Orientalists have often regarded NIRVANA as a state of complete annihilation, but this has been disputed by many Buddhists, scholars and theosophists.

(Ank). An Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol of life or immortality. It is sometimes called crux ansata (Lat.). Some authorities suggest that the figure is a stylized version of a drawing of an Egyptian mud-anchor as used by Nile

A word derived from the Latin anima meaning “breath” or “soul.” The term is most often applied to the belief in the reality of the soul, but may also be applied to the belief that all things are intrinsically alive and possess soul. It was probably first used in the latter sense by Edward Taylor in his book Primitive Culture. Helena P.

This is a term used by Helena P. Blavatsky to refer to kama, or the desire-nature in the septenary constitution of the human being.

Blavatsky classifies the soul into three kinds:

A term used by Franz Anton MESMER (1734-1815) for an invisible force in animal bodies which, when controlled or managed, can lead to therapy. This healing approach has been called MESMERISM and had attracted worldwide attention when Mesmer was doing it in Paris.

(L). Literally means “Soul of the World.” It is used in both the larger sense of being the soul of the cosmos, and the more limited sense of the soul of a globe.

In its larger sense it is equivalent to the Alaya of Buddhism. In its lower aspect it is the astral light or the lower levels of AKASA.

From the Greek word that means “male-female.” The term refers to forces, organisms or human beings which or who exhibit both the masculine and feminine aspects of nature.

Theosophical literature speaks of androgynous beings on two levels: the metaphysical and physical.

(c. 500-428 B.C.). Greek philosopher who was born about 500 BCE at Clazomenae. There is a story to the effect that he disposed of all his property, believing that possessions were an impediment to the search for knowledge. He settled at Athens where his students included Socrates, Euripedes and Archelaus.

See:  Anatman

(Anāgāmin) Pali for “non-returner” which refers, according to Theravada Buddhism, to a stage reached by certain individuals when they are on the verge of becoming an ARHAT.

(Amṛita Yāna) A Sanskrit term which conveys the idea that when a Great One (Buddha of Compassion) has chosen to follow the Path of Immortality, the path remains an undying beacon for all who follow. From amrita, immortality, and yana, path.

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(Amṛta). A Sanskrit word which has various meanings including immortality, divine nectar, juice of divine delight. It is a compound of a, not, and mrita, death.

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(Amitābha) In MAHAYANA BUDDHISM, Amitabha is a Dhyani-Buddha or transcendental Buddha, also known as Amida, Amita, Amitayu, O-mi-to-fo. In Tibet he is known as Od-pag-med.

The hierarchy of creative intelligences in Zoroastrianism, sometimes written as Amesha Spendas and known as Amshapands (or Amshapends) in Persian.

This word is familiar to all Christians since it is used at the end of prayers and hymns. It is defined in the OED as “Be it so, really.” Most authorities trace its origin to early Hebrew.

Helena P. BLAVATSKY disagrees that it is derived from Hebrew. She states:

(Ākāra) A Sanskrit word meaning “form.”

See also RUPA.

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(Avidyā) A Sanskrit word usually translated as “ignorance,” but perhaps more appropriately termed “unwisdom,” since it is the negative of vidya which is cognate with the German “wissen” and the English word “wisdom.” It is often translated “nescience” (cf. SD I:7).

(Ajnāna) The opposite of JÑANA. Since jñana is knowledge, ajñana is usually translated as “ignorance.” More importantly in both Indian philosophy and theosophy, it is not just ignorance of specific facts, but a fundamental ignorance of our true spiritual nature.

A Sanskrit word the literal meaning of which is unborn or unproduced. In the Rig Veda, Kama or Kamadeva, the God of desire is described as Aja (the unborn), the first manifestation of the One. In later Hinduism, Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva are also considered aja or unborn.

(Ahimsā) A Sanskrit word meaning non-injury or non-violence as a philosophy of living. It is a fundamental requirement of many of the Yogas, particularly Raja Yoga, where it is one of the yamas (abstentions). Ahimsa is one of the great vows of the Jainas. 

See JAINISM.

A Sanskrit term found in the PURANAS where it has the meaning of a “day” or “body” of the creative aspect of BRAHMA. Both the word “day” or “body” are, of course, used symbolically.

See:  Karma

(Gk.). An age or the duration of the world, or of the universe; an immeasurable period of time; eternity. In some contexts the word “aeon” can signify the personification of an age; in Platonic Philosophy it means a power existing in eternity. In GNOSTICISM, it is an emanation from and manifestation of God.

The innermost and most sacred part of a Greek temple where oracles were delivered; corresponds to the altars of the Christian churches.

J.H-E.

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Adyar is the location of the International Headquarters of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Chennai (formerly named Madras), India. Adyar Day was founded in 1922 with the intent that on February 17 of every year theosophists around the world might turn their thoughts to the spiritual and administrative center of the Society.

(Advayatā) A Sanskrit word indicating “oneness” or more literally “non-duality,” from dvaya, “dual,” with the negative prefix a- and the abstract suffix -ta‚ “-ness.” Although the term is not commonly used in mainstream theosophical literature it is quite relevant to the theosophical philosophy which stresses the “oneness” of all things.

(Ādi-Varsha) The land of the third ROOT RACE, sometimes referred to as “Eden of the early races.”

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(Ādityas) The sovereign or ruling principles of the universe. They are personified in Hindu mythology as the children of ADITI, mother of the gods, the primordial substance or mulaprakriti. Various works give different numbers to the adityas.

(Ādi-Sanat) A term used in the Stanzas of DZYAN that is equivalent to the Third LOGOS, or BRAHMA the Creator, as well as the “Ancient of Days” in…

(Ādi-Nidāna Svabhāvat) This Sanskrit term occurs in Helena P.

(Ādi-Nidāna) A Sanskrit term meaning the first and supreme cause of existence.

J.H-E.

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(Ādi-Bhūta) A Sanskrit word meaning the underlying spiritual substratum of material objects. The term denotes the universal influence of the Supreme Spirit or even the Supreme Spirit itself. Helena P. BLAVATSKY calls it the first element that contains all elements.

(Ādi) Sanskrit for the “first” or “primeval.” It is used in the Esoteric Philosophy in the term “Sons of Adi” or the “Sons of the Fire-mist.” Also used of certain ADEPTS. Helena P.

(Adhyātmavidyā) A Sanskrit word meaning “knowledge (or wisdom, science) of the higher Self” (adhy-atman), sometimes translated (but not quite the same in meaning as) “metaphysics.” It is also the name of one of the Pañca Vidya Sastras or the “Scriptures of the five senses.”

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In the writings of the Helena P. BLAVATSKY the term refers to the third ROOT RACE after the separation of the sexes.

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A term found in Chaldean scriptures which is, according to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, a personation of the two meanings of Adam: the heavenly Adam-Kadmon, and the human Adam, which represents the human race.

In The MAHATMA LETTERS TO A. P. SINNETT, accident is mentioned as one of the three causes of premature deaths, the other two being suicide and violent death, such as murder.

(Ācāra) A Sanskrit word meaning “conduct” or “good behavior,” particularly in relation to religious and spiritual matters.

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A term often used as an equivalent to Primordial Space, or CHAOS in Greek theogony. 

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(L.). Most often encountered in modern times denoting nonsense words or meaningless talk and thus is used as a term of ridicule, but the word has a long history of use in ancient magical procedures. The Oxford English Dictionary ascribes it to Q. Severus Sammonicus who was a physician to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (Caracalla) which dates it from about the 2nd century.

The Sanskrit name of the third part of the Buddhist Canon, called in Pali the Abhidhamma Pitaka. Helena P.

(Abhijñā) A Sanskrit word meaning “superknowledge” or “paranormal power” sometimes referred to as a siddhi. It is used in reference to five powers said to be attained by the Buddha and Buddhist ascetics as a result of their meditative discipline, usually listed as

(1) being able to assume any form at will (anyarupasakti),

(Abhavā) A Sanskrit word meaning absence, non-existence, or non-being. Helena P. BLAVATSKY, in her article entitled The Septenary Principle in Esotericism (CWIV:580) refers to Abhava as, “Nonexistence or non-being . . .

In the Old Testament, the eldest son of Adam and Eve. He slew his brother Abel due to his jealousy about the acceptance by the Lord of the offering of Abel over that of Cain.

In 1924 a Buddhist Lodge was founded within the English Section of the Theosophical Society (TS) by Christmas Humphreys.

When MANAS the Thinker or Mind, the fifth human PRINCIPLE, instead of being drawn downwards by KAMA, the desire nature, combines with Buddhi, we speak of Buddhi-Manas or enlightened mind. Helena P.

(Ādi Plane) Adi is a Sanskrit word meaning “first” and in theosophy a generic term for all the “First Men,” that is, the first speaking races. Helena P. BLAVATSKY suggests that the name “Adam” is derived from ad.

The Sanskrit word buddhi (from the root budh, awaken, observe, understand, etc.) is often translated as “intellect,” but in this context might be more usefully translated “discrimination” or “insight.” The word yoga (from the root yuj, unite, attach, etc.) in this context means a discipline leading to union with one’s Self of …

A term used in theosophical literature to describe how matter is created by “digging holes” into space by Fohat. The Secret Doctrine states that “the great Breath digs through Space seven holes into Laya to cause them to circumgyrate during Manvantara” (SD I:147).

Refers to those who in their occult practices concern themselves almost entirely with the material forces in Nature. The term is often applied to the so-called “Black Magicians” or “Sorcerers.”

In 1881 the Theosophical Society (TS) adopted a simplified version of the objects of the Society the first of which was: “To form the nucleus of a Universal Brotherhood of Humanity.” Although minor modifications to the wording have taken place over the intervening years, the central theme has remained unchanged for more than a century.

In the Stanzas of Dzyan of The Secret Doctrine (Stanza II), “Breath” refers to Motion in its potential state in the unmanifested state. This Breath, or Motion, does not cease even during the Pralaya or state of non-manifestation.

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The English book service for the blind was started in November 1909 under the auspices of the English Theosophical Order of Service and called “The Braille League.” The early members had first to learn Braille and this was far from easy since apart from learning the code, it is necessary to write on the reverse side of the paper and from right to left.

The full title of the organization was The Braille and “Servers of the Blind” League. The Founding President was named S. M. Sharpe and in a 1920 report Emily LUTYENS was President; at that time the Vice-Presidents were Muriel De La Warr, Gertrude Bailie Weaver and E. R. Johnson.

A Sanskrit word with several connotations.

The opening in the crown of the head through which the individuals “soul” is said to leave the body on death. Helena P. BLAVATSKY defines it as a spot on the crown of the head connected by Sushumṇā, a cord in the spinal column, with the heart (TG, p. 63).

(Bṛhaspati). One of the deities of the Ṛg Veda and the Purāṇas and called the Teacher of the Gods. He is also called Brahmaṇaspati. His enemy is the god Soma (moon) who carried away his wife, Tara, who bore Soma a son, Budha (Mercury).

A Sanskrit word for celibacy or abstention from incontinence. It means literally “The path that leads to Brahman.” It is one of the abstentions in Rāja Yoga and is also used to describe the first stage of life such as studentship. In Jainism it is one of the great vows.

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A Sanskrit word describing one who leads a celibate life, depending on charity for food. Helena P. BLAVATSKY has said that they live the celibate life to qualify for initiation into the higher mysteries (CW XI:256).

A Sanskrit term meaning “Divine Union.” This yoga discipline is said to be the purest of all the schools of yoga. It is a theosophical discipline or training in chelaship which is found in many Esoteric or Mystery Schools down through the ages.

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A Sanskrit term usually used to denote the male-female aspect of BRAHMĀ.

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One of the five classic texts of Confucianism. See CONFUCIUS AND CONFUCIANISM.

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An Eastern mystical work from which the Voice of the Silence by Helena P. BLAVATSKY was derived. Blavatsky wrote that it is a work given to mystical students in the East. It contains about ninety treatises, thirty-nine of which she knew by heart.

A class of celestial beings whose prototypes are the Dhyāni-Bodhisattvas. Numbering seven, each of them watch over one of the ROOT RACES during a globe-period. See HIERARCHY.

(Bo tree). Botanical name Ficus religiosa. This is a tree related to the common fig and the mulberry family. It is venerated by Buddhists because it is said that BUDDHA attained enlightenment while seated beneath one of these trees at Buddh Gaya.

A Sanskrit word meaning “perfect knowledge” or “wisdom.” It is derived from the root “budh,” (“awaken,” “become aware of,” “understand,” etc.) from which the feminine noun buddhi (“discernment,” “insight,” “understanding,” etc.) and the past participle buddha (“awakened,” “enlightened,”) are derived. 

From immemorial times, blood has had great significance, ritually and esoterically. It has been used to imitate rain in rain-making ceremonies; smeared on the wood-work of houses to appease the tree spirits; used by magicians for evil purposes and so on.

A Sanskrit compound word from BHŪTA and mātrā, a feminine plural meaning “the subtle elements,” also called tanmātras.

A common spelling of the Hindi version of the Sanskrit word bhūta (“become,” “gone,” etc.) applied, by extension, to a person who has died but still appears, i.e., “ghost.” 

A Sanskrit word (from the root bhikṣ, “beg”) applied to one who begs for his or her sustenance, a mendicant. It is the term commonly used for a Theravāda Buddhist monk. See BUDDHISM.

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One of several quasi-philosophical works extolling the path of devotion. Its author is named NĀRADA, a sannyasi name probably chosen because of its mythological association with Śri Krishna in the Mahābhārata and its legendary association with the teacher of Vālmikī, reputed author of the Rāmāyaṇa.…

A Sanskrit possesive formed from the root bhaj (“grant,” “bestow,” etc.) meaning “possessing fortune” and by extension “blessed,” “glorious,” “divine,” “lord,” etc.

One of the many names for the Devil. It is encountered in the Vulgate both for the New Testament Greek, βεεʎςεβοήβ and the Hebrew ba’al-z’būb, meaning “fly-lord” (see 2 Kings 1:2). Milton made Beelzebub one of the fallen angels. Helena P.

(T). This term is used in MAHĀYĀNA BUDDHISM to indicate the condition of an entity between death and rebirth which is known as the intermediate state.

See BARDO THÖDOL.

The application of water to a person by immersion, pouring, or sprinkling, as a religious rite, symbolical of purification or regeneration, and betokening initiation into the church.

(Heb.). From the Hebrew Ba’al meaning Lord. The chief male deity of the Phoenician and Canaanitish nations, also many other ancient near eastern communities. According to Helena P.

A form of punishment where a criminal’s hands are nailed to the extremities of the horizontal part of a cross, while the feet are nailed to the lower part of the verticle part. Some authorities suggest instead that the nails were inserted through the wrists.

A symbol of great antiquity which predates Christianity by several millennia. Its form has many variants, such as the decussated cross or “X,” the ansated cross with a circle on top, the swastica, the Jainian cross, and others.

The reduction of human remains to ash. It has been practiced for thousands of years particularly in the East, and was introduced into Europe by the Romans in the wake of their conquests.

The doctrine that the universe was created out of nothing by an extra-cosmic deity. In Christianity, the concept includes the creation of the human soul at the moment of birth.

Photographs of fairies which were claimed to have been taken by two young girls, Elsie Wright and Frances Griffiths in July, 1917, in Cottingley, Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. The pictures became world-famous after Arthur Conan-Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, vouched for their authenticity.

The study of the beginning or origin and evolution of the universe; cosmology relates to the study of the universe in general.

(T). This classic of Mahāyāna Buddhism was originally intended to be not only a guide for the dead, but for the living. It is used as a breviary and is recited either to a dying person or to the corpse.

The root essence of matter that concurrently emerges with COSMIC IDEATION during the dawn of manifestation of the cosmos. It is the differentiated form of MULAPRAKRTI. It is this that forms the different vehicles of consciousness.

The Ancient Wisdom sees the universe as the effect or product of consciousness and at the same time, is consciousness; it is a matter of the levels of consciousness. Helena P.

Also called Primordial Atom. It is a term used in theosophical literature to refer to the initial point of evolution during manvantara. It is a potency that is very different from the atom of modern science. “The potentiality which develops finally in a perfected planetary spirit lurks in, is in fact that primordial cosmic atom” (ML, p. 180).

A table of correspondence is a comparative list of properties of different systems, structures or organisms that are analogous or have affinity with each other.

The state of consciousness which is beyond limitation, and hence is beyond the cognizer, cognition and cognized. It is thus a state of unconsciousness. The Secret Doctrine speaks of it as “the dark mystery of non-Being; unconscious, yet absolute Consciousness; unrealisable, yet the one self-existing reality” (SD I:2).

Empathy with the suffering of others, with a spontaneous inclination to alleviate it. This is a primary quality of spirituality in all religions, particularly in Buddhism, where it is called karuna.

A classic mystical treatise written in the 14th century by an unknown Catholic monk to serve as a series of counsels to a novice in the contemplative life. It advocated what is called apophatic spirituality, or a mysticism that is without images. One must enter into a state beyond thoughts and images, a state of “unknowing” as opposed to intellectual knowing.

REDIRECT Jesus Christ

(Gk.). A Greek word meaning “anointed.” It is a term subsequently used for Jesus of Nazareth. According to Helena P. Blavatsky, the terms Christos and Chrestos must be distinguished from each other, and both antedate Christianity. They were names used in the initiations of the mysteries.

(Sk. citta, mind, intelligence, thought). A term used in some yoga systems meaning “mind substance,” which can be modified by perception or other factors from which arises understanding. In Patañjali’s Yoga Sutras, yoga is the restraint or cessation of the modifications of the citta or mind substance.

A Sanskrit term which has a wide range of meanings, such as “consciousness” (or “pure consciousness”), “awareness,” “understanding,” etc. depending on the context in which it is used. It is usually written as cit (or cid when the following letter is a sonant). 

(Cidakasa). A Sanskrit word meaning “the field of primordial consciousness.” According to theosophy, Chidakasa occupies the realm of AKASA, the noumenal plane or field of potential phenomena. In Vedanta, chidakasa corresponds to Atma.

Tibetan name of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.

See AVALOKITESVARA.

The shadowy world of primal or intellectual form (from the Sanskrit chaya, shadow, and loka, world). In the formation of the cosmos, The Secret Doctrine speaks of several stages of manifestation or emanation. The first level is the Divine World, the second is the “Divine Arupa” or the formless Universe of Thought.

(Chhaya). The Sanskrit word for “shadow” or “shade” (among other meanings). The early theosophical way of transliterating it is chhayabut is now normally transliterated as chāya (or in compounds chaya-). It is used in theosophical literature in several senses.

(Chaldaea). Theosophical literature frequently refers to a system of esoteric teaching in Chaldea, a land which lies in what is now southern Iraq. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament although it is sometimes called Babylonia. Its early history is obscure and the first clear reference to it is in the annals of Ashurnasirpal II who was king of Assyria from 884 to 859 BCE.

An obscure work which, according to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, is one of the books of Hermes. Apart from Blavatsky’s own comments, no information seems to be available concerning this book. She states that it is one of the books of Hermes.

This paradoxical phrase enshrines one of the most philosophically profound statements in Helena P. BLAVATSKY’S The Secret Doctrine. It is not identical with the concept of the “First Cause” of Thomas Aquinas and Herbert Spencer.

It is a generally accepted idea that all actions (or events) have some cause or other. In fact, if this were not so, that is, if similar actions (or events) were followed by different results each time they occurred, the world would be chaotic and any attempt to understand or control it would be impossible. Life itself would also seem to be impossible under such conditions.

(Cathars). A Christian sect that had numerous adherents in Western Europe during the 12th and 13th centuries. The Cathars were sometimes referred to as the “Albigenses,” the men of Albi, one of their chief centers of influence in the south of France.

This form of punishment is the application of the death penalty to certain crimes as a result of a legal process.

Helena P. BLAVATSKY repeatedly states that every atom and every cell has its own kind of consciousness. In an article entitled Kosmic Mind she writes,

In the Old Testament, the eldest son of Adam and Eve. He slew his brother Abel due to his jealousy about the acceptance by the Lord of the offering of Abel over that of Cain.

(Aśvattha) The name of the pipal (i.e., fig) tree (ficus religiosa) or Tree of Knowledge. The Sanskrit word is derived from a corruption of asva (horse) + stha (stand), i.e., “under which horses stand.” The tree is described as having its roots in heaven and its crown or branches below.

A term coined by Bulwer Lytton in his novel Zanoni that refers to an invisible malevolent entity that attaches to and influences a particular person. Helena P. Blavatsky defined them as “maleficent astral Doubles of defunct persons” (TG). The Dweller is actually the astral shell of the same individual in a previous incarnation.

A Sanskrit word meaning antipathy, hatred or aversion. It occurs in Patañjali’s Yoga Aphorisms where he analyzes psychic individuality and where it means “disgust.”

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Human-like primates such as chimpanzees, gorillas, gibbons and orangutans. They have been regarded by evolutionists to have the same ancestors as human beings. Theosophical phylogeny disagrees with this view.

According to Helena P. BLAVATSKY'S The Secret Doctrine, these are half-human entities who were produced by the mating of humans and animals during the Third Root Race. The anthropoid and other apes were descended from these races.

A Tibetan term for a sorcerer or “Brother of the Shadow.” It literally means “Red Caps,” a Tibetan Buddhist sect whose practices have been adulterated with the native Bon religion prior to the 14th century. According to Helena P.

In Zoroastrianism, the evil deity opposed to Ahura Mazda or Ormazd. He is also known as Angra Mainyu. Both Ahura Mazda and Ahriman were issued from Zeruana-Akarana, or “boundless time.”

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(Zend). Ancient Zoroastrianism named the Creator God, emanated from Zeruan Akerna (“Boundless Time”), Mazda (i.e., Omniscient, All-Wise). To this Zarathustra Spitama (also known as Zoroaster; c. 660-583 BCE) added the title Ahura (“Governor”). In other words, Ahura Mazda is the wise and beneficent creator and sustainer of the universe.

A philosophical or religious theory that maintains that there is an absolute distinction between two irreducible principles, such as spirit and matter, good and evil, mind and body, etc. This is opposed to monism, which posits that there is but one basic principle, substance or nature; it differs too with pluralism, which states that there are many.

Thoughts, images, or emotions that occur during one’s sleep. The theosophical view on the subject recognizes the common insights of psychology on the dream experience but adds further dimensions to it. The following is primarily based on the exposition by Helena P. BLAVATSKY.

The Theosophical Society (Adyar), the Theosophical Society (Pasadena), the United Lodge of Theosophists, indeed, all organizations within the Theosophical Movement are, in theory, opposed to any suggestion that there is a theosophical dogma as a matter of official policy.

The esoteric Buddhist doctrine that stresses compassion and wisdom, and is contrasted with the “doctrine of the eye,” which is head-learning and exoteric ritualism.

A Sanskrit term meaning “the yoga of meditation.” It is the subject of one of the chapters of the Bhagavad-Gita, wherein Krishna instructs Arjuna on how one should sit and discipline his mind by focusing on the tip of the nose with the mind focused on Krishna.

Sanskrit for a state of deep contemplation or meditation, from the root dhyai, contemplate, call to mind, recollect, ponder. In Mahayana Buddhism, it is the fifth of the six (or ten) PARAMITAS.

Sanskrit term which means “the setting in motion of the wheel of the law,” which is the title of the Buddha’s first sermon after his enlightenment.

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A Sanskrit term with a wide variety of uses in religious and philosophic texts. It is derived from the root dh (hold or uphold, carry or bear, preserve, etc). Hence, in Hindu social theory dharma is that which upholds society, i.e., what the West would consider the social and moral law; as such it is the third of the four aims of an ideal human life (purusartha).

Sanskrit for the act of retaining, maintaining, preserving in memory, etc. (from the root dhr, hold, carry, preserve, etc.). It is the sixth “limb” (anga) of the Rāja Yoga system of Patañjali (see Yoga Sutras 3.1, 4.1-2) and in that context implies a profound concentration of consciousness (CITTA) on a single idea or object.

The name is derived from Greek, diabolos, which is translated as “slanderer” or “accuser;” it is also used as a generic term for minor evil spirits. The term “satan” is often used interchangeably with “devil;” it is derived from the Hebrew word for “adversary.”

A term used by Charles W. Leadbeater and others to describe the elemental essence that vivifies the emotional body.

Desire is a word that is encountered frequently in the spiritual literature of many religions and teachings. In Helena P. BLAVATSKY'S The Voice of the Silence, we find the injunction, “Kill out desire; but if thou killest it take heed lest from the dead it should again arise.

According to theosophy, evolution proceeds in cycles-within-cycles, “descending” from a predominantly spiritual state (Unity) to a predominantly material state (diversity) and “re-ascending” to predominance of spirit. Such cycles may fall into seven stages, the first three constituting the Descending Arc, culminating in the fourth and most material stage.

From the Persian darvsh, darvish, meaning “poor” or a “monk.” The Arabic equivalent is faqir which also means poor. The sects of the dervishes emerged in Islam through the SUFI tradition.

An evil spirit, or a source or agent of evil. The name derives from the Greek word daimon which means a supernatural being between gods and human beings. In its original sense, a daimon is not necessarily evil, as in the case of the daimon of Socrates.

An oracle is a shrine dedicated to a god or mythical hero and from whom requests for information (usually about the future) are made. The word can also be use to denote the answer that is received. There were many oracles in ancient times, but perhaps the most often mentioned in history is that at Delphi dedicated to Apollo.

It is defined as “Supreme God” or “The divine creator of the universe.” In theosophical literature the term has been used fairly loosely. Helena P. BLAVATSKY, in an article on Eastern and Western Occultism, mentions, “. . .

After the physical death of a person, the surviving vehicles of consciousness undergo a “second death,” which is the separation of the higher “triad” — Atma-Buddhi-Manas, from the surviving personality, or kama-manas…

A theosophical term that refers to the time when human beings have transcended the realm of phenomena and have attained oneness with the universal ego. Helena P.

The Sanskrit name of one of the Mahayana Buddhist scriptures. It contains an account of the ten stages a Bodhisattva has to pass before reaching Buddhahood.

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A Sanskrit word formed from the root drs (see, consider, understand, etc.) hence meaning “seeing,” “observing,” “experiencing,” etc., and by extension “viewpoint.” It is commonly used to refer to a philosophic point of view or doctrine, hence is sometimes translated “philosophy.” It may also be used to refer to the insights of a holy person — human or divine.

Darkness is the absence of light and light is caused by the presence of radiation in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Helena P. BLAVATSKY and other writers have, however, used the word “darkness” with more subtle implications.

An expression originating with Juan de la Cruz (John of the Cross) and used to describe a condition sometimes experienced by mystics who have had an experience of Cosmic Consciousness and then, at some time later, have been plunged into the darkness of despair when the state of ecstasy or illumination seems to have left them. As St. John says, “They feel that God has abandoned them.”

A Tibetan word meaning an absolutely purified soul, free from the necessity of rebirth. It is equivalent to the Hindu jivanmukti or the theosophical Adept, Master, or Mahatma. In The Secret Doctrine, Helena P.

A Sanskrit noun stem derived from the root da, give. It means “gift” or “giving” (including giving a teaching) and is the first of the Northern (i.e., Mahayana) Buddhist steps in the “Perfection of Wisdom” (prajñaparamita). Helena P. Blavatsky translates it, in The Voice of the Silence, as “charity and love immortal.”

A Sanskrit word meaning, among other things, “self-restraint” or “self-control” specifically of the senses.

In Hindu mythology, they are gods who rebelled and are regarded as among the Asuras, equivalent to the Titans of Greek mythology. The Daityas opposed ceremonial rituals and sacrifices.

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The branch of philosophy that studies the nature of right and wrong and of moral judgments.

In Western philosophical tradition, the study of ethics is generally divided into three areas: Metaethics, Normative Ethics, and Applied Ethics.

While most members of the various theosophical societies accept without question the ethic principles articulated by their religion, whether Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, etc., some theosophists have attempted to derive ethical principles from more basic assumptions about the nature of the world and the nature of human beings in the world.

The belief that certain persons can, by their gaze, injure others is widespread and has been throughout history. It is mentioned in the Bible (Deut. xxviii, 54) and in ancient Rome laws were enacted to protect crops from the malevolent gaze. In the Middle East many cultures have retained a belief in the evil eye and some Arabs protect their horses and camels with amulets.

This term is used in four senses:

Defined in dictionaries as time without beginning or end, it is sometimes used with a different meaning in some theosophical writings. Helena P.

When used as a theosophical term, it is described as the one homogeneous, absolute and omnipresent Essence which lies beyond the seven planes of worlds (CW XII:629; SD I:4). As it begins its evolutionary journey it generates a correlated reflection which differentiates and transforms into subjective and finally objective matter.

The inner teachings of the great religions contained in mysticism or to some extent “gnosticism” in Christianity; Sufism in Islam; Kabbalah in Judaism and so on.

Apocryphal Jewish writings variously dated from 175 BCE to 100 BCE. The problem of accurate dating arises because the writings cannot be attributed to one author. A portion of the work has been found duplicated in the Qumran Scrolls which are in Aramaic.

The equivalent of the Christian heaven in ancient Greek mythology; the abode of the gods. Similar to Devachan in theosophical writings.

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Theosophy recognizes seven Planes in Nature and associated with those Planes are, in Sanskrit, the seven Tattvas, Tanmatras and Mahabhutas (Prakrti). See individual entries for explanation of these terms.

The earthbound souls of dead people who had lived evil, depraved or extremely selfish lives. It includes those whose higher principles (ATMA-BUDDHI) have been separated from their personality principles (KAMA-MANAS).

(Gk.). Greek term for the astral body.

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Human beings born from eggs as contrasted to those who were “Sweat-born.” See ROOT RACES.

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For orthodox Christians Eden is the place where Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, lived until they disobeyed God’s law (Genesis I). In its symbolical meaning it is the condition of the soul in the Buddhic Plane.

A school founded by Ammonius Saccas in the third century BCE, and which is considered by Helena P. BLAVATSKY as the precursor or prototype of the modern Theosophical Society (TS).

A term used by Charles W. Leadbeater to describe certain discarnate souls which are still attracted to the physical world due to some anxiety or attachment towards the world left behind, such as duties left undone or crimes committed while in physical life (Life After Death).

The Theosophical Society (TS) was formally founded in New York, on November 17, 1875, and this day is recognized as an official anniversary throughout the theosophical world.

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A term, equivalent to the Sanskrit rupa, used in a special sense in theosophy and Eastern philosophy. In general, it refers to a level of manifestation that is grosser as compared to the formless or arupa state. Mind and its thoughts, for example, are divided into that which has a form (rupa-manas) and that which is formless or abstract (arupa-manas…

This refers to those of the Third Root Race (see ROOT RACES) who had achieved a high level of spirituality which rendered them suitable to be vehicles for the highest Dhyānis or Planetary Spirits (see SD I:86 and 207; II:212 and 319).

A term applied to Hermeticists, Alchemists and Rosicrucians who regard Fire as the symbol of Deity. The latter is said to be the source of atoms and the force that energizes them. Fire, according to Robert Fludd, the Rosicrucian, is triple in its nature: a visible flame, an invisible astral fire, and Spirit. This triple nature is true also of the other elements.

Apart from its usual physical meaning, fire is understood in several senses in theosophical or esoteric literature. This article shall deal with fire as: (1) one of the primordial elements or tattvas; (2) a term used to denote the mind or intelligence; (3) a symbol of deities and spiritual intelligences or principles.

According to theosophical teachings, life on earth — or any world — undergoes development according to a series of cycles. The first, and longest, is termed a CHAIN.

A word derived from the Arabic faq…r which means “poor” or “poor man,” but was applied to Islamic religious mendicants. It has been used loosely to denote Hindu devotees and naked ascetics.

Fairy tales — as J. R. R. Tolkien, one of the leading modern exponents of the genre, has remarked — are not mainly about fairies. Indeed many fairy tales have no fairies in them. Fairy tales are rather about a human protagonist in the Land of Faerie, a strange, enchanted, and often dangerous place.

This refers to those who attempt to enter into the path of hastened spirituality and who fail. It generally refers to failure in one life, but can be pursued again in future lives with success. Theosophy posits that all beings will eventually return to their original source, and hence there is ultimately no such thing as “failure.”

In Sanskrit maha-manvantara. In theosophy and in Hindu cosmology it is a period in manifestation of the universe which lasts for 311,040,000,000,000 years after which the universe enters PRALAYA which is a period of rest.

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The legendary cup supposed to have been used by Jesus Christ during the last supper as well as to catch the blood of Jesus while on the Cross. The origin of the legend is an unfinished novel by a French poet Cretien de Troyes (c. 1180) entitled Perceval or Le Conte du Graal (“The Story of the Grail”).

The question of the existence of evil is an ancient one. Traditional religions have been occupied with the justification of the existence of evil in the light of a belief in a benevolent GOD. An entire field of study call theodicy is devoted to this.

It is commonplace among many cultures to assume a duality between two competing forces, one wholly good and the other wholly evil and opposed to the first. Orthodox Christianity has God and Satan (or the Devil), Orthodox Islam has Allah and Iblis, Hinduism has the devas and the asuras. Zoroastrianism is often believed to be a dualism between Ahura Mazda and Ahriman.

Precepts included in a set of rules originally given by Helena P. BLAVATSKY to members of her Esoteric Section of the Theosophical Society (TS). These rules were first given out in 1888 and were to be considered confidential. However, they were published for all to read in C.W…

The name, in English, of what seems to have been, and still is, the ultimate ethical rule of behavior; “So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them.” (N.T., Matt. 7.12; Luke 6.31).

(Gk.). From the Greek “to know.” A particular knowledge of spiritual mysteries, or more usually, gnosticism. Helena P. Blavatsky makes frequent reference to the Gnosis in the light of theosophy.

Legends and myths about giants abound in most races and cultures. In the Old Testament, Gen.

Apparitions of the astral bodies of deceased human beings.

(OT). The name of the first book of the Bible. Its title derives from the Greek version of the Bible which states, “This is the book of the genesis of heaven and earth” (ii, 4). The dating of the first five books of the Bible (the Pentateuch) has not been determined to close limits, but it is reasonable to assume that they are of the era 800 BCE to 400 BCE.

Celestial beings of the Vedas and Purānas popularly associated with music. But this is only one of the many functions of the gandharvas. They are also said to be in charge of the preparation of the SOMA juice for the gods.

A modern holistic biological theory named after the Greek goddess of Earth. Actually, the idea began during the Romantic movement in the 19th century as a reaction to an increasingly mechanistic view of nature.

In Hesiod’s cosmogony, Gaia is primordial matter. In Greek mythology, she is the wife of Ouranus (heaven). The word is now commonly associated with the Earth.

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(Gk.). The first matter of the universe. Helena P.

(Ārya Samāj) A reforming sect of Hinduism founded in 1875. Its members follow the teachings of Swami DAYANAND SARASWATI (1824-83).

A library devoted to the works of Helena P. BLAVATSKY and the MAHATMAS located at present (1997) in Toronto, Canada.

A Sanskrit compound meaning “the Golden Egg” or “the Egg of imperishable matter.” In Hindu cosmology, it refers to “the golden egg or womb” from which the universe was born. In the Vedas and Brahmanas, Brahma is not named, and Hiranyagarbha was the source of all things. In the Manu, Hiranyagarbha was Brahma, who divided the egg into two parts, the heavens and the earth. Helena P.

The name of this mountain range which is located in northern India is derived from the Sanskrit words hima meaning “snow,” and alaya, “abode.” The range has been of very great importance geographically, politically, aesthetically and spiritually, not only to the inhabitants of the Indian sub-continent, but to many visitors to the land.

The ancient Greeks used the expression to denote the succession of linked beings ranging from the Gods at one end through the human kingdom to entities below humanity. Through this “chain” of beings passed knowledge essential to spiritual progress, each level passing the ancient wisdom on to the next stage below in a form that could be understood and acted upon.

Literally means “clear vision.” A form of extra-sensory perception (ESP), employing the ability to gain information not perceived by the normal senses. Helena P.

An order for the teaching of practical occultism, the “H.B. of L.” began public activity in London late in 1884. Its Exterior Circle was directed by a Grand Master, Max Theon (1848?-1927), a Polish Jew who later moved to Algeria and started the “Mouvement Cosmique.” Under Theon were two Provincial Grand Masters, Peter Davidson (1837-1915) and the Rev.

The study of issues surrounding the texts, composition and history of the Bible.

The study of the principles of interpretation of the Bible and other scriptures.

In Greek mythology, Hermaphroditus was the name of the son of Hermes and Aphrodite. Hermaphrodite is a term now used to describe a human being or animal where the characteristics of both sexes are combined.

(Gk. Herakles). The famous hero of Greek mythology known for his superhuman strength and valor. His name probably means “glorious gift of Hera.” It has been suggested that the myths surrounding him may hide the identity of an historical person; this supposition is based on the fact that no Greek god would have a name derived from another god, that is, Hera.

A Sanskrit word usually used in Hindu scriptures as the title of the Hindu god Visnu and of Krishna, thus, “Hari-Krishna.” Hari may have a number of other meanings depending on the context, such as the color yellow.

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A circle of light around paintings of the Christ and the Saints by artists to denote spirituality. The inclusion of the halo began during the 5th century when it was first used only around the head of Jesus and the Virgin, but later was used for the Saints as well.

The converse of EVOLUTION. It is used in theosophy to denote the descent of the MONAD into matter. The Sanskrit words used in connection with the Esoteric Doctrine of Evolution and Involution are pravrtti and nivrtti.

The act of calling on a deity, saint etc. for help. In theosophical usage what is called an invocation may be closer to an affirmation.

Probably the most widely used invocation in theosophical lodges or branches is the one used by Annie BESANT:

An expression used by Charles W. LEADBEATER to describe those who are able to help in a non-physical manner those who are in need of aid, whether the living or those who have just died and need to be guided during the death transition.

The Ah-hi are beings often termed DHYANI-CHOHANS. Ah-hi is a Sanskrit term referring to “the collective hosts of spiritual beings who are the vehicles for the manifestation of the divine or universal thought and will.

A term used in theosophical literature to refer to superior beings, such as a Deity, DHYANI-CHOHAN, LOGOS, DEVA, DEMIURGE…

A Sanskrit term literally meaning “of or pertaining to Indra,” the Vedic god, associated with sky, who wields a thunderbolt and conquers the demons of darkness.

This term is used in theosophy in a special sense when it refers to the Higher Ego. A certain amount of confusion has arisen owing to the use of this and other words such as “ego” which have generally accepted uses and meanings not identical to theosophical terminology.

Defined as an evil spirit or demon that is said to descend on sleeping individuals, hence the alternative definition of “nightmare.” In the middle ages the law recognized that these entities existed and that they might seek carnal knowledge of women.

Certain resins, usually in granular form, which, when burnt, generate a fragrant or sometimes pungent smoke. The incense is usually sprinkled on lighted charcoal contained in a censer or thurible (a metal vase with a cover having numerous holes). It is also used in the form of sticks popularly called “Joss Sticks.”

A seed or life-germ. It is the cause of the descent of Avatars, or the incarnation of divine beings. Helena P. BLAVATSKY states that there is a mysterious principle in nature called “Mahā-Viṣṇu,” which is not the same as Viṣṇu, which contains Bīja, or the seed of avatarism.

Being born into a physical body. Helena P. BLAVATSKY states that there are three kinds of incarnations: those of Avataras, NIRMANAKAYA, and the rebirth of ordinary mortals.

From earliest times the belief in the immortality of the “soul” has been widespread, both among primitive societies and the more sophisticated.

The direct or immediate perception or awareness, without rational thought, of a truth or situation. But more commonly it denotes an integrative capacity to see things in their larger totalities. It also plays a central role in spiritual development and is, in fact, often identified as a spiritual faculty itself and must not be confused with various forms of extra-sensory perception.

An alchemical term for a mysterious substance that is capable of transforming other substances. It is also known as the Philosopher’s Stone. It comes from an Arabic word that means mercury, resulting in the common confusion that it refers to “mercury”. It is also symbolic of a mystical factor that brings about transformation in the human consciousness.

A term used to describe a state of spirituality and broadly equivalent to the term “enlightenment” in eastern religions. It refers to an inner realization of the nature of things that transcends words and forms.

(L.). Used in a theosophical sense to denote initiated ADEPTS. More generally it implies one who claims special illumination in a religious context. The Illuminati was the name of a religious sect formed in Bavaria by Adam Weishaupt on May 1, 1776.

(Akhenaten) (d.1358 BCE). The name assumed by the Egyptian Pharaoh Amenhotep (Amenophis) IV shortly after he became Pharaoh in 1379 BCE. He is significant as an historical figure because of his monotheistic philosophy which was, as far as is known, unique to that period.

A Sanskrit word, sometimes rendered as Ichcha, which means either desire or will. It is also the first or will aspect of the Trinity, as well as the will aspect of the Self. In Vedanta the “Iccha” (will) of Isvara not only brings about creation and dissolution, but also is the sustainer and giver of merit and demerit.

The Chinese classic usually translated as “Book of Changes,” although, since Chinese is without inflection, it might more appropriately be called the “Book of Change,” the idea of constant change being one of its basic assumptions, as pointed out by John Blofeld in his 1965 translation.

(P.). A Pali term derived from the Sanskrit dhyana, or MEDITATION. In BUDDHISM, the various jhanas (or “absorptions) are different attainments in meditation that a practitioner achieves.

A Sanskrit term which refers to the power of knowledge. In Hindu philosophy it is said that it is the potency of knowledge that brings the objects of creation together and maintains them in consciousness.

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Stories of the former incarnations of the BUDDHA, both as human beings and animals. It is part of the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Pali canons. These stories are normally taken literally by Buddhists. Helena P.

A Roman god, usually depicted with a double-faced head. His worship possibly predates the foundation of Rome, but his popularity reached its height during the ancient Roman empire period. He was the god of gates and many shrines, in the form of a stone gateway, often freestanding, and were found all around the city of Rome.

See LOKAS.

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The “womb of the universe” or space. It is a term of the Brahmanical books that refer to the material cause of the universe. It is equivalent to the Golden EGG, Pleroma, and the Greek CHAOS.

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(Jagad-Guru). A Sanskrit term in Hinduism meaning “Teacher of the World” which is applied to BRAHMĀ, Viṣṇu and ŚIVA.

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(Kwan Shi Yin). The most popular female deity in China, equivalent to the BODHISATTVA AVALOKITESVARA. She is often depicted holding a small vase from which she is pouring the elixir of life. She appears in Japanese Buddhism as Kannon.

The Sanskrit word kriya means “action,” but the term Kriya Yoga refers to the preliminary stages of RAJA-YOGA. The preparatory work has been divided into three portions or “limbs” as follows:

See QUR’AN.

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(Gk.). Emptiness; the name given to space before creation.

Also called “electro-photography,” it is a technique that purports to produce a photograph of the aura, both of humans and plants. The technique is named after its discoverer, a Russian electrical technician named Semyon Davidovich Kirlian who introduced it to the world with his wife Valentina.

An incident involving the alleged plagiarism by the Mahatma KOOT HOOMI of part of a lecture of an American spiritualist, Henry Kiddle.

A Sanskrit term referring to a power (indriya) of action (karma). They are identified as speech (vak), grasping or holding (pani), locomotion or walking (pada), excretion (payu), and reproduction or generation (uspatha). They are focused, respectively, in the larynx, hands, feet, anus, and generative organ.

A Sanskrit compound meaning the approach to God or SELF-REALIZATION through harmonious and disinterested action.

A Sanskrit compound word composed of karana (“causal”) and ATMAN (“Self”). In theosophical literature it refers to the “causal Self” or ultimate source of the Self (atman). Helena P.

A sphere or world of desire, considered to be six in number, also called the Deva-lokas or worlds of the gods.

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A Sanskrit word meaning the region or state of desire.

See also KĀMA-LOKA.

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(Sk.). A Sanskrit term derived from kāma meaning desire, and deva, god or celestial being. It is used to denote those beings or angels that exist on the astral plane or plane of desire.

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A Sanskrit term meaning “Swan (lit. Indian goose) of Time” and transliterated variously as Kālakamsa, Kālahansa, Kalahansa, etc. It is a title of BRAHMĀ, identified by ancient Indians as the First Cause of the universe (or solar system) by, metaphorically, laying a cosmic Egg in space (akāśā).

A Sanskrit term literally meaning “isolation” or “detachment” and used in the SĀNKHYA and YOGA philosophies to refer to release from the “wheel of rebirth” (termed mokșa, release, or apavarga, emancipation, by other Hindu systems, or …

A compound which, when taken in minute quantities, produces hallucinations and mental experiences beyond the normal range. The symptoms which follow taking it sometimes resemble schizophrenia.

In 1921, 200 members of the Sydney Lodge (Australia) joined together to form “The TS Loyalty League.” It’s declared three objects:

1. Loyalty to the objects of the Theosophical Society (TS).

The four so-called “lowest” or most material of the individual’s seven Principles. The precise division of these and their names have varied over the years. An early grouping by Helena P. Blavatsky (The Theosophist, August, 1882; CW IV:185; cf. SD II:593), using only Sanskrit, was:

The popular name of a number of varieties of plant, but when encountered in theosophical literature the white water lily, Nelumbium nelumbo, is referred to. The lotus as a symbol is widespread throughout the greater part of Asia, particularly countries where Hinduism or Buddhism is practiced.

Mentioned in the book Man: Whence, How and Whither by Annie Besant and Charles W.

See:  Lunar Pitṛis

Celestial beings who are the recorders of karmic actions, hence often called the “Lords of Karma.” The word comes from the Sanskrit root lip meaning “write, anoint, smear, etc.”

The Secret Doctrine describes them thus:

Traditionally believed to be the author of the Rig Veda, one of the large body of texts held to be sacred by orthodox Hindus, and who is revered in Southern India. Agastya is a great hero in the RAMAYANA.

A brotherhood of adepts or initiates. It must be emphasized that the use of the word “white” in this context is meant to imply “unsullied” and does not refer to skin color. The concept of perfected individuals is central to theosophy which maintains that all creation is progressing and evolving in consciousness.

A term used in Helena P. BLAVATSKY’s The Secret Doctrine to describe an unnamed being who is at the head of the hierarchy of adepts in the world.

A being mentioned in Helena P. Blavatsky’s The Secret Doctrine (I:207), although not by this name, and in Charles W. Leadbeater’s The Masters and the Path (p. 332.). Known as “The Great Initiator,” he is said by Leadbeater to reside, with His three pupils, at Shamballa in the Gobi desert.

A Sanskrit word meaning able, expert, clever, intelligent, strong, right (as opposed to left), as well as power, energy, will, etc. In the Visnu Puranas, Daksa is the personification of creation by the union of the two sexes that evolved during the Third Race. He is also the chief of the Prajapatis, Lords of Creatures, and the male aspect of the dual creative energy.

One having authority or high rank. The term “Lord” is used very frequently in theosophical literature to refer to celestial beings. The following are those mentioned in The Secret Doctrine (apart from those with separate entries):

In Hinduism, they are the eight deities who are considered as “guardians of the world” governing the eight points of the compass: 1. Indra, east; 2. Agni, southeast; 3. Yama, south; 4. Sūrya, southwest; 5. Varuna, west; 6. Vāyu, northwest; 7. Kubera, north; and 8. Soma, northeast.

(Lokā Cāku). Literally, “eye of the world.” It refers to the Sun or Sūrya. The term occurs in the The Secret Doctrine of Helena P.

Alcyone was the name given to J. Krishnamurti in a series of articles published in The Theosophist, commencing in April 1910.

One of the 18 main Purānas of the Hindu religion used by the Śaivas or worshippers of Śiva. Linga means a “mark” or “indication” and in this context probably symbolizes Śiva. Purānas means “old,” indicating that they are about the legends of ancient times. The Linga Purāna consists of 10,000 verses about a wide variety of subjects that include creation, the ages of mankind, the yogas, etc.

Adam’s first wife prior to Eve according to Kabbalistic allegory. The origin of this legend about Adam’s first wife is due to two contradictory accounts of the creation of woman in the Old Testament. In the first account (Gen. 1:27-28), God created male and female on the sixth day of creation.

A small book transcribed by Mabel Collins upon the dictation by one of the Masters of the Wisdom, who is said to have been the Master Hilarion. It was published in 1885 and has been a source of inspiration to generations of theosophical mystics.

A long poem by Edwin Arnold (1832-1904) on the life and teachings of Buddha. It was published in 1879 and achieved great popularity. Helena P. Blavatsky had so high a regard for it that she requested that after her death, a portion of Light of Asia be read when people want to commemorate her death anniversary.

Also sometimes written Kashyapa. In the Hindu sacred books he has a wide variety of things attributed to him, clearly indicating that there were several persons with this name. In one place he is a Vedic sage, descendant of Marīci (one of the seven great sages who was “mind-born” from Brahmā) and author of several hymns of the Rg Veda.

A batch of monads evolving together.

In theosophical and esoteric literature, “light” is commonly used to refer to various states of cosmic manifestation and consciousness.

A Sanskrit term derived from the root jiv, “live,” “be alive.” It designates different beings in different Indian philosophical systems. In JAINISM, for instance, it is the ultimate life unit.

Atoms animated by Jiva or life-energy (CW V:112). It is a general term given by Helena P. Blavatsky to atoms which are impregnated with life-energy while being used by an entity such as a human being.

The raising of a heavy object, usually a human body, without the use of any mechanical force, aid, or contact. There is no scientific explanation for this widely reported phenomenon and most scientists either ignore or reject such an inherently implausible occurrence.

(L.). A term used by Latin writers to refer to the astral shell of the dead. See LARVA.

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The Sanskrit term “Laya” means “clinging to” and also “dissolution,” or “absorption” but in this context a better definition might be “release.” Yoga has become a generic term implying “The path to union with the divine.” Specifically Laya Yoga deals with the management of kund…

Formed in London, England, in 1887 by Annie Besant and William Stead for the defense of civil liberties and to assist victims of police brutality.

(L.). The astral shells of deceased ancestors. The term is used by early Latin writers particularly Apuleius. Helena P.

(T.). In MAHAYANA BUDDHISM an acolyte studying with a spiritual teacher. In her work Practical Occultism, Helena P.

From the Greek mythos meaning tale, talk, fable. All ethnic groups have mythology or folklore enshrined, some in writings, some in oral tradition and some in both. From the Australian Aborigines to the Zulus of Africa tales of heroes and villains are told around campfires that have been handed down for hundreds, in some cases, thousands of years.

The Master Koot Hoomi calls music “the most divine and spiritual of arts,” (ML, p. 264) and both he and the Master Morya show some technical knowledge of music in their letters (ML, p. 120). Music was among Helena P.

A school established in Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) for Buddhist Girls. It was founded and managed by Marie Musaeus Higgins in about 1891. She came to Ceylon at the joint request of Helena P. Blavatsky and Henry Steel Olcott to undertake the education of Sinhalese girls. In 1911, it had 87 pupils, and was visited by the Crown-Princess Cecilia of Germany.

A universal symbol for the germ of manifestation, from whence sprang the cosmos. It was used in the cosmology of the Hindus, the Egyptians, the Greeks, etc. According to Helena P.

In Egyptian cosmology, it is the egg that produced the universe. See Egg.

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Sanskrit compound word meaning “First cause.”

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A Sanskrit word (from the root muh) meaning “confused, stupefied, bewildered, perplexed,” etc.

A philosophy that maintains “all is one.” Helena P. Blavatsky explained the relationship between Monism and theosophy quite succinctly, writing, “And why cannot a Monist be a Theosophist? And why must Theosophy at least involve dualism?

See:  Monad

Sanskrit for “release,” generally used in the context of release or freedom from the cycle of rebirth (samsāra). Some Indian philosophic systems use different terms, having slightly different connotations related to their own metaphysical assumptions, in place of moksa.

From the Greek, used by Clement of Alexandria meaning “change of body.” In some usage it means rebirth into vehicles that are not physical.

The “anointed,” a term used in the Old Testament (Daniel 9:25-7; Psalm 2:2) from the Hebrew mashiah, to refer to people who were consecrated or anointed with oil, such as princes, priests or holy people. It was a common term in Jewish religious texts and is frequently used in the Talmud. The word Messiah was translated as “Christos” in the Greek Septaguint version of the Hebrew Scriptures.

(PUB.). Organ of the American Section of the Theosophical Society (TS), Pasadena. It was published monthly at the National Headquarters beginning in June 1912 through 1927. In January 1928 the name changed to The Theosophical Messenger. The name changed again to The American Theosophist in January 1933 and continues under this name.

A method of therapy popularized by Franz Anton MESMER (1734-1815) in Vienna and Paris. Mesmer claimed that the human body has an invisible force or “fluid” that flows throughout the body and which causes sickness when obstructed. The function of the mesmerist is to restore the normal flow of the fluid in the body.

The term “aura” is often used to describe the flow of energy from an object or living thing. Subtle bodies or vehicles comprising any living thing may extend their influence beyond the limit of the physical form and be seen by clairvoyants. Clairvoyants claim to see up to five of these around a human form. Of these the so-called “health-aura” is said to be the most dense.

The process of allowing oneself to serve as a medium of expression, action or phenomena of a non-physical entity. This often refers specifically to people who claim to be able to transmit messages from dead people by allowing their bodies to be used as a conduit.

The process of being a conscious agent of a spiritually superior being, such as an Adept. The term is distinguished from Mediumship, wherein the individual is usually unconscious and unknowingly becomes an instrument of invisible entities. Mediatorship is the common mode of interaction between an Adept and a chela or pupil. It is done always with the consent of the agent.

Sanskrit for “path” or “way.” It is derived from the root mārg meaning “seek” or “search for.” In Indian philosophy, it signifies a method for attaining the goal of that philosophic system, which — except for the materialists — is release from the cycle of rebirth.

Literally “death” or “killing,” from the Sanskrit root m “kill.” In Buddhist literature, Māra, the equivalent of the Christian idea of Satan, is the tempter of Siddhārtha Gautama during his final meditation which led to enlightenment.

(Ādi-Buddha) The first or supreme Buddha. A term used in Northern Buddhism to denote the One unknown, without beginning or end. Helena P.

A human Buddha, as contrasted to celestial Buddhas.

A Sanskrit term meaning “archetypal human.” Helena P.

A word found in Sanskrit compounds for manas or “mind,” as in, e.g., manomaya-koa (“mind-made-sheath” or “mental body”), manogupta (“cherished [or concealed] in the mind”), manoja or manojanma (“mind-born”), manodana (“control of mind”), etc.

A general term used by theosophical writers to describe the emergence of the Cosmos and all it contains out of PRALĀYA, or “state of rest.” Note that the term embraces all levels, not just the gross physical.

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(L.). A term used by Latin writers to refer to ghosts (see LARVA). Also name of Manichaeus, a teacher of a Gnostic religion. See MANICHAEISM.

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The highest pitris (creators of mankind) in the PURĀNAS. They are said to have made humans rational by incarnating in the third-root race. Literally “mental meditators.” See Solar Pitris.

(Sk.). From the Sankskrit mānas or mind. In The Secret Doctrine, these are identical with the KUMĀRAS or the AGNISHVĀTTAS, who awakened the mind principle in human beings.

(Manas Taijasa) A Sanskrit term meaning “Radiant Mind;” Manas overshadowed by or united with, Buddhi, thus illuminated by “reflecting” the light of Buddhi. It may also be considered as “reason illumined by spirit.”

M.A.

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(Lords) of Darkness. Helena P. BLAVATSKY states, in a letter to Alfred P. SINNETT (ML, p.

A Sanskrit compound derived from mahā (great, important, eminent, etc.) and tattva (lit. “thatness,” i.e., essential principle, real state, reality, etc.). It refers to the first of the seven creations described in the Purānas, the legendary histories of India and the Hindu gods, and is equated there with buddhi, often translated “Intellect” in this context.

The fourth of seven “planes” that make up the universe according to Indian lore. From the Sanskrit mahar which means “great,” and loka which means “world.” According to the Purānas, it is a region where the Munis or sages dwell.

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Agents of karma, or celestial recorders, said by Helena P. Blavatsky to be “Great Kings of the Dhyāni-Chohans, the Devas who preside, each over one of the four cardinal points.

A Sanskrit term, with mahā meaning “great” and māyā meaning “illusion.” Certain esoteric philosophies maintain that the objective universe is an illusion and this they call mahā-māyā (“great illusion”). See also MĀYĀ.

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The universal soul or MAHAT, identical with COSMIC IDEATION.

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This Sanskrit term means “great, mighty, powerful, lofty, noble” (John Grimes, A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy: Sanskrit Terms Defined in English, rev. ed. [Albany: State University of New York Press, 1996]). It is familiar to Theosophists from its use as a prefix in many terms, such as MAHA-CHOHAN, MAHATMA, and MAHAYANA.

A square matrix, usually divided into cells filled with numbers or letters in a significant arrangement. These squares were originally used for religious purposes, but in later times were employed as magic talismans or charms. The so-called “Sator” square is frequently met with in the West and it is of undoubted antiquity dating to at least 100 CE. The meaningless phrase conceals a cross:

The word “magic” derived from the Greek mageia and the Latin magia. The earliest use of the word in found in the occult practice and philosophy of the Persian Magi and since these magi had, possibly undeservedly, a reputation for practicing human sacrifice to the god Ahriman, magic very soon became equated with evil, an association with witchcraft and even Satanism.

(sing. Magus). Members of an ancient Persian priestly caste who practiced magic and astrology.

The Universe or Cosmos. In theosophy the macrocosm is said to be sevenfold in its nature, and these are grouped into three Principles and four Vehicles which jointly are the seven Principles. These may be defined as under:

1. Paramātman; the Supreme Spirit or “The Absolute.”

2. Mahā-Buddhi; ray of the Universal Spiritual Soul.

(Gk.). The inner essence of things that is unknowable by reason or ordinary perception. This word was introduced by the philosopher Immanuel Kant who contrasted it to phenomenon and denotes a purely intellectual intuition. It is encountered in theosophical writings where it is mostly used in reference to the true essential nature of being as distinguished from the illusive objects of sense.

The constant or continuing dissolution process of all that exists. Whenever the universe is manifested and differentiated, there is an inherent principle that brings it towards dissolution. It is, according to Helena P. Blavatsky, simply “atomic change.” It is opposed to Nitya Sarga, which is the constant and perpetual creation process.

A Sanskrit word meaning “continual,” “eternal,” “unchanging,” etc. It is used in Vedānta and theosophy (see, e.g., SD I:69) to describe ultimate reality.

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A Sanskrit word meaning “attributeless” or “devoid of qualities.” It may also denote “beyond manifestation.” See also Gunas.

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A Sanskrit word meaning “pointing out,” “description,” “ascertainment,” etc. It is sometimes used as a synonym for “discrimination.”

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A Sanskrit compound word meaning “without form” or “incorporeal.” It is used in Indian philosophy as a description of Brahman and in theosophy to denote the unmanifested.

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The primary causes of existence which bind us to the wheel of rebirth. It is an important concept in Buddhism, especially Theravāda.

One who is newly initiated into something; a novice, postulant, or candidate for the Mysteries. In mystical or esoteric schools or traditions, one who is newly accepted for training is considered a neophyte, and has to undergo trials and instruction, specifically towards the purification of the personal nature and the awakening of one’s higher consciousness and faculties.

The evocation of the spirits of the dead. Other terms associated with this subject are necyomantia which refers to interaction with an animated corpse and andscyomantia, communication with a shade.

Biblical manuscripts found in caves near Qumran near the Dead Sea between 1947 and 1956. It is estimated that the scrolls dated from the third century BCE to about 68 CE, which made them one of the most valuable finds in biblical archaeology since they are now the oldest Old Testament (OT) manuscripts known.

(L.). The sacred and very scarce book of the Mandean Gnostics frequently referred to by Helena P. BLAVATSKY in her The Secret Doctrine and other writings.

See Elementals; Fairies.

A Sanskrit word meaning “hell.” Hinduism recognizes various kinds of Hell. According to A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy (Grimes), these are:

Put — the childless hell (an interesting concept).

Avīci — hell for those awaiting reincarnation.

Samhāta — for general evil-doers.

A traditional Indian greeting, literally meaning “homage (or reverential salutation) to you” (derived from the Sanskrit root nam meaning “bow” or “do homage”). It is accompanied by a gesture of hands held palms together before the breast (occasionally raised to the forehead), which is called namaskār in Hindi, i.e., “making namas.”

An important set of texts discovered in Upper Egypt in December 1945 which shed much light on Gnostic scriptures and teachings. It contains fifty-four texts in thirteen leather-bound codices, found in a jar by peasants in the town of Nag Hammadi. Much mystery surrounds their recovery from various middle merchants who sold the different codices to different people.

A Sanskrit mantra meaning “Om that is being.” Sacred words that are used to invoke a deity.

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A sacred mantra or chant used in Buddhism. Literally, it means something like “Oh, the jewel in the lotus, indeed,” taking “Om” as merely a prefatory syllable and “hum” as an exclamation, used in a variety of ways depending on its context. That, however, is merely its exoteric meaning to orientalists. As Helena P.

A sacred syllable in the Hindu religion where it is called the pranava. It is considered to be a powerful mantra said to invoke divine energy, peace, and harmony. The word is usually uttered at the commencement of all Hindu hymns and prayers.

Beginning in 1894 the President-Founder of the Theosophical Society (TS) Henry Steel Olcott initiated a movement for the education of the underprivileged children in and around Chennai (Madras) in Southern India.

The eight deities or gods of ancient Egyptian religion as well as in Gnosticism.

The dictionary recognizes several shades of meaning of this word. It can mean, “secret,” or “not apprehensible by the mind,” or “recondite,” or “mysterious,” or “of the nature or pertaining to those sciences involving the knowledge or use of the supernatural (as magic, alchemy, astrology, theosophy and the like” (S.O.D.).

The name by which the largest of the pyramids at Giza in Egypt is known. Egyptology assigns it to the Pharaoh Khufu (Gk. Cheops) who reigned c. 2590-67 B.C.E. It is the largest structure, in volume, ever built; it covers 13 acres (5.2 hectares) and contains in the region of 2,500,000 blocks of stone averaging 2.5 tons each.

Sanskrit expression which means “the recall of previous lives,” that is, previous incarnations. It is derived from punar meaning “again,” janman meaning “birth” and smti meaning “recollection.”

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A Sanskrit term derived from punar meaning “again” and janman, birth. Panarjanman is a general term for the cycle of rebirths that all beings undergo; it includes reimbodiment, palingenesis, reincarnation and other similar processes and terms.

The act of showing reverence to a Deity through invocations, prayers, songs, rituals and ceremonies. In this act of devotion, faith, and surrender a devotee is trying to establish a spiritual connection with a cosmic energy. The ultimate desire of a true devotee is to experience his or her unity with the omnipotent, unifying cosmic energy referred to as “God.”

The study of the mind, consciousness, and behavior. Early theories about human psychology may be found in the world’s philosophic literature. In the West, the first systematic writing was by Aristotle (384-322 BCE).

The Near-Death Experience (NDE) may be defined as the approach or felt approach to death, perception of an alternate reality and return to (relatively) normal consciousness. Raymond Moody in his book Life After Life (1975) describes the now well-known pattern of the NDE: peace, tunnel, being out-of-body, the Being of Light, welcoming spirits, life review, return to the body, life changes.

The earlier term for what is now generally called parapsychology. The term was used by the founders of the Society for Psychical Research in 1882 to identify their investigations into the phenomena of the Spiritualist Movement. The term implies that there is a psyche, a conscious principle, separate from but interacting with the physical body.

A term used by William CROOKES to describe the primordinal substance that later differentiated into the chemical elements. It comes from the Greek words protos, first, and hyle, matter.

Lit. “Light Bearer,” but also used to identify the Morning Star, i.e., Venus. The name is now associated with the Devil.

The Titan of Greek mythology who brought fire to humanity and was punished by Zeus by being chained to Mt. Caucasus where his liver was eaten by a vulture every day, and healed in the night. He was released from this suffering by Hercules.

The International Presidents of the Theosophical Society (TS) with the headquarters at Adyar, Chennai (formerly Madras), India are:

Henry Steel Olcott ....................... 1875-1907

Annie Besant ............................... 1907-33

George Sydney Arundale .............1934-46

The process of impressing upon paper the mental images of a writer instead of writing it by hand. This was the mode used by the MAHĀTMAS when they wrote letters to Alfred P.

(Pāli: Paccekabuddha). In Buddhism, one who has attained to Buddhahood independently of a teacher, and who also does not accept pupils or work for the enlightenment of others. Hence he is sometimes referred to as the “solitary” Buddha. His path is referred to as pratyeka-buddha-yāna, or the way of the self-enlightened Buddha.

Sanskrit for “perception.” Most systems of Indian philosophy make a distinction between normal (or “worldly,” laukika) and yogic or paranormal (“non-worldly, alaukika) perception, the latter including the Sanskrit equivalents of telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, retrocognition, etc.

An introductory text of Kashmiri ŚAIVISM written in Sanskrit by Kemarāja, who probably lived in the 10th century CE.

(Prakriti). Sanskrit for primordial nature or matter. It is a compound word consisting of the prefix pra meaning “forwards” or “progression” and kti, from ki “do” or “make.” It follows that (prakti) can mean “bring forth” or “originating.”

Consciousness at the Buddhic level; the word is also sometimes used to denote the consciousness of the “higher mind.”

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In Hindu SĀNKHYA philosophy, it is the undifferentiated matter which is the source of the cosmos. It is equivalent to ĀKĀŚA, or primordial substance, and the Mūlaprakrti (root-matter) of the Vendāntins.

The place or plane from which everything originates and into which all things are resolved.

MERCURY . The nearest known planet to the Sun. It is considered by the ancients as one of the seven sacred planets. Helena P. Blavatsky states that, as a planet, Mercury belongs to a different CHAIN of globes from that of the earth and is much older than the earth.

A word used by Alfred P. Sinnett to describe the dormant state of a globe during which no evolutionary activity is happening. Only the ŚISHTAS or remaining seeds of life are left in such a globe, which awaits for incoming life-wave in the future. It should be noted that obscuration and dormancy is not a pralaya period.

The fourth planet of the Solar System. It has two satellites, Phobos and Deimos. It is one of the planets visible to the naked eye, and has a reddish color. Based on the expeditions since 1965, the photographs of Mars show no life, but astronomers think that it may have supported life billions of years ago.

The Earth’s satellite. It is considered by the ancients as one of the sacred planets. Helena P. Blavatsky states that its inclusion in the list of sacred planets is because it is but a substitute of a planet. It is “a planet with a retrograde motion, sometimes visible at a certain hour of night and apparently near the moon.

According to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, there are seven sacred planets and she explains the conflict with the number of the observed nine planets as follows:

This term is generally applied in theosophical literature to classes of celestial beings in charge of planets or globes. They have attained to a high level of spirituality and have already evolved from the lowest matter.

The word “plane” means an extension of space. There are multiple planes of nature, such as physical, astral, mental, buddhic, ātmic, and other finer planes.

A small endocrine gland, also called Hypophysis Cerebri, at the base of the brain and connected to the hypothalamus. It controls the functions of the other endocrine glands. It has three lobes, each of which produces different hormones, such as those which regulate growth, milk production, and the stimulation of other glands.

(Gk.). The name of Coptic texts dating from the third century CE; the surviving manuscript is in Greek and was translated into English by the theosophist G. R. S. MEAD, first and partly in 1886 and later, 1921, this being a more complete version.

(Piācha). A Sanskrit term that has a dual meaning. In theosophical literature as well as in Indian folklore, piācas refer to ghosts. They are astral shells of those who have lived evil lives, and thus these shades have malevolent influences. In the Purānas, piācas refer to sons of Gods commonly regarded as demons, as are the Dānavas, Daityas, and the Rākshasas.

A small conical gland (also called Conarium or Epiphysis Cerebri), about the size of a pea, located at the rear part of the forebrain. It secretes the hormone melatonin, which helps regulate the internal body clock or circadian rhythms. Melatonin secretion is affected by perception of light by the retina, and peaks in the evening and diminishes during the daytime.

Two countries have issued postage stamps in honor of the Theosophical Society (TS) and two of its Presidents. In 1968 Sri Lanka issued a postage stamp, value 2r and multicolored, commemorating the work of Henry Steel Olcott in that country. The stamp recognized the fact that Olcott was dedicated to promoting Buddhism and general education for the indigenous people.

The group of mystics and philosophers founded by Ammonius Saccas in 193 CE. The term means “lovers of truth,” and the school became known as the Neo-Platonic school. The group included Plotinus, its most famous exponent. It was also called the Eclectic Theosophical School, which Helena P. Blavatsky considered to be the precursor of the modern Theosophical Society (TS).

The law that the whole universe undergoes minor and major periodic cycles. The doctrine of constant renewal is central to the Ancient Wisdom philosophy. At the time of the emergence of theosophy in the West through the work of the Theosophical Society the commonly held view of the universe was that of a static expanse of stars and the vast size of the Universe had not been determined.

Sanskrit for secret, hidden, or esoteric (gupta) wisdom or knowledge (vidya); from the root gup (guard, protect; hide, conceal) and the root vid(know, understand, perceive).

A Sanskrit compound with Brahma meaning “The ultimate reality” and Vidyā “wisdom”; thus it means “Divine wisdom.” Helena P. BLAVATSKY says in The Key to Theosophy (p.

The ageless philosophy about the cosmos and human life that is at the core of all great religious and mystical traditions. The term philosophia perennis was used by Gottfried Leibniz (1646-1716), who adopted it from the writings of Italian Catholic theologian Agostin Steuco (1496-1549).

A five-pointed star, as its name suggests (penta-means “five”), often used as a synonym for “pentagram.” The word is also used to refer a six-pointed star or hexagram, formed by interlacing two equilateral triangles, such as is found in the symbol of The Theosophical Society (TS); in this case it is also called the “Seal of Solomon” or “Star of David,” the basic symbol of Judaism. Helena P.

(PUB.). There have been three journals in English that have used this name. The first was founded by William Q. JUDGE as the organ of the American Section of the Theosophical Society (TS). This was published in New York from April 1886 until his death in March 1896. The magazine continued under E. T.

Tibetan term for “Lord” or “Master.” In theosophical literature, it refers to a number of personages. The Mahatma Letters to A. P.

The progressive admission of a disciple or aspirant into degrees in the an esoteric school or organization. In the Greek mystery schools, divided into the Lesser and Greater Mysteries, there were three, five, seven or ten degrees, varying according to the one reporting.

In its secular sense, a disciple is one who attends upon a teacher in order to learn, but as used in theosophical texts discipleship implies, in a certain manner, a commitment to the Ancient Wisdom and Self-Culture leading, possibly, to becoming a pupil of the MAHATMA.

The testing of individuals who aspire to become pupils of spiritual teachers. The concept is a universal one among the initiatory traditions. In the Old Testament, Job was so tested. In the New Testament, even Jesus was tested in the wilderness.

PATH, THE. A term that refers to the time-tested way towards spiritual realization. In theosophical literature it includes the narrower sense of preparing oneself for spiritual initiation under the guidance of Masters of the Wisdom.

Mount Meru is the mythical mountain north of the Himalayas. Swarga, the heaven of Indra, is found in this peak, and which contains the “cities” of the greatest gods and the abodes of various devas. Hindu mythology describes it as being in the navel or center of the earth.

Mount Meru is the mythical mountain north of the Himalayas. Swarga, the heaven of Indra, is found in this peak, and which contains the “cities” of the greatest gods and the abodes of various devas. Hindu mythology describes it as being in the navel or center of the earth.

Partners in Theosophy (Partners) is a mentoring program initiated at the Krotona Institute School of Theosophy in 2009. The program is designed to support both new members of the Society who wish to deepen their understanding of the principles of the Ageless Wisdom Tradition and seasoned members who wish to become more knowledgeable and effective in their Theosophical work.

([P] parinibbāna) In Buddhism, it is the nirvanic state after the death of an enlightened being such as a Buddha. It is spoken of as “nirvāna without remains,” and should be distinguished from paranirvāna found in theosophical writings which refer to the state during cosmic rest or mahā-pralaya.

Sanskrit for “higher” or “superior” (para-) “wisdom” or “knowledge (vidyā). It is used to refer to direct realization of Ultimate Reality (Brahman) or one’s real Self (Ātman), which, in Vedānta philosophy, are considered to be identical.

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(Parinishpanna). The perfection attained by all at the close of the large cycle of manifestation or Mahā-manvantara. It is equivalent to paranirvšïa, as well as Yong-grüb in Tibetan.

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(Anupādaka, Anupapādaka). This Sanskrit term means “parentless” and it appears quite frequently in the works of Helena P. BLAVATSKY (often misspelt for it should more properly be anupapadaka).

(Anupādaka Plane) In later theosophical writings particularly by Annie BESANT and Charles W. LEADBEATER, the anupadaka plane is the second plane of the solar system, the Atmic being the third.

“Beyond nirvāna.” In the writings of Helena P. BLAVATSKY, it refers to the state of cosmic rest or mahā-pralaya, and equated it with paraïishpanna (absolute perfection) during the unmanifested state of the universe (SD I:42). Charles W.

A Sanskrit term suggesting a superior form of knowledge, usually translated “wisdom,” from the prefix pra- meaning “before,” “forward,” “forth,” or “toward” and the root jñā, “knowledge.” Prajñā is thus transcendental wisdom or intuition as it goes beyond the reasoning process of vijñāna. It is an essential element of satori or enlightenment. D. T.

Usually translated “perfection of wisdom.” From the Sanskrit compound PRAJÑĀ + PĀRAMITĀ.

From the Sanskrit prefix pāra (opposite side, further shore, utmost reach) + the infix m + ita (gone, attained). In Mahāyāna Buddhism a pāramitā is something which assists the aspirant to attain nirvāna.

A Sankrit compound the literal meaning of which is “Supreme Self.” It is derived from parama, primordial or supreme and ātman meaning “self.” The word is applied to the highest or supreme source of a cosmic hierarchy.

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(P.). The five moral vows taken by Buddhist lay-disciples and also by every monk. These five vows are to avoid harming others, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and to abstain from mind-altering drugs, including alcohol. They are also called the upāsaka vows. The Sanskrit equivalent of Pansil is pañca-śīla.

“Lotus bearer,” the name of Avalokitesvara. 

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A large continent said to have existed prior to the Tertiary age or Eocene epoch (approx. 56 to 65 million years ago) and which was the land of the Third Root Race, now called the Lemurians. The name was given in 1864 by Philip L Sclater who, on zoological grounds, assumed the existence of a continent that extended from Madagascar to Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

A name used in The Secret Doctrine for the Second Root Race of humanity, which had ethereal bodies and was without intelligence. They procreated by exudation of vital fluid. See ROOT RACES.

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(Ādi-Varsha) The land of the third ROOT RACE, sometimes referred to as “Eden of the early races.”

A Sanskrit word with a number of different meanings, one of which is “element” (especially a basic element, such as earth, water, fire, etc). It is a noun formed from the root bhū (“become,” “come into being,” “arise,” etc.) therefore suggests a dynamic process rather than a static thing.

(Amānasa) Mindless, from a, not, and manasa, of the mind. This refers to the First Root Race whose mind was not yet functioning. Manas was awakened in humanity only during the Third Root Race by the MANASAPUTRAS or Sons of Mind.

A very ancient race of giants, mentioned by Ignatius Donnelly in his Atlantis: The Antedeluvian World, said to be part of Central American history.

The religious philosophy first effectively promulgated by Miguel de Molinos (1628-1696), a Spanish Roman Catholic priest.

In the theosophical septenary constitution of the human being, the seven are grouped into the upper triad (Atma-buddhi-manas) and a lower quaternary, consisting of the physical body, prana (vital energy), LINGA-SARIRA (the astral double),…

According to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, this is the name of an island-continent during the Atlantean times which, together with another island Ruta, perished 850,000 years ago, toward the close of the Miocene Age.

The name of an island-continent of Atlantis which, according to Helena P. Blavatsky, perished 850,000 years ago. See DAITYA.

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A Sanskrit word meaning body or form. The four coarsest of seven categories of “worlds” or beings are sometimes called rūpa as in rūpa-lokas or rūpa-devas etc. In the technical sense in theosophy the word implies an atomic or monadic system around a discrete consciousness.

The Manu or progenitor that watches the evolution of humanity during the active period of a Round. His task is taken over by the Seed-Manu at the end of the Round, and the latter watches over the remaining seeds of life or ŚISHTAS during the period of dormancy or obscuration. See Manu.

The eternal primordial substance from which emanates all material manifestations. It is a term used in Helena P.

A level of spiritual development which is the highest on earth and the Earth Chain, according to Helena P. Blavatsky. It has a name which when translated means “the ever-living-human-Banyan.” This being descended from a “high region” during the Third Root Race, before the separation of the sexes (SD I:207).