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

(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.

(Henry Cornelius Agrippa von Nettesheim) (1486-1535). German writer, soldier, physician, and magician, for many years involved in politics as well as occultism. It was the latter which aroused the Inquisition against him.

The Vietnamese Theosophical Section was founded in 1952 and active for the next 23 years; after the change of government regime in 1975, its activities were severely restricted by the new regime and finally banned in 1983, when the headquarters was confiscated by the new government in Việt Nam.  

There are documents indicating the existence of Theosophical activity in this Caribbean nation in the early twentieth century. On September 19, 1928, a lodge with the name “Alcione” was founded in Santo Domingo, under the auspices of the Cuban society with Esperanza Hopgood acting as President and Floripez Mieses Carbonell as Secretary.

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.

 

Because of its shared border with Germany and due to the fact that most of its population are German speaking, Austria’s theosophical history has been closely allied to that country.

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.

The first Australian to join the Theosophical Society (TS) was Gilbert Elliott of Melbourne, Victoria, who joined in December 1879. One of the earliest members was William H. Terry who joined in 1880. He merits mention here because he was one of the select few who received a letter from the Master Morya (see CW 5:11 fn).

(1872-1950). Indian spiritual leader and founder of the Pondicherry Ashram in South India. Born in Calcutta of Indian parents and educated in England from the age of seven, first by private tutor then at St. Paul’s School, London and King’s College, Cambridge.

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.

Aum

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.

(1831-1892). New Zealand statesman who was a prominent Conservative politician. He was born in England at Broxton, Cheshire, on November 1, 1831. The family emigrated to New Zealand in 1853 and settled at New Plymouth. He was commissioned in the Taranaki Volunteer Rifles in 1860. He was elected to Parliament in 1861 and served as a Minister of Defense.

(Sylvia Cranston) (1915-2000). Author, known by her pen name Sylvia Cranston or S. L. Cranston, who wrote books on reincarnation and a biography of Helena P. BLAVATSKY.

(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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A body for the study of Judaism in the light of theosophy which had branches located in many countries. In 1926 branches existed in United States, England and Holland, with a quarterly magazine entitled The Jewish Theosophist which was published in California.

 

 

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An organization established by Annie BESANT in 1908, and headed by Isabel COOPER-OAKLEY, for the research on the mystical traditions in various countries and cultures, including historical folk-lore of a mystical character…

(1888-1974). Psychiatrist and founder of Psychosynthesis movement. He was born in Venice in 1888 and educated as a medical doctor and psychiatrist. He was a member of the Italian Section of the Theosophical Society (TS).

(Aśoka) Also known in his Magadha dialect as Asoka, both names meaning “without sorrow.” Emperor of India from c. 274 to 232 BCE. His birth and death dates are not known with any certainty. What details we have about his reign are gathered from rock and pillar inscriptions that are scattered throughout India, Sanskrit literature and Pali writings of Sri Lanka.

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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(Āryāsanga) (T)(Chagpa-Thog-Med) (c. 410-500). Also known as Asanga. Tradition has it that Aryasanga was the founder of the Yogacara or Naljorchodpa School in Buddhism.

(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.

(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.

In the last decade of the nineteenth century, a group of people imbued with the Masonic ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity greatly influenced the political and economic organization of Latin American nations. Especially in Argentina they set an example of moral conduct in public office that inspired later generations.

(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.

(1st century CE). A philosopher and teacher of the first century to whom has been attributed the power to perform what appeared as miraculous feats. While many of the accounts about him seem mythical or legendary, he was undoubtedly a historical figure. He was frequently mentioned in the writings of the early Church fathers.

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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Anu

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.

Those who romanticize the religious traditions of the natives of North America (often called American Indian or Amerind) identify them as ecological, involving a profound reverence for nature. Although true, it is overly simplistic.

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:

(c. 1200-1280). A very influential philosopher, theologian and scientist of the 13th century. He was born at Lauingen in Swabia. He joined the Dominican order at Padua in 1223. Albertus graduated doctor in the theological faculty at the University of Paris. He was canonized as recently as 1931.

(1832-1903). Russian author and philosopher who served as Vice-President of the Theosophical Society (TS). He was born on May 27, (June 8) 1832, in the village of Repyevka, Gorodishchenskyuyezd in the Province of Penza, Russia. He was educated in the Alexander Lyceum of St. Petersburg and after graduating in 1851 he entered into service with the Ministry of the Interior.

(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.

Aja

A Sanskrit word the literal meaning of which is unborn or unproduced. In the Rig VedaKama 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.

 

The West African Section of the Theosophical Society (TS) consists of lodges in four English-speaking countries, namely, Ghana, Nigeria, Liberia and Cameroon. It was formerly a regional association formed in 1956 and later became a section in 1991. As of 2004, there are 15 lodges, of which nine are in Ghana, three in Nigeria, two in Cameroon and one in Liberia.

Johannesburg Lodge received its charter on April 14, 1899, and it bears the following names: Louis L. Playford, ChiefMagistrate of Johannesburg, Herbert Kitcher, Electrical Engineer and Lewis W. Rich, Attorney. The Anglo-Boer War also started in 1899 on October 11 and ended on May 31, 1902. During the war, the Lodge was dormant.

The East and Central African Section of the Theosophical Society consists of Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia. Uganda was also a part of this Section, prior to the reign of IdiAmin when a number of lodges were flourishing.

(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.

 

Adi

(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.

(1828- 1886). Outstanding Russian chemist whose work confirmed the classical theory of chemical structure. Butlerov was interested in Spiritualism and wrote against the materialistic tendencies of the science of his time.

A theosophical subsidiary organization formed in the spring of 1917 but no longer existing today, devoted to working on four lines of social reform, education, politics, and religion, “cooperating with all movements for the betterment of humanity and seeking to bring to them the spiritualizing light of our philosophy.” It sought to awaken an interest in social reconstruction and served as a…

The earliest record of Theosophical Society (TS) work in Bulgaria was the President Olcott Branch located in Sofia which was chartered on May 3, 1907, with Sophrony Nickoff as President and Alex Chichkoff as Secretary. In 1911 the Cyril and Methody Lodge was established in Vratza with L. Lipovomsky as President and Dono Toscheff as Secretary.

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).

(1898-1981). A well-known author on yoga and spiritual subjects. Brunton is of interest to theosophists because many of his published works reflect his early interest in theosophy. He was a fairly regular attender at Theosophical Society (TS) meetings in London and this is mentioned in the biography, Paul Brunton, a Personal View, by K. T.

(1548-1600). Noted Italian monk, philosopher, mathematician and occultist. Baptized Filippo, Bruno was born in Nola, Italy. After being educated in a number of religious schools he became a Dominican friar and adopted the name Giordano.

(1857- ?). An early member of the Theosophical Society (TS) who claimed to have met the Master KOOT HOOMI in person. Brown was born in Glasgow, Scotland, May 16, 1857. He graduated from the University of Glasgow in April 1882. He met Alfred P.

A spiritualist who was editor of the Spiritual Scientist in Boston. Brown was one of those considered by the Egyptian Adepts of the Brotherhood of LUXOR to become one of the three key people who will start the Theosophical Society (TS), together with Helena P.

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.

(1830?-1915). Bright was recognized as an outstanding worker for women’s rights and was an active supporter of the Theosophical Society (TS). She donated generously to the building of the Benares (Varanasi) TS Center and provided a home for Annie BESANT when the latter was in England. She was married to the Rt. Hon…

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 first recorded theosophical event in Brazil took the form of a lecture given in 1902 by a Mr. Leite, in the city of Curitiba situated in the state of Paraná. The earliest lodge was the Dharma Theosophical Society (TS) which was chartered in 1905 in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. Another early center was Lodge Perseveranca (Perseverance) founded June 5, 1910, at Rio de Janeiro.

(1877-1941). A popular American artist who was a member of the Theosophical Society (TS) at Point Loma. It is not certain when he joined the Society, but it is possible that he met K. TINGLEY during his student days in New York. He moved to Point Loma community in 1909.

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.

An institution established by the Theosophical Society (TS) on October 2, 1922, with the aim of bringing under the light of theosophy all branches of knowledge. It had a staff of twenty lecturers at the beginning, with James H. Cousins as the Registrar of the Ashrama. It aimed to respond to the following declared needs:

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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Theosophy came to Bolivia on April 17, 1918, when a meeting convened by Victor Birbuet and Daniel Bilbao la Vieja at La Paz City attracted six members. This early attempt to establish theosophy was encouraged by the Chilean Theosophical Society. Later that year, the membership having risen to nine, the Peace Lodge was chartered with the support of the Argentinean Theosophical Section.

(1833-1891).

(1840-1887). Bourbon established the first theosophical lodge in the Netherlands, the charter of which is dated June 27, 1881. He had, perhaps, the most unusual background of any theosophist; a background akin to that of the controversial Anastasia, who claimed to be a survivor of the Romanof royal family.

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 charity (registered in England, number 268913) intended “to advance education and promote or further the study of and research into religion, philosophy and science and to disseminate the results of such study and research to the public.”

Its managing trustees have the power:

A branch or lodge of the Theosophical Society (TS) which was incorporated in Washington, U.S. in 1889, by Anthony Higgins. Its formation is of interest because of the founders determination to include colored persons in its membership, a policy which occasioned some newspaper comment at the time.

 

 

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The Blavatsky Institute of Canada was founded in 1924. Most of its members were students of Theosophy in Toronto, but the non-profit organization was and is independent of the Theosophical Society (TS).

(1851-1935?). Colleague and friend of Annie BESANT and generous philanthropist. Bibby was born January 12, 1851; married Ruth Pye March 1, 1881, and joined the TS March 14, 1889. He was founder of a successful manufacturing firm (J. Bibby and Sons, Ltd. of Liverpool, England).

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.

Second husband of Helena P. BLAVATSKY. While Blavatsky was in Philadelphia, U.S., she was pestered repeatedly by Betanelli who was infatuated by her. When he threatened to commit suicide if she did not marry him, she eventually agreed (her first husband, Nikifor Blavatsky, having died).

(1870-?). Daughter of Rev. Frank Besant and Annie Besant who was the second President of the Theosophical Society (TS). Married in 1892 to Ernest Scott. She joined the TS in 1890 and assisted Helena P.

(1869-1960). Son of the Rev. Frank and Annie BESANT. He assisted with many theosophical ventures including taking over the management of the Theosophical Publishing House London copyrights, after the TPH went into liquidation. Digby married in 1894 and had two daughters.

The teaching of theosophy was introduced into Belgium by Wilhem Kohlen, who had returned from Holland and Ernest Nyssens, who returned from U.S. where he studied homeopathy, which he brought to the country as well as vegetarianism and methods of naturotherapy.

The following Lodges were successively constituted:

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.

(1886-1962). A prolific playwright, poet, editor, essayist and theosophist. The Dictionary of Literary Biography states that, “Clifford Bax considered himself ‘an ardent theosophist’ at the age of twenty-three. His lifelong interest in the metaphysical is the basis for the common philosophical thread in much of his variegated output” (Vol. 100, p. 27).

(S. Krishnamachāri). A Recording Secretary of the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1885 under the name S. Krishnaswami. An early associate of the founders of the Theosophical Society who was a chela of the Master KOOT HOOMI. He was also known under the names Darbhagiri Nath and S. Krishnaswami.

(1856-1919). Theosophist, writer and playwright. Baum is best known for his popular stories for children and in particular his fantasy story The Wizard of Oz.

(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.

A personal servant to Helena P. BLAVATSKY for the entire time she was in India. He was a Gujarati boy of fifteen when he first came to Blavatsky in Bombay. He knew a number of languages. He accompanied Blavatsky when she left India on February 20, 1884.

(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.

In 1893 theosophy in Cuba was introduced by Don Juan Jose Jiménez y Serrano, Lieutenant Colonel of the Spanish Civil Guard and Military Commandant of the City of Sancti Spiritus, Las Villas.

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.

(1849-1919). Founder of the UNITED LODGE OF THEOSOPHISTS. Robert Crosbie was born on January 10, 1849, in Montreal. His parents were connected with the Hudson Bay Company in Canada. In 1865, Crosbie, raised a Presbyterian, was invited to join the communion.

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.

(1861-1932). Australian politician and social reformer. She was born in Geraldton, Western Australia, on August 2, 1861, the second child of Kenneth Cowan and Eliza Dircksey Cowan, nee Brown. Cowan joined the Theosophical Society (TS) at the Perth Lodge in Western Australia. She married James Cowan in 1879.

(nee Gillespie) (1878- ?). Educator and prominent worker for women’s rights and suffrage. Born November 7, 1878, she joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1904. She married James Henry Cousins on April 9, 1903. Cousins taught at various theosophical schools including Madnapalli and Mangalore (Mysore). She was appointed Senator for the Indian National University in 1918.

(1843-1914). Prominent early member of the Theosophical Society (TS). He was born in Rouen, France, on August 4, 1843. Courmes had a distinguished career in the French navy reaching the rank of Commandant and was awarded the Légion d’Honneur. He resigned from the navy in 1896.

(1842-1899). Born at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Coues was known chiefly for his works on ornithology, mammalogy, herpetology, bibliography, comparative anatomy and natural philosophy. He joined the TS in 1884.

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.

After approximately a decade of studying theosophy in the house of Tomás Povedano y de Arcos, an artist of Spanish origin and member of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Spain, a group of people interested in becoming members of the Theosophical Society formally bonded together on March 27, 1904, which, a few months later, became the first Theosophical Lodge, the “Virya Lodge of Costa Rica,”…

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).

Theosophical teachings place a high degree of importance to the law of analogy in understanding the deeper mysteries of nature.

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.

Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy was born in Ceylon in August, 1877, the son of an English lady (Elizabeth Clay Beeby) and a prominent Tamil barrister, Sir Mutu Coomaraswamy. Early in 1879, Elizabeth Coomaraswamy took Ananda to England, where they were to be joined by Sir Mutu later that spring; the reunion never occurred because of the unexpected death of Sir Mutu.

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 celestial object characterized by a long visible tail when orbiting near the sun. It has a small nucleus with a gaseous envelope called the coma, with dust that is blown away by solar radiation. The tail may extend as long as 100,000,000 kilometers, despite the fact that its nucleus may be only about 10 kilometers wide.

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.

A system founded by Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) in the latter half of the 19th century. Eddy considered her religion to be a reinstatement of primitive Christianity with an emphasis on healing such as was practiced by Jesus and his disciples.

All cultures have instituted what anthropologists call “rites of passage” as well as ceremonies associated with certain seasons or times of the year. Christianity is no exception. The most common are associated with birth, transition from childhood to adulthood, marriage, and death. Often ceremonies are associated with the solstices and equinoxes.

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). 

The first lodge in China was the Saturn Lodge in Shanghai chartered in 1920, with Mr. H. P. Shastri as President and Mr. G. F. L. Harrison as Secretary. This was apparently renamed as Shanghai Lodge, since it is so reported in the annual report of 1924. In 1922, Sun Lodge was chartered in Shanghai.

Chilean theosophical work began at two centers, the “Arundhati” branch of Santiago, and the “Lob-Nor” Lodge located in Valparaiso, which had begun in April 1902. There are very few references to organized theosophical work before that period; however, it is believed that, at least in Valparaiso, there had been members who had participated in theosophical studies. Amongst them Dr.

(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.

(1858-1946). Born in March 1858, at Salem, a small town in the Madras Presidency of India, Chetty joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on April 27, 1882.

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,

(1869-1951). Blackwood was a noted British novelist and theosophist who was born in Kent, England, son of Arthur Blackwood and Sidney, Duchess of Manchester. He was educated at Wellington and Edinburgh University. At the age of twenty he went to Canada and after a varied career as journalist, dairy farmer, hotel keeper, prospector, and actor, he began writing highly successful novels.

In November, 1884, William Q. JUDGE, then vice president of the Theosophical Society, returned to New York after visiting the Society’s headquarters in India. On the transatlantic crossing, one of his fellow passengers was a young Irishman, Albert E. S.

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.

(1805-1885). A prodigious author who was elected an Honorary Fellow of the Theosophical Society (TS) in October 1880 in recognition of his significant contribution to the study of what was then termed “Animal Magnetism.” Little is known about his history except that he had no academic qualification and was entirely self-taught, earning his living making chairs.

Conte di (Giuseppe Balsamo) (1743-1795). A well-known occultist of the 18th century. His life is shrouded in myth and conflicting reports; he is regarded by some as a charlatan and by others as an Initiate of a high degree. The Encyclopaedia Britannica (1970 Ed.) brands Cagliostro a charlatan and adventurer. Helena P.

(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.

(Druse; Anglicized forms of Arabic Durüz). The name of a community of hill people that live in Southern Lebanon, Syria and Israel. The outstanding feature of these people has been their ability to preserve their closed culture and religious beliefs for a thousand years; never big in number (probably about 250,000), they have survived the Crusades and local persecution.

According to traditional records, Druidism was the religion of the Celts of ancient Gaul and the British Isles. Description of their religion is difficult since very few authentic written records exist; those that do exist are not first-hand.

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.

(d. 1933). Wealthy member of the Theosophical Society (TS) who was a generous benefactor for many theosophical projects and persons. She was a devoted follower of J. KRISHNAMURTI and settled a life annuity of £500 on him.

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.

(1856-1927). Born in Dublin, Dick worked for several years as a civil engineer and Head of Harbours and Lighthouse Board for Ireland. In 1888 he joined the Theosophical Society (TS) and became a personal student of Helena P. Blavatsky. As Secretary of the Dublin Lodge and editor of The Irish Theosophist, Dick worked with William B.

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 darvshdarvish, 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.

In 1893 Georg Howitz (Councillor of State) formed the very first Theosophical Lodge in Denmark (“The Copenhagen Lodge”). In 1918 the Theosophical Society (TS) in Denmark was chartered and its first General Secretary was Countess Ellen Bille-Brahe-Selby (1918-22).

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.

(1867-1953). Poet, artist and first General Secretary of the Belgian Section, 1911-13. Born July 10, 1867, in Louvain, Belgium, his school career was not a success as he could not tolerate the dull routine of study. At the age of fifteen he persuaded his parents to allow him to enter the School of Arts at Brussels.

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…

(1856-1919). Australian statesman and member of the Theosophical Society (TS) who was an important parliamentary figure during the early years of the Australian Commonwealth. Deakin was born in Melbourne, Australia, on August 3, 1856. He practiced law, journalism and school-teaching before he entered the State Legislature in 1880. Deakin joined the TS in February 23, 1895.

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.

née David (1868-1969). Celebrated traveler, opera singer and writer. Born October 24, 1868, at Saint-Mandé near Paris, France. David-Neel was the only child of elderly parents and she frequently ran away from home to escape the possibly repressive atmosphere. As a young girl she attended lectures on eastern religions at the Paris Theosophical Society (TS) and took singing lessons.

An organization initiated by Annie Besant in 1906 to improve the condition of Indian women. The organization was conducted entirely by Indian persons, but does not seem to have received lasting support in that country.



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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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(1869-1958). A distinguished scholar and theosophist. Born January 12, 1869, at Banaras (now Varanasi), India, into a landholding family of bankers, Das had a distinguished academic career, gaining his B. A. at the age of sixteen and M. A. (Philosophy) at eighteen. He joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1884.

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.

A title of the head of the Dge-lugs-pa order of Tibetan Buddhism. The line began in 1391 with Dge-’dungrub-pa who was the founder and abbot of the important Tashilhumpo (Bkra-shis lhun-po), at Shigatse, a monastery which housed up to 3,300 monks before the Communist Chinese invasion.

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 Theosophical Society in Europe or the European Federation of the Theosophical Society (EFTS) is an association of national Theosophical organizations in about twenty European countries which are parts of the international Society headquartered at Adyar, Madras, India.

(1878-1965). Orientalist, authority on comparative religion, editor and translator of Tibetan religious scriptures. Born in New Jersey to parents who were Free Thinkers and Spiritualists, he joined the Theosophical Society (TS), Point Loma in 1902 and was encouraged by Katherine Tingley to pursue his education at Stanford University, California.

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 government of the Section is in the hands of the National Council, Executive Committee and General Secretary. The National Council consists of the General Secretary, the Treasurer, the Executive Committee, and a representative from every Lodge in the Section — plus representatives from the unattached members.

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).

(1873- ?). Principal of the Theosophical College, Madanapalle, India, poet and educator. He joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1904. He obtained his doctorate in literature from the Keiogijuku University of Japan where he served as Professor of English Poetry, 1919-20. He married Margaret E. Gillespie in April 9, 1903. Together with W. B.

The first lodge of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Eire was established at Dublin in 1886. The Dublin Lodge was probably the third or fourth lodge to be granted a charter in the Theosophical Society (Adyar). Poor records make it uncertain at what address the Lodge was inaugurated, but by 1892 it was located at 3 Ely Place and in 1896 was moved to 13 Eustace Street.

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



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(1857-1933). An English medium to whom the Mahatmas demonstrated proofs of their existence and powers.

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



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(1862- 1941). The first General Secretary of the New Zealand Section, serving from 1896 to 1897. An active member of the TS, Adyar, who lectured extensively and contributed significantly to theosophical literature, she was born in New Zealand on January 8, 1862, and had a brilliant academic career being the first woman to take a Master of Arts degree in New Zealand.

(1867-1946). Edge was a personal pupil of Helena P. Blavatsky who devoted some fifty-eight years of his life to theosophical work. He was born at Cubbington, near Leamington, England, on January 6, 1867. His father, Francis Edge, was a Church of England clergyman; and his mother was Celia Tarratt Edge. Edge was educated at Malvern College and King’s College at Cambridge.

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).

(1841-1913). A prominent theosophical worker and former General Secretary of the Theosophical Society (TS) in America. He was born in Philadelphia on September 12, 1841, and graduated from Princeton University with B.A. in 1864. He served as a priest in the Episcopalian church for ten years and was admitted to the Bar in 1877.

(1865- 1916) French mystic and writer on occult subjects, he was born at La Corogne in Spain on July 13, 1866. He wrote under the nom-de-plume “Papus.” Encausse graduated in medicine and surgery, but soon seemed to feel discontented with the materialistic view of life which his academic studies required and he joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in Paris.

In the last half of the 19th century France was a fertile field for esoteric inquiry.

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…

(1842-1925). An eminent French astronomer who served as Vice-President of the Theosophical Society (TS) from 1880 to 1888. He was born on February 25, 1842, and joined the TS in 1880. He mapped the Moon and Mars and also did considerable work on the measurement of binary stars. In 1887 he founded the Société Astronomique de France.

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.

The first impetus for Theosophy in Finland happened when the newspaper Åbo Tidning (9/4/1889) dedicated its lead article to Theosophy. This sympathetic article stated that Finns should examine more carefully the aims of the Theosophical Society and that a Scandinavian Section was recently founded in Stockholm, Sweden.

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.

(1433-1499). Italian philosopher and scholar who was born on October 19, 1433, at Figline near Florence and was ordained as a priest in 1473. The content of some of his writing exhibits similarity to certain theosophical principles.

An assistant of Allan O. HUME who became a probationary chela or pupil of the Mahatma MORYA. He was considered as a possible agent for paranormal transmission of messages due to his psychic abilities.

One of the first two Vice-Presidents of the Theosophical Society (TS), and one of the sixteen persons present at the meeting during which the formation of the Theosophical Society was proposed. Little is known about his life or career. He was a New York engineer and architect and delivered a lecture, entitled “The Lost Canon of Proportion of the Egyptians” to an early gathering.

(1801-1887). One of the pioneers of experimental psychology whom Mahatma K.H. met in Germany. He founded psychophysics, an early attempt to study the relation between stimulus and sensation. His major work was Elemente der Psychophysik, published in 1860.

An adult theosophical summer camp located between Sequoia National Forest and King’s Canyon National Park. It is at the 7,200 feet height in the High Sierra east of Fresno in California.

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.”

(1866?-1949). An influential mystic, born in Alexandropol, Russia. There is some doubt regarding the exact date of his birth, but latest research has suggested that 1866 is the most likely one. Like many spiritual revolutionaries, he has been the subject of varied assessments by both contemporary and post-mortem critics.

(d. 1890). A Buddhist High Priest who was a champion of Sinhalese (Sri Lankan) Buddhism and built the Temple Mutwalward. Gunananda joined the Theosophical Society in 1877. He was one of two priests who invited the founders (Henry S. OLCOTT and Helena P.

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”).

(1898-1985). Eminent Buddhist scholar, archeologist, psychologist and writer. Govinda was born Ernst Hoffman on May 17, 1898, at Waldheim in the former kingdom of Saxony. He was conscripted into the army during World War I, but contracted pulmonary tuberculosis and was forced to spend some time in a sanatorium.

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.

(1860-1950). Gmeiner was the daughter of Jerome Heronamus Gmeiner and Caroline Eliza Gmeiner (nee Hadrick). Gmeiner joined the Theosophical Society at the Adelaide Lodge, South Australia, and through her association with the Society became interested in Indian affairs.

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.

(1857-1933). The daughter of Debendra Nath Tagore and sister of the celebrated Indian poet and dramatist Rabindranath Tagore. Ghosal joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on April 9, 1882. In 1883 she formed and became first Vice-President of the first Ladies TS in Bengal. She was a philanthropist, founding a widow’s home, giving training for zenana teachers.

The formation of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Germany is closely connected with the name of a native of Hamburg, Dr. Wilhelm Hubbe-Schleiden. He founded the first German Lodge “Germania” — from which subsequently the German TS emerged — on January 27, 1884, in the house of the GEBHARDS in Elberfeld, in the presence of Henry Steel OLCOTT.

(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.

(1863-1940). Gates joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1887 in Cleveland, Ohio, and became president of the lodge there. Under Katherine Tingley he came to the School of Antiquity at the Theosophical Society, Point Loma, California as an expert on printing and became Press supervisor.

(1896-1971). Seventh President of the Philippines and a member of the Theosophical Society. Born on Nov. 4, 1896, in Bohol province, Garcia was the son of Policarpio Garcia who served as mayor of Talibon (Bohol) for four terms. He studied at the Cebu Provincial High School.

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.

(1894-1963). British author and social commentator who, later in his life, was increasingly concerned with Hindu philosophy and mysticism. He was born at Godalming, Surrey, on July 26, 1894, the third son of Leonard Huxley and the grandson of Thomas Henry Huxley. He was educated at Eton and Balliol College, Oxford.

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

Also known as Harichandra Chintamon.

There were Hungarian members in the international Theosophical Society (TS) almost from its formation in 1875. The baron Edmund Vay was a member of the General Council of the TS in 1880 and his wife, Baroness Adelma Vay was a cousin of Helena P. Blavatsky. Before the end of that century, English and German lecturers were visiting Hungary.

Huna is a Hawaiian word with a basic meaning of “secret” or “hard to see,” used by some Hawaiians to refer to a body of traditional esoteric knowledge that is applied to the practical problems of life.

(1901-1983). Founder of the London Buddhist Society and a prominent theosophical author who became Chairman of the Mahatma Letters Trust. Travers Christmas Humphreys was born into a family in which his given names had been traditional for over two centuries.

Founded in 1923 by William Kingsland and Alice A. CLEATHER, both of whom had been pupils of Helena P. BLAVATSKY. It was intended for those who wished to seriously study and apply Blavatsky’s teachings.

(1846-1938). Prominent early member of the Theosophical Society (TS). Cleather was born in April 1846 in England, the daughter of an Anglican minister. She joined the TS in 1885 and the Esoteric Section in 1888; was admitted to the inner group in 1890 where she had instruction from Helena P.

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

1850-1928). Theosophist and founder of the English garden-city movement. He was born in London on January 29, 1850. He first worked in a stockbroker’s office at the age of 15 where he learned shorthand. At the age of 22 he emigrated to the United States in the hope that his health would be improved by the warmer climate.

(1865- 1945). Noted American theosophical worker who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1906. She was born on October 7, 1865 (the 1938 TS Yearbook states 1867). She was the daughter of Judge Allyn M. Barnard. She married Frank Russak in 1899, but was widowed in 1915.

(1912-2001). Prominent member of the Theosophical Society (TS). Hoskins was born December 23, 1912, in Florence, Italy. She was one of twins born to Richard and Ida Hoskins. Her twin sister was named Aglaia. At the outbreak of World War I the family was repatriated to Britain in August 1915.

(1833-1886). Scottish Spiritualist medium who was born near Edinburgh, Scotland, on March 20, 1833. When he was nine he was taken to the USA. He came into contact with Spiritualism in 1850 and soon became famous as a medium.

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.

(1773-1833). Author of Anacalypsis: an Attempt to Draw Aside the Veil of the Saitic Isis (1863), a very scholarly 2-volume work highly regarded by Helena P. BLAVATSKY and frequently quoted by her.

A mystical practice in the Eastern Orthodox Church dating back to the 10th century that aims to bring about inner quietness and divine contemplation. It comes from a Greek word hesychia which means “quietude”or “silence.” It traces its origins to spiritual practices in the 4th century among the Desert Fathers.

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.

Official organ of the Order of the Star in the East, headquartered in London. The first issue appeared in January 1912, and the Journal ran until the end of 1927, when it became the International Star Bulletin in January 1928.



J.H-E

(1865-1919). Founder of the Rosicrucian Fellowship in Oceanside, California, and a former member of the Theosophical Society (TS). Heindel was born on July 23, 1865. He joined the TS in 1907 in Los Angeles, USA. Heindel resigned to form a Rosicrucian organization which commenced operation in 1912.

(d.1928). An extraordinarily generous member of the Theosophical Society who provided the funds to build both Leadbeater Chambers, a large residential building, and the first Theosophical Publishing House building, both at Adyar headquarters. He also donated 15,000 rupees towards the purchase of Besant Gardens.

( ? -1887). Hartmann was a noted Australian horticulturist whose name was given to a number of new species of plants and insects. He was born in Germany and emigrated to Australia about 1850, settling at Toowoomba in Queensland. He was devoted to theosophy and willed his estate, worth about £5,000, to the Theosophical Society (TS). The family protested and in 1891 Henry S.

(1863-1942). Born in Nottingham, England, educated in mathematics and physics at University College and taught science at the University school, Fussell came to the United States in 1890 and the same year became a member of the Theosophical Society (TS) after meeting William Q.

(1890-1979). A worker for the Theosophical Society (TS) at Point Loma who served as secretary to Katherine TINGLEY. Harris was born at Macon, Georgia, U.S. on August 30, 1890. He was brought to the Theosophical Society at Point Loma by his father Iverson Harris Sr. in February 1899.

(1861-1903). Prince of Varal, Kathiawar, India, who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) about 1881; his wife also joined at the same time. He donated money to transport from a ruined temple, a gateway which was erected at ADYAR as a memorial to their daughter Kusumavati and son Ranjitsinhji.

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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(1823-1899). Notable writer on spiritualist subjects and one time member of the Theosophical Society (TS). Although born in England she spent some of her life in the United States, mainly in New York. In 1856 she attended a spiritualist séance which produced phenomena that served to convince her that claims made by spiritualists were valid.

(1898-1991). Prominent theosophical author and worker in the American Section. She joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in Washington, D.C., in 1949, and joined the staff of the American Section’s national headquarters in 1962. She was on the staff of Krotona Institute of Theosophy from 1975 until her death in 1991.

(WALTER HAMPDEN DOUGHERTY) (1870-1955). Noted American actor who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on June 6, 1911. He married Mabel Moore in 1905. In 1906 he played Hamlet in London to great critical acclaim and in 1923 he revived Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, a play long associated with his name.

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 first contact with Theosophy in Italy may be traced to the frequent presence of H. P. BLAVATSKY there, where she undoubtedly met many persons who later became members of the Theosophical Society. She visited Trieste, Venice, Rome, Bologna, Bari, and Naples.

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.

A Theosophical property located at NAARDEN, Huizen, Holland. The estate, which is well-wooded, is about 17 hectares in area comprising Besant Hall, seating 250 persons; a library housing 9000 books in Dutch and English; Saint Michael’s House and Arundale Guest House.

An organization established by Boris Mihailovich de ZIRKOFF (1902-81), grand-nephew of Helena P. BLAVATSKY.

A theosophical association formed in London in 1919 by Annie BESANT to encourage contacts among the different members of the Theosophical Society (TS) around the world. It was affiliated with the Theosophical Order of Service. By 1926, correspondents were active in almost all the sections.

A center established in 1928 by Margaret Cousins with the assistance of the European Federation of the Theosophical Society. Its work was carried out by Anna KAMENSKY till 1936, when Dr.

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.

A federation of branches of the Theosophical Society (TS) that include all Asian countries from Pakistan eastward, Australia, New Zealand and nearby Pacific islands.

The Theosophical Society (TS) in Indonesia is a national society, governed by the National Council and the Executive Committee. The National Council consists of the National President and Vice President, two Secretaries (corresponding and recording), two Treasurers, Co-ordinators for the regions and Commissaries for Youth and for Research and Development and representatives of each lodge.

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.

The Indian Section of the Theosophical Society (TS) was constituted by an Executive Order of the President Founder, Henry S.

Mentioned in The Theosophist September 1910 and apparently formed in Italy. Annie BESANT mentions it approvingly in her editorial, the Watchtower. There seems to be little on record about this organization which was apparently short-lived.

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.

There is some discussion in theosophical literature of the advanced Inca culture, but no mention of the rest of South America or of the religious ideas of native groups in the Caribbean — other than a passing reference by Helena P. Blavatsky to Voodoo (or Vodun) in Haiti (cf. SD II:209).

An organization founded in 1912 by members of the Theosophical Society (TS) in India, with Major C. L. Peacocke as its first General Secretary. It was primarily composed of British Officers in the Public Services of the British Empire and their wives, but others were also admitted. They had to be members of the TS.

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.

The Icelandic Section was founded in Reykjavik at a collective meeting of the seven lodges in Iceland on August 12, 1920. The charter of the section was signed by Annie BESANT on January 5, 1921. The first General Secretary was Jakob Kristinsson, who resigned as a vicar among Icelandic settlers in Canada to take the position.

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.

“I Am” was founded by Guy W. Ballard (1878-1939) and his wife Edna Anne Wheeler Ballard (1886-1971). According to Guy Ballard’s account, in 1930 while he, as a mining engineer, was engaged in exploration on the slopes of Mt.

An ADEPT or MASTER of the Wisdom who resided in Nilgiri Hills, India. According to Charles W. LEADBEATER, he assisted Helena P.

(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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(Jehoshua Ben Pandira). A holy man mentioned in the Jewish Talmud (120?-71? BCE). Helena P. BLAVATSKY mentions this personage several times in her writings and suggests that Jeschu ben Panthera is Jesus of Nazareth (CW IV:361), offering in evidence a genealogy by Epiphanius (fourth century):

        

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.

The first connection between Japan and The Theosophical Society (TS) occurred in 1893 when Doho Mizutani proposed to publish Buddhist Catechism by Henry S. OLCOTT; it was published in Kyoto in 1895. Olcott subsequently toured Japan and made his base at the Chion-in Buddhist Temple in Kyoto.

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:

(Babajee). This man was most generally known to theosophists at the time as Babajee. Not a great deal is known about Babajee who appears in Theosophical Society (TS) history under various names. It is known that he worked at one time as a clerk in the Collector’s office at Nellore, a town some 150 kilometers north of Madras in India.

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.

A name that refers to several entities or persons during the early years of the Theosophical Society (TS). According to Col. Henry Steel OLCOTT, there were really three John Kings:

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

(Ghiyathuddin Abulfath Omar Ibn Ibrahim Al-khayyami) (d. 1123 or 1132). Persian mathematician, astronomer and poet. His Rubáiyát, a popular poem, was introduced into the West by Edward Fitzgerald in 1859. Fitzgerald wrote five different versions of the poem, but his first is the one most frequently quoted.

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 

This decoration was instituted in 1900, presumably by the English Queen Victoria, the preamble to the Royal Warrant — which was amended in 1901, 1912, 1933, 1938 and then in 1939 — being as follows: “Whereas We, taking into Our Royal consideration that there do not exist adequate means whereby We can reward important and useful services rendered to Us in Our Indian Empire in the advancement of…

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.

(nee Lytton) (1874-1964). Prominent supporter of J. Krishnamurti and international lecturer for the Theosophical Society (TS). Lady Emily Lutyens was born in 1874, the daughter of Robert Lytton, a former Viceroy of India who became 1st Earl of Lytton.

The Lucis Trust was founded in 1922 by Alice Bailey and Foster Bailey, with the sole intention of serving humanity and the Hierarchy by helping to build right human relations.

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:

(1837-1898). An American inventor who developed the Keely motor that was reported to be able to produce tremendous physical pressure without the use of heat, electricity or other ordinary fuel or source of power. His demonstration of the machine convinced many investors to be part of the Keely Motor Company which was launched in 1874.

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.

(Real name Louis Marie Julien Viaud) (1850-1923). French writer who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) at Benares (now Varanasi) in 1900. Loti was born in Rochefort on January 14, 1850. He was commissioned in the French navy and reached the rank of ship’s captain. Loti retired from the navy in 1910. He was admitted to the Académie Française in 1891.

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

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):

(1898-1971). Long was international head of the Theosophical Society (TS), Pasadena, from 1951 to 1971. His administration was marked by an emphasis on the practical expression of theosophy in daily living and, to combat crystallization, a reorganization of the Society’s methods and activities.

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.

(1851-1940). English physicist who was eminent in the field of psychical research. He was born at Penkhull, Staffordshire, England, June 12, 1851. He graduated from University College, London, in 1872 and obtained his doctorate in 1877.

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.

(1847-1913). 26th Earl of Crawford and 9th Earl of Balcarres. In The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett, (#15 chron., p. 44; #8 Barker, p.

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.

(1851-1927). English novelist and mystical writer. She was born in Guernsey, Channel Islands, on September 9, 1851. Mabel Collins liked to refer to herself as a “Nine” because she was the ninth child and was born on the ninth day of the ninth month. In 1871 she married Kenningale Robert Cook from whom she later separated.

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.

(1810-1875). Pseudonym of Alphonse-Louis Constant, a French mystic and writer who is frequently referred to by many theosophical writers, including Helena P. Blavatsky. He was born on February 8, 1810 in a poor family.

(1860 -1917). A highly successful British astrologer. He was born William Frederick Allen in Westminster, London on August 7, 1860. He adopted his ascending astrological sign as a pseudonym. At the approximate age of 25 he took up residence in London and developed an interest in astrology.

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



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(pseudonym of Armas Eino Leopold Lönnbohm) (1878-1926). A member of the Finnish Theosophical Society (TS) who was one of the greatest names in Finnish poetry. He was born on July 6, 1878, at Paltamo in northern Finland and educated at Helsinki University. He worked as a journalist on the liberal newspapers Päivälehti and Helsingin Sanomat, mainly as literary and drama critic.

(1893- 1934). Eminent theosophical writer. He was born on August 26, 1893, and joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1914. Van der Leeuw gained his LL.D. at Leyden for a treatise on cyclic law. He was ordained a priest of the Liberal Catholic Church.

An organization formed by C. Jinarājadāsa in India on December 28, 1915, and with Justice T. Sadasiva Iyer as its President. It had the following objects: 1. To bring about the abolition of corporal punishment both in homes and schools; 2.

An organization started in 1907 in Surat by D. J. Edal Behram to promote temperance from alcohol, and the prevention of slaughter of animals for food. They encouraged large groups of people to make resolutions to abstain from the use of intoxicants and to give up animal food. In its first year, the organization reported that twenty thousand people have made such resolutions.

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.

(1906-1991). Austrian translator of theosophical books into German who was elected President of the Austrian Section of the Theosophical Society (TS), and except for a few intervals, served in that capacity until 1985. Lauppert was born in August 15, 1906, and joined the TS in Austria in 1927.

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

(1859-1940). British statesman who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1914 and was a strong supporter of Annie Besant. Lansbury was born on February 21, 1859, near Halesworth, Suffolk, England. He was elected member of parliament for Bow and Bromley in 1910, but he resigned in 1912 to fight a by-election as a woman’s suffrage candidate and was defeated.

(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 earliest lodges in Rangoon were the Shway Daigon, Irrawaddu and Rangoon, all of which were chartered in 1885, their respective presidents were Moong Oon, Norman Duncan and V. Rathna Moodelliar. These soon ceased to operate and in November 21, 1911, another lodge was established, the Buddhist Theosophical Society (TS) in Moulmein.

A theosophical organization started in 1923 to disseminate knowledge of Islam and Sūfīsm to both Hindus and Muslims in many parts of India. It was headed by H. C. Kumar, a Hindu, and was formally called the TS Muslim League.

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.

(1879-1940). Popular American novelist. Born in London, England, educated at Rugby and served as a government official in India and South Africa. He arrived in the United States about 1911 and became an American citizen.

Egg

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.

(1839-1892). English clergyman and spiritualist medium. Moses was for a time a close friend of both Henry Olcott and Helena P. Blavatsky and is often mentioned in The Mahātma Letters to A. P. Sinnett. Moses was born on November 5, 1839, at Donington in Lincolnshire, England. He matriculated at Exeter College, Oxford in 1858 taking a third class in Classical Moderations in 1860.

(1879-1937). Born near Ammanford, in the south-western part of Wales, Morris was educated at London’s Christ’s Hospital (founded by Edward VI in 1533) graduating in 1895 as a Senior Deputy Grecian proficient in classical languages. The following year he attended meetings of the Dublin Lodge of the Theosophical Society (TS) whose members included Charles Johnston, Mr. and Mrs. Fred J.

(or Mirza Murad Ali Beg). Pseudonym of Godolphin Mitford, a theosophist who wrote notable essays in the Theosophist, particularly the well-known “The Elixir of Life” that appeared in the March and April 1882 issues. An Englishman born in Madras, India, he converted to Islam and also served as the chief cavalry officer of the Maharajah of Bhavnagar and others.

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?

(Pieter Cornelis Mondriaan). (1872-1944). Dutch painter who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1909 and was a member of the Vahana Lodge in Holland. The influence of Mondrian on 20th century design cannot (according to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1970, Vol 15, p. 697) be overestimated. It embraces architecture, furniture design, advertising art, and typography.

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.

The worship of the Indo-Iranian god of light Mithra (in Sanskrit Mitra). The religion originated in Persia from where it spread to Asia minor and then to Rome and much of the Roman empire. It was the chief rival to Christianity.

(1889-1957). Pseudonym of Lucila Godoy Alcayaga, Chilean poet and member of the Theosophical Society (TS) in that country. She won the Nobel prize for literature in 1945. Her prize winning Sonetos de la Muerte, (“Sonnets of Death”) published in 1914 made her well-known. A love affair ended by the suicide of her lover inspired Dolor in the collection Desolación (1922).

The first circles of theosophical students in Mexico came out of the spiritualistic groups that flourished throughout the capital Mexico City towards the end of 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. In 1906, the first Mexican lodge named “Aura” was founded as part of the Cuban Section of the Theosophical Society (TS).

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.

(c. 85-160). A 2nd century bishop who established a large Christian Gnostic sect and became a serious rival and threat to mainstream Christianity for more than two hundred years. His only work, Antitheses, is no longer extant. It is about the contradiction between the God of the Old Testament and the God of Christ.

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.

The Center of the Esoteric School of Theosophy in Australia. The Manor is a large private house situated in Mosman, Sydney, Australia. It overlooks picturesque Sydney Harbor and is surrounded on two sides by a national park. The building is very spacious with side verandahs and hallways and large rooms.

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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A Gnostic sect sometimes called Nasoreans surviving in southern Iraq and Khuzistan. It is of interest to theosophists because some of the beliefs held by the Mandaeans are not dissimilar to certain theosophical ideas.

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.

The Theosophical Society (TS) in Malaysia received its Charter on June 24, 1929, from the then President of the International Theosophical Society, Annie BESANT. Although relatively active in its formative years, the Society’s activities dwindled after the Second World War.

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.

(1850-1935). President of Kumbakonam Brahma-Vidyā for a number of years and active worker for the Theosophical Society (TS). Madhava Rao was born in February 1850 and educated at Government College, Kumbakonam in Southern India where he later (1899) became a Fellow.

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.

(1854-1927). Machell was a distinguished English artist who in 1888 became a member of the Theosophical Society (TS) and a personal pupil of Helena P. Blavatsky. A Fellow of the Royal Society of British Artists, his portraits and symbolic paintings were exhibited at the Royal Academy, London.

(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 first Norwegian to officially join the Theosophical Society (TS) was Henrik Anton Alme (1847-1939) who was a painter of signs. In 1891 he became a member of the Swedish Theosophical Society, which was established in Stockholm in 1889. Later, Alme joined a theosophical organization which supported William Q. JUDGE, which was established in 1896 in Norway.

(1843-?) (Norenranāth). An influential Bengali who was a close friend of Helena P. BLAVATSKY and Henry S. OLCOTT, two of the founders of the Theosophical Society. He was born on February 23, 1843.

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.

(Nikolaus von Cus, Nicolaus Cusanus) (1401-1464). Scholar, Church cardinal, mathematician and philosopher who advocated a view of the universe that did not have the Earth as the center, anticipating Copernicus. Helena P. Blavatsky considered him an Initiate, and called him an Adept (CW XIV:378).

(1823-1895). American inventor who was one of the original “formers” of the Theosophical Society (TS). He was at the inaugural meeting and served on the committee that drew up the draft constitution and by-laws on September 7, 1875. He was elected the first treasurer of the TS on October 30, 1875.

History of the Theosophical Society in New Zealand: Originally part of the Australasia Section (founded in 1894), the New Zealand Lodges then comprised Auckland, chartered in 1892; Christchurch, chartered in 1894; Wellington, chartered in 1888; and Dunedin, chartered in 1893.

On July 9, 1892, a national Theosophical Society was founded in Netherlands. Its name was De Nederlandsche Theosophische Vereeniging (NTV). This was not the first association that undertook Theosophical activities in the Netherlands; there had been earlier activities.

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.

(1877-1948). American theosophical author who served in various capacities at Adyar and the Australian Section. Neff was born on September 7, 1877, in Akron, Ohio, USA.

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.

A name derived from the Hebrew ebionim, meaning “poor men.” It is the title given to an early Christian sect which maintained the Jewish Mosaic Law. They believed in one God, the Creator, accepted Jesus as the Messiah, rejected all the works of the New Testament except a gospel of Matthew different from the one in the present Bible but the existence of which was confirmed by St.

(Nazarites; Nazars). Jews who have consecrated themselves to the service of GOD. Their qualifications are mentioned in the Old Testament (Num 30:1-8; 6:1-21; etc.). Examples of Nazirites are Joseph, Samson and Samuel. They can be either male or female.

A Jewish sect to whom Jesus belongs. It must be distinguished from the name of the place called Nazareth, but it is probably related to the Nazarite order of the Jews.

(Nas’r-ud-din). A fictitious character central to many Sufī tales who is known all over the Middle East. A collection of these tales is available in English titled The Subtleties of the Incomparable Nasrudin and two stories from that book will serve to illustrate the way in which they are used to painlessly convey Sūfī teachings. Nasrudin was ferrying an academic across rough water.

(d. 1923). Joint General Secretary for the Indian Section of the Theosophical Society (TS), 1907-8. The 1938 Theosophical Year Book (T.P.H. Adyar) states that he abandoned the legal profession to devote his life to theosophical work.

The name of one of the Adepts who helped in the founding of the Theosophical Society. See Old Gentleman.

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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.

There are several men named Nārada which appear at different times in Hindu literature, the first of whom is identified as a Rishi and author of Rg Vedas 8.13, 9.104, and 9.105; the second of whom appears in the Chāndogya Upaniad (7.2) as a knower of the Vedas but not of the Self and who is instructed in the latter by Sanatkumāra; the third of whom is identified in the…

(1469-1539). Founder of the religion of Sikhism, who lived in northwest India (now a part of Pakistan). Raised a Hindu in an area when there were many Muslims, as a young man he studied both Hindu and Muslim scriptures, coming to the conclusion that there could not be separate Gods for the two religions, but that there must be one God for the whole of humanity.

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 people of ancient Chaldea in what is now modern Iraq. The Sabians (see SABAEANS), who form part of the Nabatheans, had a book called Nabathean Agriculture. Of this book, Helena P.

Naarden International Theosophical Centre

(Uspenskii, Petr Demianovich) (1878-1947) A well-known pupil of Gurdjieff. He was born in Moscow and first came to public notice with his book, The Fourth Dimension, (1909), which dealt with abstract mathematical theory. His second book, Tertium Organum which was written in 1912, created a sensation when it was later published in 1922.

Legendary hero in Greek mythology. Credited with superhuman skill in music and song, his mother was believed to be the Muse Calliope and his father was said to be the river god Oeagrus (or, in some stories, Apollo). Myths abound about his exploits; typical is his descent into Hades to restore his wife, Eurydice, to the upper world, which is well-known.

In the late 1890s and early 1900s a number of centers belonging to the Oriental Esoteric Society were established on at least three continents, specifically in the cities of Paris, Rio de Janeiro and Washington DC. Although the total number is not known, twenty-seven were said to be in existence by 1908 when the Oriental Esoteric Center of France (Paris) was established.

A subsidiary organization of the Theosophical Society (TS) formed on April 7, 1917, for the purpose of preparing a group of committed men and women to help the work of the Theosophical Society. The membership were classified as Brothers, Novices, Probationers, Lay Brothers and Associates. The Order was headed by a Brother Server, then held by Annie Besant. The secretary was C.

(1873-1934). Author and journalist who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on May 10, 1899. Orage was President of the Leeds (England) Lodge of the TS. He was on the staff of the periodical New Age in 1907 and founded New English Weekly in 1932. He resigned from the TS in 1908 to become a follower of G. I. Gurdjieff.

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.

Om

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.

This was a network of schools for the children of the “outcastes,” renamed Panchamas or the “fifth caste.” It was started by Col. Henry Steel Olcott in 1895 with 55 pupils. By 1906, it had grown to 5 schools with 731 students.

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.

A Greek God who is able to transform itself into any form. The name is frequently used in theosophical literature to apply to a number of principles, such as Life, Spirit, Force, Light, etc., which manifest in many forms but must be understood in its primordial quality. Of spirit, for instance, Helena P.

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.

Theosophical writer noted for his consolidation of scattered data relating to the subtle bodies and the solar system in the light of theosophy. His books on theosophical subjects are valuable references which have remained in print for over sixty years. The sources are largely confined to the works of Annie Besant and Charles W. Leadbeater.

(1867-1952). Russian theosophist responsible for the early growth of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Russia. Kamensky joined the TS in 1899. She was born on August 25, 1867 in Pavlovsk near St. Petersburg in Russia of Russian nobility on August 13, 1867, and educated at Geneva College and Petrograd Women’s University.

(née Princess Galitzine) (d. 1931). Prominent member of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Russia and associate of Anna KAMENSKY.

(1796-1881). Vice-President of the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1881. He was born in 1796, a descendant of the Dukes of Burgundy. He was well-known in France during his lifetime for his pioneering work in hypnotism, or, as it was then called, mesmerism. Henry S. Olcott, then President of the TS conferred honorary membership of the TS on him in 1880.

An Egyptian seer during the Ptolemaic times who is considered by Diogenes Laertius as the earliest theosophical teacher.

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(234c-305). Neo-Platonist philosopher who is noted for editing Plotinus’ works and writing Plotinus’ biography. He was born either at Tyre or Batanaea in Palestine. He studied under the scholar Cassius Longinus at Athens and in the year 262/263 went to Rome and attached himself to Plotinus, remaining with him for five years.

Mayan civilization, which began in the lowlands of Guatamala at least 1000 BCE, flourished from the mid-third to 10th centuries CE in the Yucatán (which included its principal city, Chichén Itzá), Campeche, Quintana Roo, and parts of Tabasco and Chiapas, as well as all of Belize, most of Guatamala, and parts of El Salvador and Honduras.

The sacred book of the Quiché Indians, a branch of the Mayan people, who lived in what is now Guatemala. It contains the cosmology, mythology, traditions and history of the Quiché people. The only remaining manuscript of the book is a copy made in Latin script but in Quiché language, by a Dominican priest, Fr.

(1896-1970). Prominent member of the Dutch Section of the Theosophical Society (TS). He was born at Rotterdam on April 26, 1896 and joined the Theosophical Society in 1915. He studied philosophy and psychology under Professor G. Heymans at Grönigen University where he took a degree corresponding to M.A. in 1919.

(1848-1921). Prominent Russian theosophist. Pogossky was born in Russia at a time when many of the educated younger generation were enthusiastically taking up the cause of oppressed peasantry and incurring the wrath of the ruling classes thereby.

(205-270). An important Neoplatonic philosopher, probably of Roman descent, who went to Alexandria about 232 to study philosophy. For ten years, he became a disciple of Ammonius Saccas (late 1st - early 2nd cent.) who claimed to be “god taught” (theodidaktos).

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.

(1855-1944). Russian theosophist and translator. Pissareva joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1903. She was born on November 7, 1855, the daughter of a Russian nobleman, and was educated at Heidelberg University. She married Nikolai Pissareff.

(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.

The first lodge in the Philippines was chartered in 1892 in Manila. It was named the Manila Theosophical Society (TS) in Escolta with B. C. Bridger as Secretary. By 1903, however, the lodge was no longer listed in the annual report of Adyar, presumably because it had ceased to function.

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.

(410-485). Neo-Platonic philosopher. Proclus was born in Constantinople to Lycean parents and brought up at Xanthus in Lycea. He studied philosophy first under Olympiodorus the Elder at Alexandria and later under Plutarch and Syrianus. At an undetermined date Proclus took charge of the Platonic Academy at Athens and remained so until his death in 485.

(c. 274?-c.337 CE). Founder of a school of NEOPLATONISM in Syria. He was born at Chalcis in Coel-Syria. After spending some time with Porphyry he established his own school.

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).

(Phallism). The worship of the fertility and generative function, often symbolized by the male organ (phallus). In India the worship is paid to divine mothers where the phallus is called the lingam or linga and female counterpart is called the yoni. The linga symbolizes the generative power of Shiva and is a charm against sterility.

The earliest record of theosophical activity in Peru is 1918 when a group led by Ibrahim Vasquez met at Iquites to discuss theosophy.

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.

(c. 175-242). Founder of Neoplatonism and teacher of Plotinus. Ammonius founded the Eclectic Theosophical School in Alexandria in 193 CE, which according to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, was the precursor of the modern Theosophical Society (TS).

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.

Systems of mystical initiation in the Graeco-Roman world that flourished for about two thousand years up to the 4th century. Many great personages of antiquity were known to be initiates of such schools, such as Plato, Pythagoras, Plutarch, Cicero, Iamblichus, Porphyry, as well as Christian fathers such as Clement of Alexandria, Origen and Ammonius Saccas.

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.

(1860-1909). First General Secretary (1900-1908) of the French Section and major contributor to the establishment of the Section there. Pascal was born on May 11, 1860, at Villecroze, Var in the South of France. When he was sixteen years old, a Roman Catholic priest, recognizing his keen intelligence, directed his education and he gained his B. A.

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.

A historic event held on September 11, 1893, where representatives of various world religions were invited to present talks on their respective faiths. This event was held in conjunction with the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago to celebrate the fourth centenary of the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.

([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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Philippus Aureolus Theophrastus Bombastus von Hoenheim (1493?-1541), who called himself Paracelsus (i.e., “superior to [or after] Celsus,” a 2nd century. Roman anti-Christian philosopher criticized by Origen), was both a magician, physician, and writer.

From the Greek pan- meaning “involving all” and théisme meaning “pertaining to the divine.” It is a doctrine that equates God with all the matter and forces of the universe, but not transcending them.

(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.

(1809- 1876). An Austrian nobleman who joined TS in December 1875. Palm became a member of the Council in 1876 and died shortly afterward on May 19. It is believed that his was the first corpse cremated in the USA, the TS advocating this reform in funeral practice. The cremation caused a media uproar in the US and the event was reported in over 7,000 journals.

Before it became the Theosophical Society (TS) in Pakistan, for many years the lodges in that area were a part of the Indian Section of the Theosophical Society. The Indian Section is a very large one, having in excess of 10,000 members and the Karachi Lodge was one of its most active components.

“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),…

(1865-1949). Artist and author. Ryan was born in Halifax, England. His father was Irish, descended from the Ryans of Idrone, Tipperary; his mother was English. Ryan became an artist like his father whom he succeeded as headmaster of the government School of Art in Ventnor, Isle of Wight. Both father and son exhibited at the Royal Academy, London.

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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Since the principal founder of the Theosophical Society (TS), Helena P. BLAVATSKY, was born in Russia it is understandable that early efforts were made to establish a theosophical presence in that country. Unfortunately, at that time, both the ruling faction and the Christian Church were quite hostile to this.

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.

(Mohammed ibn Mohammed Moulavi Balkhi) (1207-1273). One of the greatest Sūfī mystics and Persian poets. He was a professor of theology at Konya in Asia Minor until his meeting with a mysterious spiritual teacher named Shamsuddin Mohammed of Tabriz, when he abandoned his theological career and devoted himself to Sūfī mysticism.

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).

Devised by C. JINARĀJADĀSA in 1917 intended as a “Form of Service for Worship and Consecration.” The Ritual worked with twelve officiants. At the time of its formation World War I was raging and the energies of the participants were directed toward the peace and blessing of the world.

More than one meaning is conveyed by this expression. It is, in one sense, described as the limiting boundary that confines the consciousness of those who labor under the delusion of separateness, a condition caused by desire.

(1850-1935). Eminent French scientist and theosophist. Richet was born in Paris on August 26, 1850. He joined La Sociéte Théosophique d’Orient et d’Occident in 1883 out of which, together with other similar groups, grew the French Section of the Theosophical Society (TS).

(G.). Greek term for the astral shells of the dead. See also DEATH AND AFTER DEATH STATES.

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Theosophy is not a religion, as religions are normally classified. Religions are systems of belief in a god or gods having dogma and, usually, ritual worship. Neither theosophy or the Theosophical Society (TS) is associated with dogma and certainly have no ritual worship. Most religions have priests, rabbis monks, or similar officiants which do not exist in the Theosophical Society.

“Inner teachings” or knowledge, as opposed to teachings for the masses called “exoteric” knowledge. The word derives from the Greek eso, “within.” It is generally applied to doctrines designed for an inner circle of disciples for spiritual or religious disciplines.

(Bahá’í Faith) The Bahá’í Faith originated in Persia (modern day Iran) in the nineteenth Century.

The name of the Judeao-Christian God in the Old Testament. The name is written with four Hebrew consonants, IHVH, hence it is also rendered as Yahweh. The name is known as the Tetragrammaton, or the four-letter word, and held very sacred by the Jews that traditionally it is not uttered and the word “Adonai” is said in its stead. This is apparently based on Lev.

A system of beliefs and actions shared by a group which gives the members of that group an object for their worship and a code of behavior, although early Shintō lacked the latter and only in more recent times has it adopted ethical codes either from Confucianism,…

The teachings on reincarnation posit that after a number of rebirths, the soul will attain human perfection and be freed from the necessity of being born again into a physical body. Two questions arise: first, what is the average time gap between incarnations, and second, how many reincarnations will the soul have before attaining perfection?

In Mahāyāna Buddhism, one of the three “vestures” or “bodies” (TRIKĀYA) of the Buddha, the other two being Sambhogakāya and Dharmakāya.

It is not proposed to deal in detail in this article with the vexed question of the nomenclature of the Planes in Nature, but mention must be made of certain alternative systems that have been used. The system adopted by later writers within Theosophical Society (TS) was suggested by Annie Besant and Charles W.

One of the vehicles of the human being used for the expression of thoughts, specifically concrete thoughts. In this article it is to be distinguished from the vehicle of abstract thinking, called the CAUSAL BODY.

The causal consciousness (Kārana-Śarīra) or Higher Manas, which is the seat of man’s higher consciousness.

An ancient doctrine to the effect that the human soul existed before its birth in the physical world. It must be kept in mind that this does not imply reincarnation as taught in theosophy, but neither does it exclude it.

A term meaning “the passing of the soul at death into another body, either human or animal” from the Greek meta- (“after”) and empsychos (“animate”). The term is often used, especially by Helena P.

A synonym for “Reincarnation,” but strictly is a term having a very general meaning as opposed to the detailed process implied by the word reincarnation.

(1828-?). Author, traveler, artist and theosophist. An important figure in the early years of the Theosophical Society (TS), Rawson joined the Society in New York. He was the son of Edward Rawson and Betsey Armington Rawson and was born on October 15, 1828, in Chester, Vermont, U.S. It appears that he had wide ranging interests and studied law, theology and medicine.

(1879-1951). A spiritual teacher of South India widely considered as an authentic self-realized individual. Born at a village in Tamil Nadu, India, Ramana Maharshi was educated at a school in Madurai.

(1823 – 1874?). An Indian spiritual teacher from South India who reportedly prophesied in 1873 the arrival of H. P. BLAVATSKY and H.

(1877- ?). Physicist, mathematician, pioneer social reformer and theosophical organizer. He joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on January 3, 1903. He was a Malabar High Court Vakil, and a co-worker of Annie Besant for Indian Home Rule. In 1925 he founded the Kerala Buddhist League for the upliftment of depressed classes.

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In Hindu mythology, a demon or evil spirit. There are three types: supernatural beings who are like the YAKSAS; lofty beings who are enemies of the gods, or titans; and fearful demons and creatures. Helena P.

A name for the AGNISHVĀTTAS, or the SOLAR PITRIS, who awakened the mind principle in human beings.

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Mysterious celestial bodies that are mentioned in The Mahātma Letters to A. P. Sinnett. In one letter (No. 93B), the Mahātma KOOT HOOMI states that one such “king-star” is right behind Jupiter, but which has not been seen by any physical eye.

A Sanskrit term usually translated as “passion” or “affection.” It is derived from the root rañj which signifies literally the act of dyeing or coloring, esp. red. By extension, it came to mean “inflammation” and “love” or “desire”; later, it denoted a musical mode or scale in Indian classical music.

(Sydney, Australia). Probably the only broadcasting station established and maintained by the Theosophical Society (TS). Its call sign of 2GB was selected in honor of Giordano Bruno. The station was opened on August 23, 1926, at Adyar Hall, Sydney by the then Minister for Education the Hon. T. D. Mutch, who was introduced by George Arundale.

The method of using words or images to stand for, imply, or suggest a range of ideas other than the literal meaning of the words or the specific graphic representation of the images. As such, it is related to a range of such methods, from the linguistic use of simile, metaphor, analogy, and myth to the pictorial use of sign, token, emblem, or logo.

An elemental of the air, referred to in the writings of Paracelsus. An elemental is a non-physical semi-conscious entity in nature. Paracelsus, Eliphas Levi and the Rosicrucians spoke of the kinds of elementals according to the concentration of the primordial elements in them. For example, salamanders are elementals of the fire element, while sylph are of the air element.

There has been a continuous theosophical activity in Switzerland since the beginning of the 20th century. In French-speaking areas it began with lectures delivered in Geneva by the French theosophist, Dr. Theophile PASCAL at the end of the year 1900.

The Theosophical Society in Scandinavia started in Sweden in 1889. A year earlier, the Swedish author Viktor Rydberg, who had taken an interest in H. P. BLAVATSKY’s THE SECRET DOCTRINE, called together a group of Swedes, among them two women who had visited Blavatsky in London, in order to start Theosophical activity in Sweden.

 The method of procreation of the Second ROOT RACE humanity, as well as the early Third Race (Lemurian). It is described by Helena P. BLAVATSKY in The Secret Doctrine as the “exudation of moisture or vital fluid, the drops of which coalescing formed an oviform ball — or shall we say egg?

A Sanskrit word more usually transliterated now as Svastika. It is an extremely ancient symbol the origin of which is lost in time.

In Hindu mythology, the first of the fourteen Manus or progenitors of mankind.

A Sanskrit term meaning one’s own (sva) mind or consciousness (citta, pronounced “chitta”). It can refer to a creation of “one’s own mind.”

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(S). The Sanskrit name of a school of Indian philosophy which stated that everything arises from its own (sva) nature (bhāva), i.e., that the effect is inherent in the cause. It was a Hindu system of belief contemporary with early BUDDHISM and is sometimes confused with that teaching because it shares some similarities with it.

A Sanskrit term encountered in Vedāntism and theosophical texts. It is derived from sūtra meaning a thread and ātman meaning the spiritual “self.” In theosophical writings it is used as a term similar to the monad.

One of a large number of names in Sanskrit for the Sun. It is used in some of the Vedic hymns in which the Sun is praised. Some of the other names used are Arka, Bhāskara, Ravi, Savit, and Vivasvat.

Sanskrit for ultimate reality, from parama (highest, primary) and artha (object, aim, thing).

A Sanskrit term meaning “emptiness” (from śūnya, empty, void, vacant, zero; it is from this word, by way of Arabic, that we got the English words “zero” and “cipher” as well as the idea of the decimal system).

A theosophical group formed in Akron, Ohio, in the 1920’s with a Christian emphasis. The group’s name is derived from the theosophical concept of God as the Great Central Sun. A prominent member called Joseph S. Benner, who died in 1941, provided much of the inspiration motivating the group.

The changes in the properties of organisms or systems in time. The word is commonly associated with biological evolution, based on the theory proposed by Charles Darwin in 1859 regarding the observed mutation of living organisms due to “natural selection.” The theory was simultaneously propounded by Alfred Russel WALLACE after years of investigation on the flora and fauna of Indonesia.

The change in Nature or in its parts arising from their inherent inner impulse to change or become. This impulse, according to theosophical philosophy, is the driving principle behind EVOLUTION, causing nature or its organisms and systems to change and mutate.

The mysterious spiritual Being in the center of our cosmos and from which the physical Sun emanated. It is commonly equated with God or the highest Deity in the various religions.

Eminent Sri Lankan Buddhist priest and scholar. Honorary Vice-President of the Theosophical Society (1881-88). Born January 20, 1827, in the village of Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka, he was the fourth son of Don Johannes de Silva Abeyewara Gunawardana. He was admitted to the Buddhist Order as a samenera or novice. At the age of 21 years he was ordained as a monk.

A method of meditation adopted by the inmates at the Society of Saint-Sulpice in Paris, France, based on the teaching of the French mystic Jean-Jacques Olier (1608-57). Olier was suddenly struck blind and when he regained his sight in a seemingly miraculous fashion he was impelled toward a more spiritual view of life.

The act of taking one’s own life. Religions generally condemn suicide, although attempts have been made to justify it under certain circumstances. JUDAISM does not permit a full Jewish burial for a person who commits suicide. This tradition has also been adopted among Christians.

(1859-1942). Henry Newlin Stokes is best known today as arguably the most outspoken and caustic critic of the leaders and policies of the Theosophical Society (Adyar) and, to a lesser extent, other societies related to Theosophy directly or indirectly in his capacity as owner-editor of the O.E. Library Critic between the years 1917 and 1942.

The wounds, marks or pains of Christian devotees or mystics that are said to correspond to wounds of Jesus Christ when he was crucified. These are usually in the hands and feet, side of the body, and the head.

Sanskrit for “gross” or “dense” (sthūla) body (śarīra). The term is used for the human physical body. See also Human Constitution.

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A theosophical venue located at Balmoral, Sydney, Australia, which was completed in 1923. It was primarily intended for use by followers of J. KRISHNAMURTI, but he spoke there only twice before relinquishing his role as World Teacher. It was financed by donations from Theosophical Society members, notably Dr…

(1887- ). A medical practitioner who served as Deputy President of The Theosophical Society (TS) in 1934 and 1936 as well as Recording Secretary in 1934. He was born at Gorur, Mysore, India. He joined the TS on April 1, 1915, and was for many years honorary physician to Annie BESANT. He married Srimati Sringarammal in 1902.

A flag designed by Henry Steel Olcott (co-founder of the Theosophical Society) and other members of the Theosophical Society in February, 1885, and which has since become the official flag of Buddhism in many parts of the world today.

The Theosophical Society (TS) came into being in Sri Lanka under a Charter issued by Adyar in 1926. The Charter was signed by Annie BESANT, the second International President of the Theosophical Society.

Sri

An honorific which should be more correctly transliterated from the Sanskrit as Śrīh. It is often prefixed to the names of deities and holy persons to indicate “holiness.” It literally means “blessed” or “beatific.” In the present time it is often used in India as a form of address, almost equivalent to “Mr.”; however, it is still applied in its true sense to a saint.

This English word, which comes from the Latin spiritus, has been used in a wide variety of meanings. Strictly speaking, it connotes a state of holiness or a life that reflects an awareness of the Spirit. This is the mystical sense of the word.

The lowest manifestation of Akasa, or primordial substance. It is the plane next to the physical and is invisible except to the clairvoyant eye. It is equivalent to the sidereal light of Paracelsus.

The astral light is also understood in certain specific but limited senses:

A Sanskrit word derived from Svabhāva, “essential nature.” According to Helena P. Blavatsky its use in theosophical contexts refers to that which is behind “world substance,” i.e., the spirit and essence of substance.

(Ākāśa) A Sanskrit term that has several but related meanings: (1) the primordial substance or spiritual essence that pervades all space; (2) it is Space itself; (3) the fifth cosmic element; (4) the “tablet of memory” that records all events. Akasa literally means “shining” or “luminous.”

(1842-1910). American psychologist and philosopher who was born in New York City January 11, 1842. He joined the Theosophical Society and was a keen student of Helena P. Blavatsky’s The Voice of the Silence; in his Gifford Lectures he repeatedly quotes from that work (The Varieties of Religious Experience, p. 406; William Collins Sons, Glasgow, 1977).

The boundless extension in which objects exist and where movements occur. Space is thus a unique kind of existence, for, in contrast with objects, space is empty and yet is there.

(1847-1902). American bibliographer and scholar. Sotheran was among those present at the formation of the Theosophical Society (TS) in New York in 1875, and according to some accounts it was he who suggested the name “Theosophical” for the proposed society.

A Pāli Buddhist term referring to the stage of “entering the stream” (Sanskrit: srotāpatti). One who has accomplished it is termed a sotapanna. This stage is the first of four steps in the Buddhist path to enlightenment. The idea is that the aspirant has left his or her ordinary world behind and begun a serious effort at study and meditation.

An organization founded by Annie BESANT in Benares (now Varanasi) on October 1, 1908, with her as its Chief. Its purpose was the “training of men and women into noble citizenships, and of building up the coming generation in true piety and patriotism” (Josephine Ransom, A Short History of The Theosophical Society, TPH Adyar, 1938, p. 378).

A supernatural or extraordinary event caused by the intervention of a deity or holy person. Miracles have traditionally been considered as suspensions or “violations” of natural law. With the advent of modern science, some theologians hesitate to define miracles as violations of the laws of nature.

Produced by the power of the mind rather than born in a physical manner.

In the Secret Doctrine, the Stanzas of DZYAN names many kinds of “Sons” that refer to different celestial beings:

A Sanskrit word meaning “intelligent,” “clever,” “wise.” As a noun it refers to “of a son of Soma,” (the planet Mercury according to A Practical Sanskrit Dictionary, ed. A. A. Macdonell). Helena P.

A Sanskrit word used in connection with the juice of the Soma plant or the moon. It may also denote a moon-god. In the Upaniads the word denotes physical matter. In the Purānas soma is the moon and the father of Budha (Wisdom).

See Budha.

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(Solar Pits). Literally, solar “fathers.” According to the Secret Doctrine, they are advanced beings who provided humanity with intellect during the third Root Race (see ROOT RACES).

(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.

Sanskrit for “heard,” from the root śru (“hear,” “listen,” “give ear to”).

(1822-1885). One of the early recipients of a communication from one of the Mahātmas. Born in Scotland in 1822, he received the degrees of M.A. and M.D. at the University of Aberdeen. He taught chemistry for five years at Marishall College in Aberdeen before he moved to Australia upon appointment to the chairs of Chemistry and Philosophy of Physics at the University of Sydney, New South Wales…

(1904-1992) Research chemist and worker for the Theosophical Society. Smith was born August 7, 1904, in Teddington, England. His parents, Lester Davies and Rose Annie Smith Davies were both theosophists. Smith attended Chelsea Polytechnic and was awarded a First Class Honours Degree in Chemistry in 1925 and D. Sc in 1933. He married Winifred Finch in 1931.

In the years from 1991 to 1992 the Theosophical Society (TS) witnessed the collapse of Yugoslavia and shared its fate. Yugoslavia consisted of six republics, i.e., Serbia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Slovenia plus two autonomous regions within Serbia — Vojvodina and Kosovo.

A Sanskrit stem word with a variety of meanings, but most generally meaning “stanza” or “hymn of praise.” It is also associated with a specific meter consisting of four quarter-verses (pādas) of eight syllables each (totaling 32 syllables) with specific stress patterns. It is the metric form used in most of the Bhagavad-Gītā (except 11.15-50).

Sanskrit stem word derived from the root skand, which in this case means, according to one source, “rise” (hence is used to refer to the upper part of the body). In Pāli, it is called khāndha.

A Sanskrit text which deals with self-realization. Its dating is not settled but it probably is contemporaneous with the Yoga Sutras of Patañjali which would date it about fourth century CE. It is one of several basic or canonical (āgama) works of Kashmiri Śaivism written in Sanskrit.

A Sanskrit word with several connotations.

Śaivism (Śaiva in Sanskrit) is the sect of Hinduism which holds that Śiva is the supreme deity. The worship of a proto-®iva may go back to pre-Aryan times with the Indus Valley civilization, though this is uncertain. Recent scholarly research has called into question that claim made by earlier anthropologists.

(1879-1966). Pioneer in art research; in 1908 Sirén became the first professor of the history of art in Sweden. Initially he specialized in Italian and Renaissance works, notably Leonardo da Vinci, but soon turned to the Orient, to become one of the world’s foremost sinologues.

(L.). The astral shell of a human being in kāma-loka. The term is used by Lucretius in his De Rerum Natura (”On the Nature of Things”). The plural, simulacra, is also called eidolons, umbras, larvae, bhūtas or bhoots, spooks, reliquiae, shades, or phantoms.

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A special branch of the Theosophical Society (TS) founded in August 21, 1881, intended to be under the direct instruction of the MAHĀTMAS. Its first President was Allan O. HUME, with Alfred P.

A religion which started in the Punjab in northwest India in the late 15th century by Nānak (1469-1539), now called by his followers Guru Nānak Dev, the title guru meaning “teacher,” but having the connotation of deep respect or reverence, and dev being the Punjabi form of deva or “god,” “divinity.” The name sikh is Punjabi for Sanskrit śīsiya…

(1898-1974). Active lecturer and writer for the Theosophical Society (TS), Bendit was born in Marseilles, France of American and British parents. He graduated from Cambridge University, England, with M.D. and M.A. degrees, gaining a postgraduate diploma in psychological medicine. His doctoral thesis dealt with parapsychology and it seems that this was the first time a Ph.D.

The scientific study of paranormal experiences, usually classified as extra-sensory perception (ESP) and psychokinesis (PK), but also including research into the question of survival of bodily death. The term “parapsychology” was used by J. B.

A Sanskrit term, from the root sidh (“be successful,” attain [one’s aim or object],” “hold true or valid”), generally used to refer to a paranormal power acquired by means of yogic practices. The Pāli equivalent is iddhi. There are various lists of such powers, from eight to thirty or more.

A Sanskrit term, (from the root sidh, “succeed”) meaning “succeeded,” “completed,” “perfected,” etc. It is sometimes used as a synonym for sādhu, “holy man,” “saint,” etc. In Jainism it is the final one of the sixfold stages in spiritual evolution. Siddhas are those who are free from the Causal Plane and all effects of karma.

An anglicized form of ŚAIVISM. See ŚIVA AND ŚAIVISM

 

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The word “Shintō” is a Japanese pronunciation of Chinese shen dao (the way of the shen or ancestral spirits); in Japanese it is usually taken to mean “the way of the gods.” The Japanese name is kami no michi, “the way of the kami,” which distinguishes it from the island nation’s other major faith, Buddhism. Shint¯ in Japan is the worship of Kami (sing.

By the latter quarter of the 19th century, the Spiritualist Movement, which began in the United States, had spread throughout the world. [For further information about the history of Spiritualism, see PSYCHICAL RESEARCH.] There were many noted — and many fraudulent — mediums practicing in the U.S.

The non-physical remains of human beings after the death of the physical body.

(Sūkṣma-śarīra) A Sanskrit term which means “subtle body.” It is composed of manas and vijñana (emotions and lower mind or kama-manas in early theosophical terminology).

Buddhic is a Sanskrit term which is derived from the root budh which is sometimes translated as “enlighten.” Other renderings are: “perceive,” “awaken.” In Sanskrit the Buddhic Body is sometimes called the Anandamaya-kosa, “the sheath of bliss.” It might be described as the innermost of the five sheaths enveloping the Self (Atma).

Translation of the Sanskrit word koa. The more commonly used term in theosophy is “body” (Sk. ar…ra). In the Vedānta system, five such sheaths (Sk. Pañca-koa) are identified:

Ānandamaya-koa or “bliss-made-sheath,” called in theosophical literature the “buddhic body.”

A spiritual or religious practice possibly originating among Siberian and Ural-Altaic peoples, but which has spread to other geographical areas such as south-east Asia, Oceania and some North American Indian tribes. The name derives from the Tungus language, spoken by a people located in Eastern Siberia. Helena P.

The creations mentioned in the Hindu Puranas. These creations are preceded by an undifferentiated state or principle. They are listed by Helena P. BLAVATSKY as follows (from the Visnu Purana):

Since time immemorial, the number seven has played a significant part in mythology, religion, and esotericism, both Eastern and Western.

In the ancient traditions of many cultures, it is the symbol of wisdom and eternity. In popular Christian lore, it is the symbol of the devil or the Fallen Angel.

An ancient sacerdotal language mentioned in the Secret Doctrine which is unknown to modern philologists. According to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, the Stanzas of Dzyan, upon which The Secret Doctrine was based, were written in Senzar.

All those who are born through emanation or the Will, whether Deities or Adepts. It is also a term used for those LUNAR PITRIS who produced the first race, the CHHAYAS or Shadows.

(1872- 1915). Russian composer born in Moscow on January 6, 1872. He was very much a mystic and indeed his first symphony composed in 1900 has a choral finale that glorifies art as a form of religion. In 1905 he received a copy of Helena P. Blavatsky’s Secret Doctrine from Jean Delville and became a student of theosophy.

Composer, concert pianist, poet, and author of a number of books on music, the Masters of the wisdom, and other subjects. He was born in Oxton, Birkenhead, England on September 27, 1879. He joined The Theosophical Society (TS) on November 27, 1914, after hearing Annie Besant speak in London.

In 1884, H. S. OLCOTT, then international president of the Theosophical Society visited Scotland. As a result, the Scottish Lodge was formed on July 17 of that year.

That the modern theosophical movement is not incompatible with science is clear both from the subtitle of Helena P.

Sanskrit for “true,” “good,” or “real,” derived from the root as which, in the infinitive, is the verb “to be.” It is often used merely to assent to a statement made by someone else.

A Sanskrit term meaning, literally, “being,” “existence,” or “reality,” from the root as (be, exist).

(Ṣaṭkarma) A Sanskrit compound where sat means “six” and in this context karma refers to the work that the aspirant undertakes for self-purification under niyama, the second “limb” in RAJA YOGA which is concerned with positive virtues.

(Sk. Sadguru). A Sanskrit compound word derived from sat which means “existence,” “reality,” “being” and guru which means “teacher,” “preceptor,” “great.” The combination means “great teacher” or a teacher whose credentials are beyond question.

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(Sat-Chit-Ānanda) A Sanskrit compound word frequently used in Vedanta philosophy. The word “cit” is sometimes written “chit,” since it is pronounced that way. Sometimes the three are combined into a single word as saccidananda.

Sat

Sanskrit for “truth,” “reality,” or “being,” derived from the root as (be, exist). In Indian philosophy, it is usually used to refer to ultimate reality. Helena P.

(Saptaparṇa) A Sanskrit compound meaning “seven-leafed plant” or perhaps less accurately, “seven-leafed lotus.” In some writings the human is called Saptaparna, implying the seven-fold constitution.

(Sānti) (Shanti). A Sanskrit word meaning “peace” or “tranquility,” especially of the mind, derived from the root sam, “exert oneself (in ritual acts),” “become tired,” “extinguish (esp. fire or anger),” etc. It is used, repeated thrice, at the end of mantras and prayers to convey not only the idea of peace, but also absence of passion or relief of suffering.

The ancient language of India, still considered by the present government to be one of the officially accepted languages of that country, although now spoken by only a few pandits. It is called the “mother” of all the other Indo-European and even Semitic languages (SD II:200). Originally, during Vedic times (c.

(Sannyāsin) A Sanskrit word (also written “samnyasin,” from sam-ny-as, throw down, abandon, etc.) applied to one who has renounced all wordly possessions and ties. It is of two kinds: vividisa-samnyasa (lit.

(Tib. Sans-rgyas). The Tibetan name of Gautama BUDDHA.

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(Samsāra) A Sanskrit term referring to the cycle of repeated rebirth, usually translated “transmigration” or “reincarnation.” Its connotation in Hinduism is a kind of aimless wandering — that is to say, there is no implication of evolution, progress, or teleology involved in the concept, as there is in the theosophical teaching about reincarnation. Helena P.

(Sañcita-Karma) A Sanskrit term meaning the accumulated (sañcita) or residual KARMA produced by acts performed in this or a previous life which remains inactive in the present life. It is contrasted with prarabdha-karma, i.e., karma which has already been set in motion in the present incarnation.

(Śama) A Sanskrit word meaning calmness; tranquility the method of training the mind by quiet persuasion.

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Strictly, a tailed amphibian of the order Caudata, or Urodela, but encountered in mythology as a fire-resistant elemental. In theosophical and similar writings the term “salamander” is used to denote Nature Spirits who are denizens on the astral plane. They are said to be the weavers of the forms of organisms; they are the builders, not the architects.

Primordial light of the LOGOS. When differentiated, it becomes FOHAT.



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A Sanskrit term which literally means “power,” “energy,” or “potency.” When encountered in theosophical writings it usually refers to one of the seven forces of nature or sometimes is a reference to “Universal Energy” or the feminine aspect of what in Tibetan is called Fohat and in Sanskrit…

(Sāksin) Sanskrit for “onlooker,” “observer,” or “witness,” from the prefix sa- (with) and the possessive noun aksin (having eyes).

(Sakkāyaditthi) A Pali term meaning “the illusion that a person is a separate personal identity.” It is a fundamental concept in Buddhism, and is related to the doctrine of the kandhas (Sk. skandhas) or five aggregates which produce this illusion. It is one of the ten fetters to be overcome in spiritual initiation.

(Sādhu) A Sanskrit word meaning, among many other things, “holy man” (from the root sadh, go straight to the goal, succeed, accomplish, etc.). It is the title given to Hindu as well as Jain saints. In JAINISM, it is the fourth stage of the ascetic order.

The continent from which the first ROOT RACE emanates. It is described also as the “imperishable Sacred Land” because, unlike the other continents where the other root races flourish, it is not destroyed throughout the GLOBE period (SD II:6).

Illusory body, from the Sanskrit compound māyāvi, the adjectival form of the word MĀYĀ, meaning illusion, and rūpa meaning body.

In theosophical literature, a term used for a special group of Adepts who were produced consciously through kriyāśakti by the Sons of Wisdom during the Third Root Race of humanity. The Mahatma Letters refer to them as the inhabitants of Shamballa who triumphed over the wicked magicians of Poseidon, the last island of Atlantis.

Also called Sons of the Fire. A term used in The Secret Doctrine that refers to the septenary principle that constitutes the manifested universe, equivalent to the Agni-Putra of Hinduism, the seven sephiroth of Kabbalah. It is born of the Primordial Fire or Flame (the triple Logos).

A latent power of thought in human beings that enables one to produce a visible form from one’s thoughts. T. SUBBA ROW describes it as a power that enables thought “to produce external, perceptible, phenomenal results by its own inherent energy” (Esoteric Writings, p. 11; also in SD II:173).

A legendary island in the center of the Gobi Desert where certain Adepts live. It is also known as SHAMBALLA, “from whence the last Savior will come” (SDII:350).

A Sanskrit term literally meaning “word-Brahman” and referring to the concept of creation by “sound,” i.e., what is analogous at a deeper level of reality to sound vibration at the physical level. In the Vedic literature the term is used to denote Ultimate Reality. It has its parallel in the Christian scripture where creation is said to be by “the Word” (Jn.

(Śabd Yoga)(Sk. Sabda Yoga). May be described as the yoga of sound. At Beas, near Kapurthala in India, there is a religious sect called the Radha Soami, the members of which meditate on “mystical sound.” This meditation process is called Sabd Yoga.

The ninth planet in the Solar System. It has a small diameter of only 2,340 kilometers, and is known to have one satellite, Charon.

In Roman mythology, Pluto is the god of the underworld, equivalent to Hades of the Greeks, Yama of the Hindus, and Anubis of the Egyptians.

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The eighth planet of the Solar System, and the fourth largest. Although its mean distance is 4.5 billion kilometers away from the Sun, it is at times farther from the Sun than Plato due to the latter’s eccentric orbit. Neptune has rings like Saturn. Its largest moon, Triton, revolves around Neptune in the opposite direction of the planet’s rotation.

Sun

Since civilization began, human beings have considered the Sun as both as a source of life and an object of veneration. Sun worship can be found in the Purnas of India, and the mythology of the Greeks, the Norse, and other cultures. In India, the Sun is Surya, considered an embodiment of Brahmā, Visnu and Shiva.

The largest planet in the Solar System, fifth from the SUN. In 1979, the explorations of Voyager 1 have revealed that it also has rings like that of Saturn, although thinner and fainter. The planet is mostly composed of gas, particularly hydrogen (89%) and helium (11%).

The sixth planet of the Solar System, famous for its multilayered rings that can be seen through telescopes. It was first discovered by Galileo in 1610. Like JUPITER, it is primarily made of gas, mostly hydrogen. Among the ancients, it is one of the sacred planets.

One of the names of Jehovah used by the Chaldean Sabaeans. It means the “Lord of Hosts” in Genesis (Gen. 2:1). In the Ophite Gnosticism, Sabaoth is one of the seven archons or planetary spirits, identified by Helena P.

(Sabeans; Sabians). The name of two different groups of people. The first is a people that inhabited southern Arabia and modern Yemen, called Saba in Arabic, hence they are more properly called Sabaeans. The second is a group of Chaldean star worshippers, which is the one of main theosophical interest.

The term is used to describe the relationship between a human MONAD and that of the presiding DHYANI-BUDDHA of that monad. The two are inseparably linked throughout births and incarnations.

(T). This term is sometimes applied to a high ranking Tibetan Lama or even the head of a monastery. When used in a narrower sense it refers to lamas who have proved their ability by controlling the time and circumstances of their reincarnation.

(Tripiṭaka) The Sanskrit name for the early Buddhist scripture, called the Pali Canon.

The Christian doctrine which asserts that God is essentially one, but may manifest or be “personalized” as three — Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Curiously enough, the doctrine of the trinity does not appear at any one place in the Holy Bible. It is an attempt by ecclesiastics to reconcile all the various descriptions of God which occur.

(Trimūrti) A Sanskrit compound formed of tri, “three,” and murti, “body” or “embodiment.” In Hinduism, it refers to the trinity: Brahma the creator, Visnu the preserver, and Siva the destroyer (or, more properly, the regenerator).

In Hinduism, lokas refer to worlds, spheres or localities, roughly corresponding to the planes of nature in theosophy, but with significant differences. The names and number of lokas differ according to the sources. The Purānas give seven, while in Sānkhya and Vedānta, there are eight, with differing names.

Guna is a Sanskrit word originally referring to a single thread or a strand of a rope, but later taking on the philosophical meaning, especially in SANKHYA and the BHAGAVAD-GITA, of an attribute, quality, or characteristic of matter (…

(Triguṇa)Literally “the three gunas” in Sanskrit. These three gunas (literally “strands”) are tamas, rajas, and sattva and are said to be the three attributes of matter (prakti). For a full treatment of the gunas, see the article on GUNAS.

The geometric symbol of the ternary, the equivalent to the number three. In its spiritual sense it represents the Trinity; with the apex upward it symbolizes fire or the yearning of all things toward the higher unity; with its apex truncated it is the alchemical symbol for air and reversed earth.

A collective noun for the upper three components of the human septenary system, i.e., Atma-Buddhi-Manas, collectively called the “Upper Triad.” The personality — lower mind, astral body, and physical body — is sometimes referred to as the “Lower Triad.”

A term based on the principles of an immemorial and immutable “primordial Tradition” and designating an informal school or association of people whose writings and discourse, beginning in the early 20th century, made reference to “Tradition” in this sense.

A movement created at Krotona, Ojai, California, in early 1920.

The period during which an action or condition exists or continues. We normally become conscious of time when there is awareness of change or motion. When there is none, we have no idea how much time has elapsed. When considered as an independent entity apart from movement and phenomena, time has baffled philosophers.

The practice of magical rituals to attain communion with the gods or beneficent spirits. Thomas Taylor called it “the art of divine works.” It comes from two Greek words, theoi, gods, and ergein, work, thus implying work of a divine nature or “work of the gods.”

(PUB.). A monthly magazine published in Bombay, India, which is devoted to the presentation of the “original” teachings of theosophy. Publication began in November 1930 on the initiative of the United Lodge of Theosophists of Bombay, but is independently produced and is not associated with any particular organization.

(PUB.). An English language theosophical journal edited by Adelaide Gardner. It had its origin in Belgium where there was a publication named L’Action Théosophique which was first issued shortly before World War II. The Belgian version was offered in French, German and English, but ceased publication after the country was occupied in May 1940 by Nazi forces.

The word theosophy (from Greek theos “god” and sophia “wisdom”) can be translated, according to Helena P. Blavatsky (The Key to Theosophy, 1), as “Divine Wisdom such as that possessed by the gods.” Theosophy itself is several distinct but related things: (1) it is a body of teachings and practices set forth in the first place by or through H. P.

(PUB.). A monthly periodical issued by The Theosophical Society (TS), Adyar.

Through the centuries, the word “theosophist” has been given a wide range of meaning. This article will attempt to survey how the word is understood by leading theosophical writers and commentators.

The suggestion that a Theosophical University be established was put forward by Annie BESANT, then International President, in 1925 and the same year, in October, a constitution was drawn up. The stated objective was to coordinate various existing theosophical educational activities.

In 1889, under the direction of William Quan JUDGE, the Theosophical Society (TS) in New York bought a printing press for the production of the various publications issued at that time.

The objects of the Theosophical Society (TS) underwent several revisions since its founding. At a meeting of the newly formed society in New York, October 30, 1875, the following statement was made:

(Adyar). The Theosophical Society (TS) was founded in 1875 in New York. Later, it shifted its international headquarters to India and was therefore registered as a Society at Madras in India in 1905 under “An Act for the Registration of Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies, 1860.”

Point Loma in San Diego, U.S., has played an important historical role in the Theosophical Society (Pasadena), in that there has emerged what many writers refer to as the Point Loma Tradition, represented today by Point Loma Publications.

International headquarters of the Theosophical Society (TS) located on the south bank of the Adyar River in Chennai (formerly Madras), in Southern India.

(1803-1873). English writer and politician, known for his mystical novels particularly Zanoni. He was born Edward Lytton in London, England, on May 25, 1803, the youngest son of Gen. William Bulwer and Elizabeth Lytton. In 1827, he married Rosina Doyle Wheeler, but his mother so disapproved of the match that she cut off his allowance and he was forced to earn his living by writing…

The modern Theosophical movement, culminating in the founding of the Theosophical Society (TS) in New York in 1875, has ultimate roots in a number of nineteenth century themes and currents which sought both expression and some degree of integration in Theosophy.

The seal or emblem of the Theosophical Society (TS) is derived from the personal seal of Helena P. BLAVATSKY. It consists of the Sanskrit word AUM or Om on top, a swastika enclosed in a circle below it, a snake biting its own tail inside of which is a six pointed star, and an ankh within the star.

The Theosophical Center in San Rafael–Mendoza, devoted to studies, courses, and conferences, was established in 1980. Originally the land was bought as a camp site for young Theosophists, but when the first groups of trees were planted, donations started to arrive, and the possibility of having a Center emerged. After the purchase of 3.5 hectares in 1980, 7 hectares more were added.

The study of God, of God’s relation to nature and humanity, and of religious, doctrines, practice, and experience. The term is used particularly in Christianity because of the latter’s focus on the role of God in human history, but does not find relevance in some religions such as Buddhism and Jainism, which are non-theistic.

A 14th century treatise on practical mysticism by an anonymous “Friend of God.” It was first published by Martin Luther, who said that next to the Bible and St. Augustine, the book influenced him more than any other. The author is said to be a priest and warden of the Teutonic Order at Frankfort, and received influences from Tauler, Augustine and Meister Eckhart.

From Greek demiurgus, artisan or artificer. The term refers to the deity that built the universe. In theosophical philosophy, it is equivalent to the Third or Creative Logos, while in Hinduism it is BRAHMA.



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(Gk.). A Gnostic term for one of the primordial states of the cosmos. It means “Depth” and is the source of the manifested universe. It is equivalent to Primordial Space or Akasa.

A term found in theosophical writings equivalent to Primordial Space or Akasa. In Greek mythology it refers to the “Great Deep” or “Abyss” in cosmogony.

Author of Theogony, one of the most important books on ancient Greek cosmogony. The work traces the descent of the manifested world from CHAOS. The higher gods were born of Gaia, chief of whom was Ouranos (Uranus), and with whom Gaia begat the Titans, which included Kronos. Zeus was one of those begotten by Kronos and Rheia.

(PUB.). A glossary by Helena P. Blavatsky published in 1892, a year after her death, by the Theosophical Publishing Society, London and edited by G. R. S. Mead. A photographic reproduction was issued by The Theosophy Company, Los Angeles, in 1952.

THE THEOSOPHICAL GLOSSARY defines theogony as “the genesis of the gods,” especially an account of the genealogy of the deities in mythology and religion.

(1836-1913). An early member of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Australia who joined in March 1880. He was a spiritualist and founder and editor of the magazine Harbinger of Light, which was published in Melbourne. He made a number of inquiries concerning theosophy which were considered sufficiently important for both Alfred P. Sinnett and Allan O. Hume to answer at length.

After the death of Helena P. Blavatsky in 1891 there was a short period of leadership confusion in the Theosophical Society (TS) in America which eventually resulted in the formation of a separate organization in America under the leadership of William Q. Judge.

A religious military order during the time of the Crusades in the Middle Ages that aimed to protect Christian pilgrims going to Jerusalem. It was founded by a group of knights led by Hugues de Payens in 1119. Their rule of life was written by St. Bernard of Clairvaux. It grew to become the most powerful chivalric body during its time, having up to about 20,000 knights at its peak.

The country center in England for theosophical study, relaxation and other appropriate activities which is located about 56 km (35 miles) south-west of London, England. The property was bought in 1928 by members of the Theosophical Society (TS) in order to form a center similar in function to the center at Huizen (now Naarden) in Holland.

A theosophical center five hectares (12½ acres) in area located in the North Island of New Zealand. The facilities include a Sanctuary Meeting Hall, Common Room, Dining Room. Accommodation is provided in ten units with two beds and two bunks in each. A self-contained flat has a large meeting room attached. Provision is made for caravans and campers.

(1836-1898). A prominent early theosophist. He was born in Bombay, India, in 1836 in a family of the Bhandari class (jati) of the Sudra caste (varna). Orphaned at the age of ten, he was adopted by his cousin’s wife, who worked to support the family. He received his initial education at a mission school, but was eventually expelled from the school because he refused to become a Christian.

(Tattvabhāva) A Sanskrit compound formed from tattva (lit. “thatness,” i.e., “real state” or “true nature”) and bhava (“being,” “becoming”), together meaning “the essential nature [of a thing].

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The essential principle underlying each plane or stage of manifestation. A Sanskrit term meaning literally “thatness,” but with the general significance of “reality,” “truth,” “true state,” “true principle,” “essential nature,” etc. The various schools of Indian philosophy disagree about the number of tattvas, from only two (Advaita), to thirty-six (Kashmir Saivism). Helena P.

(Tathāgatadhyāna) One of the four meditations (dhyana) described in the Mahayana Buddhist text Lankavatara Sutra. It is that state in which the mind has gone (gata) into “Suchness” (tatha).

Tat

A Sanskrit pronoun simply meaning “that,” but philosophically meaning the Absolute: “that” which is beyond all speculation. “That one” (tadekam) first appears in the most famous creation hymn of the Rg Veda as “That One that breathed breathlessly by THAT Itself” (Rg Veda, X, 129.2). This is the Vedic Causeless Cause of all Causes i.e.

The Theosophical Society (Pasadena) is today one of the independent theosophical organizations which has branches in many countries around the world. Based in Pasadena, California, the organization was originally the Theosophical Society (TS) in America which declared complete autonomy from the Theosophical Society (Adyar) in 1895. Its objects are:

(1888-1972). Prolific theosophical writer and lecturer for the Theosophical Society (TS) in America. Kunz was born on May 16, 1888, in Freeport, Illinois, USA. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin, he was appointed Principal of Ananda College in Sri Lanka, occupying that post from 1914 to 1918. In 1918, Kunz went to Adyar and became manager of the Theosophical Publishing House.

A theosophical rural retreat center founded in 1937 that is located near Craryville in New York State, USA. It comprises 130 acres (52 hectares) of open fields and forest. Accommodation is in the form of rustic cabins connected by a network of nature trails. There is also a meditation center and farmhouse. The Taconic stream flows through the center of the property.

A theosophical camp located on Orcas Island, one of the San Juan Islands in Puget Sound in the northwest corner of Washington State, U.S. It was founded in 1927 by members of The Theosophical Society (TS) as a practical experiment in applying theosophical principles to daily life.

Dora Kunz (née Theodora Sophia van Gelder, 1904-1999) was a practitioner and one of the originators of THERAPEUTIC TOUCH as well as a distinguished Theosophist.

(1870-1952). Italian educator and theosophist who was born at Chiaravalle near Acona on August 31, 1870. She gained her degree in medicine from the University of Rome in 1894, the first Italian woman to do so. She also earned a degree in literature.

(PUB.). The only major work by Helena P. BLAVATSKY designed to present theosophy in a popular form; it was first published in 1889 and has been kept in print by the various theosophical publishing houses ever since. In it theosophy is presented in the form of questions and answers.

During the first half of the period of existence of the modern Theosophical Movement considerable emphasis was placed on the establishment of theosophical schools in various parts of the world.

(1847-1931). Edison was probably the most prolific inventor ever. He joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on April 5, 1878. He was interested in psychic matters and experimented with the use of will power on the movement of a pendulum. Edison’s first connection with the TS was through his acquaintance with Henry S.

An instrument invented by Thomas EDISON in 1878 to detect minute changes in temperature, up to 1/500,000th of a degree. The Mahatma KOOT HOOMI had a high regard for the potentials of the invention.

Playing cards that are used either as a card game or for divination and character reading.

(Tārā) In the Puranic legends, Tara is the wife of Brihaspati (Brahmanaspati) which is the equivalent of Jupiter. She was carried off by Soma (Moon) and bore a son named Budha (Wisdom). See Budha.

V.H.C.

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In Hinduism it is the world or plane or spiritual force or self-conscious energy, considered to be achieved by means of the practice of austerities. It is a Sanskrit compound word, sometimes written tapar-loka, formed of the words TAPAS (“heat,” “penance,” or “austerity,” but having the deeper meaning of “spiritual power” ) and loka (“world”).

This Sanskrit word is from the root tap, meaning “heat” or “fervor,” but it got the extended meaning of “austerity”, “suffering,” and “pain.” One is often said to be “doing tapas” when one engages in practices of discipline involving denial, discomfort, or even self-inflicted pain.

The Chinese system known as Taoism (written “Daoism” in modern pinyin) is divided into two branches or schools, philosophical Taoism called Tao Chia (the Taoist school) and religious Taoism called Tao Chiao (the Taoist sect).

Also called Human Elementals. These are the entities formed after the death of a person which then become the source of the new astral forms of the next incarnation. After the Ego leaves Devachan, a new astral entity is formed in the Auric Envelope and its qualities are determined by the tanhic elemental.

(Tṛishnā) The English spelling of a Sanskrit word (trsna) meaning “thirst” or “strong desire.” It is one of the twelve nidanas (“causes of existence”) in the Chain of Dependent Origination (Pali paticcyasamuppada, Sk. pratiyasamutpada). Sometimes tanha (“craving”) is substituted for trsna.

Pali for “craving,” the force which keeps drawing us back into physical rebirth, “the maker of the tabernacle,” as Buddhist scriptures put it (cf. Dhammapada, 153-154 [“Canto of Old Age,” verses 8-9]), i.e., the psycho-physical part of our human nature.

(1879-1956). Bolivian writer, poet, journalist, lecturer, politician and member of the TS. He was born in La Paz on February 28, 1879, the son of the writer Isaac Tamayo and Felicidad Solares. After studying at the Ayacucho College, La Paz, he continued his studies in England and France.

In Hinduism, lokas refer to worlds, spheres or localities, roughly corresponding to the planes of nature in theosophy, but with significant differences. The names and number of lokas differ according to the sources. The Purānas give seven, while in Sānkhya and Vedānta, there are eight, with differing names.

In Hinduism, lokas refer to worlds, spheres or localities, roughly corresponding to the planes of nature in theosophy, but with significant differences. The names and number of lokas differ according to the sources. The Purānas give seven, while in Sānkhya and Vedānta, there are eight, with differing names.

In 1896 an enigmatic person known as Count De Das, visited Uruguay, as recorded in a 1912 issue of a magazine entitled Faro Oriental (Eastern Beacon). After his visit, the word “theosophy” became known in Uruguay through the foundation of a group known as “Centro Ocultista y Teosófico” (Occult and Theosophical Center).

A Sanskrit masculine noun stem derived from the prefix upa (“near”) and the root as (“sit”), hence meaning “one who sits near” (i.e., either a servant or a devotee, a worshipper). It is used to refer to an aspirant on the Path as well as, in Buddhism, to one who obeys the Buddhist precepts. The female equivalent, used by the teachers of Helena P.

A Sanskrit word meaning “cessation,” “stopping.” It is used in some schools of Buddhism and in Rāja Yoga to refer to the mastery over the senses such that there is no longer any risk of a return to the condition where the senses dominate consciousness. It is also the quality or virtue necessary for an aspirant to be qualified for advanced spiritual practices.

A Sanskrit word meaning “appropriating,” “grasping,” or “clinging,” formed from the prefix upa- (“toward,” “near”) and the stem word dana (“imparting”). It is used in Buddhism to signify clinging to existence caused by trsna (“thirst” [for sensory experience]) which results in rebirth. See Buddhism, TheravaDa.

Originally called “Order of the 15” and later the “Order of Christian Mystics”; for a short period in the 1920’s the name “Church of the Wisdom Religion” was used. The Fellowship was founded by Harriette Augusta Curtiss (1855-1932) who was also called Rahmea, and Frank Homer Curtiss (1875-1946) who was a graduate in medicine of the University of Pennsylvania; they were married in 1907.

The divine mind before differentiation or manifestation of the cosmos takes place. Thus it is a potentiality or potency. When differentiated, it is called the Cosmic Mind or COSMIC IDEATION, which is the Third LOGOS.

The divine mind prior to the manifestation of the universe, synonymous with DIVINE IDEATION, and different from COSMIC IDEATION.

(pl. Larvae) (L.). A term used by Latin writers like Apuleius in the 2nd century to refer to the astral shell of dead people. Helena P. Blavatsky quotes Apuleius as follows:

(L.). Latin term for shades or astral shells of dead people. They hover around the tomb of the dead because of their attraction to their physical counterpart. 

Udgīthā is a Sanskrit word referring to the chanting of the Sāma Veda by the Brahmin (Sk. brāhmana) priest known as the Udgāt and, by extension, especially when the word vidyā (“science” or “wisdom”) is added, to the science of chanting or of resonant sounds.

A Sanskrit word derived from the root vrt, “turn,” “occur,” “proceed,” etc. (cf. the English suffix -vert which is pronounced the same way, except for the vocalic r which is trilled in Sanskrit).

Evil sorcerers of the Atlantean period mentioned in the The Secret Doctrine and works of Charles W. Leadbeater who were destroyed by the Lords of the Dazzling Face (Adepts of White Magic) and the Lords of the Fires (Gnomes and fire elementals). They used air-vehicles called Viwans, said by Helena P. Blavatsky to be like air balloons.

An air-vehicle mentioned in the Secret Doctrine, like a balloon, used by Atlanteans during the war between the LORDS OF THE DARK FACE and Lords of Dazzling Face.

See LORDS OF THE DARK FACE.

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The surgical mutilation of the bodies of animals for purposes of experimentation or research. Although none of the theosophical organizations have promulgated any official pronouncement regarding vivisection, many very prominent members have done so in trenchant terms. Notable among such members are Helena P. Blavatsky, Annie Besant, Rukmini Arundale and Anna Kingsford.

An independent (i.e., non-commentary) work by the great Advaita Vedanta philosopher, SANKARA, in the form of a dialogue between a spiritual teacher (guru) and his pupil.

Sanskrit for “discrimination,” from the prefix vi- (which indicates division, distinction, or separation) plus the root vic, (“separate,” “sift,” “discern”).

The Sanskrit name occurring in the Puranas where it is told that he is the “All-Creator,” making a sacrifice of himself for the good of all and ascending into heaven. In the Vedas Visvakarman is equivalent to Prajapati or Brahma, the creator of all things and the architect of the universe.

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One of the three main Vedanta systems of Indian Philosophy, literally translated “qualified non-dualism.” It was started by Ramanuja (also called Ramanujacharya) who lived in South India during the resurgence of the great Chola Empire and at a time when the South Indian devotional poets, the Alvars (devotees of Siva) and Nayanars (devotees of Visnu), were spreading their doctrine of the love…

A meditation technique, usually translated “insight,” used extensively in Theravada Buddhism. The Sanskrit equivalent of the Pāli term is vipasana (“unbinding,” “loosening,” “unfettering”).

A Sanskrit term for the understanding or conscious self.

 

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A Sanskrit term for “knowledge,” but suggesting limited or analytic knowledge, since the prefix vi- indicates separation. It is identified in its P€li form (viññana) as one of the twelve nidanas or causes of rebirth in the Buddhist Chain of Dependent Co-Origination (Pali: paticcasamuppada; S.: pratitysamutpada).

Sanskrit for “knowledge” or “wisdom,” from the root vid, “know,” “understand,” “have a correct notion of.” Since it is cognate with the German word “wissen” from which the English word “wisdom” is derived, that would seem the more appropriate translation.

A Sanskrit word derived from vi-bhu (“arise,” “develop,” “manifest,” “appear,” “display,” etc.).

(Trikāya) A Sanskrit compound word formed of tri, “three,” and kaya, “body,” “trunk (of a tree),” “assemblage,” “habitation,” etc. It is used in MAHAYANA BUDDHISM to refer to three bodies of Buddha: Dharmakaya, Sambhogakaya, and Nirmanakaya.

This is a term that occurs from time to time in theosophical literature where it is often used as a synonym for the subtle bodies or vehicles in the human being. In Buddhism, the term refers to the three vestures of Buddha nirmanakayasambhogakaya, and dharmakaya.

The second planet of the Solar System, and the brightest object in the sky next to the sun and the moon. Explorations of the planet shows that it has uneven surface which is very dry. It is considered as one of the seven sacred planets of the ancients.

(Sk. Svamin Venkatesnanda; 1920-1982). He was born on December 29, 1920. At the age of 13, he came into contact with Swami Sivananda, founder of the Divine Life Society. Two years later, in 1945, he renounced the world to live with the Swami in Rishikesh, near the source of the Ganges River. Here he lived and served for 17 years, growing rapidly in wisdom and holiness.

The dietary practice of living solely on vegetables, fruits, grain or nuts, and the avoidance of eating the flesh of animals. The word is derived from the Latin vegetus which means, “whole, fresh, lively.” Under the generic term “vegetarian” we can identify a number of kinds or classifications. These are:

(Advaita Vedānta) One of the major philosophical systems of India. Its present form derives from the writings of the 8th-9th cent. philosopher Sri SANKARACARYA (or Sankara for short), but it obviously has a more ancient history.

Shortly after her election to the presidency of the Theosophical Society (TS), Annie Besant realized that the Society needed to print its own literature and in 1909, after equipment was received from England, the Vasanta Press began operation as her private venture. After her death in 1933, the press, together with the building she had constructed to house it, was inherited by the TS.

A Sanskrit word literally meaning “relating to all men” and by extension “omnipresent.” It was the name of one of the sacred fires mentioned in Rig Vedic hymns and, thus, another name for Agni, the Hindu god of fire.

A Sanskrit word meaning “those belonging to or derived from [the Vedic god] Virāj.” The word “Virāj” means “ruling far and wide” or “sovereign” and is applied to a variety of deities in Hindu religious literature.

(PUB.). A fortnightly journal founded by Helena P. BLAVATSKY for the British Section. It began as “A Vehicle for Interchange of Theosophical News and Opinions,” and commenced publication on December 1, 1890.

A Hindi word (Sk. vahana) meaning, among other things, “vehicle.” In early theosophical literature the word is used to refer to the bodies in the septenary human constitution.

(1842-1922). President of the Shanghai Lodge of the Theosophical Society (TS), which was the first lodge established in the East. Wu Ting-Fang was an eminent statesman and jurist who served China in many capacities.

An expression used by Annie Besant and Charles Leadbeater in some of their talks and writings about J. Krishnamurti.

(1872-1951). Conger was born in Akron, Ohio, on January 30, 1872. At 18 he entered Harvard and while there discovered theosophy. He joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on June 16, 1892, and was admitted into the Esoteric Section by William Q. JUDGE in 1894.

(nee Sri Ram) (1923 - 2013 ). Seventh International President of the Theosophical Society (TS). Radha Sri Ram was born on November 15, 1923, on the estate of the Theosophical Society in Adyar, Madras (now called Chennai), India, where she spent her childhood.

A historic event held on September 11, 1893, where representatives of various world religions were invited to present talks on their respective faiths. This event was held in conjunction with the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago to celebrate the fourth centenary of the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.

The term “World Congress” refers to international gatherings of the Theosophical Society (TS) held at least seven years apart in various cities of the world. This is in accordance with the Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulations of the Theosophical Society as incorporated at Madras, India, in 1905.

(1871-1952). Orientalist and Pali scholar. Woodward was born in Norfolk, England, on April 13, 1871, the third son of an Anglican clergyman. In 1901 he graduated M.A. from Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, with First Class Honors in Classics.

A famous Hindu MANTRA regarded by Hindus as highly purificatory. The name is a feminine noun stem derived from the Sanskrit root ga (go, pursue, obtain, etc.). The Gayatri mantra, which is from Rg Veda 3.62.10, is also used for JAPA, audible or mental repetition of a mantra.

(1865-1936). Sanskrit scholar, lawyer and author who wrote under the nom-de-plume, Arthur Avalon. Woodroffe was born December 15, 1865. After matriculating from Oxford University, he was called to the Bar by the Inner Temple in 1889 and in 1890 was enrolled as an advocate of the Calcutta High Court.

An organization formed by the Theosophical Society (TS) at Adyar, Madras (now Chennai), on May 8, 1917, to improve the social condition of women in India. Its declared objects were:

To present to women their responsibility as daughters of India.

To band women into groups for the purpose of self-development and education, and for the definite service of others.

(1824-1878). A Russian prince who, according to Helena P. BLAVATSKY, received special protection from the MĀHATMAS in times of great danger (The Theosophist, March 1883, pp. 141-42).

The word is derived from the Old English word “wicca,” which in turn was derived from Old High German “wīt, meaning “holy.” Witchcraft was originally associated with spiritual practices but got a bad reputation at the hands of European and American orthodox Christians.

From the viewpoint of theosophy or “Ancient Wisdom,” wisdom is the aggregate of the knowledge and insights underlying all the esoteric traditions in all civilizations. It may be described as the faculty of BUDDHI — seeing things as they really are with a resultant discrimination in action.

Human beings are generally believed to possess a faculty called the will, which is a subjective principle of action and which is generally distinguished from reason and emotion. The nature of this will, however, has been very elusive to analysis and observation because an understanding of it requires an understanding of the consciousness itself.

(1850-1919). American poet and journalist and member of the Theosophical Society (TS). She was born in Johnson Creek, in southeast Wisconsin, U.S. on November 5, 1850. She was the daughter of Marius Hartwell Wheeler, a violin teacher, and was educated at the University of Wisconsin.

May 8 is celebrated as White Lotus Day by members of the Theosophical Society (TS). It is the anniversary of the death of Helena P. Blavatsky, one of the founders. The following announcement was published in The Theosophist, May 1892, supplement p. 9:

(20BCE-40CE). Also called Philo of Alexandria, a Greek-speaking Jew who is considered as one of the most important Jewish philosophers of the ancient times. His writings synthesized revealed faith, philosophy and mysticism. He was also an advocate of the allegorical interpretation of the Jewish scriptures.

(c. 540-c. 480 BCE). Ancient Greek mystical philosopher. He was said to be descended from the earlier kings of Ephesus, but surrendered his inheritance to his brother. He was a harsh critic of mankind, the current religious beliefs and contemporary philosophers.

A period of rest between Manvantaras or manifestations. It is derived from the Sanskrit words laya (from the root li “dissolve”) and the prefix pra-, “forth” or “away.” All existence, whether partly or wholly, undergo periods of activity and rest, hence there are many types of Pralayas or rest periods just as there are many types of Manvantaras.

The main branch in metaphysics that deals with the nature of being or existence, and the properties and relationships of beings. The word was first used in the 17th century, but the concept was already treated in Aristotle’s Metaphysics.

Sanskrit for “knowledge,” from the root jña, which is cognate with the English word “know.” It is used in the general sense of any kind of empirical knowledge, but also in a more metaphysical sense as the prerequisite for release (moksa) from the cycle of rebirth. It is often used synonymously with vidya.

Sanskrit for “great elements,” of which there are five: Ākśa (space interpreted substantially), air, fire, water, and earth. According to Helena P. BLAVATSKY (CW IV:581) to define this term it is necessary to consider manas as part of the Septenary Principle in esotericism.

The subtle essence of an element as well as the subtle power which gives rise to the ability to sense that element. A Sanskrit term meaning, literally, “measure of that” but with the metaphysical implication of elementary or rudimentary matter. In Indian philosophy (esp. Sankhya) a distinction is made between the sense organ and the sense power which functions through that organ.

From the Greek epistēmē, knowledge, it is the study of the justification for our claim to know certain things.

A branch of philosophy which includes cosmology and ontology. The term is derived from an untitled work by Aristotle called merely meta ta physica, i.e. “The book after the Physics.” In it Aristotle claimed to discuss Being in an abstract sense.

The beginning of Western philosophy is ascribed to Thales of Miletus (6th cent. BCE), who claimed that the basic element of the universe, from which all other elements were derived, was water.

This generally refers to philosophical views of the 5th to the 15th century, although many scholars differ on the precise beginning and ending of the period. The period was dominated by Scholasticism, whose principal concern was to use reason in defense of their faith.

A mystical school of philosophy that flourished from the 3rd to the 6th centuries identified primarily with Plotinus, and which had a significant influence on later philosophies and mystical schools.

(427?-347 BCE). Ancient Greek philosopher, one of only two whose writings are still extensively studied today (the other being his pupil Aristotle). He is referred to more frequently in Helena P.

The term “philosophy” is derived from a Greek compound: philo meaning “love” or “love of” and sophia usually translated “wisdom,” hence “love of wisdom.” In ancient Greek, however, sophia had a more general meaning implying skill, cleverness, craft, and worldly wisdom (akin to what we would now call “common sense”).

Ancient Greek philosopher who lived 384-322 BCE. One of only two philosophers from that period whose works are still extensively studied today, the other being his teacher, Plato (427?-347 BCE). In fact, throughout the 20th century and into the 21st, Aristotle’s ideas, especially in the realm of political philosophy, predominated.

It is generally agreed that philosophy began in the Western world in Greece with Thales of Miletus (6th cent. BCE). He is credited with accurately predicting an eclipse, which suggests that he had made a careful study of astronomy.

The Pāli name of a Buddhist festival held on the full moon of the month of Wesak (Sanskrit Vaiṣaka), which corresponds to April-May in the Western calendar.

In theosophy, Nature’s first, but abortive, attempt in this Round to create men and women from the residue of earlier Rounds without help from higher beings.

M.A.

 



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Water has been a purification and cleansing agent among many religions. The early Christians used water taken directly from river or stream which was considered “living water” and did not give it any blessing; sometime during the 4th century the practice of exorcizing and blessing water for baptism was adopted.

A universal legend that is found in many ancient traditions around the world.

In the Judeo-Christian-Islamic tradition, it is the story of Noah, who was told by the Lord to build an ark to save himself and his family when the Lord drowned the whole human race which had become wicked.

A Sanskrit root word (usually transliterated i˜a) meaning “remainder” or “remnant.” It is used in theosophical literature to refer to the seeds of life that remain with a Globe when it goes into “obscuration” (pralaya or inactivity) during each Round.

The Manu or progenitor that watches over the SISHTAS or remaining seeds of life in a globe during the latter’s dormancy or obscuration. There are seven Seed-Manus in each Chain, as there are also seven Root-Manus. See Manus.

In Hindu mythology, Vaivasvata Manu is the 7th Manu of Humanity who is the progenitor of present mankind. The Secret Doctrine states that Vaivasvata is the Root-Manu of the fourth ROUND.

(also called Silent Watcher). An overseer of a hierarchy.

Alfred Wallace (1823-1913) was an English naturalist, geographer, anthropologist, and biologist famous for having formulated, simultaneously with Charles Darwin, a theory about the origin of species by natural selection. Wallace was born in Llanbadoc, Monmouthshire, Wales, on January 8, 1823, and died at Broadstone in Dorset, England, on November 7, 1913.

As far as can be ascertained, there were individual members of the Theosophical Society (TS) living in Wales long before any distinct organization came into being. Henry S. OLCOTT, in Old Diary Leaves, (4th Series, p.

(1881-1958). A theosophist who was one of the pioneers for the cause of the common laborer, and for independence for India. He established the first labor union in India, and worked in the Home Rule Movement of India, leaving perceptible theosophical traces on all he supported; this was in the teens and the twenties of the 20th century. Wadia joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1903.

(1856-1920). Spanish nobleman, presidential agent of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Spain 1889-1920. He joined the Theosophical Society in August 22, 1889, and was president of the Madrid Lodge for many years. Xifré (pronounced sheeffray), was educated with King Alfonso XIII of Spain and remained the King’s close friend until death parted them.

(PUB.). Monthly magazine of 48 pages edited by Annie BESANT and published at Adyar, India, from January 1913 until December 1914. For the first year, the magazine was subtitled: “A Magazine of Theosophical Education” but dropped it beginning with volume two.

A Sanskrit feminine noun stem, sometimes written yonī, denoting the female organs of generation (i.e. vulva, vagina, womb, uterus) as well as, more generally, “receptacle,” “origin,” “abode,” etc. Helena P.

A Sanskrit term for a female practitioner of yoga.

 

 



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(1893-1952). Indian yogi, founder of the Self-Realization Fellowship and Yogoda Sat-Sanga Society in India. He was born on January 5, 1893, in Gorakhpur in north-eastern India. His family name was Mukunda Lal Ghosh; he took the name Yogananda when he entered the monastic Swami order in 1914 and his guru bestowed the religious title of Paramahamsa on him in 1935.

A Sanskrit term with a wide range of meanings, but often used to indicate “a day of BRAHMĀ,” i.e., a period of 4,320,000,000 human years or 1,000 Yugas.

(Śankarācārya) (Shankaracharya). Principal philosopher in the Advaita Vedanta school of Indian Philosophy. His name is also transliterated Sankara, Sankara, Sankaracarya, etc. He is dated by scholars 788-820 CE, but by early Theosophists, such as Helena P.

(c. 150-250). Indian monk and philosopher who founded the Madhyamika (or Madhayamaka) School of Mahayana Buddhism and is sometimes regarded as the most influential Buddhist teacher next to Buddha himself. The Madhyamika school is a middle between nihilism and the view that there are eternal essences. The term “madhyamika” itself means “middle way.”

Jains claim that Jainism is an extremely ancient religion, having been founded by a sage named Rsabhadeva over 23,000 years ago (at the beginning of the third, or “happy-sad,” period of the present world cycle according to the Jain cosmological theory).

The Secret Doctrine mentions the nature of human evolution in each of the four Rounds of the Earth Chain when humanity was in Globe D, or the physical Earth. (For a background of the entire evolutionary process, see CHAIN, PLANETARY.) The description comes from a letter of an Adept and quoted by Helena P.

In theosophical literature, a globe refers to a planet or sphere where the evolution of entities happen. Every planetary chain has seven globes, only one of which is usually in the physical plane. For a more complete treatment of the subject, see CHAIN, PLANETARY.

A cycle of activity through the seven GLOBES of a Chain in the evolutionary process. For a more complete discussion of the subject, see CHAIN, PLANETARY.

The concept of cycles is fundamental to Theosophical philosophy, which posits that everything, from the minutest particle or energy to the largest cosmic system, is subject to the law of cycles. It is also called the Law of Periodicity.

A Sanskrit word, derived from the root yuj (“unite,” “yoke,” “undertake,” etc.), used to refer to the ages of the world, called Kṛta or Satya (1,728,000 human years long), Tretā (1,296,000 years long), Dvāpara (864,000 years long), and Kali (432,000 years long). In other words, they are multiples of 432 x 1000 (respectively 4, 3, and 2, times as long as the Kali-Yuga).

(Age of Brahmā) In Hinduism, world periods are measured in terms of days and nights of Brahma, kalpas and yugas.

(Avatāra) An incarnation — literally “descent” in Sanskrit (from ava-tṝ, “cross over”) — of a divine being, usually written “avatar.” Thus Sri Krishna (“Kṛṣna”) is said to be an avatar of Viṣṇu (usually written “Vishnu”).

The last and shortest of the four great Ages of the Hindu system, said to have begun on midnight between February 17 and 18, 3102 BCE, the date of the death of the AVATĀRA Śrī Krishna, according to Hindu mythology.

(Ālaya-Vijñāna) In Yogacara school of Buddhism, it is the substratum of consciousness that underlies the continuity of personal experiences in time and through many lives. It is a receptacle-consciousness or store-consciousness, but which is not a self.

The White Horse Avatar, the tenth and last avatar of Viṣṇu who will come at the end of the KALI-YUGA.

(ŚAMBHALA). A legendary place in central Asia, usually written “Shamballa,” where great spiritual adepts are said to reside. In the PURUŚAS, it is the place where the next KALKI-AVATĀR will come from. Tibetan Buddhist tradition points to Shamballa as the source of their revered Kālachakra system of tantra yoga.

(Mūlaprakriti). A Sanskrit compound formed of the prefix mūla- (root, basis, foundation, etc.) and PRAKRTI (lit. “that which is put or made before,” i.e., “Primary substance”). The word is used to refer to primordial, undifferentiated, pre-cosmic substance, the spiritual essence of matter, the original root or “germ” of matter and form.

(Ālaya) A Sanskrit word meaning “place” or “abode,” but used in Northern Buddhism to refer to the Universal Soul. A Buddhist term that means the Universal Soul, the anima mundi, or soul of the world.

(Āryāsanga) (T)(Chagpa-Thog-Med) (c. 410-500). Also known as Asanga. Tradition has it that Aryasanga was the founder of the Yogacara or Naljorchodpa School in Buddhism.

Sanskrit meaning “the practice of Yoga.” It is the name of a school of MAHĀYĀNA Buddhist philosophy which proclaimed a form of subjective idealism. It maintained that consciousness, which they term vijñāna, is the sole reality, hence it is also called Vijñānavāda.

From the Sanskrit nidrā meaning “sleep” and yoga “union.” It is the name of a procedure often associated with HAṬHA YOGA, and is designed to produce relaxation of body and mind.

Because theosophical writings make frequent reference to some of the several systems of Indian philosophy, it is well to give an overview of them. Furthermore, early books such as Esoteric Buddhism by Alfred P. SINNETT, The Secret Doctrine by Helena P.

(Avīchi) A Sanskrit term (lit. “waveless”), usually transliterated avīci, referring to a state of the greatest isolation, perhaps the conscious equivalent of absolute zero, and attained after physical death by a person who has been unrelentingly selfish and devoted to inflicting injury on others, therefore is a state devoid of spirituality, the result of a life of absolute evil.

Humans whose contact with their spiritual selves has been severed due to a long history of persistent and deliberate evil-doing. Helena P. Blavatsky writes at some length about “Lost Souls” in her E.S. Instruction No. III (CW XII:632 et. seq.). As presented by her the subject is somewhat complicated, but the basic points she makes are as follows:

Also called Planet of Death. This is a dense globe where the soulless “failures of nature” go (see LOST SOULS). Helena P.

The Anthroposophical Society is among the most important and influential movements in the theosophical tradition. It was founded in Germany by Rudolf STEINER (1861-1925) in 1913 and was refounded in Switzerland in 1924.

An organization formed on November 30, 1892, in the Aryan Lodge, New York, to instruct and entertain very young members of theosophical families. Stories and songs were written and the concept was so successful that it soon spread to other countries.

(1890-1963). A committed theosophist who applied theosophical ideals to life, Herbert Kern was born on a central Minnesota farm, studied chemistry and chemical engineering at the University of Minnesota and after graduating with degrees in both fields, engaged in research work in fuels, lubricants and detergents, holding a number of patents as well in water treatment.

A college of fine arts founded in January 1936 by Rukmini Devi ARUNDALE. It was first located on the property of the Theosophical Society at Adyar in Madras (now Chennai), India.

The Young Theosophists’ movement came into being in 1923 at the Vienna Congress. For some time it has been recognized that younger members of the Society had a need to express themselves theosophically and to have an input into lodge programming.

(1889-1973). Fifth president of the Theosophical Society (TS), born on December 15, 1889, to A. Nilakanta Sastry and his wife Seshammal — both of them theosophists.

In 1927, the then President of the Theosophical Society (TS), Annie BESANT, with the help of Robert and Sara Logan, Louis Zalk and many members throughout the world, purchased 450 acres of land overlooking the eastern end of the beautiful Ojai valley in California and established the Happy Valley Foundation to…

(1899-1991). Prominent member of the Theosophical Society (TS) in America. Raised in southern Louisana in the U.S., he went to Cincinnati to study engineering at the university there, but a visit to its art museum caused a change in his career plans.

A movement within the Theosophical Society (TS) intended mainly for children. It was founded in 1899 in the United States of America by William John Walters. It is an international organization which is associated with the ORDER OF THE ROUND TABLE of which it forms a junior section.

An international Order for young people of all creeds and races. Inspired by the Arthurian legends and with “Service” as its keynote, the modern Round Table Movement had its genesis in London on July 25th, 1908, under the aegis of the Theosophical Society (TS) and the direction of the Order’s Founder and first Senior Knight, George Herbert Whyte (1879 -1917).

(1862-1933). General Secretary of the American Section of the Theosophical Society (TS), 1907-1912. He was Professor of Surgical Pathology at Chicago College and later was Professor of Surgery at Northwestern University. In 1909 his son, Hubert, attracted the interest of Charles W.

The early history of the American Section of the Theosophical Society (TS) is very much interlinked with the founding of the Society itself. When the principal founders, Helena P. BLAVATSKY and Henry S.

(1866-1939). President of the American Section of the Theosophical Society, Adyar 1912-1920; Vice-President of the TS, Adyar 1928-33; Acting President 1933-34. A. P. Warrington was born August 27, 1866, in Maryland, USA. He joined the TS in July 1896, at that time the only TS member in Maryland.

(1861-1925). Founder of the Anthroposophical Society and at one time General Secretary of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Germany. Steiner was born in Kraljevic, Upper Austria on February 27, 1861.

(1880- 1949). Alice Bailey was founder of a spiritual movement growing out of the theosophical tradition. Born to well-to-do parents in Manchester, England, she was raised in the conservative evangelical wing of the Church of England. Although she early showed mystical tendencies, her childhood was generally unhappy.

An independent organization of theosophists founded in the United States. The 1894 crisis in the Theosophical Society (TS) which centered around William Quan Judge, Annie Besant and Henry Olcott resulted in a large proportion of American members supporting Judge and the formation of a breakaway organization known as The American Theosophical Society.

(Origines Adamantius) (c.185- c.254). Influential theologian of the early Greek church. Precise date and place of his birth are not known, but he was probably born in Alexandria. According to some authorities his parents were pagan and according to others, Christian.

Christmas is a Christian festival, presently celebrated on December 25th and commemorating the birth of Jesus, called Christ. It is the most popular festival in the Christian calendar, and has become increasingly secular over the years with customs, such as decorating a fir tree, drawn from pagan sources.

The sacred scriptures of Judaism and Christianity which are possibly the most influential writings in Western and Middle Eastern history. For Christians and orthodox Jews the books of the Bible are sacred texts regarded by many as the “word of God.” Apart from its religious significance, the Bible is a rich source of literary treasures and is studied secularly in universities.

Scriptural books that have not been included in the current versions of the Bible. The word is derived from the Greek apokryphos, which means “hidden.” The Bible is a collection of separate documents that have been gathered through the centuries.

A Gnostic religion taught by Mani (also called Manes or Manichaeus) in the third century CE. Helena P. BLAVATSKY has suggested that the Manicheans were originally Samanas (®ramanas), who were Buddhist ascetics; she thus claims a distinct link between Manichaeism and Buddhism.

Christianity, numerically the world’s largest religion, and modern theosophy have had a complex and sometimes troubled relationship. The Christian faith was and is the natal religion of the great majority of Western members of the Theosophical Society (TS) from the generation of the Founders to the late twentieth century.

A place of suffering or punishment. Hell is commonly conceived of as a locality or a state encountered after death, and all religions have some forms of belief about such a state. In some religious traditions, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, hell is understood as a temporary place of suffering, while in others, such as Christianity, it is regarded as a place of eternal punishment.

A place or state of bliss or happiness. Every religion teaches some kind of heaven during the after-death state or a state of consciousness even during one’s life. Thus, St. Paul spoke of himself as having entered into the “third heaven” while still living. The particulars of the teaching of heaven, however, differ widely.

The religion that arose from the life and teachings of Jesus Christ during the first century of the common era. In its two thousand year history, Christianity has grown to become the religion with the largest population with about two billion adherents, but it has also splintered into many denominations and groups.

37/38-c100). Historian of the Jews who was born of a priestly family in Jerusalem. He lived for three years in the desert with a hermit named Bannus, after which time he became a Pharisee. About 64 CE, he is believed to have visited Rome pleading for the release of Jewish prisoners.

The religion of the Jewish people. The word Judaism does not appear in either the Bible or that massive collection of Jewish laws and lore, the Talmud.

The word “Hindu” is a corruption of the Sanskrit word sindhu meaning “river” which was applied to the first large river, now called the Indus, which the Aryans encountered upon their migration into the northwest area of the subcontinent.

(Qur'ān) The sacred scripture of Islam, sometimes written “Koran.” It consists of 114 chapters called suras, each composed of a number of verses called ayats. They are written in a rhymed prose style known as saj.

A view, based on a number of experiences from people in quite diverse cultures, that there is a transcendental Reality in the world, usually identified by mystics of the various different religions as their particular deity, i.e., God, Allāh, Śiva, etc.

Islam in Arabic literally means “peace” and “submission,” but has the implication of “the peace of or submission to the will of Allah.” The followers of the religion are called Muslims, literally meaning “those who submit.” Islam is a strictly monotheistic religion, denying that Allah (or God) has any aspects (like the Christian Trinity).

A Sanskrit word meaning, literally, “out-blow,” often mistranslated as “extinction.” The Pāli equivalent would be nibbāna.

(Sūfīsm)(Arabic/Persian Tasawouf) Sufism or Tasawouf is the esoteric school of Islam, founded on the pursuit of spiritual truth as a definite and attainable goal. Sufi practices, including meditation and spiritual disciplines, are towards the understanding of the truth of Being as it truly is, as knowledge, or maarefat.

“Annihilation,” the final state of perfection in Sūfi spirituality. It is the equivalent of Nirvāna in Buddhism, or Union in Christian mysticism. Fanā is the annihilation of the ego or self. It is said to have three stages. The first is fanā fi Shaikh, or annihilation in the teacher. The second is fanā fi Rasul, or annihilation in the Prophet.

The state of oneness between the soul and the Absolute or God. The term is used more commonly among Christian mystics such as Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. It is the highest state of spiritual perfection attainable, and is equivalent to the NIRVANA of Buddhists and FANA among the Muslim Sufis.

The enlightenment experience in ZEN BUDDHISM, which leads to “a new viewpoint of looking at life and things generally” (D. T. SUZUKI). It is equivalent to wu in Chinese, and sambodhi in Sanskrit. It is also called kensho, or to see essence or nature.

The experience of illumination of the consciousness, accompanied by transcendent insights or realization. The experience of enlightenment is universally recognized in all major religious traditions, and in non-religious literature as well. It has been called bodhi, samādhi, satori, prajñā, cosmic consciousness, mystical consciousness, etc.

There are differing views as to what constitutes Self-realization, largely dependent upon assumptions about the constitution of human nature. From the theosophical point of view, which in this case seems to follow Hindu thought, the self (Atman) is the ultimate source of consciousness which utilizes several vehicles by means of which it functions in a seven-fold universe.

The question of whether human beings have or do not have free will has been a perennial problem in Western philosophy, starting with the Greeks and continuing down to the present time. Early Chinese philosophy did not address the question and it took an Indian approach when Buddhism entered China in the 1st cent. CE.

The study of the influence of celestial bodies on human and earthly affairs. Astrology dates back to the ancient times and has been practiced in different ways in diverse cultures such as China, India, and Egypt. Each system differs from others in significant ways, using principles that are not necessarily compatible with each other.

Fatalism is the philosophical theory that every event, past, present, and future, is already necessarily determined, therefore inevitable. Theosophists deny this. Helena P. BLAVATSKY wrote, “. . . Man’s life is in his own hands, his fate is ordered by himself” (CW IX:5).

The predetermined course of events that people or things are subject to. Theosophy accepts the reality of destiny, but it must be understood in relation to karma, reincarnation, and cosmic evolution.

The Order of International Co-Freemasonry had its beginnings on January 14, 1882, when the distinguished authoress, lecturer and humanitarian, Maria Deraismes, was initiated into masculine Freemasonry in “Loge Libres Penseurs” (The Freethinkers Lodge) in Pecq, a small town outside Paris.

Freemasonry is, by its own traditional definition, “a peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.” The somewhat archaic diction of that phrase might be expressed today as “a particular code of living, both expressed and concealed in myth and symbols.” Freemasonry is, in part, a modern recreation of the ancient mysteries.

Gnosticism was an esoteric religious movement, which flourished primarily during the second and third centuries CE, and for a time posed a major challenge to mainstream Christianity. Its adherents claimed to possess a secret knowledge of the divine realms and its inhabitants, and utilized a complex mythology to describe this system.

Alchemy is an ancient science purported to transmute base metals into gold by freeing them from their impurities through the various stages of the alchemical process. Alchemy is also often understood metaphorically as a spiritual process, whereby the self undergoes a series of purifying stages, until a transmutation to a higher form of consciousness is reached.

An order or organization devoted to the study and promulgation of an esoteric mystical gnosis. In 1610 a German named Hasselmeyer claimed to have seen a manuscript entitled The Story of the Brotherhood of the Meritorious Order of the Rosy Cross.

A philosophical and mystical tradition traced to the writings of HERMES TRISMEGISTUS (Hermes the Thrice-Greatest), a mythical personage identified with the Egyptian god Thoth and the Greek god Hermes.

The Greek name given to the Egyptian god Thoth, believed by them to be the inventor of writing. Arising out of the art of writing were such arts as magic, medicine and astronomy and so Thoth became the patron god of these arts also.

A Christian gnostic teacher of the 2nd century CE. Very little is known for certain about this historical personage. That he lived and worked in the Gnostic tradition is fairly certain. Clement of Alexandria reported that Basilides claimed to have received a secret tradition from Glaucias who was an interpreter of St.

In Gnosticism, the name of a god, in charge of the various heavens. It is also encountered as a Kabalistic word which has been used as a charm. Helena P. BLAVATSKY considered it to be of Gnostic origin.

A mystical writer of the 6th century CE who had an important influence on Christianity. His major works attempted a synthesis of Neoplatonism and Christianity. He is referred to as Pseudo-Areopagite because he should not be confused with Dionysius the Areopagite mentioned in the New Testament as having been converted by St. Paul (Acts 17:34), and who was later identified with St.

(Eckhart von Hochheim) (1260?- 1328?). An important German speculative mystic born at Hochheim, near Gotha. He studied at St. Jacques in Paris, France, where he gained a masters degree in theology in 1302. In 1304 he was appointed provincial minister of the order of Dominicans.

(Samāpatti)In yoga, a state of equilibrium or stillness of the mind where the mind no longer colors the perception of objects. Many commentators equate it with samadhi, but others consider it a stage prior to samadhi. In the Yoga Sutras of Patañjali, samapatti is described as follows:

(Samādhi)The highest state of consciousness in yoga, where the ego or cognizer is no longer separate from the cognized. There are several stages of samadhi as explained in the Yoga Sutras of Patañjali.

A Sanskrit term from mahā meaning “great” and yoga meaning “union.” It is the direct method of finding the truth about ourselves. It has been described as a process of unlearning since its practitioners need to unlearn, or rather come to an understanding that knowledge for its own sake has no bearing on ultimate Truth.

God

The Supreme Being, higher than which nothing can be conceived. The concept of God differs widely among various traditions and religious groups, and may change in time even in the same tradition.

A Sanskrit word for a form of Hindu worship involving the repetition of the name of GOD. It may also be associated with any spiritual practice of yogis which involve the repetition of MANTRAS or magical formulae.

(1836-1886). One of the best known nineteenth century Hindu saints. He was born as Gadadhar Chattopadhyaya at Ramarpukur in the Hooghly district of Bengal, on February 10, 1836. From an early age he was strongly attracted to the spiritual life and had an experience of spiritual ecstasy when he was but seven years of age.

(1898-1978). Eminent theosophical writer. Taimni was born in Lucknow, India, in a Kashmiri Brahman family. His father was Pandit Prem Kishen Taimni. Taimni’s mother passed away early, and he was brought up by his grandmother, who, a devotee of Lord R€ma, lovingly called him “Sri Ram.” With only a younger sister and an affectionate but reserved father, his childhood was lonely.

The yoga, or spiritual discipline, of devotion, usually religious devotion to one’s chosen deity (iṣṭa-devatā). In Hinduism, this would be Śiva, Viṣṇu, or one of their consorts, such as Kālī, or an incarnation (avatar) of Viṣṇu, such as Rāma or Krishna (as Kṛṣṇa).

A key concept in theosophy, it is derived from the Sanskrit where it means merely “action,” though in most theosophical literature as well as in its popular usage it means the action-reaction cycle.

An approach to yoga based on action, as contrasted with intellectual analysis (jñana yoga) or devotion (bhakti yoga).

The practice of subjective techniques that form part of a larger discipline and way of life that may ultimately lead to enlightenment or liberation. It is also used for other purposes such as the relief of stress, curing addictions, improvement of concentration and other appropriate objectives.

A system, originating in India, that aims to improve, or at least maintain, the individual’s physical well-being. It is therefore a yoga that is concerned with physiology and “subtle physiology.”

A Sanskrit word, derived from the root yuj (“join,” “unite,” “fix the mind on.” etc.), meaning, among other things, “union” and, by extension, the discipline leading to union with one’s higher Self or the Divine.

The term Yod-Havah is an alternative rendering of the name of God in the Hebrew scriptures, specifically the Book of Genesis.

Confucius was one of the most important philosophers of ancient China, and one of only two whose name has been Latinized (the other being the post-Confucian philosopher Mencius or Meng K’e, later called Meng Tzu). He was born K’ung Ch’iu (Kong Chiu in the modern pinyin system of transliteration) in the state of Lu in 551 BCE during the gradual decline of the Chou (Zhou) Dynasty (1122-771 BCE…

Lao Tzu is the reputed author of the little Chinese classic Tao Tê Ching (or Dao De Jing, as it is transliterated in the modern Pinyin system). The traditional view, one which Helena P.

The most important classic (ching) of philosophical Taoism; transliterated as Dao De Jing in modern pinyin.

In Hindu mythology, a class of ethereal beings who serve as attendants to Kuvera, the god of wealth. They are elementals that are often regarded by folklore as evil, but in some accounts they are benevolent.



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The information contained in this article has, primarily, been derived from an article in The Theosophist of August 1927, p. 549-60).

(nee Hahn) (1835-1896). Younger sister of Helena P. BLAVATSKY. She was born at Odessa, southern Russia on April 29, 1835. Her first marriage was to Nikkolay Nikolayevich de Yahontov (1827-58) who died when he was only about 31 years old and later she married Vladimir Ivanovich de Zhelihovsky.

Also Zervan-Akarana. Literally, “boundless time.” In ZOROASTRIANISM, the father of the good and evil principles of the universe, namely, Ahura Mazda (or Ormazd) and Ahriman (or Angra Mainyu).

The religion of the followers of Zoroaster (Greek form of the Avestan name Zarathushtra). Other names for the religion are Zarathustraism, Mazdism (which is mentioned in the Avesta), Magism, Fire Worship, and later Bah Dīn (“Good Religion”) and Parsiism.

(Par.). The collective name for the scripture of Zoroastrianism. The word “Avesta” means “law,” although it originally referred to the dialect in which the scriptures were written. The word “Zend” is taken by scholars to mean “commentary,” but, according to Annie BESANT (Zoroastrinism, p.

(460?-534). The 28th Patriarch of the Meditation school of Buddhism. He had his training in India and traveled to China where he formed the Ch’an school. His teachings were not written down during his lifetime, but according to oral tradition the fundamental essence of the teaching was that the Buddha-nature is to be found in every human being.

The word zen is the Japanese form of the Chinese word ch’an which itself is a Chinese rendition of the Sanskrit word dhyāna, or meditation.

One of the four main schools of Śaiva philosophy, so called because its center was in Kashmir. For several centuries, its doctrines were secret and passed from teacher to pupil as an oral tradition (much as were the Vedas). Sometime around the end of the 8th or beginning of the 9th century CE, the doctrines were committed to writing (in classical Sanskrit) by a man named Vasugupta.

The yoga or discipline based on knowledge (jñana, from the Sanskrit root jña which is cognate with the English word “know”). It is said to be especially suitable for those of an intellectual, analytical, or metaphysical bent of mind, as opposed to a devotional or social action bent (bhakti and karma yoga respectively).

Pre-Socratic Greek philosopher who lived ca. 582-507 BCE. Although the neo-Platonists Proclus (ca. 232 – ca. 304) and Porphyry (410?-484) both wrote biographies of him, little is known for certain historically about his life.

A Sanskrit compound formed of manu and antara, meaning literally “between MANUS.” The cycle of the Cosmos is divided into a period of activity or outpouring called a Manvantara and a period of rest called a Pralaya.

(1863-1933). Famous classical scholar who played a significant role in the development of the Theosophical Society (TS) in England and Europe. He was born at Nuneaton, England on March 22, 1863. Mead was educated at Rochester Cathedral School and Cambridge University where he took honors in classics. He came into contact with theosophy through reading Alfred P.

A Sanskrit word which implies liberation from the wheel of rebirth while living. This concept involves a subtle philosophical argument.

A medal given to outstanding writers in theosophy. It was established in the 1883 convention of the Theosophical Society (TS) in honor of T. Subba Row, a very learned member of the Society. It was first intended to be awarded annually to the best essay in one of four departments of esotericism: Aryan, Buddhist, Chaldean and Zoroastrian, Jewish and Christian.

An annual program conducted at Adyar, headquarters of the Theosophical Society (TS). It was begun by the then President C. JINARAJADASA in November 17, 1950, with Nilakanta Sri Ram as Chairman of Discussions and C. R. Groves as Director of Studies.

This article covers the clairvoyant investigations by Geoffrey Hodson with David Lyness and their research into Micro-Psychokinesis.

(1859-1942). Theosophical worker and accomplished printer. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on November 14, 1859, he was the son of Rev. James Morgan Pryse, a Welsh immigrant. Morgan accepted a living in a Welsh settlement in Makato, Minnesota, and the young Pryse was regaled with stories about fairies, ghosts, elves and all the psychic phenomena beloved by the Welsh.

(1843-1901). Eminent psychic researcher and founding member of the British Society for Psychical Research. Myers joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on June 3, 1883, in London. He was born at Keswick in Cumberland, England, and graduated from Cambridge and became classical lecturer at Trinity College, Cambridge.

The Adyar Library was founded on December 28, 1886 by Henry Steel OLCOTT, the Founder President of the Theosophical Society (TS), as an integral and basic part of the Theosophical Society. The main aims of the library as laid down by Olcott were: 

(1824-1883). The founder of an Indian movement called the Arya Samaj which was dedicated to the revival of the Vedic religion and which played an important part during the early period of the Theosophical Society (TS). There are a number of references to him in The Mahatma Letters to Alfred P. SINNETT.

A Sanskrit word which is most frequently applied to a spiritual teacher but which literally means “heavy, weighty, momentous, serious,” etc. Such teachers would instruct a pupil (sisya) who would, in traditional times, live in the teacher’s home and do various chores for him in return for his instruction.

(1870- 1966). Eminent Buddhist scholar and foremost interpreter of Zen Buddhism to the West. He was born in Kanazawa, Japan, on October 18, 1870, and studied English literature at Tokyo. His interests were wide-ranging and included classical Chinese, Buddhist and Western philosophy.

Buddhism entered the northern Korean peninsula in the 4th century CE (the official date is given as 372, but it was probably earlier) from China and spread south when, with Chinese help, the Silla kingdom conquered the Paekche and Koguryo kingdoms in the 7th century.

Buddhism, both Theravada and Mahayana, was introduced into Japan in the middle of the 6th century, first from Korea and then from China. Initially, it was transmitted to the ruling class and attracted little attention from the general population, since it competed with the indigenous Shinto religion.

Tradition dates the entry of Buddhism into China to the reign of the Han Emperor Ming (58-75 CE). According to the legend, as a result of a dream, the Emperor sent to India and received the Forty-two-Chapter Scripture, thus introducing Buddhism into China.

In 1883, Alfred P.

(Theravāda Buddhism)It is sometimes referred to as “Southern Buddhism” because it is the form of Buddhism found mainly in Sri Lanka, Burma, and Southeast Asia. Actually, the term “theravada” (Sk. sthaviravada, lit.

(Ānanda) A Sanskrit word meaning “bliss” or “delight.” Also used to designate a form of consciousness in which the mind concentrates on the intellect. It is a favored termination for many of the names adopted by Buddhist monks. It was also the name of GAUTAMA BUDDHA’S favored disciple.

 

 

The founder of the Buddhist religion also known as Siddhartha Gautama. He was born in the Sakya (Sakya) tribe in a Magadha speaking area of India (now in southern Nepal), so his name in that dialect (now called Pali) would have been Siddhattha Gotama.

Reputed to be a cousin of the Buddha. His birth and death dates are unknown. It is thought that he and ANANDA may have joined the brotherhood of monks about the 20th year of the Buddha’s ministry. In the tradition Devadatta is shown to be a man who was ruthlessly ambitious.

Theosophical literature affirms the existence of soul in animals. Helena P. BLAVATSKY states that animals have five principles (as opposed to seven in a human being), and that they reincarnate almost immediately to higher animal organisms after death.

(Abhimānin, Abhīmānin, Abhimānī) A name of AGNI, the god of fire, in the Hindu Visnu Puranas. He is the son of BRAHMA, the Cosmic LOGOS.

Sanskrit for “fire,” especially “sacrificial fire.” The word is related to the Latin ignis and English “ignite.” As the personification of fire, Agni is one of the chief gods of the Vedas, regarded as the intercessor or mediator between humans and the gods, protector of humanity, and witness to all human actions.

The word was originally derived from Sanskrit asu which means “breath” or “life-energy” (plus ra, to possess and also to grant). The asura meant the possessor of the life-breath and its bestower, hence a creative god.

“Fairy” is a literary term (derived ultimately from Latin Fata, the goddess of fate) for a kind of being widely recognized in various cultures around the world. Many other names have been used for such beings, for example, banshee, bogle, brownie, dryad, elf, goblin, hamadryad, jinni, kobold, leprechaun, naiad, nymph, peri, pixie, Robin Goodfellow, sidhe, troll, and water baby.

Living entities or centers of force in the astral and mental planes, also known as nature spirits. They are called elementals because they are supposed to be the life forces behind the four primordial elements, namely, Fire, Earth, Air and Water. The fire elementals are called salamanders; those of earth, gnomes; of air, sylphs, and of water, undines.

(Āditi) A Sanskrit word meaning “not tied, free, unbroken, boundless.” In the VEDAS Aditi is the Great Mother of the deities of light. Her attributes are those of motherhood, spaciousness and luminosity.

(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.

The collective soul of animals and plants. This concept was developed by second-generation theosophists, particularly Charles W. LEADBEATER, in his Man, Visible and Invisible.

A Sanskrit compound word composed of karana (“casual”) and upadhi (“limitation,” “basis,” “attribute,” “appearance,” etc.), hence meaning “basis of causality” or “causal instrument.” In theosophical literature it has been used to denote both the CAUSAL BODY and the vehicle of BUDDHI or…

Non-Being is, paradoxically, regarded in theosophy and Advaita as Absolute Being or Be-ness. It is the Absolute or Parabrahman, the divine as transcendent. It is the One Life or One Reality which our finite minds cannot conceive.

M.A.

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(Anātman, Pāli: Anātta). The doctrine that there is no permanent, unchanging Self (Sk. atman) and that the human experience of selfhood is composed of impermanent, constantly changing factors and hence is illusory.

In theosophy, the personality is the aggregate of the body, LINGA ŠARĪRA or (ETHERIC DOUBLE), PRĀNA (vitality), emotion and the lower mind.

Yoga was at first one of the existing six systems of Indian philosophy and it was not until some time after Patañjali, on whose writings what is now known as Rāja Yoga is based, that the philosophy was so called. It is very difficult to assign dates for the emergence of the various yoga systems.

The religion founded by Siddhatta Gotama (Sk. Siddhartha Gautama), known as Buddha (“awakened”). His life is dated variously 685-605 BCE (the Siamese tradition), 566-486 BCE (the Cantonese tradition), and c. 500- c. 420 BCE (Western scholars such as Conze). Theosophical sources date it 643-563 BCE. Tradition states that he was born on the full moon of Wesak (Sk.

It is a human tendency to assume a fundamental difference between “mind” on the one hand, and our physical body, on the other. Psychologists (with rare exceptions), do not subscribe to the dualistic view of “body-mind” or “mind-brain”; they consider that the so-called “cognitive processes” are the result of brain function and nothing more. This view has been termed physical monism.

Ego

In theosophy a distinction is drawn between Ego with the upper case “E” and ego with the lower case.

A vehicle or “basis” used by the consciousness, or other beings in the universe. It is a Sanskrit word meaning “substitute,” “appearance,” “limitation,” etc. formed from the prefix upa- (“toward,” “near”) and the stem word dhi (“receptacle”).

(Śarīra) A Sanskrit word meaning “body.” The term is used in conjunction with the constitution of a human being, particularly the personality, sometimes called the “lower quaternary” (as contrasted with the “upper triad”: atma-buddhi-manas).

Sheath; used in Vedanta philosophy for describing the five sheaths (pañca-kosa) of Atman. Thus:

A non-physical principle that is said to animate living things. It is also sometimes equated with the inner self of an individual.

In theosophical literature, spiritual soul refers to Buddhi. The sixth principle in the HUMAN CONSTITUTION. The term was used to distinguish it from the other kinds of souls: the human soul, which is the human mind (manas), and the animal soul, which is the desire principle (kāma) in human beings.

(Ātma-Buddhi) Atman is the Self or pure consciousness; Buddhi is the Spiritual Soul. The expression Atma-Buddhi is used in theosophy to describe spirit acting through the vehicle of the soul; the two together controlling life in its lower vehicles. The term is also sometimes used to imply “Self-knowledge.” 

The highest principle or Self in human beings, equivalent to štman in Hindu philosophy. The word comes from the Latin spiritus (meaning “breath”), which in turn is a translation of the Greek pneuma, which also means “breath.”

The ATMAN or SPIRIT within human beings. It is the seventh principle in the human constitution, which is always linked with Buddhi, the spiritual soul.

(HYPNOTISM). From the Greek hupnos, “sleep.” By extension it is used verbally to mean “to put to sleep.” The term was first used about 1842 as a shortened form of neuro-hypnotism by James Braid of Manchester, England. This derivation has given rise to a prevailing misunderstanding which assumes that a person in a hypnotic state is necessarily asleep.

A method of healing employing a knowledge of human energy fields. The system was developed by Dr. Dolores Krieger and Dora Van Gelder Kunz. Krieger was for many years head of the New York University’s School of Nursing, and Dora Van Gelder Kunz grew up with clairvoyant power which allowed her to see, with the aid of this faculty, areas of energy imbalance in the human body.

(1875-1961). Swiss psychologist and psychiatrist. Born on July 25, 1875, at Basel, he attended the University of Basel where he studied medicine and then postgraduate study with Pierre Janet in Paris. At the Zurich University he was physician in the psychiatric clinic and later lectured in psychiatry there.

A Sanskrit word literally meaning “circle” although the Tibetan translations usually render it as “center” or sometimes “that which surrounds.” It is used in Hindu and Buddhist sacred rites and as an aid to meditation.

The word tantra is Sanskrit for a “loom,” from tan to extend; it became used as a synonym for SASTRA, textbook; in the plural as the Tantras, the word refers to a body of doctrines that found a philosophical expression in Saivism and Saktism, the interplay of consciousness and energy, or Siva, representing the static pole of consciousness, and Sakti its…

This “Greater Vehicle” form of Buddhism is the dominant form in Mongolia, China, Tibet, Korea, Japan, and North Vietnam. Its origins are obscure, but many scholars trace it back to a sect called the Mah€sagikas (“Members of the Greater Order”) which was censured by the Second Buddhist Council of 383 BCE for holding views which are similar to those later held by some Mah€y€nists.

A Sanskrit word meaning a sacred word or phrase having spiritual power or special significance. According to Šaktism (see HINDUISM), a Mantra liberates one who meditates on its significance. Mantras fall into two classes: kan˜ika which are those spoken aloud and ajāpa which are repeated soundlessly in the mind.

The deity that governs an entire solar system, of which the Sun is the outermost manifestation. This view has been espoused by many ancient teachings such as those of Hermeticism, Philolaus the Pythagorean, the Kabbalah, the Gnostics, and Julian the Apostate.

(Sk. cakra). Pronounced “chakra” and in popular works so spelt. It primarily means “wheel” probably from Sanskrit car, to move; hence, spinning wheel.

(Ger). The apparition of a living person; a double; a wraith. 

See LINGA SARIRA; ETHERIC DOUBLE.



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A Sanskrit compound from KĀMA, meaning desire or pleasure, and manas, the thinking part of the human. MANAS is the fifth human principle in the sevenfold classification which may incline toward the higher or buddhic or the lower, the desire principle (kāma). 

(Sk. pronounced “pancha-kosha”). A Sanskrit term used in the Vedānta philosophy meaning “five (pañca) sheaths (koas),” i.e., five vestures through which the Self (ātman) works. Listed from the most subtle to the most dense, they are:

A Sanskrit term used in Vedanta philosophy for the sheath or vehicle of the intellect or understanding. 

See Pañca-Kosa.

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(lit. “mind-made-sheath”). In the Vedantic system the human being is divided into five “sheaths” or “vehicles,” collectively called the Pañca-kośa, with the lower mind and the astral body taken together as Manomaya-kośa. It is part of the subtle sheath called s™kma-ar…ra with its desires and motives that form the mind.

A Sanskrit term denoting the etheric double or vehicle of PRšïA. It is located within the physical body and is permeated by the emotional and mental bodies. In Ved€nta it is one of the four constituents of the human; the others are annamaya-kośa, the physical body; manomaya-kośa,the mental body; vijñānamaya-kośa, intellect.

(Annamaya-Kośa) A Sanskrit word meaning “food-made-sheath,” i.e., biological or physical body. It is one of five vehicles of consciousness mentioned in the Taittiriya Upanishad (3.1) and is equivalent to the sthula-sarira or “gross body” mentioned in the four-fold system of the Vedanta philosophy.

 

 

A term used by Helena P. Blavatsky and The MAHATMA LETTERS to A. P.

The purpose of this article is to describe the various systems of tabulating the human sevenfold nature which have been suggested or used in the Theosophical Society (TS) since 1875. Theosophy recognizes the complex of energies and spiritual components of humans and currently divides these into seven parts.

A term used in two senses in theosophical literature. (1) Helena P. BLAVATSKY refers to it as the “double,” the Linga-Sarira, or the doppelgänger, that perishes with the death of the body. This usage continues with many writers up to the present time.

One of the principal doctrines of modern theosophy.

(Antaḥkaraṇa) A Sanskrit word literally meaning “internal instrument,” wrongly spelt as Antaskarana by early theosophical writers. Explanations of this term vary somewhat according to the system of belief involved. In ADVAITA it is comprised of the intellect, the mind, the ego and the consciousness.

The invisible etheric body of human beings. It is also called Linga-Sarira, DOPPELGANGER, and pranamaya-kosa. In the works of Helena P.

The sense of “I” or individuality. It is characterized by a sense of personal identity, as well as unity of perception and continuity of “ownership” of experience.

(Ātman) A Sanskrit word meaning “self” or “oneself” variously derived either from an “breathe,” at “move,” or va “blow.” Linguists believe it is cognate with the German verb atmen, “to breathe.” In the Upanishadsatman is identified as the basic conscious principle in man, and identical with 

The Sanskrit name, often written “Upanishads,” for a collection of texts appended to the Vedas, perhaps dating from 1500 BCE into the Common Era, although the twelve (or fourteen) oldest are considered “principal” and clearly pre-date Buddhism.

(Ātma-Buddhi-Manas) Spirit, spiritual soul and the mind. The three aspects of the higher individuality in a human being, as opposed to the lower personality composed of the Lower Manas, Kama, Linga-Sarira and Physical Body.

A Sanskrit term which literally translates as “causal body” and is equivalent to the theosophical use of the term CAUSAL BODY. An alternative term, sometimes used, is kāraṇopādhi (i.e., kāraṇa + upādhi).

A compound Sanskrit word meaning “desire-body,” According to THEOSOPHY, after the death of the physical body and the shedding of the ETHERIC DOUBLE, or “energy form,” the kāma-rūpa is said to be the temporary vehicle for the remaining components of the individual; it is the after-death vehicle which is said to…

A Sanskrit word that means desire, formed from the root kam, “long for,” “wish,” “desire,” “sensual love,” etc. In theosophical literature, kāma is usually associated with manas and indicates a desire-mind or thought that has emotional associations. As C.…

A Sanskrit word derived from the verbal root budh, to awaken, to perceive. In theosophy it is the spiritual soul, the vehicle of the spirit or ATMA. It is the light of buddhi, when it does penetrate the mind, that awakens the human being to this spiritual state. Helena P.

A term used to designate that part of the human that survives from life to life in the reincarnating process. It is one of the seven constituents into which theosophy divides the human individual (see HUMAN CONSTITUTION).

Sanskrit for “mind.” Manas is dual in nature and has been divided into “Higher” and “Lower” Manas.

The epic poem dealing with life and adventures of R€ma (whose name means “charming”), also called “Rāmacandra” (lit.

Vyasa is the legendary author of the great Indian epic Mahabharata. He is said to have also divided the Vedas into four and hence he is also known as Veda-Vyasa. He is also credited for having written the Puranas. Scholars estimate that he must have lived between 1800 and 1500 BCE.

(Sk. “ancient”). A collection of ancient Indian texts which are written in verse and deal with religious and mythological subjects. They are attributed to the legendary sage Vyšsa, who is also said to have written the Mahābhārata.

One of two great epic poems in Indian literature, the other being the Rāmāyana. It consists of more than 100,000 couplets, which make it the longest epic poem in the world. It deals with the vicissitudes of the descendants (Bhāratas) of the mythical first king of India, Bharata. His ninth descendant was Kuru, hence the kingdom in the story is known as Kuruketra (Kuru’s land).

Literally, Sons of Mind. They are said to have given mind to the human race during the Third Root Race. It is an inclusive term to denote those advanced beings that Helena P. Blavatsky indicated had incarnated on this globe to advance the human race. They are referred to by many different names in Blavatsky’s The Secret Doctrine; these are:

(Lunar Pits) Literally, the lunar “fathers.” According to The Secret Doctrine, these are advanced beings from the Moon Chain (see CHAIN, Planetary) who gave the form of the physical body of human beings.

(Barhiṣad). From the Sanskrit word barhis, or barhiḥ, sacrificial grass (a layer of kuśa grass strewn over the sacrificial ground), barhishad meaning seated or placed on the sacred grass. In the plural it refers to the PITṚIS (pitṛs) or deceased ancestors and to a particular class of Pitṛis. In The Secret Doctrine of Helena P.

Advanced beings who incarnated into human forms during the Third Root Race (see RACE, ROOT) of humanity. They are the Solar Pit¬is or Agnishvšttas. At first they refused even after the Lunar Pitris provided the form of the bodies of human beings. See SOLAR PITRIS; AGNISHVATTAS.

(Agnishvātta, Agniśvātta). From the Sanskrit Agnisvatta literally meaning “tasted by the funeral fire.” According to the Esoteric Doctrine, the Agnishvatta, or Solar Angels are the “Flames,” those who possessed the living spiritual fire, but not the lower creative fire.

In Sanskrit the term means “virgin boys” (compare the feminine kumari “virgin,” used as the name of a goddess).

A Sanskrit term the literal meaning of which is “governor” or “lord” of progeny. Used in the plural it may refer to the seven or ten different “beings” who are the “Producers” and “Givers of Life.” A term applied to several of the Vedic gods, but in particular to Brahmš.

(Sk. pits; cf. Latin paters). Progenitors or “fathers” of humanity. They are mentioned in Hindu scriptures and in Helena P. Blavatsky’s The Secret Doctrine. Pitis are said to be superior beings who contributed to human evolution and The Secret Doctrine refers to two main types of Pitis, the Lunar and the Solar.

Literally, “shining ones.” A general term for a wide class of ethereal or spiritual beings, some of whom are less developed than humanity in the evolutionary ladder, and others which are more advanced. These higher devas include Dhyani-Chohans or those who have surpassed the human stage in previous planetary periods or chains.

(Sk.). Defined in theology as the highest rank of spiritual messengers. Theosophical writings define them as a symbol of primordial Divine Powers on the highest planes of manifestation, equivalent to the Dhyāni-Chohan. They play a part in the creation of the spiritual universe on which the physical manifested universe is modeled.

In the original Greek, the term denotes a messenger; one who announces or tells, as with the bards of augury. In theosophical terminology “angels” has a general meaning denoting a spiritual being that could be a nature spirit or a god, depending on context. According to Helena P.

A Sanskrit Tibetan compound; Dhyani meaning “meditation” and the Tibetan “Chohan” meaning “Lord;” hence, “Lord of Meditation,” a general term for celestial beings beyond human evolution. They are similar to the Angelic Hosts of Christianity, the Elohim and “Messengers” of the Jews.

A class of DHYANI-CHOHANS or celestial beings who emanate from DHYANI-BUDDHAS, also called the Bodhisattvas of the Celestial Realms. There are seven Dhyani-Bodhisattvas, each one governing a globe of a planetary CHAIN.

The word is derived from the Sanskrit kundala, a coil; so kundalin is “that which is coiled,” hence also its meaning of “serpent.” It is said to be the mighty Cosmic Energy, the primal power and feminine principle at work throughout the universe and resting in a potential state in the very body of human beings. Geoffrey Hodson describes it as:

A class of DHYANI-CHOHANS or celestial beings who are prototypes of the BUDDHAS, or Manushya Buddhas. Thus, Amitabha is spoken of as the Dhyani-Buddha of Gautama Sakyamuni. The synthesis of the Dhyani-Buddhas is Avalokitesvara, the creative Logos.

A unit of consciousness. The term has been used in several senses in theosophical literature.

In theosophical literature, a planetary chain is composed of a planet or globe and its six non-physical counterparts, totaling seven globes. A chain is the arena of evolution of various classes of beings (elemental, mineral, plant, animal, human, etc.). There are many chains in a solar system, and evolution goes through minor and major cycles and processes within a chain.

As a theosophical term this expression is confined to those spiritual beings who are active in the formation of the solar system. According to Helena P.

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:

The primordial force or vitality in the cosmos. It is that which links spirit and matter in the first stages of differentiation. In the manifested stages of the universe, fohat is the force that causes the differentiation from the one to the many, while at the same time, it is the power that unites and combines the various units and atoms of the cosmos.

(Avalokiteśvara) “The down-looking Lord,” a Buddhist term that has several levels of meaning:

In Hindu mythology, the Creator who breathes forth the universe at the dawn of creation and withdraws it at the end of his Day (4,320,000,000 human years). He is sometimes identified as the third Person of the Hindu Trinity, the first and second being Śiva and Viṣṇu, although popular Hinduism does not always accept this theology.

(Sānkhya) Also written Samkhya or Samkhya. Its name literally means “enumeration” and is derived from this system’s analysis of the world into 25 categories, as explained below. Once one of the major systems of Indian philosophy, but now largely without serious proponents, Sankhya has an extremely ancient origin.

(Ahamkāra) Sanskrit for self-consciousness, the sense of I, literally “I-making,” suggesting that it is a continuing process, not a static entity. As part of human consciousness, it is the source of egotism, rooted in the illusion of one’s separateness from the universal self.

A Sanskrit term meaning “great” (also “extensive,” “eminent,” etc.).

In KABBALAH, the infinite or limitless. It is the unmanifested state of being prior to Kether or the first sephira of the Tree of Life. It is equivalent to the First Logos in the writings of Helena P.

(Heb., Chal.). The term normally denotes a human being or humanity in general. More rarely, a man (as opposed to a woman). Adam also sometimes denotes red, ruddy or a reddish brown color. Helena P.

(Kabala, Qabalah). Jewish mysticism and esotericism. The name is derived from the Hebrew QBL or Qibel, which means “to receive,” implying that it is a knowledge that is orally transmitted down. The Kabbalah probably dates back to the second or third century CE in Palestine, and flourished in Babylonia in the 6th century to the 11th century.

In KABBALAH, the “Heavenly Man,” as opposed to the terrestrial ADAM, representing the human race.

(Gk.). Greek for “word.” It also means, according to its context, speech, discourse, reason, and in mathematics, balance or proportion. In religion and philosophy as well as theosophy, it denotes a deity or a principle of creation or emanation.

The cosmic mind at the dawn of manifestation of the universe. Cosmic ideation is absent during the pralaya or the dormant state of the cosmos. It is thus equated with MAHA-BUDDHI and MAHAT of the Visnu Puranas. It is also the Third or Manifested LOGOS (SD I:16).

The word is used in two important senses: (1) the totality of everything, the All, free from all limitations; (2) when used in conjunction with another word, such as “wisdom,” it refers to the highest possible level of that quality or condition.

Sanskrit for one who aspires to enlightenment or one who has attained the essence of wisdom. In Buddhism a Bodhisattva ranks one step below a BUDDHA. In theosophy the term is used to denote an individual who has reached enlightenment and may pass beyond the “wheel of rebirth,” but elects to reincarnate for the good of all.

The name “Tibet” probably comes from the Mongolian “Tibot” meaning “central region” which suggests that Mongolian Buddhists in the 16th century considered Tibet the center of Buddhism. Prior to that, the country was known as Khabachen (“Land of Snows”).

(Tib. dGe-lugs-pa). An order of Tibetan lamas founded by TSONG-KA-PA, popularly known as the “Yellow-hats.” Helena P. BLAVATSKY refers to this order quite frequently, but spells it Gelukpa. See BUDDHISM, TIBETAN.



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(Arhant; Pāli: Arahant). A Sanskrit word literally meaning “worthy” or “venerable” in Theravsda Buddhism. In classical texts, four stages are identified on the path to enlightenment:

1. Srotspatti – entering the stream. The Voice of the Silence states that when one becomes a Srotspatti, he will only be reborn seven more times.

(TSON-KHA-PA) (1357-1419). Eminent Tibetan Buddhist reformer and founder of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. One of his disciples and successors became the first Dalai Lama, Gedun Drup (1391-1474), which lineage continues up to this day.

(1874-1942). Head of the THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY (Pasadena) with international headquarters currently at Pasadena, California, from 1929 to 1942. His greatest contribution to the theosophical movement is his elucidation of concepts underlying Helena P. BLAVATSKY’s writings.

(Also spelled Kiu Ti). A collection of Tibetan esoteric and exoteric teachings from which The Secret Doctrine of Helena P. Blavatsky was based.

The book on which Helena P. BLAVATSKY based her monumental work, The Secret Doctrine. It is considered to be a part of a larger work known in Tibetan as Kiu-Te (sometimes spelt “Kiu-Ti”).

The origin and evolution of human beings. This is the second major theme (the first being COSMOGENESIS) of the magnum opus of Helena P. Blavatsky, The Secret Doctrine, which treated of the physical and superphysical formation of present humanity.

The origin of the cosmos or the universe. This is the first of the two major themes of the magnum opus of Helena P.

The state of being aware, either of something external or internal. In sentient beings, it is the concomitant of thoughts, feelings and sensations. The word “consciousness” is ordinarily associated with common waking consciousness. But the latter is only one type of consciousness.

(PUB.). Helena P. Blavatsky, co-founder of the Theosophical Society (TS), published The Secret Doctrine in two volumes in the autumn of 1888.

A Sanskrit term usually translated “illusion.” It is a feminine noun derived from the third usage of the Sanskrit root mā, literally meaning “measure, mete out, mark off.” In early Sanskrit, māyā meant “paranormal power,” presumably the feminine aspect of creation (since māyā is a feminine noun).

A large body of hymns, liturgical texts, forest treatises, and philosophic speculations compiled in four collections: Rg (often written Rig), Sama, Yajus, and Atharva. To each of the collections of hymns (samhita), each with its own particular style of chanting, is appended Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads.

In theosophical literature, it is Ultimate Reality, or as Helena P.

From the Sanskrit root bṛh, which means “expand,” “increase,” or “grow.” In the principal Upaniṣads, brahman is the term used to refer to the ultimate reality of the universe.

(1904-1986). Nee Sastry. A theosophist noted for her significant contributions to the revival of Indian classical dance and as a campaigner for animal welfare. Born in Madura in South India on February 20, 1904. Her father Nilakanta Sastry, was a professional consulting engineer to an Indian Prince. Rukmini Devi was educated at a Madras (now Chennai) College.

(1898-1925). Brother of J. Krishnamurti and was made a ward of Annie Besant. Nityananda was born on May 30, 1898.

(d.1924). Arundale was an eminent early member of the TS who joined in 1881. She was aunt and mother by adoption of the third International President of the TS, George ARUNDALE. Her house at 77 Elgin Crescent, London, became the nucleus of the London Lodge of the English Section.

This term is used in theosophy to denote the vast range of evolving beings that exists in the Cosmos. There is said to be an innumerable series of hierarchies, each one under the supervision of a divine Being.

A class of beings that form part of the Hierarchy of Compassion. The Secret Doctrine speaks of seven Buddhas that will appear on earth, five of whom have already manifested, while the last two will appear during the sixth and seventh root races. They are technically referred to as Manushya-Buddhas or Manushi Buddhas.

(1883-1951). Founder of the LIBERAL CATHOLIC CHURCH and a prominent member of the Theosophical Society (TS). He was born in London, England, into well known pottery manufacturing family.

George S. Arundale , George and Rukmini Devi Arundale

(1878-1945). Third International President of the Theosophical Society (TS) was born in Surrey, England, December 1, 1878. He was adopted at a young age by his aunt, Francesca E. ARUNDALE. He joined the London Lodge of the Theosophical Society in 1895. He graduated from St.

(PUB.). A small book by Helena P. Blavatsky first published in 1889 which has become a theosophical classic.

(1875-1953). Fourth President of the Theosophical Society (TS). Jinarajadasa was born in Sri Lanka on December 16, 1875, one month after the TS was founded. His parents were Buddhists and he was raised as such.

The Liberal Catholic Church (hereafter, LCC) is a sacramentally oriented Christian Church combining the stately rituals of Catholicism with teachings more akin to the Neo-platonic Christianity of ancient Alexandria, than to the current doctrines of any of the mainstream churches.

A Sanskrit term given to the progenitors of mankind. In Hindu mythology, there are fourteen Manus, of which the present Manu is the 7th, the Vaivasvata Manu. It is also the name of author of ˜he Laws of Manu or Manu Smti, written about 200 CE.

The originator of Christianity. His year of birth is commonly believed to be 4-6 BCE, based on the accounts of the Christian gospels. He is regarded by some as GOD himself, or a chosen messenger of God, and by others as simply an extraordinary human being.

(1883-1965). Prominent theosophist and author. He was born in Manchester, England, in 1883. He attended the Manchester College of Technology, gaining Firsts in Physics, Chemistry and Geology. Wood joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1902.

This term refers to several different but related teachings in theosophy:

The name used to identify one of the Chohans of the Brotherhood of Adepts. According to Charles W. LEADBEATER, he is the Chohan in charge of the third ray (see SEVEN RAYS) and was born in Venice, hence the name.

(c. 1710–1784?). An eighteenth-century adept who was also called der Wundermann “the Wonderman,” being famous as a polyglot, musician, and chemist or alchemist.

German painter who painted the portraits of the Mahatma Koot Hoomi and Morya from June 19 to July 9, 1884. He later made duplicates of these paintings. The original paintings are now in the Shrine Room of the Headquarters Building of the Theosophical Society (TS) in Adyar, Chennai (Madras), India. In a letter to Helena P.

(1822-1909). A major general in the British army and a member of the Theosophical Society who was a witness to phenomena demonstrated by the Mahatmas in the early years of the Theosophical Society. He resided in Ootacamund in Tamil Nadu, south India, where all his ten children were born.

Franz Hartmann

(1838-1912). A prolific writer on theosophical and allied subjects, Hartmann was born at the small town of Donauwörth in Bavaria on November 22, 1838. In 1865 he graduated from the University of Munich with the degrees of doctor medicinae and magister pharmaciae; the same year he emigrated to the USA.

Mary Gebhard

(1832-1893). Mary Gebhard was born in Dublin in 1832 and was educated in the Convent of Sacré Cœur in Paris. Because of the destruction of Theosophical Society (TS) records by Nazi officials, little data has survived regarding the Gebhard family.

(1848-1930). An American theosophist and widow who was said to be a pupil (chela) of the Master Koot Hoomi. Little is known about her background, but she was a friend of both Helena P.

chela of the Master KOOT HOOMI who, it is said, later became an Adept.

One of the high adepts who belonged to the Egyptian Section of the Adept Brotherhood (Brotherhood of Luxor) and who was deeply involved in the birth of the Theosophical Society (TS). It was apparently this Adept who gave the order to Helena P.

An adept who is also known as Narayan. In 1885, according to C. JINARĀJADšSA, he lived in the Tiruvallum Hills, near Madras, where T. Subba Row and Charles W. Leadbeater visited him.

An adept who belonged to the Egyptian section called Brotherhood of Luxor. See also Adepts.

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The Egyptian branch of the Adept Brotherhood, to whom belong several known Adepts: Serapis Bey (Ellora Section), Polidorus Isurenus (Solomon Section), Robert…

One of the Egyptian Adepts who belong to the BROTHERHOOD OF LUXOR.

(1854? -1934). A leading figure of the Theosophical Society (TS) “second generation” (c. 1900-1934), Charles W. Leadbeater was a prominent theosophical writer, speaker, and teacher.

(Illarion; Hilarion Smerdis). A Greek (Cypriot) Adept known for having dictated or inspired the writing of the classic Light on the Path. He is said to have become an Adept in 1886 (CW XI:316). He also collaborated with Helena P. BLAVATSKY in the writing of stories.

The name of one of the members of the Adept brotherhood in Egypt. He was mentioned by Alfred P. SINNETT as “the youngest of the chohans.” In his letters to Col.

Anna Kingsford

(née Bonus) (1846-1888). Was born September 16, 1846, at Stratford in Essex, England. She joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in January 1883. Kingsford never enjoyed particularly good health and as the youngest, by a margin of several years, in a large family, she tended to be isolated and solitary.

A high Adept who was the superior of the Mahātmas KOOT HOOMI and MORYA, and who helped oversee the developments of the early Theosophical Society (TS).

Derived from the Latin word Adeptus — “he who has obtained.” The term refers to one who is an Initiate, and has become a master of the secret sciences, “men who have developed and perfected their physical, mental, psychic, and spiritual organisations to the utmost possible degree” (SD I:273).

(Advaita Vedānta) One of the major philosophical systems of India. Its present form derives from the writings of the 8th-9th cent. philosopher Sri SANKARACARYA (or Sankara for short), but it obviously has a more ancient history.

Sanskrit for “non-dual.” Generally, it is used to refer to a philosophic position which claims that our ordinary perception of the world (which implies a duality between subject and object) is incorrect — is, in some sense, an illusion.

(1856-1890). An important early theosophist, born July 6, 1856, at Cocanada (now Kakinada), in the Godavari District on the Coromandel Coast of eastern India. Subba Row was an Advaita Ved€ntin of the Niyoga caste of Smārata Brahmins (Sk. Brāhmana); his native language was Telugu. His father died when he was six months old and he was brought up by an uncle.

One of the most important and beloved works in the Indian religious literature. It constitutes the sixth book out of the monumental eighteen-book epic poem Mahābhārata. Scholars date it sometime between 5th and 2nd centuries BCE.

A great soul, from mahā (great) and Ātman (soul). In theosophical literature, the term is used to refer to ADEPTS or those beings who have attained human perfection. It must be noted that in India, Mahātma is a general reverent title for great or holy people, such as Mahātma Gandhi.

Forms or images that result from the activity of the mind. A discussion about thought-forms needs to take into account two important factors found in the Ancient Wisdom teachings. These are the existence of the MENTAL BODY and the MENTAL PLANE. The mental body is one of the seven components of the human individual.

Annie Besant and Charles W. Leadbeater claimed to have carried out a clairvoyant examination of atoms of all ninety-two naturally occurring elements, publishing their research between 1895 and 1933 in the theosophical magazines Lucifer and The Theosophist and in their book Occult Chemistry — Clairvoyant Observations on the Chemical Elements (Besant and Leadbeater, 1908, 1919, 1951).

(PUB.). Monthly journal founded by Helena P. Blavatsky in September 1887. At its launching, she and Mabel Collins were joint editors, but the partnership lasted only a year. By the fifth half-yearly volume, Annie Besant was named co-editor, and following Blavatsky’s death in May 1891, she carried on alone until 1895 when G. R. S. Mead began sharing editorial duties with her.

A theosophical concept that differs from the common anthropological meaning of the word “race.” A root race refers to a specific stage of human development where certain faculties or qualities are being developed. There are seven root races of humanity, with subraces under each one. They begin with the Ethereal and end with the spiritual on the double line of physical and moral evolution.

(1849-1912). Journalist and editor of the Pall Mall Gazette and The Review of Reviews, two prestigious English journals. Stead was born in Embleton, Northumberland, England on July 5, 1849, the son of a Congregational minister, the Rev. William Stead and his wife, Isabella Dobson.

(Metteyya in Pāli) The next Buddha according to the Buddhist traditions. The name comes from Sanskrit root Maitr… meaning love and compassion.

(Böhme, Jakob) (1575-1624). German mystic and philosophical theologian, was born on or near April 24, 1575, in Altseidenberg, near Görlitz. After a brief time at school he became a shoemaker.

(1688-1772). Swedish scientist, philosopher and theologian, one of Sweden’s most learned and famous men. He was born in Stockholm on January 29, 1688, and was the second son of Jesberg Swedberg, a professor at Uppsala University who became bishop of Skara. The family changed its name to Swedenborg after it was elevated to the nobility in 1719. Emanuel was educated at Uppsala University.

Edwin Arnold

(1832-1904). English poet, scholar and journalist and close friend of Henry S. OLCOTT, co-founder of the TS. Arnold was born at Gravesend in Kent on June 10, 1832, and educated at King’s College, London and University College at Oxford. After receiving his Master of Arts degree from Oxford he was appointed Principal of Deccan College, Poona, in 1856.

Annie Besant , Besant as a young woman

nee Wood, (1847-1933). Annie Besant was a woman of intellect and leadership who courageously went beyond the limited Victorian female gender role to become the foremost and influential woman orator and political activist of her day. She briefly embraced theism during the transitional period in which she rejected Christian doctrines and legally separated from her husband, an Anglican vicar.

(1865-1939). One of the great poets of the twentieth century who was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1923. He joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1887 and became a member of the Dublin Lodge in Ireland. His works were deeply influenced by theosophy and his mystical pursuits.

(1847-1929). Born Catharine Augusta Westcott July 6, 1847, at Newbury, Massachusetts; educated in Newburyport schools and by private tutors. As a child she would talk with her grandfather, Nathan Chase, mystic and Freemason, and his neighbor, John Greenleaf Whittier, of the White City she would build in the golden West.

(1867-1931). Distinguished orientalist, writer, and theosophist. Johnston was born at Ballykilbeg, County Down, Ireland, on February 17, 1867. His father was William J. Johnston, member of Parliament for Belfast and a leader of the Temperance Movement and his mother was Georgina Barbara Hay, daughter of John Hay, of Park, Scotland.

(1867-1935). Better known by his pseudonym Æ. Irish poet and painter who was a student of Helena P. Blavatsky. Russell was born at Lurgan, County Armagh, Ireland on April 10, 1867. He was educated at Rathmines School and attended Metropolitan School of Art, Dublin, where he met W. B. Yeats, a major Irish poet.

Wilhelm Hubbe-Schleiden

(1846-1916). General Secretary of the German Section, 1912-13. He was born in Hamburg on October 26, 1846, and educated in the universities of Göttingen, Heidelberg, Munich and Leipzig. He practiced as a lawyer for some time and was appointed Consular Attaché in West Africa where he developed German colonial policy.

William Crookes

(1832-1919). Famous chemist, and member of The Theosophical Society (TS). William Crookes is mentioned in almost every chemistry textbook today as an important scientist who contributed in many significant ways to the end of classical chemistry and who helped usher in the beginning of quantum chemistry.

Bertram Keightley

1860-1944). A dedicated early worker for the Theosophical Society (TS). Keightley was born April 4, 1860, at Birkenhead in England. He joined the TS in 1884.

Archibald Keightley

(1859-1930). One of the small band of workers around Helena P. BLAVATSKY in London who helped to edit The Secret Doctrine. Keightley joined the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1884. He was General Secretary of the English Section 1888-90.

(1855-1905). Lawyer and psychic researcher. He was born in Melbourne, Australia, and received his first education at public schools there, afterwards graduating from Melbourne University with degrees of M.A. and LL.D. Shortly after his graduation he entered Cambridge University in England from which he graduated in what was then quaintly termed “mental and moral sciences.”

(nee Cutting). A housekeeper at the Theosophical Society’s headquarters at Adyar for several years up to 1887. It was charged against her that she conspired with Christian missionaries to make it appear the phenomena produced by Helena P. Blavatsky were fraudulent. She first appears in the history of the Theosophical Society (TS) when H. P. Blavatsky was in Cairo.

(1889-1964). First Prime Minister of India (1947-1964) who joined the Theosophical Society (TS) on August 13, 1903. Nehru was born in Allahabad on November 14, 1889, into a prosperous Brahman family from Kashmir. His father, Pandit Motilal Nehru was a lawyer.

(d.1893). An early worker in the Theosophical Society (TS). He was a Br€hmana of high caste and his real name was R€mabathra. He joined the Theosophical Society in September 1881 when he was District Registrar of Assurances at Tinnevelly in Southern India. He is said to have been a probationary chela of the MASTERS and received a number of letters from them.

(1874-1947). Eminent Russian artist, poet, theater designer and theosophist. Roerich was born in what was then called Petrograd on September 27, 1847, son of a distinguished barrister. He was expected to follow a career at law and was sent to University for this purpose.

Allan Octavian Hume

(1829-1912). Hume was a Founder of the Indian National Congress and Vice-President of the Theosophical Society (TS) from 1880 to 1888. He was the eighth child of Joseph Hume, British statesman and economist, who led the English Radical Political Party for thirty years. He was educated at Haileybury and London University and employed in the Indian Colonial Service 1849-82.

(1893-1941). A theosophist who is particularly noted for compiling and publishing The MAHATMA LETTERS TO A. P. SINNETT in December 1923. Barker was born October 10, 1893, at Las Palmas in the Canary Islands.

Anagarika Dharmapala

(1864-1933). A Sri Lankan Buddhist who founded the Maha Bodhi Society, and who was also an active member of the Theosophical Society (TS). Born David Hewavitharana, Dharmapala studied in a missionary school and grew up noting the decline of the his country’s religion and culture while it was under foreign power.

Anagarika Dharmapala

(1869-1948). Mohandas Gandhi, usually called by his admirers “Mah€tma” or “Great Soul,” was born on October 2, 1869, on the Kathiawar Peninsula north of Bombay (presently part of Gujarat State) in the coastal city of Porbandar, the ancestral home of the Gandhi family.

(née Davies), (1879-1960). Theosophical historian who served as General Secretary of three different sections of the Theosophical Society (TS). Ransom was born on March 22, 1879, in Armidale, Australia. She joined the TS on November 23, 1897. Ransom was General Secretary of the TS Australian Section, 1924-5; South African Section, 1926-27; and English Section 1933-36.

WQ Judge

(1851-1896). Judge, with Helena P. BLAVATSKY and Henry S. OLCOTT, was a founder of the Theosophical Society (TS) in 1875. He worked for its cause during the 21 years that followed till his death at 44 years of age.

(1832-1907). First President and Co-Founder of the Theosophical Society (TS). Born August 2, 1832, at Orange, New Jersey, Olcott was the eldest of six children of Henry Wyckoff Olcott and Emily Steel. He studied at the College of the City of New York and at Columbia University until his father’s business failed in 1851.

(Kuthumi). One of the Mahatmas who inspired the founding of the Theosophical Society (TS). He is perhaps the most well-known among modern ADEPTS. His letters to various people have been published in several collections, primarily The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett and Letters of the Masters of the Wisdom, Series I and II.

(1880-1921). Vice-President of the Theosophical Society (TS) 1880-88; acting President for four months in 1907. Sinnett was born on January 18, 1840, probably in London since he went to school in Camden, London, England. There is little detail recorded about Sinnett’s parents except that his mother, Jane Fry, married Sinnett’s father in 1825.

One of the two Adepts who were behind the founding of the Theosophical Society (TS). He was the guru of Helena P. Blavatsky and Col. Henry Steel Olcott. Many of his letters were preserved and are now part of an important collection of the Mahatma letters.

(nee de Bourbel de Monpicon; 1838-1910). A close friend of Helena P. Blavatsky, Wachtmeister was born on March 28, 1838, in Florence, Italy. Her parents were the Marquis de Bourbel, formerly of the French diplomatic service, and Constance Bulkley.

(1902-1981). Grandnephew of Helena P. Blavatsky who edited her Collected Writings. He was born on March 7, 1902, in St. Petersburg, Russia, to Lydia Dmitriyevna von Hahn, the niece of H. P. Blavatsky. A frail child, tutored at home and mastering several languages, de Zirkoff knew little of his great aunt until he was about 16.

Theosophy, in common with practically all the major religious traditions, considers human beings to be composed of layers of consciousness and bodies. In theosophy, the different layers of consciousness are also referred to as “principles,” as distinguished from the “bodies” through which the principles express themselves.

Possibly one of the most significant of all theosophical books as an early source of information about the Ancient Wisdom. The book consists of letters said to have been sent by the Mahātmas KOOT HOOMI and MORYA to Alfred Percy SINNETT and Alan Octavian HUME over a period of some six years (1880-1886).

The astral remnant of the dead after the “second death,” when the consciousness withdraws to devachan. They still retain the memory and characteristics of the dead person, and hence when drawn to mediums, appear to be the authentic individual who had died.

A highly specialized form of energy, the cosmic life-force which pervades our universe. As stated in Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga (G. Feuerstin), “Prāna almost invariably signifies the universal life force, which is a vibrant psychophysical energy similar to the pneuma of the ancient Greeks.

(Linga-Śarīra). The term for the invisible “double” of the physical body of human beings, equivalent to the etheric double of later theosophical literature, and called the “Astral Body” in the writings of Helena P. Blavatsky (the term “astral body” was used later by Annie Besant and Charles W.

Theosophy teaches that after a person dies the Ego and its non-physical bodies undergo a process consisting of multiple stages before reincarnating. The process may be very brief (as in young children or cases of premature death) or it can be as long as 3,000 years.

Encyclopedia Editors

General Editor: John Algeo

Associate Editor: Vicente Hao Chin Jr.

Associate Editor: Richard W. Brooks

Consulting Editor: Robert Ellwood

Assistant Editor: Rosel Z. Doval Santos



Staff:

Isabelita Balino

Lea Mactal

HP Blavasky in 1884 , 1851 boat scene; the day Blavatsky first met her Master. (The Theosophist, August 1931 558, Theosophical Society, Adyar Archives , Personal Seal of H. P. Blavatsky

1831-1891). Prolific writer on comparative religion, mythology, and esoteric subjects, and primary founder of the Theosophical Society (TS).

In Egyptian mythology, a non-physical region governed by Osiris, the Egyptian Lord of the Dead.

A compound word formed of the Sanskrit word deva (usually translated “god”) and the Tibetan word chan (denoting a region, land, or country). The Tibetan word would be, in English transliteration, bde-ba-can.

This place (LOKA) of desire (KAMA) is where the personality finds itself after DEATH (AND AFTER-DEATH STATES). The Sanskrit term loka is cognate with English locus (borrowed from Latin).

A region in the after-death state described in the Egyptian Book of the Dead. It is part of AMENTI, or the heaven world, the domain of Osiris, which is divided into fourteen sections.

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