By Radha S. Burnier (1923 – 2013).

62 Pages | First edition 1971, first reprint 1980, 2nd reprint 1984, 3rd reprint 1993, 2nd edition 2000 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594189.

The Blavatsky Lecture – delivered at the Annual Convention of the Theosophical Society in England, 26th May 1979.

‘To reach Nirvana one must reach Self-knowledge and Self-knowledge is of loving deeds the child’.

Progress in Theosophy is the journey from the unreal to the real, from darkness to light, from death to immortality. The beginning of that progress is in understanding that the infinite cannot be known by the finite. The imperishable cannot be found by involvement in the perishable and the compounded. The study of Theosophy in the true sense is the study not only of Theosophical literature; it is the study of the book of life, the observation of human nature, the contemplation of Nature and the phenomena of the created world in such a way that there is a sense of the One Existence.

From page 58:

Freedom from Attachment

” The unlimited creative power of consciousness can operate only when the limitation of attachment ends and identification is not made with objects. In  freedom from attachment, there is the discovery of another of the eternal values inherent in consciousness. Since in the absence of inward freedom the other absolute values are incapable of flowering, spiritual liberation has been spoken of in the East, as the fundamental aim of human existence. “

Door Radha S. Burnier (1923 – 2013).

150 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1994 | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9061750695.

Engels origineel: Human Regeneration – Lectures and Discussions | Uitgegeven in 1990 | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9061750644.

Theosofen zijn met elkaar verbonden door een gemeenschappelijk streven naar de regeneratie van de mens. Ze verschillen misschien in hun overtuigingen, interessen of benadering. De leringen van Boeddha, Jezus, Blavatsky, Besant en Krishnamurti zijn voor sommigen van hen inspirerend, voor anderen niet. Maar er is een sterke gemeenschappelijke band, namelijk een diepgaande interesse in de vooruitgang en vervolmaking van de mensheid, niet alleen op de materiele en intellectuele niveaus, maar in moreel en spiritueel opzicht.

Een Theosoof zoekt niet naar wijsheid voor zichzelf. ‘Hij/Zij leeft niet voor zichzelf, maar voor de wereld‘, en hoe dieper de toewijding aan het ideaal van de regeneratie van de mensheid, des te groter het begrip van zichzelf en de wereld en het doordringen van het geheim van het leven. Doel is om de bron van Goedheid en Geluk te ont’dekken in zichzelf, dat het geboorterecht is van alle levende wezens.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 3 – ‘Regeneratie en de doeleinden van de Theosofische Vereniging’ (blz. 91):

” Vanuit een praktisch gezichtspunt bekeken: begint Broederschap niet met eenvoudige dingen? Gewoon aardig zijn, aan een ander denken, in plaats van alleen aan onszelf. Wij willen het graag prettig hebben, maar een ander moet het werk doen. Zijn we bereid iets van onze gemakzucht op te offeren om degene, die werkt te helpen? Zo begint Broederschap. Maar als we broederlijk en vriendelijk zijn in de gewone zin van het woord, dan blijft nog steeds het gevoel dat we anders zijn dan anderen – je blijft in een wereld van dualiteit. We moeten dus Broederschap blijven beoefenen, totdat de neiging van het denken om de dingen in termen van dualiteit te zien verdwenen is. “

Door Radha S. Burnier (1923 – 2013).

87 Pages | First edition 1985, second reprint 2005 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592763.

‘Within you is the light of the world- the only light that can be shed upon the Path. If you are unable to perceive it within you, it is useless to look for it elsewhere’.

The destiny of the human being is to travel on a path leading to perfection. the Upanishad says this spiritual path is like ‘the sharp edge of a razor, difficult to cross and hard to tread. A teacher or a guru may at best give a hint or indicate the direction of the path, but the aspirant has to tread the path by himself.

This little volume describes the nature of the path, the qualifications needed, and the pitfalls encountered. As the theosophical classic Light on the Path says: ‘Each man is to him- or herself absolutely the way, the truth and the life’.

From Page 56:

” One of the greatest of Masters, the Lord Buddha, said: ‘Be a lamp unto yourself.’ He taught: do not make an authority out of tradition, the Scriptures, other people, or me; find out for yourself what is the truth. The importance of enquiry (vichāra) is emphasized also in Vedānta. “

By Radha S. Burnier.

34 Pages | First edition 2006 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN:

The Theosophical Society exists for the regeneration of humanity, beginning with establishing a nucleus of Universal Brotherhood, encouraging an open-minded quest for Truth, and investigating the essence of man and the universe. Because this is the main thrust of the Society, Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891), co-founder of tbe Theosophical Society with Colonel Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), discussed what would ensure the stability of the Society’s work and its future in her book The Key to Theosophy.

The ‘Blavatsky Lecture’ discusses in depth what she regarded as necessary for continuing the work of regeneration without a break. Apart from essential qualifications like earnestness, selflessness, devotion, knowledge and wisdom, ‘living truth’ must dynamize the workers of the Theosophical Society. But what is ‘living truth’? The reader will learn by perusing this lecture and realize how much we can ensure peace and goodness upon the earth.

From page 22:

” . . . we never accept on faith any authority upon any question whatsoever; nor, pursuing as we do, Truth and progress through a full and fearless enquiry, untrammelled by any consideration, would we advise any of our friends to do otherwise. ” – Blavatsky – CW II, p. 433.

By Cyril H. Boynes.

113 Pages | First edition 1984 – A Quest Miniature | Softcover| Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835605841.

‘I go to prepare a place for you… that where I AM, there you may be also…’

The colorful balisier is indigenous to Trinidad. The fiery plant has taken on deep mystical overtones for many of the natives, because of its unusual characteristics. It represents a symbol of life’s conflicts and eventual victory over our temporal nature. It might be said, it represents eternity itself, because of its almost indestructable nature. Because of the snake, that makes the balisier its home, it represents the dangers we encounter in our search for Truth. All this and more is brought to light in this Quest Miniature booklet. A native of Trinidad, points to many symbolic correspondences between the balisier and Christianity in an ecumenical sense.

From Chapter 3 – ‘A Symbol for a full Heart (p. 31 & 32):

” I decided to take Emerson’s concept splitting a word and watching it bleed to study this silence that flows into our stilled Souls. So I broke the word ‘silence’ and watched it bleed:

S = See | I = Into | L = Life | E = Every | N = New | C = Creative | E = Experience.

That means to me that in silence we can look at life in a new way and see in every experience a newly created thing flowing out from God. Seeing this new creation, our hearts, which are the dwelling place of God, can both appreciate and participate in the creation of new experiences. This is what our natural Self yearns to do. “

By Robert Bowen (1815 – 1908).

18 Pages | First published in 1960, reprinted in 1967, first Indian edition 1979, 3rd reprint 1973 – 1992, 4th reprint 1997 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170591910.

Robert Bowen’s personal notes on the teachings of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) provide an invaluable aid to the student today. They offer insights into the study and understanding of the essentials of Theosophy, particularly of Madame Blavatsky’s major work The Secret Doctrine (1888). They also point to their impact on the mind of the serious student, who is urged to go beyond verbal expositions of Theosophy to the depth of experience where alone truth is revealed.

From page 12:

” (D) Fourth and last basic idea to be held is that expressed in the Great Hermetic Axiom. It really sums up and synthesizes all the others. As is the Inner, so is the Outer; as is the Great so is the Small; as it is Above, so it is Below; there is but ONE LIFE AND LAW; and he that worth it, is ONE. Nothing is Inner, nothing is Outer; nothing is Great, nothing is Small; nothing is High, nothing is Low, in the Divine Economy. “

By Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891).

235 Pages | First edition, 8th reprint 2013 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170590064.

The Stanzas of Dzyan are the skeleton as it were, around and attached to which the massive body of H.P. Blavatsky’s great work The Secret Doctrine, is built up. The Book of Dzyan – from the Sanskrit dhyāna (mystic meditation) – is the first Volume of the Commentaries [in fourteen volumes] upon the seven secret folios of Kiu-ti, and a glossary of the public works of the same name. Thirty-five volumes of ‘Kiu-ti’ for exoteric purposes and the use of the laymen may be found in the possession of the Tibetan Gelugpa lamas, in the library of any monastery. Yet not in the possession of European libraries being highly unknown to our philologists.

From page 231:

” The present is the child of the past; the future the begotten of the present; and yet, o present moment! Knowest Thou not that Thou hast no parent! Nor canst Thou have a child; that Thou art ever begetting but Thyself? Before Thou has ever began to say ‘I am the progeny of the departed moment, the child of the past, Thou has become that past itself. Before Thou utterest the last syllable, behold! Thou art no more the present but verily that future. Thus are the past, the present, and the future, the ever-living trinity in ONE – The great illusion of the Absolute is . . . “

By Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891).

212 Pages | First edition 1889, 30th reprint 2005, Adyar Mini | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170591163.

This Gem of Eastern Wisdom, first published in 1889, is a translation and commentary by H.P. Blavatsky. Blavatsky of a manuscript known as the Book of the Golden Precepts. It is one of three philosophical classics , which are invaluable to aspirants on the spiritual Path, the other two being At the Feet of the Master and Light on the Path. It contains profound teachings expressed in poetical language with beautiful imagery. It has run into many editions and has been translated into several languages.

From page 9 & 10:

” 22. Three Halls, O weary Pilgrim lead to the end of toils. Three Halls, O conqueror of Māyā, will bring thee through three states into the fourth and thence into the seven worlds, the worlds of Rest Eternal.

23. If thou wouldst learn their names, then hearken, and remember.

24. The name of the first Hall is Ignorance – Avidyā

25. It is the Hall in which thou saw’st the light, in which thou livest and shalt die.

26. The name of the Hall the second is the Hall of Learning. In it thy Soul will find the blossoms of life, but under every flower a serpent coiled.

27. The name of the third Hall is Wisdom, beyond which stretch the shoreless waters of Akshara, the indestructible fount of omniscience. “

Door Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891), vertaald door Helma Kool.

52 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1952, derde druk 1973 | Brochure | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9789061750048.

Engels origineel: First Steps in Occultism, later published as Practical Occultism | Published in 1952, second edition 2011 | Softcover | ISBN: 9788170595595.

‘ Deze artikelen zijn van zo grote waarde, voor allen die zich wensen voor te bereiden voor het Leerlingschap, dat ik ze gaarne uit Lucifer liet overdrukken, ten einde ze binnen het bereik van alle bestudeerders te brengen. ‘ – Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

Er zijn velen, die praktisch onderricht wensen in het occultisme. Derhalve wordt het noodzakelijk eens voor al vast te stellen:

A) Het inwezenlijke verschil tussen theoretisch en praktisch occultisme; of wat in het algemeen bekend is als Theosofie enerzijds en Occulte Wetenschap anderzijds.

B) De aard der moeilijkheden, welke de studie van de laatstgenoemde met zich brengt.

Het is gemakkelijk een Theosoof te worden. Elk mens van gemiddelde verstandelijke vermogens, en met een neiging tot het bovenzinnelijke; ieder, die rein en onzelfzuchtig leeft en meer vreugde vindt in het helpen van zijn of haar naaste dan in het zelf hulp ontvangen; iemand, die steeds klaar staat zijn of haar eigen genoegens ter wille van andere mensen op te offeren, en die Waarheid, Goedheid en Wijsheid om huns zelfs wil lief heeft, niet om de voordelen die zij kunnen schenken – is een Theosoof.

Afkomstig van blz. 23:

” De sleutel in elke graad is de aspirant zelf. Het is niet de vreze des Heren die het begin van Wijsheid is, maar de kennis van het Zelf, welke is de Wijsheid Zelve. 

Hoe groots en hoe waar blijkt dan voor de bestudeerder van het occultisme, die enige der voorgaande waarheden is gaan beseffen, het antwoord dat het orakel van Delphi gaf aan allen, die occulte wijsheid kwamen zoeken – de woorden, die telkens weer met nadruk worden herhaald door de wijze Socrates – ‘ MENS, KEN UZELF! ‘ “

Paperback

door Mary-Rose Birfelder

Het eiland, de jongen en de reis

Breda Uitgeverij De Ster | ISBN 9065562826 | Prijs € 1,95

In het allegorische verhaal ‘Het eiland, de jingen en de reis’ schetst Mary-Rose Birfelder op eenvoudige doch treffende wijze de overgang van de mythische naar de denkende mens. Het laat zien hoe door zelfstandig denken verkregen inzichten en ervaringen botsen met een patroon van normen, waarden en vooroordeel, gebaseerd op een mythische voorstelling van zaken. Het verhaal houdt ons een spigel voor: herkennen wij onszelf of anderen in de jongen óf zijn omgeving? Een verhaal dat tot nadenken stemt . . .

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

44 Pages | First edition 1963, second edition 2005 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594685.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 37:

” Zarathustra gave the words of power that could call down the fire down from above, and century after century, the fire that blazed on the Zoroastrian altar in the fire-temple was no mere mingling of material flames. The sacred fire was called down from fiery ākāśa; at the word of the priest, it fell upon the altar, and blazed there as the living symbol of God. When the lower priesthood had to act (when the higher one was not available), they were given the rod, in which the living flame or fire was ever flashing, and, as when they touched the altar fuel with it, the heavenly fire blazed forth. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

29 Pages | 6th Reprint | Pamphlet | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8179593492.

Every great religion has two parts, an inner and an outer, a spirit and a body, the ‘knowledge of God’, which is ‘Eternal Life’ and its dogmas, rites and ceremonies. The inner part, ’the wisdom of God in a mystery’, spoken of by St. Paul as known to ’the perfect’, is that which has, since the third century, been known in the West as Theosophy: in the East as Brahmā-vidyā, God-Wisdom, God-Knowledge or God-Science. Such Theosophy, or mysticism, the direct knowledge of God by man, belongs equally to all the great religions as their sustaining life. And it may be possessed by any individual, even outside any religious organization.

NB: This pamphlet was previously printed under the title of Theosophy and The Theosophical Society (1931, 1952 & 1985) as an excerpt from a larger work of that title by Annie Besant. The title has been changed to avoid confusion between the two works.

Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

49 pages | 2005 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar

” Annie Besant s words strike at the very heart of the human problem : the need to realize and to live in accordance with the realization that all life is ONE. “

These two lectures, delivered at the Chicago World Parliament of Religions 1893 by Annie Besant, are printed here with brief, historical comments by Joy Mills in a Preface, where she says : ‘In these, we may find both practical suggestions for a mode of living consonant with Theosophical ideals and inspiration to act in such a manner as may bring about that global Transformation which signals the dawning of the “Brotherhood” enunciated in the First Object of the Theosophical Society.‘

Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

138 Pages |; 2nd edition 2016| Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170591542.

(Also Published in 1988 by Quest, Wheaton).

(A twenty-first century adaptation of Annie Besant’s classic work Thought Power was issued in 2001 by John Algeo and Shirley J. Nicholson and published by Quest).

At the world level, we assess our ability, strength, or power before embarking upon a new venture. At the higher level, the value of knowledge is tested by its power to purify and ennoble one’s life, and by its application to the evolution of one’s character. This book helps to understand better one’s intellectual nature in order to cultivate the good in it, and allow the One Self to be the Knower. The oneness of the Self is not easy to comprehend, but the author asserts that ‘those, who would fulfil the maxim ‘Know thyself’ must not shrink from a little mental exertion, nor must expect mental food to drop ready-cooked from the sky into a lazily-opened mouth’.

Subjects discussed are:

• Training the mind
• Improving concentration
• Strengthening thought power
• Meditation
• Improving memory
• Thought transference
• Building the mental body
• Combining thoughts with others
• Achieving peace of mind.

From Chapter VIII – ‘Obstacles to Concentration; Wandering Minds’ (p. 104):

” The concentrated intelligence, the power of withdrawing outside the turmoil, mean immensely increased energy in work, mean steadiness, self-control, serenity; the man of meditation is the man, who wastes no time, scatters no energy, misses no opportunity. Such a man governs the events, because within him is the power whereof events are only the outer expression; he shares the divine life, and therefore shares divine power. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

51 Pages | First edition, 9th reprint 2014 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN:

What is the Theosophic life? It is to live wisely. A distinguished and wise Theosophist tells us how to live wisely by understanding the principles of reïncarnation, karma and social service.

From p. 43:

” To live the life of service clears the mental atmosphere of the distorting fogs of prejudice, passion, temperament. Service alone makes the eye single, so that the whole body is full of light, and only those who serve are those who truly live… “

52 pages | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 2008

What is the Theosophic Life? It is to live wisely. A distinguished and wise Theosophist tells us how to live wisely by understanding the principles of Reincarnation, Karma and Service.

An Adyar book, imported from India.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

111 Pages | First Adyar Edition, 12th reprint 2015 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170590972.

This book is the first in a series of manuals intended to meet the need for a simple exposition of Theosophy. It describes in clear terms the seven aspects of man’s nature based on theosophical precepts. Its aim is to lead the casual enquirer to a deeper study of the philosophy, science and religion of Theosophy and ultimately to a realization of the central objective of the Society, the Brotherhood of man and the possibility of spiritual growth.

From page 2:

” Man, according to the Theosophical teachings, is a sevenfold being, or, in the usual phrase, has a septenary constitution. Putting it in another way, man’s nature has seven aspects, may be studied from seven different points of view, is composed of seven principles. The clearest and best way of all in which to think of man is to regard him as one, the Spirit or true Self; this belongs to the highest region of the universe, and is universal, the same for all: it is a ray of God, a spark from the divine fire. This is to become an individual, reflecting the divine perfection, a son that grows into the likeness of his father. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

59 Pages | First edition 1911, 9th reprint 1984 | Softcover, incl. illustrations | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 0835671089.

The Chapters appeared in serial form in The Theosophist, under the heading ‘Elementary Theosophy’. They are published in this small volume in answer to the great demand for clear statements of the answers, which Theosophy gives to the Riddle of Life. The illustrations are reproduced on a smaller scale from Man, Visible and Invisible, by Charles Webster Leadbeater (1854-1934).

From Chapter: ‘The Elder Brothers’ (p. 58/59).

” The Supreme Teacher is the ever-living Presence who over-shadows and inspire the world faiths, who founds them, as they are needed for human guidance, and who, through His Helpers among the ranks of Adepts, guides each religion so far as is permitted by the stubbornness and ignorance of men. Every great spiritual wave flows from this department of the White Brotherhood, and irrigates our earth with the water of life . . . “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

153 Pages | 14th Reprint, 2015 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170591236.

In these four lectures, Annie Besant traces the Path of Discipleship through perceptible and subtle milestones. The experience that is gained by action done for self-gratification could be elevated in to a dutiful performance of rites and ceremonies for the settlement of karmic clearance, which in turn could ascend into a joyful and sacred dedication, that accomplishes union with Godhead.

Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

300 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 1998

Sanatana Dharma is the Eternal Wisdom or Order. Through millennia, India’s culture was moulded by it. Its principles have a timeless relevance to humanity in general. In this work, Annie Besant and Bhagavan Das have drawn the principles of Sanatana Dharma from the vast, nebulous, scattered sources, and have presented them in an integrated, abridged form for students below the college level.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

95 Pages | First edition 1892, twelfth reprint 1999 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592348.

From the Preface:

” Few words are needed in sending this little book out into the world. It is a Manual designed to meet the public demand for a simple exposition of Theosophical teachings. Some have complained that our literature is at once too abstruse, too technical, and too expensive for the ordinary reader, and it is our hope that the present series may succeed in supplying what is a very real want. Theosophy is not only for the learned; it is for all. Perhaps among those who in these little books catch their first glimpse of its teachings, there may be a few who will be led by them to penetrate more deeply into its philosophy, its science, and its religion, facing its abstruser problems with the student’s zeal and the neophyte’s ardour.

But these Manuals are not written for the eager student, whom no initial difficulties can daunt; they are written for the busy men and women of the work-a-day world, and seek to make plain some of the great Truths that render life easier to bear and death easier to face. Written by servants of the Masters who are Elder Brothers of our race, they can have no other object than to serve our fellow-men. “

Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

188 Pages | First edition 1915, second edition 2005 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594774.

This book is constituted of the lectures Annie Besant gave to students, highlighting the noble ideals and virtues embodied in the story of Rāma, the ideal king, as related by the Sage Vālmiki. It is a companion volume to another series of lectures published under the title Mahābhārata: The Story of the Great War. Dr. Besant’s deep understanding of ancient Indian culture and thought and her magnificent language will assist young Indians, and some older people also, to go back to their roots and enrich the present with the great values of the past.

From Chapter II – Youth and Marriage (p. 20):

” KING DAŚARATHA, it is written, ‘dwelt in Ayodhyā happily, expecting sons’, and the whole world was waiting with him, for Vishnu was coming in human form to this earth. All-pervading, all-supporting, He was to fill with his life these coming children, that they might manifest him in the world for the world’s helping. “

93 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 1995

This booklet stresses the qualities which will help young people to contribute to society. It was inspired by the life of Dr Annie Besant who was an example of the perfect citizen. It is composed of selections from her talks and writings introduced by brief biographical notes. It is hoped that they will be as inspiring to readers as they were to the compiler.

Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

36 Pages | First edition, first reprint 2005 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592232.

A clear exposition is given here of the nature of occultism by one, who was herself a distinguished occultist. Occultism is not the pratice of magic and the occult arts, which in fact is pseudo-occultism. It is at best a waste of time, at worst an obstacle to spiritual progress. Neither is Occultism an intellectual view of spiritual reality, and the path to it. This is semi-occultism. The divisible tendencies of the intellect must be transcended to realize the ‘One Reality’. However, semi-0ccultism can be a stepping stone to the truth. True Occultism is the study of the Divine Mind working in the universe. It calls for perception beyond forms into the inner Reality and involves conquest of the selfish urges and development of the spiritual nature.

From Page 35:

” As the very life of God in manifestation is a life, that gives everything and asks nothing back, so those who would reach unity with Him and realize what the spiritual life means, must learn to give and not to take, to help and not to hold, to pour out without seeking or looking for return. Only as we learn that do we become fit candidates for the higher knowledge, only as the heart is thus rendered absolutely pure may we dare to face the presence of the Master, hoping thar when ‘He looks at the heart He may find no stain therein. “

By Annie Besant 253 pages | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 2008 ISBN 9788170595571

Compiled by E. G. Cooper

A quotation a day to meditate upon! This charming little book contains thematic selections — a theme for every month — from the voluminous writings of Annie Besant.

166 Pages | Second edition, 2nd reprint, 2015 | Hard cover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar

This book attempts a simple exposition of Theosophical Teachings. It is a manual, which seeks to make plain some of the great Truths, that render life easier to bear and death easier to face. The first step, it is said, is to realize that we are not our body. We have bodies.

Once the distinction between the self (the human being) and our bodies is accepted, the study of the various bodies proceeds smoothly. The study concludes that the bodies are our instruments, our servants, adapting to our various needs and growing powers. Ultimately, we go beyond our bodies and realize our ´true Self´, in ourselves as also in others.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

67 Pages | First edition, ninth reprint 2012 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN:

In three inspiring and illuminating lectures, Annie Besant reveals the ‘Reign of Law’ in the Universe and the need for man to understand and act according to that Law for his material, moral and spiritual progress. Man can realize his/her true nature as the Higher Consciousness only in proportion as he ’tranquillizes the senses and retrains the mind‘. He or she advances towards that realization in proportion as he obeys ‘Dharma’, the Law of Duty, by setting himself definitely and resolutely to the fulfilment of all his/her obligations. Ultimately, Dharma lifts man up by leading a life of daily dedication to ‘Self’ realise himself/herself and supporting herewith the liberation of all sentient beings.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

9 Pages |Reprint, 1961 | Booklet | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | No ISBN.

 ” In the early days of Christianity, ere the mass of te unlearned had crushed out the Gnostic minority; ere the loss of the teaching of Reïncarnation had attached the everlasting fate of man to his conduct during a few brief years on earth; in those early days the word SALVATION had a grandiose meaning. It meant that the man who was saved possessed the knowledge of God which is Eternal Life; it meant that he had overcome death and achieved immortality; it meant that he had become a pillar in the Temple of God, to go out in reïncarnation no more […] “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933)

82 pages | Second edition 2016 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170595908.

In response to public demand for a simple exposition of theosophical teachings, Annie Besant designed a set of seven Theosophical Manuals, and Karma is the fourth in that series. These were written for the busy men and women of the workday world, rather than the undaunted eager student, and seek to make plain and lucid some of the eternal truths, that render life easier to bear and death easier to face.

According to Master KH:

” Every thought of man upon being evolved . . . becomes . . . an active Intelligence for a longer or shorter periode proportionate with the original intensity of the cerebral action which generated it . . . Man is continually peopling his current in space with a world of his own . . . a current which reacts upon any sensitive or nervous organization, which comes in contact with it, in proportion to its dynamic intensity . . . [This is given] the name of ‘Karma’. The Adept evolves these shapes consciously; other men throw them off unconsciously. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

42 Pages | First edition 1966, second edition 2005 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594669.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 36/37:

” We have seen that religion must have its mystic side and this is true of Islam. Ali, again, was the beginner, and the followers of Ali the transmitters. In the year following the flight from Mecca, forty-five poor men bound themselves together to God and his Prophet, to live as a community, and to observe ascetic practices. This was the seed of Sufism, the mystic side of Islam. They teach that ´all is from God´. They teach that there is naught save God and that the universe is but a mirror of Him. They teach that there is one perfect beauty and that all that is beautiful is only a ray from Him. They teach there is only one love, the love of God, and all other loves are true if they come from that. They teach that He alone is true Being and that all else is non-being; and that man who is himself can by illumination rise from non-being to Being and return whence he came. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170595755.

This Theosophical Manual by Annie Besant helps us face death more easily. Death and dying are the greatest human fears. Clearly and simply, Dr Besant explains that although the body perishes at death, Life survives. We are each a spark of the Divine life that survives the dissolution of the gross body. Life is a conscious existence unbroken by death, and the soul that escapes from earthly life is but a means to spiritualize the material before we pass on to the life after death.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

57 Pages | First edition 1941, reprinted 1953, 1962, 1983 & 1995 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 817059264X.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 55:

” My appeal to Christians, as to men of other religions, would be an appeal for unity, for the breaking down of divisions; why should they not come on a common platform with all the rest of the great religion of the world? Why should not this young religion, with only ninenteen centuries of life behind it, come and join with Buddhism with its two thousand five hundred years of existence; with Zoroastrianism and with Hinduism, with their ten thousands and twenty thousands of years rolling backward into the past? Can they not see how they blaspheme God, when they declare that he has kept Himself for only one religion amongst all religions, and that well night the youngest of all? “

62 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 2002

First Paragraph:
I AM to speak this evening on Islam in the light of Theosophy. Let me begin by saying a word or two as to the relation of that which is called “Theosophy” to the great religions of the world. As you can at once see by the name, if we translate it into English, it means simply “Divine Wisdom”.

By that name is indicated THE WISDOM in its relation to all the religions of the world. Every religion in its turn has grown up from the great Root of the Divine Wisdom.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

137 Pages | Reprinted in 2002 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170593654.

Through immensely long ages or kalpā-s, climbing steadily the ladder of evolution, the ‘Liberated Ones’ merge with eternal life. Within them burns the flame of Love for all that exists. It is they who, from time to time, descend into manifested forms (avatāra-s) to accelerate the course of evolution. So says Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), who had a profound knowledge of Hindu religious philosophy and tradition, while answering the question: what is an avatāra? in a series of four lectures delivered in 1899.

Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

By Laurence J. Bendit and Phoebe D. Bendit.

124 Pages | 1977, third Quest printing 1989 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835604896.

A clairvoyant and a psychiatrist pool their talents in a study of the human health aura! No other work can speak to this subject with such confidence. Imagine:

1. Taking one of the most respected clairvoyants in the world.
2. A psychiatrist recognized for his fine contributions to his field.
3. Having the clairvoyant study the aura of a human subject using her unusual talents.
4. Having the psychiatrist study the psyche of the same subject.
5. Then finally integrating their observations to arrive at new and startling conclusions concerning the subtle (physically invisible) human bodies. It has never been done before. It may never be done again.

From page 20:

” A particular feature of the aura, which stands out to the vision of every competent clairvoyant is a series of quickly moving vortices of energy situated at certain points of the body. These were known of old, and are often found represented in ancient diagrams, whether of East or West, on statues or carvings, and so on. Sometimes – as in the halo of Christian saints, or in the caste-marks of Hindus – a particular one of these centers is emphasized and the rest left out. But in any case they appear pretty constant both in ancient traditions and in the perceptions of modern sensitives. Moreover, it is not by any means essential to be able to see to realize their existence, and many people become aware of them through their hands when examining a person with an extra-sensory touch. “

Compiled by Katherine A. Beechey

175 Pages |1949, Second edition, fourth reprint 2015 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN 9788170591443

The Wisdom contained in the published letters of the Masters, is not merely for those to whom they were addressed but also for all those seeking to tread the Path of Holiness along the line of Devotion.

Glimpses of that Wisdom can be had through the extracts incorporated by the author into Daily Meditations. She has selected passages suitable to be meditated upon – one each for every day of the year. They are arranged as twelve virtues, with one quality assigned for each month, namely: Unselfishness, Compassion, Truth, Devotion, Purity, Sympathy, Courage, Intuition, Tolerance, Self-reliance, Equilibrium and Perseverance.

From page 43:

DEVOTION

” Relative to the population of the world

you may be few in numbers,

but spiritual strength and power depend

not upon numbers.

Rather do they depend upon burning sincerity. “

By Sir Edwin Lester Arnold (1832 – 1904).

154 Pages | First edition 1970, Quest Miniature Series 1975 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835604187.

The incomparable religious classic of India . . .

In exquisite poetic allegory, Sir Edwin Lester Arnold translates the revered and sacred story of Arjuna and Krishna, representing the eternal struggle between the personality and the Immortal Self.

” Take my last word. My utmost meaning have! Precious thou art to Me; right well-be-loved! Listen! I tell thee for thy comfort this. Give Me thy heart! Adore Me! Serve Me! Cling in faith and love and reverence to Me! So shalt thou come to Me! I promise true, For thou art sweet to Me! “

By Sir Edwin Lester Arnold (1832 – 1904).

154 Pages | First edition 1970 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 0835672301.

The incomparable religious classic of India . . .

In exquisite poetic allegory, Sir Edwin Lester Arnold translates the revered and sacred story of Arjuna and Krishna, representing the eternal struggle between the personality and the Immortal Self.

” Take my last word. My utmost meaning have! Precious thou art to Me; right well-be-loved! Listen! I tell thee for thy comfort this. Give Me thy heart! Adore Me! Serve Me! Cling in faith and love and reverence to Me! So shalt thou come to Me! I promise true, For thou art sweet to Me! “

By two anonymous students.

76 Pages | Copyright 1978 | Paperback | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835602265.

In this small book have been collected together articles authored by two outstanding students of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky’s (1831 – 1891) The Secret Doctrine. What makes this collection so unique is that the two authors were contemporaries of Blavatsky, and consequently, their writing reflects the atmosphere, captures the flavor of, the occult community of the late nineteenth century. All who admire  and respect the magnitude of H.P.B.’s philosophy, particularly as expressed in The Secret Doctrine, will find much in this book to enchance their study of the nature of creation and of man.

From Chapter I, ‘Theosophical Gleanings’ or ‘Notes On The Secret Doctrine, Lucifer, Vol. VI, No. 31. London, March 15th, 1890:

” We are literally what our signature says: Two Students, nothing more pretentious. If we are also what has been called ‘communicative learners’, it is because we feel that what have been difficulties to us are probably difficulties to others, and that fellow-students can sometimes lend each other a helping hand over a rough piece of road. In reading ‘The Secret Doctrine’, the student is apt to be confused, even dazed, by the range of erudition, the wealth of illustrations, the abundance of digressions, the number of literary allusions. Devas and Daimons, Dhyani, Buddhas and Kumaras, Yugas and cycles, satyrs and fakirs, alchemists and adept, Manus and Monads, whirl around him in dazzling phantasmagoria, and he rises from hours of effort, his only distinct acquirement a headache.

We have found the most fruitful system of study is to fix on some one thing, to follow it, through all its windings with dogged persistency, steadily hunting it down through the two volumes, disregarding all alluring byways and seductive glades, until there lies before us that one thing in its completeness, with every touch given to it from beginning to end, clear definite, comprehensible. It may be remembered that there was one Proteus who could give the most interesting information, if only you could keep grip on him through all his transformations, until he reassumed his proper shape and became conversable. So, in following the Protean shapes in ‘The Secret Doctrine’, if you can only ‘hang on’ to the end, your reward is true. “

56 blz. | Brochure | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland , 1975

INHOUD:
Diagram of Meditation, door H. P. Blavatsky
Meditatie-Diagram, door H. P. Blavatsky
Meditatie over Tau, door Koeng Foe
Toelichting op het Meditatie-Diagram
Een Meditatie van J. Krishnamurti
Ontspanningsoefeningen, door Ronald Engelse
De Kunst van het Mediteren, door Felix Layton
Ervaring en Meditatie, door Vimala Thakar
Tau is een leeg vat
De Betekenis van Meditatie in het Boeddhisme, door Lama Anagarika Govinda
Het Gras Wordt Groener, door Thich Nhat Hanh
Meditatie, door Chogyam Trungpa
Een Basis voor een Westerse Meditatie-Traditie, door J.H. Dubbink
Tibetaans Boeddhisme
De Yoga-Sutras van Patanjali
Krishnamurti over Meditatie

By Mary Anderson.

28 Pages | First Edition 2006 | Softcover| Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594871.

Theosophy aims to grasp the Wisdom underlying all religions when they are stripped of accretions and superstitions. It offers a philosophy, which renders life intelligible and demonstrates that justice and love guide the cosmos. Its teachings contribute to the unfolding of the latest spiritual nature in the human being, without dependence or fear.

Mary Anderson is the International Secretary for the Theosophical Society. She has lectured widely for the Society in several languages.

From page 5:

” The root of universal brotherhood lies in the origin of humanity, indeed of all the kingdoms of Nature. All beings, even all things that can exist, have one single origin, just as brothers and sisters in a family have the same parents. Love is something that draws us together, that draws us back to the Oneness from which we came and for which we yearn, whether we realize it or not. “

27 p. | 1998 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar

Living Theosophy: 1998 Besant Lecture (pamphlet). John Algeo, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus at the University of Georgia, was Alumni Foundation distinguished Professor of English until his retirement to accept the presidency of the Theosophical Society in America from 1993 – 2002.

Door J. Krishnamurti

85 Pagina’s | Third Reprint 2023 | Softcover | Uitgeverij Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN 8170596033

In dit ogenschijnlijk eenvoudige boek waarvan de leringen duizenden harten hebben geraakt, ligt de uitdaging in het leven van die leringen, dus de noodzaak om acht te slaan op elk woord. Het boek is een van de drie theosofische klassiekers die van onschatbare waarde zijn voor aspiranten op het spirituele pad, de andere twee zijn The Voice of the Silence en Light on the Path.