119 pages | Paperback | Quest Books, 1988

This Quest Miniature presents a lively selection of Thoreau’s writings, topically arranged.

Popular quotes:

Page 1 – I should not talk so much about myself if there were anybody else whom I knew as well.‎

Page 5 – If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.‎

Page 7 – I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.‎

By anonymous authors. Authorities quoted amongst others: Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891), Charles Webster Leadbeater (1854 – 1934), Alice Bailey (1880 – 1949), Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983) and Alfred Trevor Barker (1893 – 1941).

27 Pages | Second edition, 7th reprint 2011 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592186.

Prayers offered at International Conventions and Other Important Functions of the Theosophical Society.

From page 27:

” O Hidden Life! vibrant in every atom,

O Hidden Light! shining in every creature,

O Hidden Love! embracing all in Oneness,

May each who feels himself as one with Thee,

Know he is also one with every other. ”

– Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

By anonymous authors.

95 Pages | Published in 1958, First Quest Book revised edition 1968, third Quest printing 1981 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835601145.

In the last few decades, medicine has made vast strides, although there is still much to be learned about the basic problems of disease. At the same time, public interest in spiritual healing and unorthodox methods has greatly increased, often without critical or intelligent study of their results. Yet the most careful scientific scrutiny shows that in a small number of case quasi-miraculous cures do indeed occur.

In this book, the writers attempt to discuss the conditions, which allow exceptional cures to take place or which seem to prevent them. The fundamental question is: ‘What heals’? This raises further questions: Why does healing not always take place when all the apparently obvious conditions are there for it to do so? Moreover, why is it that sometimes a quite fantastic method will succeed when proved and tried medical treatment has failed?

The group, which produced this small book consists of qualified medical practitioners and psychotherapists, together with others who have had long experience with unorthodox methods of diagnosis and treatment. While acknowledging all that can be and has been done by medical science and psychotherapy to alleviate suffering, the conclusions arrived and emphasise the interior sources of healing that exist deep within each individual.

From Appendix A – ‘Karma and Health’ (p. 87):

” Thus in the case of illness – and for that matter in happy experiences also – the individual, who accepts the idea of karma can ask himself: ‘What am I doing to deserve this? And if he is in pain, ‘What is there in me that perpetuates this misery? In what way is my attitude towards it, or towards life itself, in error?’ And if this leads him to learn the lesson he has to learn, he may find himself quickly and unaccountably free of that situation. “

Paperback | Quest Books

By William Thomas Stead (1849 – 1912).

100 Pages | First edition 1946, first reprint 1993 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592440.

Well-known humanist and journalist W.T. Stead writes of Annie Besant (1847 – 1933): ‘there are few living women, who have in them more of some elements of the Christian saint, than this fiery assailant of the Christian creed.’ He traces the various phases of her search for truth as also the challenges she faces.

From the Foreword by C. Jinarājadāsa (1875 – 1953) (p. viii):

” At last, sitting alone in deep thought as I (Annie Besant) had become accustomed to do after the sun had set, filled with an intense but nearly hopeless longing to solve the riddle of life and mind, I heard a Voice, that was later to become to me the holiest sound on earth, bidding me take courage for the light was near. A fortnight passed, and then Mr. Stead gave into my hands two volumes. ‘Can you review these? My young men all fight shy of them, but you are quite mad enough on these subjects to make something out of them.’ I took the books; they were the two volumes of The Secret Doctrine written by H.P. Blavatsky.   .   .   . I wrote the review, and asked Mr. Stead for an introduction to the writer, and then sent a note asking to be allowed to call. I received the most cordial of notes, bidding me to come (pp340 – 1). “

262 pages | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 1989

Mr. N. Sri Ram, the author of this book, was International President of The Theosophical Society for 20 years over the period 1953-73. He brings to his writings a background of eastern wisdom combined with keen awareness of modern thought and knowledge, as well as a sensitive understanding of human problems. His special felicity of style enables him to convey profound ideas in a lucid and absorbing manner.

Door N. Śrī Ram.

108 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1970; dit boek maakt deel uit van de Lotusreeks II | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750246.

Engels origineel: Life Deeper Aspects | Eerste editie 1968 | The Theosophical Publishing House | ISBN: 9780835671729.

Śrī Ram geeft een serie toespraken over uiteenlopende kwesties: leven, dood en onsterfelijkheid, de werking van het denkvermogen, de mens als een bewustzijnsverschijnsel, slaap en dood als tweelingbroers, vernieuwing van binnenuit, ontwaken tot het besef van ‘waarheid’, het ware, het goede en het schone en de betekenis van het ‘Nu’.

Elke gehechtheid betekent een belemmering voor onze ontwikkeling. Door onze verlangens bouwen wij een muur om het bewustzijn en sluiten het hiermee als het ware op in een gevangenis, waarin we een bekrompen en nauw bestaan leiden. Ook het denken blijft hierdoor gevangen binnen deze zelf gecreëerde muren. Pas wanneer het lukt om gehechtheden aan deze toestand los te laten, lossen de muren en betreden we een grotere ruimte van bewustzijn vol nieuwe mogelijkheden.

Afkomstig van blz. 107:

” Wanneer het bewustzijn weer tot zijn oorspronkelijke staat is teruggekeerd en volkomen wakker is, zal alles waarmee het in aanraking komt het zijn diepste zin onthullen. Ieder gebeuren wordt dan een sleutel, die een poort in het bewustzijn opent en een aspect van het Mysterie openbaart. Dan straalt elk moment met een eigen glorie van uniekheid en schoonheid. Alles, wat in die toestand ervaren of beleefd wordt, is nieuw, want het is de nieuwheid van het bewustzijn zelf. “

By Nilakanta Sri Ram (1889 – 1973).

28 Pages | First edition 2002 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170593921.

In this lecture,, known for his deep understanding of philosophical questions, explores how consciousness loses its sensitivity and gets obscured, but has the potency of awakening into the full light of wisdom. He says: ‘We do not notice the beauty of a cloud or the movement of a leaf or bird and many other things. An artist is needed to paint a picture and point out the beauty‘.

How can we achieve union with the living beings around us, and even to a slight extent be open to the truth and beauty, which are inherent and omnipresent in life? This book offers insights into how the quality of our consciousness can be transformed so that it is constantly renewed, remaining open to the truth of life as it reveals itself.

By Wallace Slater.

65 Pages | First edition 1966, 2nd and revised edition 1977 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835601382.

NB: This is the older 1977 edition, the most recent 1994 edition can be purchased in our Webshop here.

Yoga is a process by which the Laws of Nature are intelligently an deliberately applied to daily life in order to realize in full self-consciousness, one’s identity with the Supreme. There have been many books published on yoga and more recently a fair number has appeared on Hatha Yoga. This Simplified Course was prompted by requests for an ordered course of training in the form of lessons, which could be spread over a period of 20 to 40 weeks. It was also required, that the exercises should be critically selected to include only those, which could be readily used by people in the Western modern world without risk and without the need for personal instruction. Lastly, the course was required by  busy people, who could only spare a short time each day for its practice.

From LESSON 1 (p. 8):

D. Meditation

” Think selectively. Choose what you are going to think about, then think seriously about it. This is not just an early morning exercise, this is for the whole day. Try to make all thinking during the day more definite and clear. In particular, think optimistically. “

Door Henryk Skolimowski (1930 – 2018).

140 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1985 | Softcover | Uitgeverij Markant, Nijmegen | ISBN: 9067720011.

Engels origineel: Eco-philosophy | Uitgegeven in 1981 | Boyars Boston / London.

In zijn werk Ecofilosofie – Schets van een Nieuwe Manier van Leven, een krachtig pleidooi voor een geheel nieuw filosofisch uitgangspunt, legt Henryk Skolimowski (hoogleraar filosofie aan de Universiteit van Michigan) een direct verband tussen onze Westerse filosofische traditie en het hedendaagse ecologische besef. Ecofilosofie wil de aanzet geven tot een praktische heroriëntatie op onze samenleving – mens én milieu – teneinde fundamentele veranderingen in ons denken en handelen te bewerkstelligen. Een boeiende en vooral inspirerende uitdaging.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 2 – ‘Ecofilosofie tegenover Moderne Filosofie’ (p. 37 & 38):

” Wat is ecofilosofie? In hoeverre verschilt zij van wat wij moderne filosofie hebben genoemd? Ik onderscheid twaalf karakteristieken, die ik zal vergelijken met de twaalf corresponderende kenmerken van de hedendaagse filosofie. Om het contrast te verhogen zal ik beginnen met twee diagrammen, die beide hierna in detail zullen worden besproken:

Diagram 1 – Karakteristieken van de ecofilosofie:

1. Op het leven georiënteerd, 2. Betrokken, geëngageerd, 3. Spiritueel levend, 4. Allesomvattend, universeel, 5. Strevend naar wijsheid, 6. Milieubewust, ecologisch, 7. Verbonden met de economie van de kwaliteit van het bestaan, 8. Politiek bewust, 9. Sociaal geëngageerd, 10. Met nadruk op individuele verantwoordelijkheid, 11. Tolerant ten opzichte van transfysische verschijnselen, 12. Gezondheidsbewust. “

By Ramjivan Sinha.

39 Pages | First edition 1970, first reprint 1993 | Booklet | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592267.

We learn from the study of Theosophy, the Ancient Wisdom, that while man is alive, his inner principles, namely Spirit, Intuition, Intellect, lower Manas and Kama, all are mixed together; that at our best moments we get some rays of Light or inspiration from the higher principles and we produce a beautiful work of art. And that there are moments when we fall back from such heights and are prone to karmic influences, which lead to contradictions in life. Very often, therefore, we find instances of self-indulgence, moral laxity or looseness, physical imbalance, loneliness or depression in the lives of artists. We are trying to discover ways of total creative living, in which there is no such contradiction, in which the life-stream flows freely and smoothly, in all its loveliness and beauty all the time . . .

From page 39:

” It has been said (above), that the constant openness of one’s being is an essential pre-requisite for discovery. To this may be added an attitude of constant helpfulness. As the plants and trees are pouring themselves out all the time for the joy of all around, so also the individual must learn to give, to serve and to sacrifice with joy. ‘What is the best that I can give or contribute? What way can I serve best’? Such questions the individual should, off and on, put to him or herself, in quiet moments and in solitude. The deep within will probably give the answer, and if one is open and alert, one will listen and discover one’s true vocation. “

By Baijnath Singh.

97 Pages | First edition 1908, revised edition 1987 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170590450.

A teacher is in reality the inner being by the side of God, in the region of Truth, clothed in Divine Mercy and Glory . . . Perfect discipleship consists in perfect Love for the beauty of the teacher’s Godly strength. O brother and sister, know for certain that this work has been before thee and me, and that each man and woman has already reached a certain stage! No one has begun this Work for the first time . . .

From page 82:

THE HEART

” There is a treasure buried in the heart of the knower, It is LOVE. A single jewel out of it is worth a thousand heavens. The guardian of heaven is an Angel named Rizwân, whereas the guardian of the treasure of LOVE is God. Know that thy merit is assured by what thou seekest. If thou worshippest to obtain heaven or avoid hell, thou worshippest thy own desires. If thou seekest or fearest an object, thou are the worshipper of that object. Thy real value depends on what is in thy heart. If thou heart is attached to God, thou art a divine man or woman. “

By Emily B. Sellon.

108 Pages | First Edition 1996 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835607526.

This volume has been edited from a transcription of the Pumpkin Hollow tapes kindly made by Ann M. and Douglas L. Clemens. In it is offered as a concise statement of Emily’s philosophy and of the metaphysical foundation of Theosophy. Emily was herself president of the New York Lodge during 1950 – 1954 and 1964 – 1968.

From Chapter 1 – ‘Metaphysics and Machinery’ (p. 1):

” What we are going to talk about is essentially metaphysics. In Theosophical studies there are really two approaches. One is metaphysics or the ‘grand principles’ and the other is what I call ‘machinery’. That may seem like a derogatory or pejorative term, but nevertheless that is what it really is. Studies of reïncarnation and karma, or of the cycles and rounds and races and that kind of thing, are really studies of the machinery, that is, the consequences of the working out of metaphysical principles. ”  

By Śrī Śaṃkara-Bhagavatpāda with transliteration, English translation, commentary, diagrams and an appendix on Prayoga by Pandit S. Subrahmany Sastri and T.R. Srinivasa Ayyangar.

288 Pages | First published in 1937, sixth printing 1985 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 0835670678.

The Saundarya-laharārī, ’the Ocean of Beauty’, eminently shares the characteristics of a poem displaying the finest touches of poetical fancy, (ii) a Stotra, hymn, in praise of the Goddess Tripurasundarī, (iii) a series of Mantra-s, mystic formulae, to be used by the Upāsaka along with the corresponding Yantra-s, diagrams, wherein the Devī is to be conceived as abiding, and (iv) an exposition of the Agama-s and Tantra-s, bearing on the worship of the Supreme Being in Its aspect of the Śakti, Creative Energy, known as  the Śrī-vidyā, embodying the underlying principles of Vaidika-dharma and as such having the sanction of the Veda-s. In its first forty-one stanzas it encompasses the Ananda-laharī, ’the Ocean of the Blisfully Sublime’.

From Page 220:

” 78. Sthiro gangāvartah stana-mukula-romāvali-latā-

nijāvālaṃ kuṇdaṃ kusumasara-tejo-huta-bhujaḥ ;

Rater līlāgāraṃ kim api tava nābhir giri-sute

biladvāraṃ siddher girisa-nayanānāṃ vijayate.

O Daughter of the Mountain! all glory to Thy navel (which may be characterized) in some such way (as) a motionless eddy of the Gangā, a trench for the growth of the creeper of the line of down, with the breasts as buds; the pit for maintaining the sacrificial Fire of the prowess of the flower-arrowed (Kusuma-Śāra); the pleasure-bower of Rati; the mouth of the cavern for the attainment (of Yoga) by Girisa’s eyes! “
 

Door Aryel Sanat, vertaald door Louis Geertman en Ali Ritsema.

413 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 2005 | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750857.

Engels origineel: The Inner Life of Krishnamurti | Uitgegeven in 1999 | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 083560781X.

Krishnamurti’s innerlijke leven is een raadsel, niet in de laatste plaats doordat hij het vijfdecennia lang geheim heeft gehouden

Toen Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895-1986) veertien jaar oud was, riepen theosofen hem uit tot de nieuwe messias en zij brachten hem in contact met de eeuwige wijsheid. Krishnamurti was opgevoed in Groot Brittannië en hij wijdde zijn leven aan de verspreiding van zijn inzichten over de gehele wereld. Hij behoort inderdaad tot de grootste spirituele leiders van de twintigste eeuw. Onder de zeer velen, die hij beïnvloedde bevinden zich de Dalai Lama, Joseph Campbell, Deepak Chopra, Henry Miller en Aldous Huxley. Maar Krishnamurti was een revolutionair in diepste zin. Meer dan zestig jaar schuwde hij geloofssystemen en vooronderstellingen van welke aard ook, inclusief de esoterische beginselen van de Theosofie.

Maar persoonlijk?

Aryel Sanat onthult de rijke esoterische gebeurtenissen van Krishnamurti’s innerlijke leven. Persoonlijk heeft Krishnamurti nooit het bestaan van zijn ‘meesters’ ontkend, noch het feit dat hij het voertuig voor de Heer Maitreya of de Christus zou zijn. Deze innerlijke realiteiten vormden zelfs ieder dag een onderdeel van zijn volwassen leven en waren nauw verbonden met het werk dat hij deed.

Afkomstig uit Deel I –  ‘De Oerbron’; Hoofdstuk 3 ‘Mutatie (blz. 107 & 108):

” Het lichaam is je lastdier – het paard, waarop je rijdt. Daarom moet je het goed behandelen en er goed voor zorgen; je moet het geen overwerk laten doen, je moet het naar behoren voeden met uitsluitend zuiver eten en drinken, en het altijd strikt reinigen, zelfs van het kleinste spatje vuil. Want zonder een volmaakt schoon en gezond lichaam kun je niet het zware werk van voorbereiding doen, kun je de onophoudelijke inspanning ervan niet verdragen. Maar jij moet het zijn, die altijd controle heeft over dat lichaam en niet omgekeerd. ” 

Paperback

By Josephine Ransom (1879 – 1960).

252 Pages | First edition, 1st reprint 2005 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594502.

” May Those who are the embodiment of Love Immortal, bless with Their Protection the Society established to do Their Will on Earth; may They ever guard it by Their Power, inspire it with Their Wisdom, and energize it with Their Activity. “ – Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

This excellent book recording the history of the Theosophical Society from 1926 – 1950, has been painstakingly researched and is accurate in facts and shrewd in assessment. Ransom  tells us: ‘I have tried to be accurate, to observe due proportion, to exercise the historian’s prerogative of impartiality, and to give a clear impression of how the great ideals of the Society are working themselves out.’ She has succeeded admirably.

By N.C. Ramanujachary.

172 Pages | First limited edition 1995 | Softcover | Prapti Books, Madras, India | No ISBN.

The lives of Śrī Piļļai Lokācārya and Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) were irradiated by the Great Ones who are ever seeking for interpreters of Occult Knowledge in the outer world . . . Their contribution and catholicity of thought remain a source of perennial inspiration to the true aspirants of Divine Wisdom.

From Section C – ‘Present and Future of the Thoughts: (p. 136):

” The teachings of any philosopher necessary are expressions of the Eternal Wisdom. Each one has dealt with the reality of the world, the organic relation of all life to the Divine Principle, the workings within the Cosmos, which are all matters of great appeal to a rational human. Stressing the solidarity of man, aiding him and his mind to the cosmic Mind, and leading each to the inevitable state of embracing the whole of the Universe has been the effort of both PL and HPB in their own chosen way. ” 

By N.C. Ramanujachary.

61 Pages | First limited edition 1995 | Softcover | Prapti Books, Madras, India | No ISBN.

T. Subba Row, an outstanding figure in the early days of the Theosophical Society after the Founders, Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) and Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1917) came to India, was highly respected for his wide-ranging erudition and knowledge of esoteric philosophy and practice. He had many things to reveal on Occult Science and Philosophy. This slim volume, second in the series, includes seven essays vividly written.

From page VI:

” . . . You are wrong in distrusting Subba Row’s writings. He does not write willingly, to be sure, but he will never make a false statement. – Ten to one – it will never receive the attention it deserves – Why? Simply, because his statements contain sober facts, and that what your prefer generally is fiction so long as the latter dovetails with, and answers preconceived theories. ” 

• Master K.H. in: ‘Letter No. 93’ (Winter 1883) The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett.

By N.C. Ramanujachary.

59 Pages | First edition 1993 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592151.

T. Subba Row, an outstanding figure in the early days of the Theosophical Society after the Founders, Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) and Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1917) came to India, was highly respected for his wide-ranging erudition and knowledge of esoteric philosophy and practice. Such, he played an important role during the formative years of the Society. His speeches and writings contained in two publications, The Philosophy of the Bhagavad Gītā and Esoteric Writings, strike the reader even today by their range and depth.

N.C. Ramanujachary born in 1935 at Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, India, is a long-standing member of the Theosophical Society. A member of the Authors Guild of India, he is well known as short-story writer in Telugu, with the nom de plume SRIVIRINCHI.

From page 42:

” Madame Blavatsky had to face the accusation, that ‘Isis Unveiled’ was written with the help of Subba Row. She countered this in a letter dated January 9 1886:

I made Subba Row’s acquaintance on the day I first arrived to Madras, in 1882. Saw him for a week and then when we left Bombay for Madras to live, in January 1883, had exchanged with him a few letters till then. How could I write ‘Isis’ with his help, I in New York, he at Madras and perfect strangers to each other? “

Comments by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891), compiled by Lina Psaltis.

132 Pages | 1972, 1st reprint 1989 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN 817059121X

Psychic phenomena, magic, hypnotism, spiritualism, planes of perception, dreams, and spiritual progress – these are some of the subjects discussed in this collection of excerpts from the writings of one of the most famous occultists of history: Helena Petrovna Blavatsky.

In this small book the compiler has drawn together from various sources some of the important and interesting statements made by H.P. Blavatsky more than a century ago on subjects, which are arousing wide interest today. Her comments not only reveal something of her profound knowledge and wisdom, but are also fascinating, informative and relevant. They contain valuable advice to those who would dabble in psychic realms without being aware of their dangers and pitfalls.

From page 104/105:

” The key in each degree is the ‘aspirant himself’. It is not the fear of God, which is the beginning of Wisdom, but the knowledge of SELF which is WISDOM ITSELF. How grand and true appears, thus, to the student of Occultism who has commenced to realize some of the foregoing truths, the answer given by the Delphic Oracle to all who came seeking after Occult Wisdom – words repeated and enforced again and again by the wise Socrates: MAN KNOW THYSELF . . . ” 

• From: Collected Writings, Vol. IX, p. 162.

By Elizabeth W. Preston

109 Pages | First published in 1947, second and revised edition 1968, Second reprint 2007 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN 8170591562

In a first attempt to read The Secret Doctrine (1888), many students lose their way in the richness and exuberance of its ideas. It is like a wood, where the trees are so dense, varied and beautiful that it is difficult to find or follow any special path. For this reason – wishing to follow one path – that of science, and to find out exactly what The Secret Doctrine does say on certain scientific subjects, I have extracted such portions as as appear to have a direct scientific value and interest. These extracts are strictly in the order, in which they appear in the Original.

Writers, such as Mrs. Besant, Mrs. Ransom and Mr. E.L. Gardner have contributed studies in and expansions of certain portions of the teachings. The author’s has been a simplification rather than a commentary or elaboration. She tries to indicate very briefly what appears to her to be the main content of each section, comparing the statements with modern scientific thought and terminology.

From the Introduction:

” The ‘Secret Doctrine’ was first published in 1888. Its purpose, as given by Madame Blavatsky, is:

1. To show that Nature is not a fortuitous concurrence of atoms.
2. To assign to man his rightful place in the scheme of the universe.
3. To rescue from degradation the archaic truths, which are at the basis of all religion.
4. To uncover, to some extent, the fundamental unity from which they all spring.
5. To show that the occult side of Nature has never been approached by the science of modern civilization.

The teachings of The Secret Doctrine are based on an ancient book called the ‘Book of Dzyan’. In prehistoric times, about 80.000 – 20.000 BC, a civilization existed in Central Asia in the districts now known as the plateau of Tibet and the valley of the Tarim. The ‘Book of Dzyan’, which was originally written in a language called Senzar, is part of a larger work which was dictated by Divine Beings to the Initiates in the early days of this civilization. Some of the manuscripts were said to be in the keeping of the Teshu Lama, at Shigatse. Madama Blavatsky stated that centuries would pass before much more of ‘The Secret Doctrine’ is given out, but in the twentieth century another disciple may be sent to give proof of the existence of the Secret Science . . . “

Door David Pratt.

62 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 2009, tweede druk 2010 | Softcover | Theosophy University Press Agency, Den Haag | ISBN: 9789070328740.

Engels origineel: Sunken Continents versus Continental Drift | www.davidpratt.info.

Volgens de platentektoniek hebben ‘legendarische’ verzonken continenten zoals Atlantis en Lemurië nooit echt bestaan. Ze beweert dat continenten duizenden kilometers kunnen verschuiven, maar dat het verrijzen en verzinken van grote continenten onmogelijk zou zijn. De platentektoniek ligt echter zwaar onder vuur. Een groeiende hoeveelheid bewijsmateriaal toont aan dat continenten niet als meubelstukken kunnen worden verplaatst, dat periodieke verticale korstbewegingen een sleutelrol spelen in de evolutie van de aarde, en dat grote delen van de zeebodem in het verre verleden continenten waren.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk ‘Het Verrijzen en Verzinken van Continenten’ (p. 26):

Verticale bewegingen

” De theosofische traditie leert dat de aardkorst zich voortdurend verheft of verzinkt, meestal langzaam maar op sommige momenten met cataclysmische intensiteit. Er is een voortdurende afwisseling van land en water: als één deel van de droge landen verzinkt, ontstaat elders nieuw land. Blavatsky schrijft:

Het opheffen en dalen van continenten gaat steeds voort. De hele kust van Zuid-Amerika is in een uur 10 tot 15 voet opgeheven en ook weer gedaald. Huxley heeft aangetoond dat de Britse eilanden vier keer onder de oceaan zijn gezakt en vervolgens weer zijn omhoog gekomen en opnieuw bevolkt. De Alphen, de Himalaya en de Cordilleras waren alle het gevolg van bezinksels, die zich op de zeebodem hadden afgezet en die door titanische kracht tot hun huidige hoogte werden opgeheven. “

By Stephen M. Phillips.

66 Pages | First edition 1996, first reprint 2003 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592976.

This paper presents evidence of how facts of nuclear particle physics have confirmed purported, psychic descriptions of subatomic particles. It is because Annie Besant (1847 – 1933) and Charles Webster Leadbeater (1854 – 1934) finished their observations many years before pertinent scientific knowledge became available that their work cannot be dismissed as fraudulent. Nor can their observations be interpreted as precognitive visions of future ideas and discoveries of physics. Besant and Leadbeater claimed that they used one of the eight yogic siddhis (aṇimā) to study the structure of the atoms in every element.

From Chapter – ‘Micro-psi Investigations’ (p. 1):

” The Vedas and books on yoga mention siddhis, or psychic powers, which a yogi may acquire as a result of meditation, drugs, incantations or austerities. The Yoga-Sūtra’s, the earliest exposition of yoga written by Patañjali about 400 BC., describes eight siddhis. In Aphorism 3.26 of the Sūtra’s he states that a yogi can acquire ‘knowledge of the small, the hidden or the distant by directing the light of the superphysical faculty’:

pravr̥tty-āloka-nyāsāt sūksma-vyavahita-viprakr̥ṣṭa-jñānam |

In parapsychological terms the ability to acquire ‘knowledge of the hidden or the distant’ is ‘remote viewing’ of the world at large. The ability to obtain ‘knowledge of the small’ can, likewise, be interpreted as remote viewing of the microscopic world. It has the Sanskrit name of animā and is defined by writers on yoga as ‘minuteness, the power to become as small as atom, at will’. It has been given the self-explanatory name of ”micro-psi’. “

By James S. Perkins (1899 – 1991).

147 Pages | First edition 1964, 2nd revised edition 1973, 3rd revised edition 1978, 1st reprint 1986 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170590205.

In this little volume, a new approach to the understanding of that ultimate mystery, Space, has been indicated. Physical space is viewed as the outer, visible appearance of an invisible ‘inner space’. The explanation given herein of major concepts are treated visually as well as verbally to render precisely the geometrical patterns of movement. There are two geometries:

1. The geometry of form in physical space.
2. The geometry of motion in man’s consciousness.

The object of this manual is to describe for practical use the movements of consciousness and their inter-orbital transpositions as a means of creative self-discovery.

From the Introduction (p. v):

” HERMES Trismegistus proclaimed that the greatest ill among men is ignorance of God. Since the greater sages and teachers of mankind have ever taught that the above is reflected in the below, the statement attributed to Hermes is tantamount to saying that the greatest ill among men is the ‘igorance of men’ – ignorance of man’s God-self. “

By P. Pavri

157 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar, 2000 ISBN 8170594103

The work of the Theosophical Society involves a way of life which leads to self-knowledge and knowledge of the laws of being. Only when man begins to act, think, feel and ‘be’ in accordance with the unchanging and unchangeable laws which pervade and regulate all things in the visible as well as the invisible worlds, does his psyche permit spiritual energy to flow through from hidden depths. Both individual regeneration end the reordening of human society in such a way that harmony, freedom and creativity flourish, depend on discovering the right way of living.

By Mary Jane Newcomb.

49 Pages | Published in 1990 | A4 – Study Course, softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A | ISBN: 9780835600781.

This Study Course, based on the published works of the significant theosophist Annie Besant (1847 – 1933) is written for the use of theosophists and friends of the Theosophical Society. For all those, who are interested in the Ancient Wisdom, that is at the core of theosophical studies and for all those, who are seeking personal unfoldment. The Course can be used by individuals or for group study. Its lessons are on topics chosen from an extensive bibliography, that focuses on some of the areas that lie at the very center of individual life and growth.

The following topics are discussed:

1. Karma
2. Reïncarnation
3. Education and Art
4. Consciousness & Meditation
5. Dharma and Morality
6. Pleasure & Pain: Happiness & Sorrow

By G. Srinivasa Murti (1887 – unknown).

196 Pages | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170590337.

Many and varied have been the objections that have been raised, from time to time, against the recognition and encouragement by the State of the indigenous systems of medicine like the Ayurveda, the Siddha and the Unani; these objections have always been challenged by exponents of these systems as well as by others interested in their promotion. The resulting controversy has sometimes been mild and sometimes wild. Some of the objections are trivial, while others are vital. And round none has the fire of controversy raged so fiercely as on the central question whether these Indian systems of medicine are scientific or not. The object of this memorandum is to view things from a scientific standpoint and stimulate scientific discussion on a subject which, it is clear, can now be neither ignored nor shelved.

From Chapter ‘Ayurveda as an Art – The Past and the Present’ (p. 195):

” Hence it is that, in Indian Medicine, it has always been considered necessary that the training of the future physician should provide not only for the study of Medicine in all its branches, as as to equip him or her with the capacity to have proper expert orientation to the problems of health and ill-health but also for the study of the Humanities, the Classics, as will enable him to have the proper humanist-orientation to Life and its Vital human problems. In other words, the ancient scheme of studies was so ordered as to give to the world great physicians, who were not only great scientists, but also great humanists. ” 

By Kotha Satchidananda Murty (1924 – 2011).

278 Pages | First Edition 2000, Adyar Pamphlets New Series No. 2 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170593344.

‘What alone serves as the light here for a man? The Self alone serves as his light.’

The Theosophical Society, founded in 1875, is a worldwide body, whose primary object is Universal Brotherhood based on the realization that life, in all its diverse forms, human and non-human, is indivisibly One. The Society imposes no belief on its members, who are united by a common search for truth and the desire to learn the meaning and purpose of existence by engaging themselves in study, reflection, purity of life and loving service. Theosophy is 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 aid the unfoldment of the latent spiritual nature in the human being, without dependence or fear.

From the Conclusion (p. 20):

” Lastly, it is easy enough to say, ‘Search for yourself; whatever you find in the end will be quite all right.’ But this does not seem to be of much use in practice. That is why everybody, who has been a religious preacher or teacher has always added something more. For example: Follow, devote yourselves to one who is wise, who is able to lead, who is dutiful, who is noble, who is very learned and who is above all a good and disciplined (wo)man. 

This is from Dhammapada, Sukhavagga, 12.

But then the question arises: Where am I or you to find such a (wo)man? That is your business and mine. “

Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

By Maria Montessori (1870 – 1952).

14 Pages | Reprinted from The Theosophist, Feb. 1942, 7th reprint 1986 | Booklet | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170590043.

We have the idea that education can help the development of the child, and that we, adult people, will give this help. That is the ordinary idea of education. This idea is not a right idea, because it concludes that the adult can help this little child very much with his or her own wisdom and care. The idea of education is to give to the child and to young people all the best that we have.

That is so: but we cannot with our efforts, create a man. That is the task of the children themselves and it is the most important side of the whole educational question: what the children themselves accomplish of their own power and not what adult man can do for them.

From page 14:

” The hope we have is a hope in a new humanity, that will come from this new education, and education that is a collaboration of man and the universe, that is a help for evolution, for the incarnation of man. “

Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House Adyar

Door Joy Mills (1920 – 2015).

188 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 2004 | Paperback | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9061750865.

Engels origineel: Entering on the Sacred Way – A Psychological Commentary on Light on the Path | Published in 2000 in the Wisdom Tradition Book Series | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835607895.

Het idee van een heilig pad is in alle religieuze tradities te vinden. Het gaat uit van een doel dat tal van benamingen heeft: Zelfrealisatie, verlichting, moksha, satori, bevrijding of redding. Het spirituele pad kent voorwaarden en regels. Joy Mills noemt er een paar: aandacht; een zuiver leven; begeerte zonder gehechtheid; ‘doden’ zonder geweld; onophoudelijke waakzaamheid.

De schrijfster gaat in op het paradoxale karakter van sommige van deze regels. Mills spreekt helder, met ernst en met psychologisch inzicht, over zaken die bedoeld zijn voor de serieuze zoeker naar spiritualiteit. Zij laat zien dat de oude wijsheid nog altijd actueel is.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 2 – ‘Een Zuiver Leven’ (p. 37):

” De wezenlijke vraag, die we onszelf in iedere situatie weer moeten stellen is: Hoe moeten we de situatie benaderen; hoe moeten onze gedachten en gevoelens in die situatie zijn; welke actie zullen we hierin ondernemen? Wat is, in de vele omstandigheden, die ons van alle kanten belegeren, de richting van de werkelijke vooruitgang? 

Pas wanneer onze levens niet langer gehinderd worden door voorbije gehechtheden en evenzeer door verwachtingen voor de toekomst, welke ons onnodig (dat wil zeggen op een blinde manier) binden, kunnen we te rade gaan bij ons innerlijk kompas. Dat kompas moet wijzen naar het Noorden van het Zelf en die daarvan worden afgebogen door de magnetische aantrekkingskracht van vooroordelen of verwarrende emoties. “

By Joy Mills (1920 – 2015).

14 Pages | Reprinted from The Theosophist, June 1976 | Softcover (Leaflet) | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592410.

Sometime, in early 1923, Dr. Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), then President of The Theosophical Society, penned some lines that have since become familiar to members throughout the world, have been translated into several languages, and have, indeed, become a nearly indispensable part of ebery Theosophist’s vocabulary. The words have been set to music; they have been chanted and sung; and few gatherings of the Society that have been held since that year have not been opened with the recitation of these words. At every International Convention, successive Presidents of the Society have inaugurated the proceedings with the antiphonal recitation of what has come to be known as the ‘Universal Prayer’ or ‘ Universal Invocation’. Simple in the extreme, the words possess the magical power of a mantram:

” O Hidden Life, vibrant in every atom;

O Hidden Light, shining in every creature;

O Hidden Love, embracing all in Oneness;

May each who feels himself as one with Thee,

Know he is therefore one with every other. “

• (From page 2.)

By Joy Mills (1920 – 2015).

60 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 1994,  2000 editie | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750680.

Dutch translation: Leven in Wijsheid – Lezingen over ‘De Geheime Leer’ | First published in 1989 | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 906175061X.

In the summer of 1988 Joy Mills gave a series of lectures celebrating the centenary of the publication of The Secret Doctrine, by H.P. Blavatsky. This book contains the texts of these lectures. In these lectures, Joy Mills places a special emphasis on the ethical conclusions to be drawn from study of this book. She elaborates on the mythological nature of the content of The Secret Doctrine, particularly where it refers to the origins and development of man. In contemporary language, and with frequent references to the latest developments in physics and biology, the essence of The Secret Doctrine is made more accessible to the modern reader.

Joy Mills has been a member of the Theosophical Society since 1940 and has served as General Secretary of the American Section and the Australian Section, and she was International Vice-President of the T.S.. She was director of the Krotona Institute School of Theosophy in Ojai, California. Her lecture tours have taken her to more than 50 countries.

By Joy Mills (1920 – 2015).

76 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 1989 | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 906175061X.

Engels origineel: Living in Wisdom – Lectures on ‘The Secret Doctrine’ | Eerste druk 1994, 2000 editie | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750680.

‘Leef het Leven als je tot de Wijsheid wilt komen’.

De Geheime Leer van Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) verscheen in 1888 en is nog steeds het belangrijkste werk op het gebied van de theosofische filosofie. In de zomer van 1988 hield de Amerikaans theosofe Joy Mills in Nederland een serie lezingen over dit werk. Dit boek bevat de tekst van deze lezingen.

Zij gaat hierin onder meer in op het mythisch karakter van hetgeen in De Geheime Leer geschreven staat over het ontstaan van de wereld en de wording van de mens. Ook legt zij sterk de nadruk op de ethische gevolgen, die voortvloeien uit deze studies. In eigentijds bewoordingen en met verwijzingen naar nieuwe ontwikkelingen in de wetenschap wordt De Geheime Leer voor de lezer toegankelijk gemaakt.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 1 – ‘De Geheime Leer: het wekken van een nieuwe Wijze van Denken (blz. 6):

” In de gepubliceerde verzameling van de brieven, die bekend staan als de Mahatma-brieven aan A.P Sinnett komt een erg duidelijke uitspraak voor. Een van hen, Mr. A.O. Hume, vond dat hij, als goed opgeleid Engelsman, orde kon aanbrengen in de leringen van de occulte leer en hij schreef dan ook aan een van zijn adept-leraren: ‘Waarom vertelt u ons niet gewoon wat de occulte leer is en dan zal ik het onder woorden brengen in termen, die voor het Westerse denken redelijk en rationeel en zinvol zijn. ‘

En de adept-leraar antwoordt: ‘Het lijkt misschien vanuit uw Westers gezichtspunt zo dat het enige wat ons te doen staat is het schrijven van een handboek over occultisme. Maar’, zei hij, ‘zo gaat het niet toe in onze scholen (dat wil zeggen in de esoterische traditie), want totdat en tenzij de student voorbereid is om de waarheid te ontvangen of te begrijpen, is er eenvoudig geen waarheid. Niemand houdt deze voor hem of haar achter, hij/zij kan haar gewoon niet begrijpen!’ “

By Joy Mills (1920- 2015).

94 Pages | First edition 1996, reprint 2002 | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9061750830.

Bij het Juni nummer van Theosofia wordt een ‘Special’ gepubliceerd met de Nederlandse vertaling van dit werk.

‘ Bestride the bird of life, if thou would’st know. ‘

It is the nature of a bird to fly upwards. When one moves to a higher position, for example to a mountain’s peak, one’s vision is greatly extended. There is much more to be seen from an airplane than from a train or an automobile. This does not mean, that the closer view of the terrain, which is seen when one is walking or driving in a car, is not important, but to gain a wider perspective of the entire area one wishes to explore, a view from the heights is essential.

The theosophical worldview gives a panoramic view, and this is an essential part of its uniqueness. Many philosophies and much of science start from a very limited view and stay there; for example, in some cases, the view is only of the physical world, and then the existence of anything beyond the physical or material is posited as perhaps plausible, but not very likely. On the other hand, the theosophical philosophy encourages us to gain the widest view possible, to start not with the physical, but with that which is the ground of our being, the ultimate reality underlying all phenomenal existence.

From Chapter II – ‘Waking up’ (p. 29):

” In the Voice of Silence, we are encouraged to take a wider view, the view a bird would have. And what is that view? From the theosophical perspective, it is a view of the universe. which brings about the profound realization of the unity of all existence. You realize, that our generation, of all generations that have lived on this planet, is the first to have seen our globe whole, that is there are no boundaries. Where are the boundaries? Where are the frontiers? 

[…]

If our aim is as The Voice of Silence tells us, to ‘follow in the steps of holy Tathagata’, which is to take the Bodhisattva path, then we must see the world and all within it as does a Bodhisattva. It has been said, that a Bodhisattva sees the single thread, that unites all consciousnesses, all beings. […] We know, that there are groups in which there is ancestor worship. There is a truth in this, because the blood is symbolic of the living thread, which connects us with all ancestors and if one goes back far enough, there is only one ancestor, which is the Great Man, Purusha. We are all linked as bloodbrothers then. This was one of the great symbols in mediaeval time, to become bloodbrothers, to mingle the blood. ” 

Door Joy Mills (1920 – 2015), vertaald door Fay van Ierlant en Peter Smit.

18 Paginas’s | Brochure | Uitgegeven in 2008 | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9789061750895.

Deze brochure onder de titel: Dharma: The Law of Our Best Being | Een artikel in The Theosophist, januari 2006 | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar.

Misschien is de vervulling van onze individuele unieke roeping wel datgene waardoor wij op onze pelgrimstochten worden geroepen, ofwe nu in staat zijn deze roeping helder en bondig uit te drukken, of dat we alleen maar intuïtief aanvoelen dat er een doel is waarheen wij ons begeven, maar dat we nog niet in woorden kunnen uitdrukken. Er bestaat een begrip dat een bruikbaar antwoord zou kunnen zijn op het onderzoek, dat voor ons ligt. Dat begrip heet ‘dharma’. Dit woord heeft vele betekenissen, maar gaat tegelijkertijd dieper dan elk van de betekenissen, die er aan gegeven kunnen worden.

Afkomstig van blz. 10:

” . . . Er bestaat geen menselijke maatschappij, die gebaseerd is op de erkenning van inherente goedheid en natuurlijke hierarchie, die niet tevens het inzicht bezit in de aard van de werkelijkheid, die samengevat wordt in het woord ‘dharma’: alles omvattende wet, dat wat alle inzichten, elementen en ervaringen van de werkelijkheid ondersteunt en doordringt. “

By Śrī N.S. Marathey.

102 Pages | First edition 2002 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594014.

In simple language, but with great insight, the evolutionairy journey of consciousness from the mineral through the human kingdom is traced. We learn of the gradual transition from primitive man, who is ruled by his sense organs, to the awakened individual, who has gained full command over them. With clarity and a clear understanding of the subject, the author describes how man’s initial identification with a separate self eventually gives rise to his merging with the all-pervading consciousness, which is the true goal of his life.

Sri Marathey is author of several theosophical books in Marathi. In this, his first publication in English, we are invited toexamine the fundamental nature of the universe as a dynamic interplay of matter, energy, space, time, consciousness and life.

By Tim Lyons.

188 Pages | A Quest Original, First Edition 1986 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835606120.

In this book, an attempt is made to look more closely at the basic, structural implications of astrology, at its foundations or philosophic base, by examining the fruit of the astrological tree, fruit which has proven itself healthy through actual life-giving application. But more particularly, this Volume examines the inner core of the fruit – the pit, or pith, or seeds – for the core is a microcosm of the tree itself, containing all its potentials.

On another level, this work attempts to address the larger question: ‘What does Astrology imply about the human condition’? Astrological symbology is discussed from the standpoint of its inherent Perennial Wisdom. This Wisdom is not lacking in practical value, but this value cannot be appropiated by ego. In the end, the Perennial Wisdom of Astrology is that it directs us, through the inner logic of its symbols, to see the necessity of spiritual growth for human beings. The sum and substance of the hard line is that the solidity of ego is an illusion, an illusion which is in the end only a limitation that obscures our vision, our freedom, and our ability to relate fully with others.

From Chapter 8 – ‘The Illusionairy Prison; Astrology, Freedom and Ego ‘ (p. 170):

‘” The world has often been referred to as a prison house. Astrology may at first seem threatening, because it demonstrates the structure of the prison, thus bringing our fears to the surface. But in the end it can actually show us the inner structure of the prison house, thus allowing us to escape. It can also show us that the walls of the prison are not solid, but permeable, no more solid than the person they surround. In this way, astrological knowledge can be liberating. “

By Hal A. Lingerman.

340 Pages | A Quest Original, first published in 1988 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835606295.

‘Like a carpet ride, music carries the listener/reader into the Eternal in daily meditations, that both delight and inspire’. 

This inspirational book of daily meditations offers readers, who appreciate music an enriched multi-media experience. Lingerman blends suggested classical and New Age music with daily meditations, anchored by passages from some of the greatest Souls in history. The result is harmony and balance. A meditative theme sets the tone for each day, followed by a quotation from Thoreau, Schweitzer, Franklin, Lincoln, or perhaps Pythagoras. Then guided imagery sets a general course for the reader to ’take off’ on the theme wherever intuïtion may lead. Finally, a selection of music is recommended to highlight the daily theme.

The reader/listener may focus on a daily classical selection from Dvorak, Beethoven, Mozart, Vivaldi or perhaps Ravel. Popular New Age musical selections are listed as alternatives to persons, who may prefer the soundscapes of Zamfir, Paul Horn or perhaps Richard Musk.

From Pages 319 & 320:

December 21st

” FOCUS: The Angels help man as far as he can be helped. They intensify all his highest aspirations, stir up his adoration and his love, and to give effect to the ancient and beautiful words of their traditional Hymn: ‘Glory be to God in the highest, on earth peace to men of goodwill’. – Dora van Gelder.

MEDITATION: Feel the Angels today, stirring your sense of joy and adoration. Let your heart open now; feel the surge of the Spirit, the current of life coursing through you. The glory of God shines through you.

MUSICAL KEYNOTES: Jakub Jan Ryba, ‘Czech Mass’ (Matl-Supraphon). This very ancient setting of the Mass, for soloists, chorus and orchestra, brings a devotional quality and contains many beautiful melodies of adoration.

Zdenek Fibich, Symphony No. 3 (Belohlavek-Supraphon), Love and nature are the themes of this wonderful music. In the adagio (slow movement) a sense of bliss and deep devotion emerge to bathe the listener in sound.

Soundings of the Planet: Joy to the World (box 43512, Tucson, AZ 85733). This contemporary statement of Christmas contains a joyful spirit of adoration. “

Door Anna Lemkow.

416 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1993 | Softcover, incl. index, woordenlijst & literatuurlijst | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9061750660.

Engels origineel: The Wholeness Principle – Dynamics of Unity within Science, Religion and Society | Uitgegeven in 1990 | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835607151.

Het begint steeds duidelijker te worden dat de huidige verdeeldheid tussen volkeren en godsdiensten een bedreiging vormt voor het voortbestaan van de mensheid. Een filosofie, waarin juist de nadruk wordt gelegd op de eenheid, die achter alle verdeeldheid ligt wordt wel ‘holisme’ genoemd. In de holistische literatuur is tot nu toe ingegaan op de mogelijke verbanden tussen religie (mystiek) en wetenschap (fysica). De maatschappelijke dimensie wordt daarbij vaak onbesproken gelaten. In Het Heelheid Principe wordt juist aan deze sociale dimensie van het holisme veel aandacht besteed.

Anna Lemkow bestrijkt een enorm terrein aan onderwerpen. Eerst behandelt zij de opkomst van de moderne wetenschap en de gevolgen, die dat heeft gehad voor ons mens- en wereldbeeld. Daarna betrekt zij de spirituele dimensie in haar betoog, waarbij zij ingaat op de overeenkomsten en verschillen tussen de grote religies van de wereld, de verhouding van religie en wetenschap, en de plaats van de mystiek in het geheel van de menselijke kennis. Tenslotte bespreekt zij uitvoerig de maatschappelijke ontwikkelingen die het gevolg zijn van de hoge vlucht van de technologie, zoals industrialisering en automatisering. Lemkow schetst de omtrekken van een politieke visie, die aangepast is aan de nieuwe wereldorde, waarin men inziet dat Oost en West, Noord en Zuid niet zonder elkaar kunnen leven.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 1 – ‘Heelheid, Sleutel tot Inzicht’ (blz. 47):

” De Hermetische keten van de Grieks mystieke traditie . . . . . verwijst naar het bestaan van een levende traditie, die van leraar op leerlingen wordt doorgegeven en medegedeeld, leraar na leraar, in een eeuwigdurende keten waarvan de schakels levende mensen zijn . . . ‘Rechtvaardige vervolmaakte mensen’, ‘Meesters van Wijsheid en Mededogen’. Het belang van de traditie schuilt niet zozeer in de vraag wie deze Meesters waren of zijn dan in datgene wat werd doorgegeven: een wijsheid, die alle kennis verenigt en doel en richting geeft aan de pogingen van de mens om zichzelf en de wereld, waarin hij/zij zich beweegt te begrijpen. “

Compiled by Charles Webster Leadbeater (1854 – 1934) and translated by Curuppumullage Jinarājadāsa (1875–1953).

41 Pages | First edition 1902, first reprint 2004 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 817059443X.

This work is a translation of a small Sinhalese Catechism of Buddhism in two parts, called Bauddha Sisubodhaya, which was compiled by Mr. C.W. Leadbeater in 1889, when he was working in connection with the Buddhist Theosophical Society. During the work of teaching in Buddhist Sunday Schools and later in the Buddhist English High School of Colombo (now Ananda College), Mr. Leadbeater found Colonel Olcott’s Catechism far above the grasp of most of the children, as that Catechism was not composed for children. A far simpeler work being urgently needed, Mr. Leadbeater with the help of Buddhist friends put together this little publication.

68 Pages | Second edition, 2nd reprint 2012 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar

We may think that death has snatched away one dear to us. But the Soul is immortal. Man is a Soul and has a body. Death only means putting the body aside, for there is life after death and one’s dear one lives on in the spiritual body and may be contacted during sleep or deep in one’s consciousness. If we sorrow for the dead, their progress is hindered. The attitude of mourning shows lack of faith. There is one God, and we are all in Him. If we can but realize the unity of that Eternal Love, there will be no more sorrow for us.

From page 62;

” If we mourn, if we yield to gloom and depression, we throw out from ourselves a heavy cloud which darkens the sky for them. Their very affection for us, their very sympathy for us, lays them open to this direful influence. We can use the power which that affection gives us, to help them instead of hindering them, if we only will: but to do that requires courage and self-sacrifice. We must forget ourselves utterly in our earnest and loving desire to be of the greatest possible assistance to our dead . . . “

By Charles Webster Leadbeater (1854 – 1934).

94 Pages | First edition 2012, 13th Reprint | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170592532.

The subject of life after death is one of great interest to all of us, not only because we ourselves must certainly die one day, but far more because there can scarcely be any more among us, except perhaps the very young, who has not lost (as we call it) by death someone who is near and dear to us. So if there be any information available with regard to the life after death, we are naturally very anxious to have it.

From Chapter VII – ‘Guardian Angels’ (p. 69 & 71):

” There are many graceful traditions of spiritual guardianship and angelic intervention, which we should all very much like to believe if we could only see our way to accept them rationally, and I hope to explain that to a very large extent we may do this. The belief in such intervention is a very old one. Among the earliest Indian legends we find accounts of the occasional appearances of minor deities at critical points in human affairs. […] The old belief in angels and archangels is justified by the facts, for just as there are various kingdoms below humanity, so there are also kingdoms above it in evolution. We find next above us, holding much the same position with regard to us that we in turn hold to the animal kingdom, the great kingdom of Deva-s or Angels, and above them again an evolution which has been called that of the Dhyan Chohans or archangels and so upward to the very feet of Divinity. All is one graduated life, from God Himself to the very dust of beneath our feet – one long ladder, of which humanity occupies only one of the steps. “

By Charles Webster Leadbeater (1854 – 1934).

27 Pages | Reprinted 2002 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170591678.

Leadbeater was a highly developed clairvoyant and the author of over thirty books on the spiritual life and the psychic nature of man.

From page 2:

” Naturally the work of every Lodge has its public side. There are lectures given to the public and opportunities offered for them to ask questions; all this is good and necessary. But every Lodge, which is worthy of the name, is also doing something far higher than any work on the physical plane, and this higher work can only be done in its own primary meetings. Furthermore, it can be done only if these meetings are properly conducted and entirely harmonious. ” 

Door Eunice Layton en Felix Layton.

75 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1987; dit boek maakt deel uit van de Lotusreeks II | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750239.

Engels origineel: Some Basic Concepts of Theosophy | Uitgegeven in 1960 | The Theosophical Publishing House | Geen ISBN nr.

Dit boekje bestaat uit vier toespraken over Theosofische grondbegrippen, beginselen van de oude wijsheid, die onderwezen werden door de wijzen van alle volken en tijden:

1. Een goddelijk plan in een chaotische wereld
2. Ken uw ware zelf
3. Reïncarnatie
4. Heerst er gerechtigheid in de wereld?

De Theosofisch Vereniging is een groepering van zoekers naar ‘waarheid’, die allemaal het geloof in de algemene Broederschap der Mensheid gemeen hebben. Zodoende is er geen dogma of geloofsbelijdenis, die het denken van de leden aan banden legt. De beschouwingen in dit werkje zijn voor hen, waarheidszoekers overal ter wereld, in de hoop dat ze zullen helpen om dieper inzicht te verkrijgen in de speurtocht naar het ontdekken van het eigen wijze ‘Zelf’.

Afkomstig van blz. 71:

” We zijn niet alleen de omstandigheden, die we zelf hebben geschapen, maar we zijn ook in de best denkbare gelegenheid om die geestelijke vermogens te ontplooien, waaraan we toe zijn. De werking der wet is een zege, al denken we daar soms anders over. We zijn hier niet toevallig. Het is niet bij toeval, dat we hier wonen in plaats van China of op de Zuidzee Eilanden of nog ergens anders. Als we onze lessen leren, indien we die eigenschap aankweken, die de omstandigheden en het leven ons proberen bij te brengen, zullen we na de volgende stap voorwaarts gedaan te hebben, zien, dat onze omstandigheden op miraculeuze wijze zijn veranderd. Niet de wereld moet veranderd worden, maar wij zelf. Zoals wij zelf zijn, zo maken we de wereld. “

By Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895–1986).

132 Pages | First edition 2002, reprinted in 2004 | Softcover | Krishnamurti Foundation, India | ISBN: 8187326395.

This book consists of six talks, that Krishnamurti gave at Indian Universities of Technology between 1969 – 1984.

Krishnamurti’s chief concern here is to awaken students to the fact that the pursuit of knowledge does not liberate man from his ignorance of himself. While knowledge is indispensable, it also creates the illusion that we have the intelligence to meet the challenges of life. This makes us neglect the vast and subtle field of the human psyche. This perspective comes through clearly in these talks, which therefore have significance not just for the young, but also for parents, teachers, and all those interested in the deeper issues of life.

From page 39:

” So if we come back to the fundamental question: what is ignorance? Ignorance, is this unawareness of the whole structure of and nature of the mind, the brain and of all its movement; that is the very essence of ignorance. You learn from books and from your professors, pass examinations, get a few degrees and get a job – that is nothing. That is necessary in this mad world, but to be totally unaware of the extraordinary movement, the beauty, the subtlety, the quickness of all that inward movement, to be unconscious, to be unaware of it is not only ignorance; it brings its own destruction. “

Door Grace F. Knoche (1909 – 2006).

108 Bladzijden| Vertaling van de tweede en herziene 1999 editie | Softcover | Theosophical Universiy Press Agency, Den Haag | ISBN: 9070328569.

Engels origineel: The Mystery Schools | Originally published in 1940, second and revised 1999 edition | The Theosophical University Press, Pasadena U.S.A. | ISBN: 1557000662.

Achter de religies, filosofieën en wetenschappen van de wereld ligt een weinig begrepen, maar krachtige bron van spiritueel leven van de mensheid: de Mysteriescholen. Deze esoterische instellingen gaan terug tot in de verre Oudheid; ze hebben de tijdloze Theosophia of Goddelijke Wijsheid van de eeuwen levend gehouden, en stimulansen gegeven aan de geestelijke intuitie en evolutionaire vooruitgang van de mensheid.

Dit boekje behandelt de geschiedenis, doeleinden en methoden van deze scholen, die hun bestaan en inspiratie ontlenen aan een heilige oorsprong. Tot de besproken onderwerpen behoren het tweevoudige karakter van de Mysteriën, symbolen en patronen van inwijding, de broederschap van mededogen en de Mysteriescholen van nu.

Uit Hoofdstuk 9 – ‘Wegen van Inwijding’ (blz. 65):

” In de meer gevorderde mysterietraining moet de leerling niet alleen leren het mystieke voertuig van ontwaakt bewustzijn op te bouwen dat hem van het ene gebied naar het andere zal brengen, maar ook om in de loop van zo’n individueel wordingsproces de eeuwige wegen van inwijding zelf opnieuw te ontdekkken. Wat wijsheid en een vooruitziende blik betreft is de natuur in alle opzichten consequent: een wet, een methode, een structuur. Met bekoorlijke zorgvuldigheid repeteert ze de wegen van inwijding door middel van de cyclus van slaap en dood. De dood en de processen, die daarbij een rol spelen vormen het hart en de kern van de grote Mysteriën: door de dood van het lagere wordt het hogere geboren. Als het zaad niet sterft, kan de bloem niet bloeien; als de bloem niet sterft kan zich geen zaad vormen. ‘Hij die zijn leven verliest om Mijnentwil zal het vinden’ (Matt. 10:39). “

By Curuppumullage Jinarājadāsa (1875–1953).

74 Pages | First edition 1946, first reprint 1977, second edition 2000 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170593905.

The first letter was received in 1870 and the last in 1900, nine years after the death of Madame Blavatsky (1831 – 1891). The first letter has inscribed in Russian on the envelope which contains it: ‘Received at Odessa, November 7, about Lelinka, probably from Tibet. November 11, 1870. Nadydja F.’ Madame Nadydja Andreewna Fadeef was the aunt of HPB, and Lelinka was the pet name for Helena, her baptismal name. At this time, HPB had gone on her travels. The following is what Madame Fadeef wrote to Colonel Olcott in French on 26th June, on 1884:

” Two or three years ago I wrote to Mr. Sinnett in reply to one of his letters, and I remember telling him what happened to me in a letter which I received phenomenally, when my niece was on the other side of the world, and because of that nobody knew where she was – which made us deeply anxious. All our researchers had ended in nothing. We were ready to believe her dead, when – I think it was about the year 1870, or possibly later – I received a letter from him whom I believe you call ‘Kouth Humi’, which was brought to me in the most comprehensible and mysterious manner, in my house by a messenger of Asiatic appearance, who then disappeared before my very eyes. “

This letter, which begged me to not fear anything, and which announced that she was in safety – I have still, but at Odessa. Immediately upon my return I shall send it to you, and I shall be very pleased if it can be of any use to you.