Sunday, March 28, 2021
Theosophical society
The Theosophical Society is an international organization founded in New York City in 1875 by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, Henry Steel Olcott, and William Quan Judge. The society has been influential in the development of various spiritual and philosophical movements, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here are some key aspects of the Theosophical Society:
1. Founders: The society was founded by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, a Russian occultist and spiritual teacher, along with Henry Steel Olcott, an American lawyer and journalist, and William Quan Judge, an Irish-American lawyer.
2. Beliefs: Theosophy, the spiritual philosophy upon which the society is based, combines elements of Eastern and Western spirituality, mysticism, and philosophy. Theosophists believe in the existence of a divine source of wisdom, the unity of all life, and the interconnectedness of all beings.
3. Reincarnation and Karma: Theosophy teaches the concepts of reincarnation (the belief in multiple lives) and karma (the law of cause and effect), which are central tenets of the belief system.
4. Hierarchy of Masters: The Theosophical Society teaches the existence of an enlightened hierarchy of spiritual beings or masters, also known as the Ascended Masters or Mahatmas, who guide human evolution.
5. Promotion of Universal Brotherhood: The society emphasizes the idea of universal brotherhood, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respect among all cultures and religions.
6. Activities: The Theosophical Society engages in various activities, including lectures, study groups, publications, and humanitarian projects. It encourages the study of comparative religion, philosophy, and science.
7. Influence: The Theosophical Society has had a significant influence on the New Age movement and various esoteric and mystical traditions. It has also inspired the founding of other spiritual and philosophical organizations.
It's important to note that the Theosophical Society is a diverse and multifaceted organization, and individual beliefs and practices within the society can vary widely. The society continues to operate globally, promoting the exploration of spirituality, philosophy, and the interconnectedness of all life.