The Theosophical Society
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The word theosophy is Greek in origin, and can be translated as knowledge held by the gods, or divine wisdom. There has been a "theosophical movement" for 4,000 years or more. Many aspects of the beliefs held by Zoroastrians, Ancient Egyptians, Hindus and Buddhists, as well as many of the beliefs that are part of Aboriginal culture, are Theosophical in nature.
The modern expression of the theosophical movement is often seen as synonymous with the Theosophical Society which was founded in 1875. Today the Society is part of a modern theosophical movement which includes those organisations that came into being as a result of the impulse it spearheaded at the end of the 19th century, although the TS remains free of affiliation or identification with any other organisation. The TS can also, with some justification, claim to be the forerunner of the present New Age movement. However theosophy is much deeper than most of the new age books, and "is a sea with shallows in which a child may safely wade and depths in which even a giant must swim" (Annie Besant [1847-1933] the second international president of the society).
"The Theosophical Society was formed to assist in showing
to men (and women) that such a thing as theosophy exists
and to help them to ascend toward it by studying and assimilating
its eternal verities".
(The Key to Theosophy by HP Blavatsky [1831-1861])
Theosophy also requires tolerance and freedom of thought. Many theosophists explore the possibility of the perpetuation of human spirituality through reincarnation. They also suggest that the primary purpose of human existence is to attain self-realisation, recognising and nurturing the spiritual side of humanity, but this takes place over many life times.
Generally the human personality tends to dominate and over-rule the spiritual aspect, but it is our responsibility to strive to be at one with our inherent spirituality.
There are some basic concepts that help to explain the mysteries of life including: