Theosophy

Theosophy is a philosophy and religion that is based on the idea that God can be known through mystical insight, and that there is a more profound spiritual reality that can be reached through intuition, contemplation, and other states of consciousness. The word “theosophy” comes from the Greek words theos (god) and sophia (wisdom). 

Theosophy has its roots in ancient Gnosticism and Neoplatonism, and has been held by various groups throughout history, including the Manichaeans, Bogomils, Cathari, Rosicrucians, and speculative Freemasons. 

In the United States, theosophy is associated with the Theosophical Society, which was founded in New York City in 1875 by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, William Quan Judge, and Colonel Henry Steel Olcott. Theosophy’s teachings are based on Blavatsky’s interpretations of ancient and modern teachings, and are influenced by Buddhist and Brahmanic theories, as well as Christian and Platonic thought. Some common theosophical beliefs include: 

• Reincarnation
• The law of Karma
• The law of progress
• The idea that sin, poverty, and misery are the fruits of ignorance
• The idea that there is no heaven nor Hell
• The idea that death is the passage from one state of life to another
• The idea that every human soul will eventually be one with the Absolute

The Theosophical Society has many branches around the world, including the Theosophical Society (Adyar) and the Theosophical Society (Pasadena). The Theosophical Society in America (TSA) is located in Wheaton, Illinois, and has an administrative center, library, bookstore, and many lectures and programs.