Theosophy in Modern Times Part 3

Theosophy in Modern Times 

Part 3 

The Theosophical Society

In this final part of our feature on theosophy we take a look at The Theosophical Society which is a worldwide organisation dedicated to the exploration of esoteric philosophy, often described as Theosophy (from Greek theos meaning “divine” and sophiameaning “wisdom”). It promotes the synthesis of science, religion, and philosophy, emphasizing spiritual growth, universal brotherhood, and the investigation of unexplained laws of nature and human potential.

Founders and Early History

The Society was founded on November 17, 1875, in New York City by a group including the Russian mystic Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831–1891), often regarded as the principal thinker behind modern Theosophy, and Henry Steel Olcott (1832–1907), an American colonel and lawyer who became its first president. Other key early figures included William Quan Judge.

Blavatsky, known for her claims of contact with “Mahatmas” or hidden masters, authored major works like Isis Unveiled (1877) and The Secret Doctrine (1888). In 1879, Blavatsky and Olcott moved to India, where the Society grew rapidly. They established the international headquarters in Adyar (near Chennai, then Madras) in 1882, which remains the main center for the largest branch.

Core Objects and Beliefs

The Society has three objects:

1.  To form a nucleus of the universal brotherhood of humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, caste, or color.

2.  To encourage the comparative study of religion, philosophy, and science.

3.  To investigate unexplained laws of nature and the powers latent in humanity.

Membership requires no specific creed; it emphasizes freedom of thought and is unsectarian. Key Theosophical ideas include reincarnation, karma, spiritual evolution, and the unity of all life, drawing heavily from Eastern traditions (Hinduism, Buddhism) while incorporating Western esotericism.

The Society’s motto is “There is no religion higher than Truth” (Sanskrit: Satyāt nāsti paro dharmaḥ).

The Emblem

The Society’s emblem is rich in ancient symbolism, representing profound spiritual concepts.

Common elements include:

•  Aum (Om) at the top: The sacred sound symbolizing the divine absolute.

•  Ouroboros (serpent biting its tail): Eternity and cyclical renewal.

•  Ankh (Egyptian cross): Life and resurrection.

•  Interlaced triangles (Star of David or Seal of Solomon): Union of spirit and matter.

•  Swastika: Perpetual motion and evolution (an ancient symbol predating its modern misuse).

Later Developments and Influence

After Blavatsky’s death in 1891, leadership passed to figures like Annie Besant (president 1907–1933), who expanded the Society in India and promoted social reforms. Internal disputes led to splits: the main Adyar-based branch, a Pasadena (California) branch, and others like Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophical Society (formed 1913).

The Society influenced the New Age movement, modern esotericism, and figures in art, literature (e.g., W.B. Yeats), and independence movements (e.g., in India). It helped revive interest in Eastern philosophies in the West and contributed to Buddhist revival in Sri Lanka.

As of 2026, the Theosophical Society (primarily the Adyar branch) remains active in over 60 countries, celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2025 with events focused on insight, wholeness, and shaping the future. It continues to promote study, meditation, and service through lodges, publications, and online resources. While membership is modest compared to its peak in the early 20th century, its ideas persist in contemporary spirituality.