Theosofische Boekhandel Adyar

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

440 Pages | Second edition, 2015 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170595939.

The essence of Theosophical teachings, ‘sufficiently plain to serve the elementary student and sufficiently full to lay a sound foundation for further knowledge‘, is how Annie Besant (1847 – 1933) describes this work. It is an introduction to that ‘Universal Wisdom’, which has been called Theosophy, Brahmā vidyā, the Perennial Philosophy and so on, and provides an all-embracing religion and ethic, as well as a philosophy that is conducive to right understanding and right living.

Even those who have a little knowledge of the Ancient Wisdom can experience the illumination, peace, joy and strength it brings into one’s life. For more than one century, Annie Besant’s exposition has brought light to thousands of seekers.

By Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983).

35 Pages | First Edition 1954, 4th Reprint 2005 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170590213.

In this book, which is a successor to his earlier work, Meditations on the Occult Life, Geoffrey Hodson communicates the essence of the teachings of Theosophy on the path of swift unfoldment. It gives us some understanding of the whole process of man’s evolution to a state of perfection. The reader glimpses the opportunities, difficulties, pitfalls and ups and downs of the entire journey from Man to Superman.

Mr Hodson wrote about forty theosophical books based on his occult investigations, and was awarded the Subba Row Medal in 1954 for his contributions to theosophical literature.

By Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983).

87 Pages | First Edition 1951, 7th printing 1980 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: unknown.

From the remotest time, belief in the doctrine of reincarnation has proved an inspiration to countless people, while to others it has been a violation of true religious teaching. In this little book, Mr Geoffrey Hodson, who studied the subject carefully, discusses basic questions of life such as suffering and divine justice, human destiny, child prodigies and the remembrance of past lives in the light of the Ancient wisdom, to show that the doctrine is in fact, a fact and not fallacy.

Mr Hodson wrote about forty theosophical books based on his occult investigations, and was awarded the Subba Row Medal in 1954 for his contributions to theosophical literature.

By Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983).

26 Pages | 13th reprint 2014 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170590149.

The first objective of meditation is to discover one’s own Spiritual Selfhood. The second objective is to realize that the Spiritual Self is forever an integral part of the Spiritual Self of the universe. This booklet is offered as preliminary guidance to those who seek a well-tried and safe method.

Geoffrey Hodson was born and educated in England, but later lived in New Zealand. A serious student of the Ancient wisdom he strove continuously for the spiritual regeneration of mankind until his death in 1983. Throughout his seventy years of membership, he lectured for the Theosophical Society in most parts of the world. Mr Hodson wrote about forty theosophical books based on his occult investigations, and was awarded the Subba Row Medal in 1954 for his contributions to theosophical literature.

By Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983).

193 Pages | First Edition, 7th Reprint 2005 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170593220.

Man undoubtedly possesses, in however rudimentary a form, certain supersensory powers. Their unfoldment can be hastened through Raja Yoga as the chief means. Included in this volume are talks by the author broadcast over the air in Australia. They are a guide to managing human life and developing the character needed for such unfoldment. However it is not the development of psychic powers that is man’s supreme goal, but ‘Self-realization’. Psychic powers are only by-products in the spiritual process of seeking ‘Realization’ and are not ends in themselves . . .

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

101 pages | First edition, 9th reprint (2007) | Paperback | Four lectures ath the 31st anniversary Convention of the Theosophical Society at Adyar, December 1906 | The Theosophical Publishing House Adyar | ISBN: 8170590299.

From the Foreword:

” Little need be said in sending out this booklet to tge world. It is an attempt, a very humble attempt, to draw a few drops from the ancient wells of Aryan wisdom, and to offer them to quench the thirst of weary Souls, traveling through the desert of, seeking for Truth. The Upanishad-s are unique in the sacred literature of the world. They stand alone a beacon-lights on a mountain-peak, showing how high man may climb, how much of the Light of the Self may shine out through the vessel of clay, how truly God may speak through man. To speak on them, to write on them, seems presumption for such a one as myself, and yet it may be that help will come to some of my brethren even in this way . . .  “

By Prof. Nicholas Kazanas.

90 Pages | Published in 2007 | Softcover | The Adyar Library Pamphlet Series No. 62 | The Adyar Library and Research Center | ISBN: 818514155X.

The Rgveda retains a large portion of common Indo-European mythological heritage. The worship of sun, moon, fire etc. are universal motifs. In his essay, Kazanas conducts very interesting and serious studies on some common elements found in the Vedic and Mesopotamian traditions and cultures and shows that they are originated in India. Some of the themes and legends described here are the horse-sacrifice, the seven seers, the flood, the cow of plenty, the tortoise, kingship, mathematics, astronomy etc.

By Prof. Nicholas Kazanas.

57 Pages | Published in 2009 | Softcover | The Adyar Library Pamphlet Series No. 65 | The Adyar Library and Research Center | ISBN: 8185141622.

The creation of this wonderful universe has always been problematic, and several theories are propounded in classical texts. Vedic Vac is a creative deity and the Vac-Brahman doctrine presents creation of the universe through speech. The Greek Logos doctrine also signifies creation through word and reason. In this book Kazanas introduces an interesting discourse on Word’s cosmogenic power as found in the Vedic, Christian, Judaic, Greek and Egyptian traditions and cultures.

By Prof. Nicholas Kazanas.

35 Pages | Published in 2005, The Adyar Library Pamphlet Series No. 57  | Softcover | The Adyar Library and Research Center | ISBN: 8185141495.

The quest for Self-knowledge, or love of wisdom is the central theme of Greek philosophy and Upanisadic Tradition. Prof. Kazanas discusses in this paper some apparent similarities, as well as fundamental differences between the Upanisadic teachings and the Platonic dialogues on soul, body, desire, education, reincarnation, etc. His discussion is quite scholarly but very readable.

Door John Algeo.

152 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1990, onderdeel van de Adyar-Reeks | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging, Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9061750636.

Engels origineel: Reïncarnation Explored | Published in 1987 | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9780835606240.

Mensen zijn van nature nieuwsgierig naar het onderwerp reïncarnatie. Opnieuw de gelegenheid krijgen om onze diepste dromen, onze menselijke, zelfs bovenmenselijke mogelijkheden te realiseren, is inderdaad een opwindend vooruitzicht. In deze verkenning van het idee, dat mensen vele levens hebben, bespreekt John Algeo enkele van de meest gestelde vragen:

1. Wie geloven er in reïncarnatie?
2. Wat reïncarneert er?
3. Wanneer reïncarneert iemand of iets?
4. Hoe lang duurt de periode tussen twee levens?
5. Waar worden we de volgende keer geboren?
6. Waarom reïncarneren we?

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 12 – ‘Waarom reïncarneren we?’ (blz, 128):

” In zekere is het hele proces van manifestatie – het voortkomen van de Monade uit de uiteindelijke Eenheid en zijn terugkeer daarnaar – een enkele reusachtige incarnatie. Deze wordt gevolgd door andere soortgelijke incarnaties in reusachtige evolutionaire cycli. Want reïncarnatie is het patroon van het universum, waarvan onze kleine persoonlijke incarnaties slechts minder belangrijke cycli zijn. Toch vervullen deze minder belangrijke cycli onze reïncarnatie als opeenvolgende persoonlijkheden, ook hun rol in de kosmische huishouding. En die functie bestaat uit het verhogen van de kwaliteit van ons wezen, ons bewustzijn en onze vreugde. Door reïncarnatie kunnen we ons in de wereld gaan verheugen. Door reïncarnatie leren we alles wat er te leren valt. Door reïncarnatie ontwikkelen we ons tot volledige wezens. “

By an anonymous author with Adresses of several renown Theosophists.

46 Pages | Second edition 2010 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: unknown.

With Adresses of: Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), Charles W. Leadbeater (1854 – 1934), George S. Arundale (1878 – 1945), C. Jinarājadāsa (1875 –  1953), N. Sri Ram (1889 – 1973) and Radha Burnier (1923 – 2013).

From the Address of C. Jinarājadāsa:

” My Brother, I address you as a brother and not as a friend, because our whole basis of the work of our Society is based upon the attempt to realize and practise the significance of the great Law of Brotherhood. When you signed up your application to join, you read what are the Three Objects of the Society; but of these the first and foremost is that of Universal Brotherhood […] ” (p. 27).

By Bhāskararāya (1690–1785), general editor K. Kunjunni Raya. hon. director. Translated into English by R. Ananthakrishna Sastry.

402 Pages | 6th Reprint 1988, 1st edition 1899 (T.P.H. ed.); Adyar Library General Series, Volume 11 | Hardcover | The Adyar Library & Research Center | ISBN: 8185141037.

The Lalitā Sahasranāma is a sacred text to Hindu worshippers of the Goddess Lalitā Devi, also called Tripurāsundarī or the Divine Mother. It contains the 1000 names of Lalitā organized in hymns (stotras) and represents the only sahasranāma not repeating a single Name. Lalitā translates etymologically as She Who Plays. Sahasranāma is a Sanskrit term, which means A 1000 Names. Bhāskararāya extensively highlights Name 1 – 1000 in this magnificent work. At the end, a Sanskrit compendium of the Lalitā Sahasranāma is enclosed.

Bhāskararāya is widely considered an authority on all questions pertaining to the worship of the Mother Goddess in Hinduism. The worship of Shakti involves many hidden meanings of mantras and coded passages. It is said that these meanings were revealed to Bhāskararāya by the Goddess Herself.

By John Algeo.

172 Pages | First published in 1903, 2001 edition | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 9780835607971.

Theosophist Annie Besant (1847 – 1933) drew from the Ancient Wisdom of the East to explore the deep recesses of the mind. The original edition was published in 1903 and has been in print ever since. Now leading contemporary Theosophists John Algeo and Shirley J. Nicholson have painstakingly revised the text to free its timeless truths from the time-bound language of the early 20th century and make it more accessible to today’s readers. The result is a clear discussion of subjects of increasingly high interest: concentration, memory, consciousness, telepathy, sleep and dreams, cultivation of the will, and access to your ‘Higher Self’.

From Chapter 12 – ‘The Secret of Peace of Mind’ (p. 152):

” We are the Self, and therefore the joys and the sorrow of others are ours as much as theirs. To the extent that we realise this and learn to live so that we share the life that flows through us with the whole world – to that extent we learn the secret of peace. That secret is knowledge of the Self, and the thought ‘That Self Am I’ (even if we have not yet experienced the reality) helps us gain a peace of mind that nothing can disturb. As the Bhagavad Gita [2.70] says: He attains peace, into whom all desires flow as rivers flow into the ocean, which is filled with water, but remains unmoved – not he who desires desire. “

Door Iqbal Kishen Taimni (1898–1978).

272 Pagina’s | 1976, Eerste druk 2013 | Gebonden | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750949.

English Original: The Ultimate Reality and Realization – Śiva-Sūtra with Text in Sanskrit, Transliteration in Roman, Translation in English & Commentary | 2004 | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170594444.

De Śiva Sūtra behoort tot de school van het Kaśmir Śaivisme. De filosofie achter de Śiva-Sūtra is gebaseerd op het bestaan van een Allerhoogste Werkelijkheid die zich manifesteert als het gehele universum. Elke Monade vormt daarin een afzonderlijk centrum van bewustzijn en kracht en bezit in zichzelf in potentiele vorm in die Realiteit Universeel Bewustzijn en Kracht (Śiva en Śakti). De drie afdelingen in dit boek behandelen de ontvouwing van Bewustzijn, gezien vanuit Goddelijk Bewustzijn (Śiva), Goddelijke Kracht (Śakti) en de Monade (Aņu).

Afkomstig uit de inleiding:

” Steeds meer spiritueel ingestelde mensen over de gehele wereld keren zich af van de orthodoxe ideeën over religie en filosofie. Hun aandacht richt zich op de realisatie van een Allerhoogste Werkelijkheid, verborgen in het Hart van ieder mens, het uiteindelijk doel van iedere geestelijke inspanning en zelfdiscipline. Wat is de aard van deze Werkelijkheid, hoe kun je die realiseren, en wat is de aard van het werk dat die Grote Wezens verrichten, die hierin geslaagd zijn en die blijvend in die Werkelijkheid gevestigd zijn? Dit zijn enkele van de vragen, die van groot belang moeten zijn voor alle ernstige bestudeerders van de occulte wetenschap en die voor hen, die op weg zijn op het pad van praktisch occultisme. “

Door een aantal leden van de Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, onder redactie van Arend Heijbroek en Els Rijneker

172 blz. | Uitgegeven in 2016, incl. woordenlijst en aanbevolen literatuurlijst | Paperback | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750970.

Dit boek gaat over die aspecten van Theosofie die betrekking hebben op ons eigen spirituele leven, en die ons kunnen helpen antwoorden te vinden op de uitdagingen van deze tijd. Het behandelt in korte inleidende hoofdstukken de meest relevante thema’s.

By Iqbal Kishen Taimni (1898–1978).

508 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 2015 | Hardcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750987.

English original: Man, God and The Universe | First edition 1969, revised edition 1974, 2nd edition 2014 | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 9780835604475.

Is de mens, zoals sommigen stellen, een toevallige indringer in een in essentie vijandige wereld? Is hij tot zelfvernietiging voorbestemd door zijn eigen onbeteugelde begeerten en gewelddadigheid? Of schuilt zijn bestemming in het tot bloei brengen van de zaden van de ultieme Werkelijkheid die in de geheime plekken van zijn eigen wezen verborgen ligt en die hij in zichzelf moet ontdekken en koesteren? In dit diepzinnige en inspirerende boek neemt een wetenschapper en filosoof en specialist op het gebied van yoga een beslissend standpunt in.

De diepste interesse van de denkende mens moet ongetwijfeld liggen in de aard van, en de relatie tussen de drie grote factoren, die in de titel van dit boek worden genoemd: de mens, zijn oorsprong, zijn reden van bestaan en zijn bestemming: God, niet als een op een mens gelijkende Godheid, maar als de bron van al het leven zelf en elk wezen: en het universum, de omgeving, waarin het verbazingwekkende schouwspel van de evolutie – zowel de goddellijke als de menselijke – wordt opgevoerd.

Ondanks de verheven reikwijdte van de ideeën, die in dit boek worden aangeboden, zijn ze eenvoudig te begrijpen door hun helderheid van presentatie en door de vele diagrammen en tabellen, waarmee zij worden toegelicht. De verhelderende synthese van Oosterse en Westerse benaderingswijzen zou het boek de moeite waard moeten maken voor nadenkende mensen over de gehele wereld.

By Dana Micucci.

278 Pages | First Quest Edition 2011 |  Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 9780835608985.

One Woman’s Journey around the World and into Her Truth.

‘And there was a new voice, which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do – determined to save the only life you could save’. – Mary Oliver ‘The Journey’.

Sojourns of the Soul is the quintessential armchair travel book for the spiritual seeker. Dana Micucci’s touching memoir chronicles seven sacred journeys that span 14 years of Micucci’s life, during which she explores the connection of inner growth to world travel that eventually leads to her own enlightenment. Unlike other inspirational travel books, Sojourns of the Soul provides a rare mix of in-depth wisdom and literary insights from the holistic view of an experienced female traveler.

From Chapter 3: ‘Egypt to Eternity’ (p. 101):

” ‘This mystery must be unveiled some day’, wrote H.P. Blavatsky in Isis Unveiled. ‘The answers are there. They may be found on the time-worn granite pages of cave-temples, on sphinxes, propylons, and obelisks . . . . They key was in the keeping of those who knew how to commune with the invisible Presence, and who had received, from the lips of mother Nature herself, her grand truths. And so stand these monuments like mute forgotten sentinels on the threshold of that unseen world’. “

332 pages | Paperback | Quest Books, 2013 by Serge King

“Reality is experience, and experience is reality,” says Hawaiian shaman Serge King, speaking of Huna, the esoteric tradition in which he was reared. King emphasizes that all of us have the ability to shift from one world to another. The difference is that shamans do it purposefully, while the rest of us are unaware of it. He trains us to engage in the process consciously in order to expand our human potential. Among books on Huna, this one is unique for offering actual practices for changing our reality to create the life we want.

250 pages | Paperback | TPH Adyar, 2000

A summary of the teachings of the Mahatmas by a noted Theosophist and feminist.

Clara Codd was born in England in 1876 and early in life rejected conventional mores. Rebelling against all oppression and injustice she plunged into the suffragette movement. But her meeting Col. H. S. Olcott, President-Founder of the Theosophical Society proved a turning point in her life. Foregoing her active role in the women’s social and political union, she joined the Theosophical Society. As an International Lecturer for the Society, she had an unrivaled opportunity to observe human nature, which enabled her to speak and write lucidly on various aspects of life.

125 pages | paperback | TPH Adyar, 2002

More and more Souls are seeking inwardly, trying to find the way to divine realization. It is man’s destiny that one day he must learn to plunge into the mysterious depths of his own glorious being, for only there is to be found true wisdom and the real power to help.

133 pages | paperback | TPH Adyar, 1994

Clara Codd has long been a popular theosophical writer. She writes with an eloquence and spontaneous naturalness about the most profound aspects of living. In this gentle little book she tells how she feels about God and man, death and life, and love – both human and Divine.

109 pages | paperback | TPH Adyar, 2005

Learn how to realize your inner possibilities and solve life’s riddles through meditation.

Clara Codd was born in England in 1876 and early in life rejected conventional mores. Rebelling against all oppression and injustice she plunged into the suffragette movement. But her meeting Col. H. S. Olcott, President-Founder of the Theosophical Society proved a turning point in her life. Foregoing her active role in the women’s social and political union, she joined the Theosophical Society. As an International Lecturer for the Society, she had an unrivaled opportunity to observe human nature, which enabled her to speak and write lucidly on various aspects of life.

269 pages | hardcover| TPH Adyar, 1993

Clara Codd was born in England in 1876 and early in life rejected conventional mores. Rebelling against all oppression and injustice she plunged into the suffragette movement. But her meeting Col. H. S. Olcott, President-Founder of the Theosophical Society proved a turning point in her life. Foregoing her active role in the women’s social and political union, she joined the Theosophical Society. As an International Lecturer for the Society, she had an unrivaled opportunity to observe human nature, which enabled her to speak and write lucidly on various aspects of life.

Door Ingmar de Boer.

48 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 2013 | Brochure | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9789061750932.

De schrijver van deze brochure, Ingmar de Boer, neemt ons mee in de denkwereld van De Stem van de Stilte van H.P. Blavatsky (HPB), waarin we allereerst het voorwoord van de Stem bekijken, in een poging daaruit zo goed mogelijk een beeld te construeren van de oorsprong van de aforismen, zoals HPB die zelf schetst. We lopen door de tekst van het werk en we gaan eerst de herkomst na van alle technische termen. Daarna proberen we verder aan de hand van deze analyse een concreet idee te formuleren omtrent de oorsprong van De Stem van de Stilte.

Afkomstig van blz. 12:

” Weet je, wat ik doe is het volgende. Ik maak iets wat ik alleen kan beschrijven als een soort vacuum in de lucht voor mij, en richt mijn blik en mijn wil erop, en al snel komt scene voor scene langs als de opeenvolgende beelden van een kijkdoos, of, als ik een verwijzing nodig heb of informatie uit een boek, concentreer ik mij, de astrale tegenhanger van het boek verschijnt en ik neem eruit wat ik nodig heb. Hoe beter ik mijn geest vrij kan maken van afleidingen en fixaties, hoe meer energie en concentratie er is, hoe makkelijker me dit lukt. ” 

• Countess Constance Wachtmeister (1838 – 1910).

By Dr. Annine van der Meer.

587 Pages | Published in 2013 | Softcover | Uitgeverij A3 Boeken | ISBN: 9789082031300.

This is the first pioneering study of global ‘Venuses’, who are part of an ancient and contemporary art traditionally called ‘Venus Art’ – the Art of Primal Mother(s), the Art of the female ancestors. Venus Art reflects the consciousness of egalitarian societies of peace, in which women and feminine values play or have played a central role, in which MA or the MATER or MOTHER and the primal mothers of the clan are central.

To date Venus Art has been understood, neglected and not integrally researched. The Art has become eroticised and sexualised. The purpose of this book is to rehabilitate Venus Art with Venus seen and honored as manifestation of the divine Mother MA.

From Chapter 2 – ‘The Book in a Nutshell’ (p. 15):

” Part 1 consists of eight chapters, part 2 the same. This is no coincidence. Three and four make seven. Seven plus one makes eight. In eight begins a new octave, a new time, a new mankind. In the lemniscate of the eight. the independent feminine and masculine come together in perfect balance. By bringing the forgotten feminine into the picture, balance and connection is created with the masculine. Unity. “

Door 5 bekende auteurs binnen de Theosofie.

722 Pagina’s | De Lotusreeks I is gepubliceerd in 2012 | Softcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750925.

De 5 boeken van de Lotusreeks I zijn nu samengebundeld te bestellen voor maar €12,50! Ieder boek is evenzo los verkrijgbaar in onze Webshop.

De Lotusreeks I bestaat uit 5 titels:

1. Zoek Naar de Weg – Studies in ‘Licht op het Pad’ – Rohit Mehta.
2. De Scheppende Stilte – Overpeinzingen over ‘De Stem van de Stilte’ – Rohit Mehta.
3. Praktische Mystiek – Voor Gewone Mensen – Evelyn Underhill.
4. Meditatie – Een Praktische Studie met Oefeningen – Adelaide Gardner.
5. De Zeven Menstypen – Geoffrey Hodson.

1. Zoek Naar de Weg – Studies in ‘Licht op het Pad’ – Rohit Mehta.

Licht op het Pad geschreven door Mabel Collins staat bekend als ‘een der kostbaarste juwelen van de moderne Theosofie’. Het bestaat uit 30 aforismen van geestelijke lering met een diepe betekenis, die integraal in dit werkje zijn opgenomen. Ze zijn afkomstig uit een serie toespraken door Rohit Mehta, gehouden in Benares in het hoofdkwartier van de Indiase afdeling van de Theosophical Society.

2. De Scheppende Stilte – Overpeinzingen over ‘De Stem van de Stilte’ –  Rohit Mehta.

Rohit Mehta heeft getracht in deze Overpeinzingen over het bekende werk van Helena Petrovna Blavatsky’s (1831 – 1891) De Stem van de Stilte, een verklaring te geven van een van de merkwaardigste boeken die ooit over het geestelijk leven zijn geschreven. Blavatsky geeft in haar werk de mystieke leer van de Boeddha en de leer van de Vedanta weer. Beide kunnen als nagenoeg identieke wijsgerige stelsels worden beschouwd. Zo noemt Blavatsky de Vedanta ‘vergeestelijkt Boeddhisme’ en het Boeddhisme ‘radicaal Vedantisme’.

3. Praktische Mystiek – Voor Gewone Mensen – Evelyn Underhill.

Dit bekende boekje, geschreven in Londen in 1914, gaat onder meer in op de vraag: Wat is Mystiek? Underhill geeft een beschouwing over de wereld van de ‘werkelijkheid’ en behandelt onderwerpen zoals: de voorbereiding van de mysticus, liefde en wilskracht, meditatie en bezinning, en de vernieuwing van het bewustzijn. Ze komt uiteindelijk tot de volgende definitie: ‘Mystiek is de kunst van het éénworden met de Werkelijkheid en een mysticus is iemand, die deze éénwording in meer of mindere mate heeft bereikt, of althans iemand, die streeft naar en gelooft in éénwording’.

4. Meditatie – Een Praktische Studie met Oefeningen – Adelaide Gardner.

Gardner biedt een eenvoudige, tegelijk zeer praktische handleiding in meditatie voor alle leeftijden. Per hoofdstuk zijn oefeningen opgenomen voor individuele toepassing en groepsmeditatie. De volgende onderwerpen komen onder meer aan de orde: het doel van meditatie, verschillende methoden, concentratie en contemplatie, hindernissen en hulpmiddelen, groepsmeditatie, het helpen van anderen door gedachten en aanbevolen literatuur voor verdere studie.

5. De Zeven Mensentypen – Geoffrey Hodson.

‘Het leven gelijkt enigermate op een geweven tapijt: aan de onderzijde ziet men een wirwar van kleuren, knopen en draden; een patroon kan men echter niet ontdekken. Zodra de bovenzijde wordt bekeken ziet men de bedoeling van het weefsel en, hòe alles – juist in die volgorde – werd gerangschikt’, aldus Hodson. Het menselijk verstand, dat begrensd is, kan de ‘waarheid’ niet geheel bevatten, want deze is onbegrensd. Maar het begripsvermogen van de mens kan worden getraind en vergroot, wanneer het leven vanuit verschillende invalshoeken wordt waargenomen. Zo kan iemand een berg waarnemen, iedere keer vanuit een ander gezichtspunt. Ook al blijft de berg hetzelfde; de aanblik is iedere keer weer anders en zo kan de berg steeds beter worden begrepen. Zo werkt het precies met het leren kennen van ‘waarheid’.

64 blz. | Paperback | Theosofische vereniging in Nederland, 1989

Het speciale nummer van Theosofia, de zg. special, heeft deze keer als onderwerp het holisme.

676 blz. | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical University Press, 1998

Hoewel H.P. Blavatsky’s Geheime leer in brede kring wordt gezien als de voornaamste theosofische bron, vinden veel mensen de inhoud ervan nogal overweldigend. Dit boek voorziet in de behoefte aan een duidelijke toelichting van HPB’s meesterwerk.

Het bevat een reeks lezingen die in besloten kring werden gehouden. Na toelichting van de drie fundamentele grondstellingen waarop Blavatsky’s boek is gebaseerd, geeft De Purucker commentaar op belangrijke passages uit dit werk.

848 blz. | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical University Press, 2e herziende druk 2006

Een moderne presentatie van de oude universele wijsheid, gebaseerd op De geheime leer van H.P. Blavatsky.

Het boek behandelt o.a. de volgende onderwerpen:
– Discipline, inwijding en het spirituele pad
– De twaalf heilige planeten
– Bewustzijnstoestanden na de dood en het proces van wederbelichaming
– Spirituele verlichting tegenover psychische illusies
– Het ontstaan, de opbouw en de bestemming van heelallen en zonnestelsels
– Overeenkomsten tussen kosmische en menselijke beginselen
– Tijd, ruimte en het grenzeloze
– Onzichtbare werelden en hun bewoners
– Boeddha’s, avatara’s en de hiërarchie van mededogen
– Erfelijkheid, karma en ziekte
– Het heelal, een levend organisme – levensgolven en circulaties in de kosmos

754 blz. | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical University Press, 2001

De basisgedachten in De Geheime Leer van Blavatsky omvatten de beginselen van een wijsheid die veel ouder is dan de Veda’s van India, de oudste geschriften ter wereld. Deze wijsheid wordt hier door de schrijver uiteengezet. De grote vooruitgang in het wetenschappelijke en religieuze denken over de mens en het heelal sinds de tijd van Blavatsky vormen de achtergrond voor de toelichting in dit boek. Symboliek en mystiek, de mysteriën van de innerlijke samenstelling van de mens, esoterische scholen, grote zieners en wijzen, de relatie tussen wetenschap en esoterie komen aan bod. Tevens wordt uitgebreid besproken hoe het reïncarnatieproces in zijn werk gaat.

258 pages | Paperback | Quest Books, 2012

Everyone has religious experiences, but most people just don’t know how to identify them, claims author William Bloom. Today’s society makes ever-increasing demands on us, but in the practice of modern spirituality, we can find heartening new solutions that give us the energy, motivation and inspiration to develop ourselves and transform our world.

The Power of the New Spirituality uniquely straddles mainstream and alternative forms of belief in commonsense, everyday language. Bloom speaks directly to the legions of people who seek to replace a single-faith tradition with a more generalized spirituality. He identifies the core similarities in all spiritual traditions and explains how everyone-regardless of background, beliefs or personality type – can immediately put them into practice.

107 pages | Paperback | Quest Books, 2011

Helps You Tap Into An Infinite Reservoir of Clarity and Calm

Modern times have created a siege of chaos. Struggling economy, political turmoil, media bombardment and a general culture of isolation all contribute to this unrest. Buddhist author Ajahn Sumano Bhikkhu presents a simple path to freedom from such chaos in The Brightened Mind.

“Sumano Bikkhu’s The Brightened Mind is a most precious little jewel, introducing the spiritual armchair traveler to the wonders of the Universal Mind as taught in the Buddhist meditative tradition.” — Glenn Mullin, author of Female Buddhas, The Fourteen Dalai Lamas, and Living in the Face of Death.

By Russel Targ. Foreword by Stephan A. Schwartz.

306 Pages | First Quest Edition 2012 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 9780835608848.

On February 4, 1974, members of The Symbionese Liberation Army kidnapped the nineteen-year-old newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst from her apartment situated in Berkeley, California. Desperate to find her, the police called physicist Russell Targ and Pat Price; a psychic retired police commissioner. As Price turned the pages of the police mug book filled with hundreds of pictures, he suddenly pointed out to one of them and announced: ‘That’s the ringleader’! The man’s name turned out Donald DeFreeze and he was indeed subsequently so identified. Price also described the type and location of the kidnap car, which then enabled the police to trace the vehicle within minutes.

This remarkable event depicts one reason Russell Targ believes, so the speak, in the existence of ‘extra sensory phenomena’ (ESP). Another reason is that his group earned $120.000,- by forecasting changes in the silver-commodity futures market for nine weeks in a row. In his research, with all the proof Targ has assembled (and there is more besides), he suggests all life is interconnected and interdependent. There is an aspect of human consciousness that exists independent of time and space, that is susceptible to volitional control; and there is an interconnection between all life forms, that must be understood if the universal impulse humans feel toward the spiritual component of their lives is to mature properly. This assertion is not just a scientific fact: it is a worldview. If you accept it, you will make different life choices. Targ’s proof is a beginning, not an end.

From Chapter 12 – ‘Naked Awareness’ (p. 242):

” From thirty-five hundred years ago the Hindu Vedas teach us that our awareness, or Self (Ātman), is one with and unseparated from ultimate transcendent reality, the physical and  non-physical universe, or Brahman. We need experience, no separation from any aspect of the universe in consciousness. More recently, the great physicist Erwin Schrodinger, who perfected quantum mechanics, has written in his thoughtful monograph ‘What is Life’, that the teaching that Ātman equals Brahman is the greatest of all metaphysical principles. He goes on to write about non-separation: ‘Consciousness is a singular of which the plural is unknown. There is only one thing, and that which seems to be a plurality is simply a series of different aspects that one thing produced by a deception (Māyā). The same illusion is produced in a gallery of mirrors’. “

By Margaret Placentra Johnston.

300 Pages | First Quest Edition 2012 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 9780835609050.

Faith Beyond Belief seems to give us a good way to understand those, who have rejected their own church, but are still engaged in a spiritual search beyond the conventional language and categories, that left them feeling empty. It is an excellent way to get a feel for the issues as they are experienced by a growing number of Americans, who are spiritual but not religious. You can feel the difference in the openness, the inquiring mind and the caring Soul, that this book unveils.

From Chapter 23 – ‘Where Do We Go From Here’ (p. 278):

” Rather than keep its adherents mired in childish myths, the religion of the future will lead its members toward the more fluid form of faith that can develop ‘beyond belief’. It will encourage them to undertake the critical reflection required to begin the progression to mature faith. Rather than suppress diversity and self-expression in religious experience, the religion of the future will promote the spiritual exploration that is necessary to reach the Mystic level. Where the religion of the past was exclusionist, ethnocentric, judgemental and triumphalist, the religion of the future will be inclusive, universal, unitive, and accepting, The religion of the future will be Love! “

216 pages | Paperback | Krishnamurti Foundation India, 1993

The book is a historical record of Krishnamurti’s relationship to Rajghat on the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi; it was a place where he founded a school and came every winter till his death in 1986. Rajghat’s classical past, its philosophical and religious traditions, its extreme conservatism, the beauty of the countryside and the poverty of its villagers form the background against which Krishnamurti spoke – to students, teachers and to the public.

205 pages | Paperback | Findhorn Press, 2011

Encouraging, supportive, and life-saving, this book is essential for avoiding the mental, emotional, or spiritual paralysis or exhaustion that can result from underestimating the current age of increased individual and global emergencies.

When spiritual emergencies, such as mystical psychosis and dark nights of the soul, are understood, managed, and integrated, they can offer enormous potential for growth and fulfillment, and this book offers three key phases for successful navigation. Personal stories of spiritual crises are presented alongside practical and effective guidance in this exploration of a fascinating phenomenon.

“This book is going to be very helpful to many people.” — Dr Andrew Powell, Royal College of Psychiatrists, Special Interest Group on Spirituality

By Joy Mills (1920 – 2015).

37 Pages | Adyar Pamphlet New Series #4, published in 2002 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170593549.

‘The pivotal doctrine of esoteric philosophy admits no privileges or special gifts in man, save those won by his own Ego through personal effort and merit throughout a long series of metempsychoses and reincarnations‘. – The Secret Doctrine, Vol. I, p. 17.

The search for human identity has been the subject of great literature, great art, music and philosophy throughout the ages. To approach any understanding of this human identity, and therefore to recognize the journey or the work on which we are engaged as human beings, we may begin by acknowledging the various facts which compose our individual identity. We have physical bodies, with their unique characteristics; we have feelings, thoughts, aspirations, and, in times of deep inner reflection or profound meditation, an awareness of something more, beyond yet near, neither wholly of ourselves nor wholly other, something indefinable yet real and true. H.P. Blavatsky, in setting forth the perennial philosophy, defined the human as a ‘saptaparna’, a seven-leaved plant. The seven ‘leaves’ or principles, as they are generally called, are variously given in theosophical literature.

From Page 13:

” To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths

Of all the western stars . . .

It may be that the gulfs will wash us down:

It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles,

. . . that which we are;

One equal temper of heroic hearts,

Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will

To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. “

Door Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895 – 1986), vertaald door Hans van der Kroft.

143 Pagina’s | Softcover 2012 | Synthese, een imprint van Milinda Uitgevers B.V. | ISBN: 9789062711079.

Engels origineel: The [Shambala] Krishnamurti Reader | 2009 editie | Krishnamurti Foundation Trust Ltd., Hampshire, England | ISBN: 9780834827592.

De wereldberoemde Indiase leraar Jiddu Krishnamurti wilde geen goeroe zijn en noemde zichzelf evenmin een filosoof. Toch wordt hij gezien als een van de meest oorspronkelijke denkers van onze tijd. Hij gaf teachings over de hele wereld en bood praktische antwoorden op belangrijke levensvragen. In Inzicht is Nu zijn deze waardevolle lessen gebundeld in een handzaam boekje.

De kunst van het leven is, volgens Krishnamurti, leven in het nu zonder gisteren of morgen. Inzicht in het nu kan ons in vele opzichten verder helpen. Door alleen te kijken naar dat wat is en vooroordelen, negatieve herinneringen  en persoonlijke ervaringen los te laten, kunnen we leren leven zonder conflicten. Leven in het nu betekent bovendien een leven vrij van angsten. In Inzicht in het Nu gaat Krishnamurti in op onderwerpen als kwaliteiten en helderheid van handelen, leven en sterven, meditatie en het tijdloze in het dagelijks leven.

Deze compacte uitgave is een klein juweeltje. In heldere taal geeft Krishnamurti ons adviezen om eenvoudig en verstandig te leven.

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 7 – ‘Levenskunst’: (blz. 53):

” De meesten van ons leiden een verbrokkeld leven, opgedeeld in zakenleven, religieus leven, gezinsleven, seksleven, enzovoort. We zijn als mens niet holistisch, we zijn niet ‘heel’. We bekijken het leven vanuit een bepaald gezichtspunt, een bepaalde conclusie of vanuit het een of andere idealistische idee. Dat alles geeft een verbrokkelde kijk op het leven. Zijn wij in staat problemen onder ogen te zien vanuit een heel andere visie, die totaal niet verbrokkeld is? Als we zouden erkennen, zouden beseffen dat we een verbrokkeld leven leiden, een versplinterd, innerlijk verdeeld, tegenstrijdig leven, waarbij we de ene begeerte tegenover de andere stellen, zouden we dan onze problemen niet vanuit een heel ander gezichtspunt het hoofd kunnen bieden? “

DVD | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, 2011

A presentation of the buildings and places, flora and fauna of a unique campus.

Established by the Founders of the Theosophical Society, H.P. Blavatsky and H.S. Olcott, in December 1882, Adyar has been the Society’s International Headquarters ever since. Besides its peaceful and uplifting atmosphere this centre is rich in historical and architectural features. It is widely recognized as a safe sanctuary for many animals, birds and plants. This DVD presentation captures the beauty and importance of Adyar as an ashrama dedicated to the unity of Life.

322 pages | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, 2008

This book, first published in 1893, contains a candid description of the first forty-two years of Annie Besant’s life: a relatively happy childhood, an unfortunate marriage, followed by domestic, social, religious and political trials and tribulations. It reveals her remarkable courage and a strong sense of social justice.

This autobiography is a shining example of the unlimited potential of one who is convinced of his or her goal.

164 pages | Paperback | Krishnamurti Foundation India, 1998

There is today a strange and deep discontent among the young people. Responding to this malaise, the words of J. Krishnamurti direct each person to become his own teacher as well as his own disciple. He asks us to use his words as mirror to look at ourselves as we actually are and to see the totality of existence. To look in such a manner, the mind must be completely free – not bound by authority of any kind.

But this freedom should not be misunderstood to mean freedom to lead an undisciplined, self-indulgent life. The freedom of which Krishnamurti speaks requires a total revolution in the psyche itself. When the mind empties itself of the known, then the human being can undergo complete transformation.

164 pages | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, 1977

The “thoughts” are short quotes gathered into themes such as Love, Peace, Humility and Simplicity, Brotherhood, and Spirituality. About Unity, he writes, “Whether in a speck of dust, or in a leaf or flower, or in the least living thing, it is the One Life which exists as the innermost reality, the Truth of truths.”

An Adyar book, imported from India.

99 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, 1961

Sri Ram

A series of talks given in 1951 and 1952 by a past international President of the Theosophical Society. Topics include: What Is Man?, Evolution of Man, The Subtle Nature of Man, Seeking, and Integrating Our Knowledge and Ourselves.

215 pages | Gebonden/Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, 1986

The Human Interest and Other Addresses and Short Essays

N. Sri Ram, was international President of the Theosophical Society for over 20 years, from 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.

By Patañjali, Preface and translation by William Quan Judge (1851 – 1896).

74 Pages | Copyright 1987, firstly published in 1985 | Hardcover | The Theosophy Company, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0938998110.

‘This book is laid upon the altar of Master’s Cause, and is dedicated to their servant H.P. Blavatsky. All concern for its fruits or results is abandoned: They are left in charge of Karma and the Members of The Theosophical Society’.

This edition of Patañjali’s Yoga Aphorisms is not put forth as a new translation, nor as a literal rendering into English of the original. In the year 1885 an edition was printed at Bombay by Mr. Tookeram Tatya, a Fellow of the Theosophical Society, which has been since widely circulated among its members in all parts of the world. But it has been of use only to those, who had enough acquaintance with the Indian system of philosophy to enable them to grasp the real meaning of the Aphorisms notwithstanding the great and peculiar obstacles due to the numberless brackets and interpolated sentences, with which not only are the Aphorisms crowded, but the so-called explanatory notes as well. For the greater number  of readers these difficulties have been an almost insurmountable barrier; and such is the consideration that has led to the preparation of this edition, which attempts to clear up a work that is thought to be of great value to earnest students.

From the Preface (xv – xvi):

” The sytem postulates that Ishwara, the spirit in man, is untouched by any troubles, works, fruit of works, or desires, and when a firm position is assumed with the end in view of reaching union with spirit through concentration, He comes to the aid of the lower self and raises it gradually to higher planes. In this process the Will by degrees is given a stronger and stronger tendency to act upon a different line that from indicated by passion and desire. Thus it is freed from the dominion of desire and at last subdues the mind it-self. “

20 Pages | First edition, 2010 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar

Jiddhu Krishnamurti (1895 – 1986), like all true Rishis and Philosophers, based his saying on seeing. With him the emphasis was always on perception rather than thinking. Almost in every engagement – even in personal conversations this was often the case – sometimes practically in the middle of a sentence he would say, ‘Now listen to the birds‘ or ‘Look at the clouds‘. The mind which had been trapped in arguing or putting two and two together, would thus be invited to look. One was literally brought back to one’s senses.

68 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, 2000

C.W. Leadbeater and C. Jinarajadasa

Sacrifice is selfless giving, the way to freedom from the bondage of karma. “All nature must give forth or die”. The Eternal Principle gives of itself in manifestation this is the great Cosmic Sacrifice, which C. Jinarajadasa explains with quotations from ancient texts and living examples.
C.W. Leadbeater points out that sacrifice is “Love in the fullest and deepest sense of the word”. By giving ourselves in loving service, in unselfish devotion and renunciation for the good of others, we can transmute ourselves. Love is the way to life and immortality.

326 pages | Paperback | Quest Books, 2000

The Eleusian mysteries, the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Theatre of Dionysus, the labyrinths of Knossos, the Delphic oracle—the book leads us to such sacred sites in the ancient way of spiritual pilgrimage. “The gods have not totally vacated the holy places,” says Richard Geldard. “Any ‘vacating’ has to do with our own lack of awareness.”

He brings to life the mythology that shaped the brilliance of Greek architecture and art, integrating rare historical material with the most recent archeological data. The result is a specialty guidebook comprehensive enough to be the only one you pack, with commentary on:
– Major and lesser sites of the palace and temple cultures
– Greek drama, philosophy, art, and sculpture
– Sacred geometry and architecture
– Gallery collections in three major museums

Whether you’re an armchair or actual traveler, Traveler’s Key opens access to the fabled wisdom enjoyed by pilgrims of old and to the living mythology that still has power to transform lives.

118 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, 1987

The way and power of the ego.

1926. A priest in the Liberal Catholic Church, Van Der Leeuw writes that the pages in this book are based on an awakening of Ego-consciousness that came to him in a single moment, but has taken days to realize and many pages to describe. Contents: The Drama of the Soul in Exile; The Way to the Ego; The World of the Ego; The Powers of the Ego; and The Return of the Exile.

An Adyar book, imported from India.

By Patrice Chaplin.

336 Pages | First Quest edition 2008 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 9780835608718.

City of Secrets is, perhaps, the very first nonfiction title to combine the stories of the legendary Grail phenomenon with that of a modern-day love story.

In 1955, fifteen-year-old Patrice flees her predictable English life for sun-drenched Girona, a pre-Roman town in northern Spain. There, she falls in love with José, whose mission is to preserve the town’s ancient Caballistic tradition. Over the years, Patrice returns again and again to her lover and Girona. She meets enthralling characters and hears of visions, an oddly wealthy priest, a fabulous garden owned by a Frenchwoman, and two towers aligned to create a portal to another dimension. The priest is no other than the Abbé Saunière of Rennes-le-Château, and the mysteries linked to him are at the heart of the Grail phenomenon. People Patrice thought she knew well turn out to belong to a secret society guarding Saunière’s legacy. Now it is time, they say, to reveal their secrets, and they ask her to be the messenger.

In support of her revelations, Patrice provides copies of previously unreleased letters, written by Saunière, along with other documented evidence. Her romantic and lucid writing style, which has often been compared to Beat Generation legend Jack Kerouac, will leave readers with no doubt that this book is one-of-a-kind.