uit het Bengaals vertaald en ingeleid door Victor A. van Bijlert

Rabindranath Tagore (1861 – 1941), Bengali, poëzzie

Leiden Kern Instituut | 1996 | 108 pag | sofcover | ISBN 9072181077
Kern Instituut miscellanea, ISSN 0924-0861, 9

Rabindranath Tagore is een van de belangrijkste dichters en denkers van India. Hij schreef en dichtte voornamelijk in zijn moedertaal, Bengaals, een taal die in Oost-India en Bangladesh wordt gesproken. In 1913 ontving hij als eerste Aziaat de Nobelprijs voor letterkunde.
Het westen kent Tagore alleen uit zijn eigen herdichtingen in het engels. Ook de vertalingen van Frederik van Eeden zijn hierop gebaseerd. Dit boek biedt voor het eerst een directe vertaling uit het Bengaals van een dichtbundel van Tagore. Gekozen is voor de Gitali uit 1914. Deze bundel geeft een goede indruk van de poëzie die Tagore tussen 1910 en 1914 schreef.

De vertaler, Victor van Bijmert, doceert Indiase geschiedenis, cultuurstudies en Bengaals aan het Instituut Kern van de Rijksuniversiteit Liden.

Comments by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891), compiled by Lina Psaltis

132 Pages | 2nd Reprint 2006 | Hardcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN 8170594863

Psychic phenomena, magic, hypnotism, spiritualism, planes of perception, dreams, and spiritual progress – these are some of the subjects discussed in this collection of excerpts from the writings of one of the most famous occultists of history: Helena Petrovna Blavatsky.

In this small book the compiler has drawn together from various sources some of the important and interesting statements made by H.P. Blavatsky more than a century ago on subjects, which are arousing wide interest today. Her comments not only reveal something of her profound knowledge and wisdom, but are also fascinating, informative and relevant. They contain valuable advice to those who would dabble in psychic realms without being aware of their dangers and pitfalls.

From page 104/105:

” The key in each degree is the ‘aspirant himself’. It is not the fear of God, which is the beginning of Wisdom, but the knowledge of SELF which is WISDOM ITSELF. How grand and true appears, thus, to the student of Occultism who has commenced to realize some of the foregoing truths, the answer given by the Delphic Oracle to all who came seeking after Occult Wisdom – words repeated and enforced again and again by the wise Socrates: MAN KNOW THYSELF . . . ” 

• From: Collected Writings, Vol. IX, p. 162.

Door Three Initiates

64 Pagina’s | 2020 | Softcover | Uitgevrij e-artnow | ISBN 9788027308095

The “Three Initiates” who authored The Kybalion chose to remain anonymous. As a result, a great deal of speculation has been made about who actually wrote the book. The most common proposal is that The Kybalion was authored by William Walker Atkinson (1862 -1932), either alone or with others, such as Paul Foster Case (1884 -1954) and Elias Gewurz.

The Kybalion is based on the extensive research and study of the world-old Hermetic Teachings. The book has dedicated to everyone interested in Secret Doctrines.

‘There has been so little written upon this subject, not withstanding the countless references to the Teachings in the many works upon occultism, that the many earnest searchers after the Arcane Truths will doubtless welcome the appearance of this present volume. The purpose of this work is not the enunciation of any special philosophy or doctrine, but rather is to give to the students a statement of the Truth that will serve to reconcile the many bits of occult knowledge that they may have acquired, but which are apparently opposed to each other and which often serve to discourage and disgust the beginner in the study. Our intent is not to erect a new Temple of Knowledge, but rather to place in the hands of the student a Master-Key with which he may open the many inner doors in the Temple of Mystery through the main portals he has already entered.’

Three Initiates, The Kybalion

Door Geshe Sonam Gyaltsen (1941-), vertaling uit het Tibetaans door Hans van den Bogaert

143 Pagina’s | 2001 | Softcover | Maitreya Uitgeverij, Emst | ISBN 9071886182

De eerwaarde Geshe Sonam Gyaltsen werd op 4 juni 1941 geboren in Lhasa, de hoofdstad van Tibet. Op zesjarige leeftijd werd hij tot monnik gewijd in de Gaden Jangtse kloosteruniversiteit en hij behaalde zijn acharya graad aan de Sanskriet universiteit van Varanasi. Sedert 1992 is hij als vaste leraar verbonden aan het Maitreya Instituut in Emst [nu Loenen].

Dit boekje is een bewerking van de meditatiecursus die de eerwaarde Geshe Sonam Gyaltsen in december 1997 te Emst gaf. Het biedt essentiële informatie over de theorie en praktijk van boeddhistische meditatie en is een betrouwbare handleiding voor de verschillende stappen van concentratiemeditatie zoals gepresenteerd in de Gelukpa orde van het Tibetaans boeddhisme.

Dit boekje is een waardevolle inleiding voor beginners in de beoefening van meditatie en kan geestelijke vrede bevorderen.

Door Geshe Sonam Gyaltsen (1941-), vertaling uit het Tibetaans door Hans van den Bogaert

144 Pagina’s | 2020, derde gewijzigde druk | Softcover | Maitreya Uitgeverij, Loenen | ISBN 9789071886171

De eerwaarde Geshe Sonam Gyaltsen werd op 4 juni 1941 geboren in Lhasa, de hoofdstad van Tibet. Op zesjarige leeftijd werd hij tot monnik gewijd in de Gaden Jangtse kloosteruniversiteit en hij behaalde zijn acharya graad aan de Sanskriet universiteit van Varanasi. Sedert 1992 is hij als vaste leraar verbonden aan het Maitreya Instituut in Loenen.
De Hart Soetra is een van de bekendste Mahayana soetra’s. Ze wordt dagelijks gereciteerd van Japan tot India. In het Tibetaans boeddhisme wordt het reciteren van deze korte Perfectie van Wijsheid Soetra gezien als een effectief middel voor het pacificeren van obstakels. Hoewel het reciteren van de Hart Soetra ook werkt wanneer men de woorden niet of niet goed begrijpt, is de wijsheid die erin wordt aangedragen de sleutel tot de weg naar bevrijding en boeddhaschap.
De eerwaarde Geshe Sonam Gyaltsen laat zijn licht schijnen op de bevrijdende filosofie die achter de woorden van deze korte, maar belangrijke tekst schuilgaat.

Door: Jaap Vos

100 Pagina’s | 2022 | Hardcover | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN 9789061751014

Wereldwijd bestaan bibliotheken met gigantische hoeveelheden boeken, vol met data. Dít boek beoogt al het geschrevene te comprimeren om de innerlijke bron te raken, en beoogt deze veelheid aan data terug te brengen tot het uiterste minimum. Het is als het ware Een boek dat geen boek wil zijn. En vanwege de esthetische vormgeving zou kun je het net zo goed kunnen beschouwen als een kunstwerk. Het vraagt intensieve meditatieve aandacht van de lezer, en geduld om te zoeken naar de Waarheid in het Zelf. Theosofie geeft enorm waardevolle inzichten. Het zoeken naar Waarheid adhv De Geheime Leer inspireerde de schrijver. Metafysica niet in lange verhandelingen maar in Kernwoorden, ontdek het Zelf. Dit werk verdient om te worden gepubliceerd, voor alle Theosofen, en voor iedereen die het bevatten kan.

Door Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983), vertaling door Marcel Eeckman.

50 Pagina’s | 2021 | Paperback | Belgische Theosofische Vereniging, Brussel | ISBN

The Great Seal of the United States is een
fascinerende uiteenzetting van de geschiedenis en spirituele symboliek van een
belangrijk Amerikaans embleem waarin
de principes en idealen van de grondleggers van de Verenigde Staten zijn neergelegd.

In dit boek onthult
de Amerikaanse occultist,
B.O.T.A. oprichter, leraar en auteur Dr. Paul Foster Case dat het grootzegel een
diepzinnige esoterische voorstelling is,
gemaakt door de founding fathers als weergave van de idealen
van de Novo Ordo Seclorum, de nieuwe
wereldorde.

Dit werkje is één
van de beroemdste verhandelingen van occulte onderzoekers uit de 20e eeuw, over de verborgen betekenis
achter het meest-besproken
symbool van de Amerikaanse politiek.

Boeiend en tot nadenken stemmend leesmateriaal.

Oorspronkelijke titel: The Miracle of Birth, A Clairvoyant Study of Prenetal Life.

De wetenschap komt steeds meer tot het inzicht dat de grondslagen voor een goede gezondheid worden gelegd vanaf het moment van de conceptie. De twee aspecten van Leven zoals het zich ontplooit – bewustzijn en materie – moeten juist in evenwicht zijn. Een weloverwogen en eerbiedige benadering van het ouderschap stelt kinderen in staat een gezond lichamelijk, emotioneel en geestelijk leven te leiden.
De auteur, de begaafde helderziende Geoffrey Hodson, gaat verder dan de fysieke ontwikkeling van het kind in de baarmoeder, en beschrijft de subtielere aspecten van emotionele, mentale en spirituele groei, en zegt dat ”ouderschap inderdaad een sacrement is, dat niet lichtzinnig ontheiligd mag worden”.
Deze fascinerende studie zal eenieder aanspreken die geïnteresseerd is in het mysterie van leven en geboorte.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933) and Jenny Baker.

100 Pages | 2019 | Paperback | Martin Firell Company, London | Serie Modern Theosophy | ISBN: 9781912622153.

This volume explores the ways in which both theosophy and yoga base spiritual progress on the deepest possible understanding of the nature of life – that it exists as a single unity. This is the fourth in a series of books, collected under the banner ‘Modern Theosophy’ re-presenting important texts drawn from the history of the theosophical movement and further complemented by texts from contemporary authors and innovative thinkers.

Door Ramesh S. Balsekar (1917 – 2009), vertaling door Mieke Berger.

96 Pagina’s | 2008 | Paperback | Uitgeverij Inzicht, Hillegom | ISBN: 9789077908006.

Oospronkelijke titel: Pointers from Ramana Maharshi.

Ramana Maharshi, de wijze van Arunachala gaf er de voorkeur aan om in stilte te onderrichten. Als hij woorden gebruikte, dan deed hij dat spaarzaam en met een groot dramatisch effect, Wat de meeste indruk maakte, was de autoriteit waarmee hij zijn diepe kennis naar buiten bracht.

Hoeveel alles wat Sri Ramana Maharshi verkondigde vol betekenis was, moest men zijn uitspraken goed op zich laten inwerken en interpreteren om de kern van zijn leer goed te bevatten. Hardnekkig focussen op wat hij als onderricht gaf was een voorwaarde. Dit boek is anders, zelfs voor wie al veel boeken van Sri Ramana Maharshi heeft gelezen. De inhoud van dit boek legt de nadruk op het ultieme geluk, dat ieders ware natuur is.

Het is de meest compacte en toegankelijke tekst die beschikbaar is van Sri Ramana Maharshi, met aanvullindgen en annotaties van Sri Ramesh S. Balsekar, van wie bekend is dat hij advaita voor de westerse geest buitengewoon duidelijk heeft kunnen uitleggen.

Door Sri Ramana Maharshi (1879–1950), vertaling door M.F.W. Berger Ph.D en J. Kramer Schippers.

23 Pagina’s | 2009 | Paperback | Uitgeverij Inzicht, Hillegom | ISBN: 9789077908020.

Oorspronkelijke titel: Who am I?

De weg naar Inzicht en Bevrijding is eenvoudig en behoeft weinig woorden. Alles wat er meer gezegd of geschreven wordt dan in deze tekst is verwoord, leidt af en kan aanleiding zijn tot verwarring en misverstand. De compacte, directe en heldere taal brengt ons direct naar de essentie van het bestaan. De tekst ‘Wie Ben Ik?‘ functioneert als een geheugensteun en is daarmee een belangrijke inspiratiebron, die de richting wijst naar Inzicht en Bevrijding.

Door Geoffrey Hodson (1886 – 1983).

18 Pagina’s | 2021 | Paperback | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereninging in Nederland, Amsterdam | ISBN: 9789061751007. | Dharma Reeks 3

Oorspronkelijke titel: A Yoga of Light , Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170590149
Het eerste doel van meditatie is je eigen spirituele zelf te ontdekken. Het tweede doel is te beseffen dat jouw spirituele zelf voor altijd een integraal onderdeel is van het spirituele zelf van het universum.
Dit boekje is bedoeld als eerste leidraad voor degenen die op zoek zijn naar een beproefde en veilige methode.
Zij volgt het Theosofische mensbeeld, en kan daarmee met recht een eigentijdse ”Theosofische meditatie techniek” genoemd worden, terwijl zij tegelijkertijd geworteld is in de eeuwenoude yogatraditie.

By Dr. Barbara B. Hebert, William Quan Judge (1851 – 1896) & Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

89 Pages | 2019 | Paperback | Martin Firrell Company Ltd, Modern Theosophy, London | ISBN: 9781912622177.

Dr. Barbara B. Hebert is the President of the Theosophical Society in America. William Quan Judge was one of the original founders of the Theosophical Society. In 1907, Annie Besant was elected the society’s second International President.

This volume explores the insight modern Theosophy can offer into social activism and the struggle for greater social justice. It is part of a series of writings, published under the banner of ‘Modern Theosophy’, re-presenting important texts drawn from the history of the theosophical movement complemented by texts from contemporary authors and innovative thinkers.

Door Hazrat Inayat Khan (1882 – 1927), vertaald door het Nederlands Publicatiecommitee van de Soefibeweging.

238 pagina’s | 2002 | Softcover | Uitgeverij Panta Rhei, Katwijk aan Zee | ISBN: 9076771359

Oospronkelijke titel: In an Eastern Rosegarden

In een Oosterse rozentuin bestaat uit 29 lezingen die Hazrat Inayat Khan, de brenger van de Soefi-boodschap, in het Engels gehouden heeft in 1918, 1919 en 1920. Deze nieuwe editie is een moderne en getrouwe vertaling van de eerste, geautoriseerde druk die nog tijdens het leven van de Soefi-mysticus in 1920 is uitgebracht.

In een Oosterse rozentuin werd altijd als een van de mooiste en belangrijkste delen uit de Soefi Boodschap van Inayat Khan beschouwd. De onderwerpen van de lezingen beperken zich niet tot één thema, maar bestrijken talrijke verschillende aspecten van het leven van de mens. Zowel zeer wereldse zaken als ‘Winst en verlies’, ‘De macht van de wil’, ‘Persoonlijk magnetisme’ en ‘Democratie’ worden belicht vanuit het standpunt van de Soefi-mysticus, evenals spirituele onderwerpen als ‘Geloof’, ‘Het mysterie van de adem’, ‘Geesten’, ‘De vrijheid van de ziel’ en ‘Het ideale leven’.

Door Karen Hamaker-Zondag.

124 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 2013 | Softcover | Ankh-Hermes, Utrecht | ISBN: 9789020209228.

Wat is een echte horoscoop en wat kun je er allemaal mee? Heel veel! Al is de astrologie duizenden jaren oud, ze heeft zich net als de wetenschap ontwikkeld en is ook in onze moderne tijd een prachtig instrument dat je op alle mogelijke gebieden in kunt zetten. Eerst ruimen we een aantal hardnekkige misverstanden rond de astrologie uit de weg. Dan kijken we naar wat de astrologie kan betekenen voor jezelf, je relatie, je kind, voor bedrijven, regeringen en voor financiële en economische tendensen. Natuurlijk staan we ook stil bij wat je wel en niet kunt voorspellen aan de hand van een horoscoop, en bij de nieuwste ontwikkelingen in deze fascinerende discipline. Ontdek hoe bruikbaar deze oude wetenschap voor Nu is!

Afkomstig uit Hoofdstuk 4 – ‘Ligt alles vast’? (p. 39):

” Een horoscoop is een precieze weergave van de hemel, dat hebben we in het vorige hoofdstuk gezien. Maar daarmee is nog niet gezegd dat de horoscoop bij een geboorte hoort. Het is een tekening van de hemelkaart van een bepaald moment, en in dat moment kan er van alles gebeurd zijn. Er kan een zaak zijn geopend, een schip te water zijn gelaten, een contract zijn getekend, een huwelijk zijn gesloten, een operatie zijn begonnen, enzovoort. Als dat allemaal gebeurt op hetzelfde moment in dezelfde plaats en er wordt op dat moment ook een kind geboren, dan heeft dat kind dezelfde horoscoop als al die gebeurtenissen. Horoscopen zijn afbeeldingen van de hemel voor een bepaald tijdsmoment, en daarom heeft in principe alles wat gebeurt een horoscoop. “

By R. Balasubramanian, general editor S. Sankaranarayanan.

27 Pages | First edition 2007 – The Adyar Library Pamphlet Series No. 63 | Pamphlet | The Adyar Library and Research Center, India | No ISBN.

The Upaniṣad-s are extraordinary texts and not only the concluding portion, but also the consummation of the Veda-s. There are four Veda-s, and each Veda has four sections, which are called Mantra, Brāhmaṇa, Āraṇyaka, and Upaniṣad. The Mantra-s are hymns in praise of Gods and Goddesses. The Brāhmaṇa-s deal with sacrificial rites. The Āraṇyaka-s contain meditative practices. The Upaniṣad-s are philosophical treatises dealing with Being and beings of all kinds.

The aim of the Upaniṣad-s, according to Śamkara, is to help human beings dis-cover the Self, which is Brahman and overcome the existential predicament. The goal can be achieved only by means of a new thinking, a radical questioning of the given, a rigorous inquiry into the life-world, which is bound to lead to a transvaluation of all values through deconstruction and reconstruction.

From page 14:

” The enlightened one attains unity with the All. He expresses wonder that the individual with all limitations has been able to shake them off and become one with the All. To get at the Real, we must get behind the forms of matter, the forms of life, the forms of mind, the forms of intellect. By removing the sheaths, by shaking off the bodies, we realise the Highest. This is the meaning of vastrāpaharaṇa. ‘Across my threshold naked all must pass’. “

By Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 BC. – 43 BC).

19 Pages | Unknown publication date | Pocket Pamphlet No. 1 | The Wizards Bookshelf, San Diego U.S.A. | No ISBN.

This short fragment of Cicero generally known as the Vision of Scipio to those, who are seeking for the scattered pearls, which once adorned the sacred bosom of the pure virgin of the mysteries, before she was defiled and her robe and jewels trampled in the mire of the sty, is perhaps the most interesting record in the voluminous writings of the great Roman orator.

Whence Tully derived his information, whether from the writings of the outer schools of Pythagorean and Platonic philosophy, or from private sources, is in the present case immaterial.

From page 18:

” Since, therefore, it is evident that that only is eternal, which is self-motive. Who is there to deny that this is a rational attribute of Souls? For everything which is set in motion by external impulse is destitute of the Soul principle, whereas everything ensouled is energised by an interior and self-created motion; for this is the Soul’s proper nature and power. “

By A.R. Bakshi, Foreword by Radha S. Burnier (1923 – 2013).

136 Pages | First edition 1994 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592313.

The ‘Universe’ and ‘Man’, have both been the subject of study by great thinkers through the ages. Man and the Universe – A Quest presents some of the main principles of occult teaching to the ordinary reader and also supplies the serious student with sufficient material for original study offering profuse references to The Secret Doctrine (1888).

From Chapter VII – ‘Laws of Nature & Universal Truth and Order’ (p. 92 & 93):

” The whole life of the universe, according to the Ancients, is a part of a great artistic process cast into rhythmic phenomenal occurrences such as death and rebirth, creation and destruction, time and eternity, space and void, each occurrence symbolises an eternal cosmic movement. This concept of beauty and art in cosmic motion is symbolised as a female aspect of creative energy called in Indian mysticism ‘Durgā’ (the invincible), whose laws are impregnable. “

By Geoffrey A. Farthing (1909 – 2004).

84 Pages | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, London | ISBN: 0722952597.

What indeed is Theosophy about? It is about the universe, its nature and origins and the processes that operate in it. It is about man and his nature and origins and his relationship to the Whole of which he is a part. It is about law that operates throughout Nature; it is about evolution and individual responsibility, about Life and living and the purpose of it all, and it is about the ways of knowing that may set men free. The field of Theosophy is vast, and its literature is extensive. This book is an introduction to an absorbing and life-long study.

From Chapter – ‘The Purpose of Life (p. 20)’:

” The purpose of life is then to live. Living involves change and this change, as we shall see later, is cyclical but always on an expanding progressive scale, growth. Spirit or life on the one hand is descending into manifestation in the physical world, and on the other it is ascending by gradually improving forms through ever-unfolding consciousness, until the sage when Man endowed with mind achieves true self-consciousness. The activities of Spirit in physical forms give rise to the production and multiplication of individualized self-conscious units of Itself, human and ultimately super-human beings, each eventually returning to its source with its harvest of unique experience, attributes and power. Life, in short, is a journey to perfection. “

By Curuppumullage Jinarājadāsa (1875–1953).

30 Pages | First edition, second reprint 2004 | Paperback | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592593.

This ‘letter’, from the Adept known as the Mahā Chohan, to A.P. Sinnett, is in fact an abridged report of an interview with him. Short though it is, it contains practically the charter for the work and development of the Theosophical Society through the ages, according to Mr. Jinarājadāsa. His commentary provides the proper perspective to understand the importance of the letter.

By G. Naganathan, Foreword by Dr. Karan Singh with an Introduction by Dr. Michael W. Fox.

30 Pages | This book was originally a publication of the Centre of Respect for Life and Environment, Washington. First edition 1991, second edition 2000. With illustrations | Softcover | The Theosophical Society, Adyar | No ISBN.

In the Hindu view of life, all creation is linked together by a golden thread, because all manifestation has sprung from the eternal Brahman – Ishvasyamidam Sarvam Yatkincha Jagatyam Jagat – as the Upanishad has it. The seers of the Vedas, therefore prayed for the Welfare not only of the human race but for all living creatures, including animals, and indeed even for such apparently inanimate objects as trees and plants. Animals have always played a central role in the Hindu perception. In its mythology every God and Goddess is associated with a particular animal as its vehicle or vahana.

From the Foreword:

” The point that emerges is that animals are not to be looked upon as creatures to be cruelly exploited but as partners with human beings in the spiritual adventure of living. Indeed, although hunting was also an old Hindu tradition, it is surely significant that in both our great epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, tragedy should have been triggered by hunting episodes. The whole question of animals as bound to human beings in a benign symbiosis receives considerable attention in the Hindu scriptural tradition, the most popular of which, of course, became the cow, which is still looked upon by millions as sacred. “

By Sir Edwin Lester Arnold (1832 – 1904), introduction by Alan Jacobs.

188 Pages | First published in 1885 as The Celestial Song, this is the 2006 edition | Hardcover | Watkins Publishing, London |  ISBN: 9781842931240.

” There lives a Master in the hearts of Men, maketh their deeds, by subtle pulling-strings, dance to what tune He will. With all thy Soul Trust Him, and take Him for thy succour, Prince! “

The Bhagavad Gita, or Song Celestial, is the sacred testament central to Hinduism, the most ancient of the great world religions. Brahman is the Absolute Supreme Reality underlying all forms. Human beings accumulate Karma as a result of their actions in innumerable incarnations, until they obtain liberation through the practices of devotion and knowledge. The Bhagavad Gita, as the essential gospel of Hinduism, explains mankind’s predicament and points the way to freedom.

This poetic gospel is attributed to the Divine Messenger, Lord Krishna, who on the battlefield gives the warrior-prince, Arjuna, detailed and profound spiritual guidance. Arjuna is perplexed by his involvement in a war and Lord Krishna unveils inspiring philosophical wisdom leading to the solution of Arjuna’s problem and his self-realization.

By Danielle Audoin (1926 – 1917).

118 Pages | Adyar Editions – first edition, first reprint 2005 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170592755.

Dutch translation: Een Benadering van Theosofie | Published in 1990 | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750628.

French original: Connais-toi Toi-même – A la lumière de la Théosophie (latest edition 2004) | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar.

Theosophical literature covers a vast field and throws light on age-old questions concerning the human being, the universe, and the Divine ground of existence. In this book, Madame Audoin presents the human being, who exists at different levels of consciousness, from a Theosophical point of view. Step by step she shows there is possiblity of unlimited unfoldment of consciousness, beginning with the first steps on the road to self-knowledge.

This is a clearly presented introduction to an important aspect of the Ageless Wisdom, highlighting its fundamental teachings about the human journey to Ultimate Reality.

From Chapter 3 – ‘The Physical Body’ (p. 35):

” We know that everything is vibration. Purifying and refining our physical body means making it capable of responding to finer and finer vibrations and at the same time incapable of reacting to the coarser vibrations, not only physical but also astral and mental. We can thus gradually transform our physical body. We know our cells are renewed every seven years and thus, if we change our diet, we can change the vibratory capacity of the physical body. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

50 Pages | First edition 1963, third edition, first reprint 2016 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170594642.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 44:

”  The Buddha asks from his disciples, as the first qualification, that opening of the mind, which is identical with discrimination, or viveka – discrimination between the permanent and the impermanent. The second step is that regarding action, which teaches indifference to the fruits of action and is identical with vairāgya. Then follow the six qualities of the mind, the same six that are taught in Hinduism. Fourthly, the deep longing for liberation, the same as the mumukshā; and lastly, the gotrabhu, the same as adhikāri, when the man is ready for Initiation. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

47 Pages | First edition 1963, third edition 2005 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594677.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 1/2:

” Most people in thinking of the Sikh think of a gallant warrior, a brave soldier. But we shall err seriously if we look on him as only, or even as fundamentally a fighter. The movement itself is fundamentally a religious one. It grew up in the midst of Hinduism, having for its ideal the joining together of the Hindus and the Muslims in one league of love to God and service to man. The thought of its founder, Guru Nānak, as we find it expressed not only in his words, but far more in his life, was to join together these warring elements of the Indian people on a platform, that both could accept. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

21 Pages | First edition 1949, second edition 2005 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594707.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 1/2:

” One might almost sum up Jainism in a phrase, that we find in the Sutra Kritānga, that man by injuring no living creature reaches the Nirvāna, which is peace. That is a phrase, that seems to carry with it the whole of this religion – peace: peace between man and man, peace between man and animal, peace everywhere and in all things, a perfect Brotherhood of all that lives. Such is the ideal of the Jain, that he endeavours to realize upon earth. “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

45 Pages | First edition 1963, third edition 2005 | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170594650.

Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), second President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933) was described as a ‘Diamond Soul’, for she had many brilliant facets to her character. She was an outstanding orator of her time, a champion of human freedom, educationist, philanthropist and author with more than three hundred books and pamphlets to her credit. She also guided thousands of men and women all over the world in their spiritual quest.

In 1896, Dr. Annie Besant gave four Convention Lectures on Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Chrisitianity at Adyar, Madras, on the twenty-first anniversary of the Theosophical Society, the President-Founder, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907), being in the Chair. In 1901, she continued the series with another four lectures on Islam, Jainism, Sikhism and Theosophy or ‘Divine Wisdom’ as the common source of all religions at the twenty-sixth anniversary, Colonel Olcott again presiding. Each of the lectures on the seven religions has been published as a separate booklet with the exception of the lecture on Divine Wisdom, and the whole series as a single volume under the title Seven Great Religions.

From page 44/45:

” Thus universe succeeds universe, each aiding its successors until our thought fails to express itself, and the human faculty sinks down unable to soar further. Such, most imperfectly expressed, is the religion founded in immemorial antiquity, that has come down from the rshi-s. Such ought to be your religion, heirs of the past, descendants of those mighty ones! Just in so far as you live it, in so far are your really their heirs. Just in so far as this is dear to you and practised by you, are you learning the lesson of evolution as it was taught by them, and given to the people they instructed. Just so far are you profiting by opportunities greater than those offered to any other nation, opportunities that, wasted, will be bewailed by you under less favourable conditions in many a life to come. “

By an anonymous author.

22 Pages | Published in 1977 | Softcover | Wizards Bookshelf, San Diego | No ISBN.

Two-hundred titles out of the 750 hard cover books cited in Helena Petrovna Blavatsky’s (1831 – 1891) The Secret Doctrine (1888) are reprinted or reset and made available (again) in 1977. The reason for the book list in this little publication should be obvious. It is not quite an easy way to read The Secret Doctrine! Few have a fit background in the basic fundamentals of languages like Greek, French, Hebrew, and Sanskrit plus some German and Russian. This altogether, plus a basic view of ancient religions, that only can come from reading those works connected with each. This grand view seems fundamental to discern the various terms, pantheons, deities and the rest.

Despite the effort necessary to unveil the teachings of The Secret Doctrine, it represents an unique journey for every reader. This little publication mentions the works, that are cited in the work. Although the list of references is not complete, may it be of support. And may it allow any reader of The Secret Doctrine to go deeper . . .

By an anonymous author.

22 Pages | Published during the International Convention 1991 | Booklet | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN:

SOOBIAH CHETTY’S REMINISCENCES OF MADAME H.P. BLAVATSKY

When Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) and Henry Steel Olcott (1832 – 1907) visited Madras in 1882 and lectured in the Georgetown area, Grandhi Muthuswami Chetty who was a judge, listened to them. Though he was a rich man, he was spiritually dissatisfied, and though a Hindu desired to be converted to another religion. Muthuswami’s enquiring mind was kindled by the two foreign lecturers. He wrote down several questions about whether he should opt for another religion and left those papers in a cupboard in his house before he went to sleep in the night. Next morning, when he woke up and looked in the cupboard, to his amazement he found that all his questions had been answered.  Muthuswami was convinced by the answers and never became a convert, for he joined the Theosophical Society.

From page 18:

” Good bye dearest Soobhiya & may the Masters bless and protect you. If you do come it will be the happiest day I will have had in these three years of exile! . . . I hope your dear wife and children are all well. Give them my blessing if they accept it.

Yours ever affectionately,

H.P. Blavatsky

I send you my Lucifer, Love to all friends – if there are any left.

H.P.B. “

By Yvonne K. Burgess.

85 Pages | Printed 2009 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, London | No ISBN.

Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) (HPB) reminded one group of students not long before she died that during the study of Theosophy, it was essential for them to bear in mind the reality of Oneness and to have an understanding of the importance of the monad. This aspect was recorded by one of those students, Robert Bowen. Also, in The Secret Doctrine I, p. 614 she states:

” Those unable to seize the difference between the monad – the Universal Unit – and the Monads or the manifested Unity, as also the ever-hidden and the revealed LOGOS or the Word, ought never to meddle in philosophy, let alone the Esoteric sciences. “

As a being, man is a perfected animal, the vehicle of a fully developed Monad, self-conscious and deliberately following its own line of progress, whereas in the insect, and even the higher animal, the higher triad of principles is absolutely dormant. – CW X p. 313.

By Susan Bayliss.

35 Pages | Softcover | Blavatsky Lecture 2014 | The Theosophical Publishing House, London | No ISBN.

Life is full of potentiality from ’the circle of heaven’ to Mother Earth and all that live within her. The extent of this potential is hidden from us in our mundane world, concealed, according to the ‘Ancients’, behind a veil of illusion in which we live and experience our everyday lives. Out of nothingness came the ‘Great Illusion’ into a state of potentiality awaiting the impulse to become an expression of new life – a new universe. The same potentiality also lies within us and we too can awaken to a ‘new world’; a world in which we are transformed from a place of ignorance to a state of Knowledge and Wisdom. Our taks is to find the keys which open the the doorway to the higher life. Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) (HPB) in the Secret Doctrine (SD) describes the process of Life awakening at cosmic level, from potential space to the abstract space of ‘divine immaculate Mother-Nature’.

From page 29:

” In The Key to Philosophy, Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) tells us that the final goal cannot be reached in any way but through life experiences, and because most of this consists of pain and suffering, this is how we learn. Many of us will have seen the photograph of Einstein sittings at his desk with a copy of The Secret Doctrine lying there along with other books. He famously said that ‘The intellect has little to do on the road of discovery. There comes a leap in consciousness, call it intuition or what you will, and the solution comes to you and you don’t know how or why. All great discoveries are made in this way. “

Comments by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891) compiled by Lina Psaltis.

132 Pages | 1972, Second reprint 2006 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN 817059121X

Psychic phenomena, magic, hypnotism, spiritualism, planes of perception, dreams, and spiritual progress – these are some of the subjects discussed in this collection of excertps from the writings of one of the most famous occultists of history:

In this small book the compiler has drawn together from various sources some of the important and interesting statements made by H.P. Blavatsky more than a century ago on subjects, which are arousing wide interest today. Her comments not only reveal something of her profound knowledge and wisdom, but are also fascinating, informative and relevant. They contain valuable advice to those who would dabble in psychic realms without being aware of their dangers and pitfalls.

From page 104/105:

” The key in each degree is the ‘aspirant himself’. It is not the fear of God, which is the beginning of Wisdom, but the knowledge of SELF which is WISDOM ITSELF. How grand and true appears, thus, to the student of Occultism who has commenced to realize some of the foregoing truths, the answer given by the Delphic Oracle to all who came seeking after Occult Wisdom – words repeated and enforced again and again by the wise Socrates: MAN KNOW THYSELF . . . ” 

• From: Collected Writings, Vol. IX, p. 162.

By John S. Gordon.

36 Pages | Soft cover | August 2008 | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | No ISBN.

‘The Blavatsky Lecture’  delivered at the Summer School of The Foundation for Theosophical Studies, Wills Hall, The University of Bristol, Sunday August 2008.

Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831 – 1891), as we know, at least once remarked that ‘Theosophy is not for dumbskulls!’ By that, her writings clearly demonstrate, she meant that the operative principles behind this all-embracing form of wisdom-philosophy have to be studied carefully and followed in practice before it can even begin to be properly understood. However, those principles are not be taken on board like some religious ritual, driven by blind faith and a happy assumption that somebody else will take up the full responsibility for explaining their full significance.

What Theosophy is and how it works cannot really be understood other than through direct experience of the principles behind the operation of consciousness itself is regarded by the cutting edge of modern science as the next major frontier to be crossed, it is this subject which I propose to address today – although not perhaps in the manner which an orthodox scientist might adopt.

By Mabel Collins (1851 – 1927).

86 Pages | Third Adyar Edition, 1st reprint 2013 | Hardcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170595823.

‘These rules are written for all disciples’. As we have it present, this book was dictated by Master Hilarion through the mediumship of Mabel Collins. Master Hilarion received it from his own teacher, the ‘Great One’, who among Theosophical students is sometimes called ‘The Venetian’; but even He is the author only of part of it. It has passed through three phases.

Light on the Path was the first of three treatises, which occupy a unique position in our Theosophical literature – directions from those who have trodden the Path to those, who desire to read it.

By Virginia Hanson.

191 Pages | 1974, fourth printing 1988 – A Quest Miniature | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835604500.

Here are 366 Meditations – one for each day of the year. Each from the heart of a spiritually oriented philosopher, from Plato to Emerson to Sri Aurobindo to a host of theosophical students and scholars. Inside of this miniature Quest book is a complete philosophy for living: quiet, short, engaging thoughts, each alive with the spirit of being. In truth, this is not a book to be studied. It is a book to be carried in the pocket or purse. It is a book to be treasured.

From page 41:

” 25.  A doctrine of ‘Truth’, presenting itself without proof on the bare value of its own nobility, is as disturbing a factor to the majority of men as would be the stranger without name or country. We are afraid of it; it is to us an invasion from an unknown world. And such it is; it is an invasion from another world, from the only real world, the world of Reality . . . “

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

87 Pages | First edition, 5th reprint, 2011 | Softcover | Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170594406.

” VERILY THOSE WHO HAVE EYES TO SEE MAY SEE, AND THOSE WHO HAVE EARS TO HEAR MAY HEAR “.

This series of papers consist chiefly of extracts from letters received by from Indian friends. They contain thoughts that have been found helpful, and hence worth sharing with others. They are intended for those, who seek to learn to separate head-learning from ‘Soul-Wisdom’ and to live the higher life.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

305 Pages | 7th Reprint, 2017 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170591832.

Mahābhārata is ‘one of the greatest books in the world‘ says Annie Besant (1847 – 1933), eminent scholar of Hinduïsm as well as Comparative Religion, and International President of the Theosophical Society (1907 – 1933), in the introduction to this book. It is the story of the Aryan race in India some 5.000 years ago and includes an account of the epic war between the Pandavas and Kauravas.

This book is based on notes of lectures delivered by Besant at the Central Hindu College Beneras (now Varanasi) in the first decade of this century. She describes the Mahābhārata as a great teacher of Ethics and Philosophy, an it is also history. The original Sanskrit verse, she says, ‘is the greatest poem in the world’.

By Annie Besant (1847 – 1933).

78 Pages | 6th Edition, 2011 | Softcover | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 9788170595687.

´Dharma´ is a term, which has now become part of the world vocabulary, but very few know the range and depth of its meaning. Annie Besant (1847 / 1933), having studied the great discourse on dharma of Bhisma in the Mahābhārata, introduces this complex and deep subject to the lay reader. Morality or dharma is subtle, varying from individual to individual, for it is the law by which inner nature unfolds in each one from his or her particular stage of evolution. This is a subject of great relevance to all individuals and nations of the world, treated in this book with the innate Wisdom and intuitive insight of the author.

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 . . .  “

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

81 pages | Paperback | Theosophical Publishing House, 2002

Truth, Beauty, and Goodness are interrelated. While beauty is the garment of truth, goodness is beauty revealed in action. Many philosophers and poets have spoken about the identity of these three aspects of reality, how each one leads to the other. Discovery of truth or beauty is the natural aspiration of every right thinking individual. Clarity and undisturbed serenity are essential requirements for perceiving truth. These qualifications cannot be acquired in the absence of pure and righteous living.

An Adyar book, imported from India.

Door Christian Vandekerkhove

87 Bladzijden | 2011 | Paperback | Mens en Cultuur Uitgevers | ISBN 9789077135266

Aan de Voeten van de Meester werd in 1909 geschreven door de 13-jarige Krishnamurti. Een eeuw later is het boek in ongeveer 100 talen vertaald en voor steeds meer mensen een leidraad op het spirituele Pad. Dit boekje geeft de integrale tekst van Aan de Voeten van de Meester, aangevuld met historische context, toelichtingen, commentaren en vooral talrijke oefeningen om van dit ethische werkje een praktisch werkboek te maken.

Christian Vandekerkhove studeerde informatica en vergelijkende godsdienstwetenschappen. Naast zijn activiteit als docent werkt hij als therapeut en parapsycholoog. Buiten ondersteuning bij levensproblemen en begeleiding inzake zingeving, runt hij een instituut waar personen zich kunnen laten testen op hun paranormale vermogens en begeleiding ontvangen bij het ontwikkelen van hun gaven. Hij heeft jarenlang ervaring in het geven van studieklassen en workshops rond het boek Aan de Voeten van de Meester.

Hij schreef ook andere boeken, waarvan een aantal eveneens via deze website te koop zijn.

CD Rom | T.P.H. Adyar, India, 2006

Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831–91) was perhaps the greatest Occultist of the West in recent times, and an outstanding messenger who presented the Ancient Wisdom for the modern age. With little fanfare she brought to bear powerful influences on human affairs, as is exemplified in her life and works. She did not bring anything new to mankind; in fact she succeeded in the great task of communicating wisdom that is as ancient as mankind.

By Georges H. Westbeau.

150 Pages | Copyright 1975, first Re-Quest edition 1986 | Softcover | Quest Books, U.S.A. | ISBN: 0835606058.

Born to be a bewildered and frustrated mother on a somber September day, the lionness Little Tyke set the world thinking anew. She was to fire the deepest thoughts within us and to remind us of an ancient prophecy. She was to bring out out heart-felt tenderness in a most unexpected manner.

A tragedy and a miracle were to occur minutes apart. The tragedy took only seconds. The miracle would last nine years, and to many it lasts to this very day . . .

From Chapter ‘The Vegetarian’ (p. 32, 33 & 34).

“At four years of age Little Tyke was a mature African lionness, and she weighed three hundred and fifty-two pounds. Every year, she became more gentle. We had practically given up the hope of creating in Little Tyke a taste for meat, […] On one occasion, I asked a young visitor this question, and it was he, who put my mind at ease. He turned to look at me with serious eyes, then asked; ‘Don’t you read your Bible?’ I admitted, I didn’t read it as much as I probably should. He continued; ‘Read Genesis 1:30 and you will get your answer. ‘ At my first opportunity I got my Bible and turned to the passage he had indicated. To my astonishment, I read these words:

‘And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to everything that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat; and it was so.’

We didn’t worry anymore about Little Tyke’s diet. We had already worked out one which she loved. It consisted of cooked cereals, raw eggs and milk. Did she thrive on it? Well, one of this country’s most able zoo curators said Little Tyke was the best of her species he had ever viewed! “

Door Dr. W.H. van Vledder.

27 Pagina’s | Uitgegeven in 1981 | Lecture | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland, Utrecht | Geen ISBN.

De publicatie betreft de inhoud van een Rede uitgesproken bij het aanvaarden van het ambt van bijzonder hoogleraar in de metafysica in de geest van de Theosofie aan de Rijksuniversiteit te Leiden op vrijdag 3 april 1981.

Afkomstig van pagina 21:

” We kunnen het probleem van de vrije wil en de vrijheid van handelen nu ook als volgt benaderen. Uitgaande van de mens levend in wat wij het veld van openbaring hebben genoemd, zien wij de mens gebonden door zijn gericht zijn op al wat hem omringt. Wij hebben dat een horizontale relatie genoemd. De moeilijkheid is nu hierin gelegen, dat de mens zijn aandacht naar buiten richt, dat hij vraagt om meer ruimte voor zichzelf, waardoor een steeds grotere afgescheidenheid onstaat. die – paradoxaal – zijn wezenlijke vrijheid belemmert. Afgescheidenheid, begeerte naar vrijheid en ik-gerichtheid zijn omgekeerd evenredig met de wezenlijke, innerlijke geestelijk gerichte vrijheid. De naar buiten gerichte mens is zich daar echter niet van bewust. “

Door S.S. Varma.

26 Pagina’s | Eerste druk 1995, tweede druk 2011 | Brochure | Uitgeverij der Theosofische Vereniging in Nederland | ISBN: 9789061750918.

Engels origineel: Yogic Practice – Yama and Niyama | Uitgegeven in 1991 & 2002 | The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar | ISBN: 8170591805.

Yoga betekent letterlijk ‘eenwording’, eenwording van de individuele ziel met de Overziel en daarmee eenwording met alles wat is. Iedereen die beseft dat hij of zij één is met het Allerhoogste, weet daarmee ook dat hij of zij één is met ieder ander. Alleen dit is spiritualiteit. Hoewel deze eenwording het einddoel is, is ‘yoga’ ook ‘het pad dat daarheen leidt’ gaan betekenen.

In deze brochure staan voorschriften voor ethisch gedrag. Yama omvat deugden als het zich onthouden van geweld, leugen en bedrog, diefstal, onkuisheid en hebzucht. Niyama slaat op het naleven van de geboden, die betrekking hebben op zuiverheid, tevredenheid, onthouding, zelfstudie en zelfovergave aan God. Varma brengt deze deugden terug tot hun ware essentie.

Afkomstig van blz. 17:

” Voordat we beginnen met de behandeling van de vijf onderdelen van niyama, kan het nuttig zijn om eerst het verschil tussen de yama’s en de niyama’s verder toe te lichten. Beide lijken naar een gemeenschappelijk doel te streven: de verandering van de lagere aard op een wijze, die haar geschikt maakt om als voertuig te dienen voor het Goddelijke Leven. De oefeningen vervat in yama zijn ethische verboden en leggen het fundament voor het leven van een yogi, terwijl die van niyama disciplinair en constructief van aard zijn en ten doel hebben om het leven van de spirituele aspirant te organiseren. “