Self Study Courses
THEOSOPHY has been described as an ocean of wisdom from which we can continually draw without ever fathoming its depths. Many students find that prepared courses give a sense of direction to their studies. These courses are offered in that spirit, not as dogma or the final word on any subject
Online Study Materials The Bhagavad Gita—A Study Course by John Algeo, Ph.D.
This study course by John Algeo contains analysis and commentary in 28 lessons.
Annie Besant’s translation is used throughout the course.
An Introduction to Esoteric Principles by Doss McDavid, Ph.D.
An intermediate level course presenting some basic concepts of the Wisdom Tradition as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky, contrasting alternative presentations by later generations.
An Intuitive Approach to the Seven Stanzas of Dzyan by Beverley Noia
This study guide provides the student a unique way of probing the mystic and somewhat obscure verses known as the "Stanzas of Dzyan," which form the basis of Mme. Blavatsky's great work, The Secret Doctrine. Adaptable for group work.
Theosophy: An Introductory Study Course by John Algeo, Ph.D.
This study course (
Adobe PDF format) provides an introduction to basic Theosophical concepts. Chapters include questions for group or individual study.
For Members Only
The resource materials listed below are available only to members of the Theosophical Society in America. Members may request a free electronic copy (Adobe PDF format) from the Department of Education by clicking on the SUBMIT REQUEST link and providing their name and membership ID number. (Your membership ID number is located on your membership card directly under your name.)
Exploring the Heart of Meditation, by Cecil Messer SAMPLE
This course is best suited for those who have had some experience with meditation and would like to deepen their practice. Submit Request
Exploring Theosophy, by Anton Lysy, Ph.D. SAMPLE
This FREE online study guide (Adobe PDF format) is designed for use with Robert Ellwood’s introductory book Theosophy: A Modern Expression of the Wisdom of the Ages and is suitable for individual or group study. Submit Request
Frodo’s Quest and the Spiritual Journey, by Robert Ellwood SAMPLE
Robert Ellwood interprets the mythological themes found in J. R. R. Tokien’s The Lord of the Rings from a spiritual perspective. Students or groups wishing to use this study course should purchase Ellwood’s
Frodo’s Quest: Living the Myth in The Lord of the Rings from Quest Books.
Submit Request
Manual for Group Discussion, by the Department of Education
SAMPLE
This concise manual offers valuable hints and suggestions for group leaders and facilitators on how to lead successful group discussions.
Submit Request
Manual on Workshop Methods, by the Department of Education SAMPLE This manual is especially designed with Theosophical study groups in mind, providing a number of creative ways to conduct a workshop with your local group. Submit Request
Stranger Than Fiction: H. S. Olcott's Life in Theosophy, by John Algeo SAMPLE
Explore the early years of the Theosophial Society as seen through the eyes of Henry S. Olcott. This course is based largely on Olcott's series of diary papers published as Old Diary Leaves. Submit Request
Study Notes on The Voice of the Silence, by Gaile V. Campbell SAMPLE
The Voice of the Silence was one of H. P. Blavatsky's last major contributions to Theosophical literature. This study guide provides a basic introduction to The Voice with line-by-line commentary. Submit Request
Technique of the Spiritual Life, by Maria Parisen SAMPLE
A study course based on the book Technique of the Spiritual Life by Clara Codd with commentary by Maria Parisen.
Submit Request
Theosophy and World Religions, by Robert Ellwood SAMPLE
This course is a survey of the world religions and how their teachings relate to timeless truths of Theosophy. Submit Request