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
Introductory:
Theosophy: An Introductory Study Course by John Algeo, Ph.D.
This study course provides an introduction to basic Theosophical concepts. Chapters include questions for group or individual study.
Intermediate:
An Introduction to Esoteric Principles by Doss McDavid, Ph.D.
An intermediate level course presenting concepts of the Wisdom Tradition as put forth by H. P. Blavatsky, contrasted with the interpretations of subsequent generations of Theosophists. A hard copy of an expanded edition of this course can be purchased here.
Advanced:
Study Course on "The Secret Doctrine" by Pablo Sender and Juliana Cesano
An advanced level course that explores the themes and principles in H. P. Blavatsky's The Secret Doctrine.
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 emaling education@theosophical.org and providing their name and membership ID number. (Your membership ID number is located on your membership card directly under your name.)
The Bhagavad Gita: A Study Course, by John Algeo, Ph.D. SAMPLE
This study course by John Algeo contains analysis and commentary in 28 lessons. Annie Besant’s translation is used throughout the course.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "The Bhagavad Gita"
Death and the Afterlife, by Richard Smoley SAMPLE
This course explores the history of human thought regarding death and the afterlife.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Death and the Afterlife."
This course is best suited for those who have had some experience with meditation and would like to deepen their practice.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Exploring the Heart of Meditation."
Exploring Theosophy, by Anton Lysy, Ph.D. SAMPLE
This FREE online study guide 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 to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Exploring Theosophy."
Frodo’s Quest and the Spiritual Journey, by Robert Ellwood SAMPLE
Robert Ellwood interprets the mythological themes found in J. R. R. Tolkien'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 to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Frodo's Quest and the Spiritual Journey."
An Intuitive Approach to the Seven Stanzas of Dzyan, by Beverly Noia SAMPLE
This study guide provides the student with a unique method of probing the mystical verses from the Book of Dzyan, which forms the basis of Mme. Blavatsky's The Secret Doctrine.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "An Intuitive Approach to the Seven Stanzas" of Dzyan."
Karma Symposium Compiled and edited by David P. Bruce SAMPLE
The subject of karma is one that is rather complex and therefore can be explored in a variety of ways. This collection of provocative articles will expand the reader’s knowledge and understanding of this basic teaching of the wisdom tradition.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Karma Symposium."
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 to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Manual for Group Discussion."
Manual on Workshop Methods, by the Department of Education SAMPLE
This manual is specially designed with Theosophical study groups in mind, providing a number of creative ways to conduct a workshop with your local group.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Manual on Workshop Methods."
Reincarnation Explained, by the Department of Education SAMPLE
A collection of six articles, each of which presents a different aspect of reincarnation.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Reincarnation Explained."
Secret Doctrine Symposium, Part One Compiled and edited by David P. Bruce SAMPLE
A collection of twelve insightful articles exploring The Secret Doctrine by Mme. Blavatsky.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Secret Doctrine Sumposium, Part 1"
Secret Doctrine Symposium, Part Two Compiled and edited by David P. Bruce SAMPLE
Another collection of twelve insightful articles exploring The Secret Doctrine by Mme. Blavatsky.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Secret Doctrine Symposium, Part 2."
Shakespeare Extravaganza Compiled by David P. Bruce SAMPLE
A collection of articles showing that Shakespeare was well acquainted with ideas found in the Wisdom Tradition.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Shakespeare Extravaganza."
Stranger Than Fiction: H. S. Olcott's Life in Theosophy, by John Algeo SAMPLE
Explore the early years of the Theosophical 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 to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Stranger Than Fiction."
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 to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Study Notes on The Vocie of the Silence."
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 to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Technique of the Spiritual Life."
Studying the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, by Judith Sugg, Ph.D. SAMPLE
This study guide helps you to explore and understand the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
Submit request to natsec@theosophical.org . Subject line "Studying the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali."
Additional study courses are also available through membership in the National Lodge (TS members only)