Western Esotericism and the Orient in the First Theosophical Society
SUNY Press eBooks November 1, 2020 DOI: 10.1515/9781438480435-003 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis chapter examines the relationship between Theosophy and the ancient Near East, arguing that Theosophical thinkers drew on and reinterpreted ancient Near Eastern religious and philosophical traditions to construct a universalist esoteric history. The authors contend that this engagement was not merely derivative but actively shaped modern perceptions of ancient wisdom, blending historical scholarship with spiritual claims. The analysis highlights how Theosophy's transnational and transcultural dimensions were grounded in selective readings of ancient texts and archaeological findings, contributing to the movement's modern identity.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Philosophy Ancient history |
| Citations | 8 |
| Key finding | Argues that Theosophy's appropriation of ancient Near Eastern traditions was central to its construction of a universal esoteric narrative and modern identity. |
Abstract
in: Hans-Martin Krämer & Julian Strube (eds.), Theosophy Across Boundaries : Transcultural and Interdisciplinary Perspectives on a Modern Esoteric Movement, State University of New York Press : Albany 2020, 29-64.