Charles Webster Leadbeater was an influential figure within the Theosophical Society and a prolific author on occult subjects. Driven by a deep interest in spiritualism, he transitioned from the Church of England to dedicate himself to theosophical pursuits. His extensive writings delved into the hidden dimensions of existence, resulting in over 69 books and pamphlets. Through his dedicated efforts and public engagements, he solidified his position as a preeminent member of the society until his passing.
The book explores the phenomenon of "invisible helpers," individuals who provide assistance to those in peril without being seen. Through various examples, it illustrates how these unseen forces intervene in critical situations, offering support and guidance. The author delves into the nature of these helpers, their motivations, and the impact of their actions on the lives of those they aid.
Occultism is often misunderstood, conflated with magic and superstition, leading to misconceptions about its true nature. Derived from the Latin word for "hidden," it is a science that reveals deeper truths about existence rather than a practice of dark arts. Many dismiss it as nonsensical, associating it with fortune-telling and necromancy. The text argues that knowledge is not intentionally concealed but is limited by individual perception and evolution, suggesting that as one grows, their understanding of the world's beauty and complexity expands.
Exploring profound spiritual concepts, this work delves into the principles of Theosophy, offering insights into the nature of existence, the universe, and the interconnectedness of all beings. It presents a blend of philosophy, science, and religion, encouraging readers to seek deeper understanding and personal growth. Through its timeless teachings, the book invites reflection on the spiritual journey and the quest for truth, making it a significant contribution to esoteric literature.
Exploring the concept of the astral plane, this classic work delves into the spiritual dimensions beyond the physical world. Written by prominent Theosophist C. W. Leadbeater, it offers insights into metaphysical experiences and the nature of existence. First published in 1895, the book has established itself as a significant contribution to esoteric literature, reflecting Leadbeater's deep understanding of spiritual phenomena and his role in the Theosophical Society.
The book serves as a significant resource in the fields of philosophy, psychology, and religion, encompassing various belief systems including Islam and Theosophy. It has been meticulously reformatted and redesigned for clarity and readability, ensuring its accessibility for contemporary and future readers. Recognized for its historical importance, this edition aims to preserve the original work's essence while presenting it in a modern format, making it a valuable addition to the study of spiritual and philosophical concepts.
Just as Madame H. P. Blavatsky is regarded as one of the greatest occultists of the 19th Century, C. W. Leadbeater is similarly regarded by many as one of the greatest occultists of the 20th Century. This brief autobiography is a fascinating journey into the author's travels and introduction to theosophy, including his meeting Madame Blavatsky, his psychic training, travels to Greece, India and Burma and how he found his Master. Many people were impressed by this man's endurance and faithfulness in the face of very difficult situations. What was the driving force in his life that made this possible? The answer is given in this small book. Some passages from the book: "It was in Madame Blavatsky’s room in that hotel that I first saw one of the members of the Brotherhood. While sitting on the floor at her feet, sorting out some papers for her, I was startled to see standing between us a man who had certainly not entered by the door, which was straight before me the whole time, and had not opened. I jumped up uttering a sharp exclamation of surprise, which caused Madame to laugh inordinately. She said banteringly: 'You will not go far on the path of occultism if you are so easily startled at a little thing like that.' Then she presented me to the visitor, who proved to be he who is now the Master Djwal Kul, although he had not then taken the Initiation which made him an Adept." (Chapter VI) "It must not for a moment be supposed that the attainment of this particular power was the end of the occult training. On the contrary, it proved to be only the beginning of a year of the hardest work that I have ever known. It will be understood that I lived there in the octagonal room by the river-side alone for many long hours every day, and practically secure from any interruption except at the meal-times which I have mentioned. Several Masters were so gracious as to visit me during that period and to offer me various hints; but it was the Master Djwal Kul who gave most of the necessary instruction. It may be that He was moved to this act of kindness because of my close association with Him in my last life, when I studied under Him in the Pythagorean school which He established in Athens, and even had the honour of managing it after His death. I know not how to thank Him for the enormous amount of care and trouble which He took in my psychic education; patiently and over and over again He would make a vivid thought-form, and say to me: 'What do you see?' And when I described it to the best of my ability, would come again and again the comment: 'No, no, you are not seeing true; you are not seeing all; dig deeper into yourself, use your mental vision as well as your astral; press just a little further, a little higher.' This process often had to be many times repeated before my mentor was satisfied. The pupil has to be tested in all sorts of ways and under all conceivable conditions; indeed, towards the end of the tuition sportive nature-spirits are specially called in and ordered in every way possible to endeavour to confuse or mislead the seer. Unquestionably it is hard work, and the strain which it imposes is, I suppose, about as great as a human being can safely endure; but the result achieved is assuredly far more than worth while, for it leads directly up to the union of the lower and the higher self and produces an utter certainty of knowledge based upon experience which no future happenings can ever shake." (Chapter IX)
"Esoteric Vegetarianism" is not an ordinary plead in favour of vegetarianism, but a collection of essays by authors ancient and modern on its most philosophical and esoteric aspects. Allow Iamblichus to introduce you to the company of the ancient vegetarian followers of Pythagoras; let yourself become imbued with the dialectical beauty and profound wisdom of Plutarch and Plato; follow Porphyry's extensive mystical disquisitions on the matter; hear the allegedly clairvoyant testimonies by Charles W. Leadbeater and Annie Besant on what the indiscriminate sacrifice of animals for food entails, and become acquainted with the theosophical elucidations of Helena P. Blavatsky on whether animals are endowed with souls. All this benefiting from the insightful annotations of the modern Neo-Platonic philosopher Thomas Taylor and an additional essay, introduction and further annotations by Sonchis Triacorda. The present volume contains: "On the Eating of Flesh I & II" by Plutarch. "Vegetarianism in the Light of Theosophy" by Annie Besant "Vegetarianism and Occultism" by Charles W. Leadbeater "The Influence of Alcohol" by Annie Besant "Have Animals Souls? (I-III)" by Helena P. Blavatsky An excerpt from "The Republic" of Plato Excerpts from "Life of Pythagoras" by Iamblichus "Abstinence from Animal Food (I-IV)" by Porphyry "Eating Meat made us None the Smarter" by Sonchis Triacorda
The book features essays by notable Theosophical authors aimed at students interested in enhancing their clairvoyance and psychic skills. Topics covered include methods for developing clairvoyance, the relationship between psychic and spiritual growth, an exploration of psychic powers, and the distinction between psychism and spirituality. Each essay provides insights and guidance for those seeking to deepen their understanding of these metaphysical concepts.
The exploration of thought forms by Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater offers a profound insight into the connection between thoughts and reality. Besant's grasp of astral planes combined with Leadbeater's focus on the physical manifestations of thoughts has transformed our understanding of consciousness. Their work reveals the complexities of the human psyche and its potential, paving the way for a deeper comprehension of mental processes. This book promises to further illuminate their significant contributions to the field of thought and awareness.
Exploring the connections between the masonic fraternity and Ancient Egypt, C. W. Leadbeater delves into the significance of Egyptian deities and their symbolism within masonic rituals. He investigates the reasons behind participation in Mysteries and the deeper connections individuals have with these ancient practices, offering insights into the historical and spiritual dimensions of Freemasonry.