🌌 Theosophical Philosophy I: 

Origins and Principles ​

🌌 Theosophical Philosophy I: Origins and Principles

  • Course Code: THEO 5001
  • Florida Course Numbering System: REL 5305
  • Credits: 3
  • Level: Graduate
  • Program: Master of Theosophy


📘 Course Description

This course introduces students to the foundational principles, cosmological framework, and ethical-philosophical underpinnings of modern Theosophy, as presented primarily through the works of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. It explores the Three Fundamental Propositions outlined in The Secret Doctrine, the seven planes of existence, the law of cycles, karma and reincarnation, and the perennial aim of Theosophy: spiritual self-transformation and universal brotherhood. Historical context is examined alongside metaphysical teachings, establishing a solid base for further esoteric study.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Articulate the Three Fundamental Propositions of Theosophy and their implications.
  • Describe the structure of the cosmos and human constitution in Theosophical terms.
  • Explain the laws of Karma and Reincarnation as ethical and evolutionary forces.
  • Trace the historical development of the modern Theosophical Movement.
  • Apply Theosophical principles to personal development and global awareness.


🗂️ Weekly Topics Breakdown

WeekTopicKey Readings & Resources
1What is Theosophy? Definitions, Aims, and ScopeThe Key to Theosophy – H.P. Blavatsky (Intro)
2History of the Theosophical Movement: HPB, Olcott, Judge, BesantTheosophical Movement – Editorial selections
3The Three Fundamental Propositions of The Secret DoctrineThe Secret Doctrine – Vol. I, Proem
4Universal Law I: The Principle of CyclesComparative study: Hindu Yugas, planetary chains
5Universal Law II: Karma – The Law of Moral CausationThe Key to Theosophy – Ch. on Karma
6Universal Law III: Reincarnation and Evolution of the SoulThe Key to Theosophy – Ch. on Reincarnation
7The Seven Planes of Existence and the Constitution of ManDiagrammatic study, Esoteric Psychology excerpts
8The Law of Correspondence and Symbolic LanguageLight on the Path, Voice of the Silence (quotes)
9The Monad and the Pilgrimage of the SoulDiagram: Monadic Descent, articles from Theosophy
10The Masters of Wisdom and the Inner HierarchyThe Mahatma Letters – selected passages
11The Ethical Imperative: Brotherhood and AltruismBlavatsky’s letters on ethics and unity
12Theosophy and Science: Occult and Modern CosmologyParallels with quantum, cyclic models
13Personal Integration: Meditation, Study, and ServicePractical Theosophy in daily life
14Final Presentations: Theosophical Principle in PracticeStudent presentations


🧾 Assessments

  • Weekly Essays (20%) – 300–500 word reflections on key themes
  • Midterm Paper (20%) – Analytical essay on a Fundamental Proposition
  • Presentation (20%) – Oral/visual explanation of a Theosophical model or law
  • Final Paper or Project (30%) – Integration of course concepts in scholarly or practical form
  • Participation (10%) – Engagement in forums, discussion, and exercises


📚 Required Texts

  • The Key to Theosophy – H.P. Blavatsky
  • The Secret Doctrine, Vol. I – H.P. Blavatsky (Proem + selected sections)
  • The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett – selected letters
  • Theosophy magazine (archived issues on Karma, Reincarnation, Monad)
  • Supplementary excerpts from Annie Besant, W.Q. Judge, Geoffrey Barborka