Theosophical University Press can trace its lineage back to the late 19th century when Co-Founder William Quan Judge began publishing Theosophical material in New York under the name the Theosophical Publishing Company. In the hundred or so years since its founding the name has changed and the press has moved to Pasadena, California, but as a state of the art facility TUP maintains the objectives and standards of production established over one hundred years ago: publication of quality theosophical literature.


Selected titles include:

By H. P. BLAVATSKY

THE SECRET DOCTRINE:
The Synthesis of Science, Religion, and Philosophy (2 volumes)

"This massive study of man, of nature, of spiritual evolution, of the essence of reality is an astonishing document. . . . Blavatsky synthesizes science and spirituality into an exhilarating journey of spiritual awareness." -- The Book Reader (1988)

Continuously in print for over 100 years, the SD remains today the most comprehensive sourcebook of the esoteric tradition, outlining the fundamental tenets of the "Secret Doctrine of the Archaic Ages." Challenging, prophetic, and strikingly modern, it directly addresses the perennial questions: continuity of life after death, purpose of existence, good and evil, consciousness and substance, sexuality, karma, evolution, and human and planetary transformation.

"The aim of this work may be thus stated: to show that Nature is not 'a fortuitous concurrence of atoms,' and to assign to man his rightful place in the scheme of the Universe; to rescue from degradation the archaic truths which are the basis of all religions; and to uncover, to some extent, the fundamental unity from which they all spring." -- Preface

ISIS UNVEILED (2 volumes)

H. P. Blavatsky's first major literary effort, a critical response to the growing materialism in both scientific and religious institutions, is a vindication of the ageless quest. In the author's words, Isis "is the fruit of a somewhat intimate acquaintance with Eastern adepts and study of their science. . . . They showed us that by combining science with religion, the existence of God and immortality of man's spirit may be demonstrated." Supported by massive evidence, from religious and mystical traditions, classical scholarship, and the testimony of nature, these volumes aid the student in detecting the vital principles which underlie the philosophical systems of old.

Volume I focuses on the prevailing scientific theories of the time, balanced against the "anciently universal Wisdom Religion," while Volume II examines the creeds of religions past and present, alongside the myths and symbols of various cultures. Throughout, the author strikes at the root of dogma and affirms the "paramount importance of re-establishing the Hermetic philosophy in a world which blindly believes it has outgrown it."

This edition also includes two articles by H. P. Blavatsky on the writing of Isis Unveiled: "My Books" (1891) and "Theories About Reincarnation and Spirits" (1886).

Topics include:
Comparative Buddhism and Christianity -- Egyptian Wisdom -- Masonry and Kabbala -- The Astral Light -- Mediumship vs. Adeptship -- The Inner and Outer Man -- Psychic Phenomena -- Oriental Cosmogonies -- Platonic Philosophy -- Savior Legends -- Cycles in Nature -- Gnosticism -- The Ancient Mysteries

THE KEY TO THEOSOPHY

Publication in 1888 of The Secret Doctrine with its comprehensive outline of the evolution of worlds and of man opened wide the gates of spiritual inquiry. Not only did it compel analysis of the religious and philosophic dogmas of past centuries, but it also stimulated the aspirations of thousands of people in all walks of life. As a result, H. P. Blavatsky found herself deluged with requests for a simpler presentation of the ancient wisdom-religion. Her response was The Key To Theosophy.

Written in the form of question and answer, this book unfolds in easily understood language the fundamental principles of theosophia or "divine wisdom" - a term in use, the author tells us, as far back as the third century of our era when Ammonius Saccas founded his Eclectic School in order to show the common origin of the "thousand tenets" of the many religious sects of both East and West. Seen as parts of a cosmic pattern, the themes of death and rebirth; fate and destiny, freewill, and karma; God and prayer, as well as the sevenfold nature of man's constitution, reveal a practical and inspiring philosophy for everyday living.

THE VOICE OF THE SILENCE

"Here is the real Mahayana Buddhism" - D. T. Suzuki
With the writing of her masterworks completed, H. P. Blavatsky turned her attention more particularly to the needs of those who were seriously desirous of serving the cause of human betterment. The result was The Voice Of The Silence, a devotional classic of incomparable beauty and power.

Translated from the Book of the Golden Precepts, which shares a common origin with the Stanzas of Dzyan of The Secret Doctrine the rules and ethics presented in the Voice contrast the two paths of spiritual attainment: the one pursued by those seeking knowledge for their own enlightenment; the other chosen by those whose aspirations are prompted by compassion for all.

H.P. BLAVATSKY TO THE AMERICAN CONVENTIONS: 1888- 1891

"Do as the gods when incarnated do. Feel yourselves the vehicles of the whole humanity, mankind as part of yourselves, and act accordingly" - stirring words which are keystone of a series of letters addressed by H. P. Blavatsky to the American theosophists during the last four years of her life. These messages are not only of historical significance, but address many issues confronting us today: the growth of psychism, our spiritual development, the need for brotherhood and altruism, and the role of theosophists and The Theosophical Society in the modern world.

An essay by Kirby Van Mater provides the setting in theosophical history. Sketching important events from the founding of the Society to HPB's death in 1891, it gives the reader a better understanding of the major currents affecting H.P. Blavatsky and her lifework.

By A. TREVOR BARKER (ED)

The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett
Transcribed and compiled by A. Trevor Barker

No other book is quite like this private collection of letters. Preserved in the British Library, they were written between 1880 and 1884 to Alfred P. Sinnett, editor of a leading Anglo-Indian newspaper, The Pioneer. His correspondents were two Mahatmas whom H. P. Blavatsky has acknowledged as her teachers and the inspirers of her Isis Unveiled and The Secret Doctrine.

First published in 1923, this important volume is filled with sublime philosophical and ethical instruction, revealing not only far-reaching concepts of religious and scientific thought (since proven in large degree prophetic), but also practicality, warmth of heart, patience, and ripeness of humour. These letters, moreover, yield a clearer understanding of H. P. Blavatsky, the early history of the TS, and of the Mahatmas' aim in fostering a real universal fraternity.

"The term 'Universal Brotherhood' is no idle phrase. Humanity in the mass has a paramount claim upon us. . . . If it be a dream, it is at least a noble one for mankind: and it is the aspiration of the true adept." - p.17

By WILLIAM Q. JUDGE

THE OCEAN OF THEOSOPHY

In 1893 Judge recognized the need for a book on theosophy that could be readily understood by all. The Ocean provides a concise yet comprehensive survey of the basic tenets of theosophy. Written with the beginner in mind, it clarifies such topics as: the sevenfold nature of man; reincarnation and karma; dangers of psychic practices and the pitfalls of pseudo-occultism; earth's sevenfold being; cosmic and terrestrial cycles; afterdeath states; the existence of highly advanced human beings; and many more. Here is knowledge based upon evidence and experience, written with brevity and depth.

LETTERS THAT HAVE HELPED ME

The warmth and humanity of this collection of Judge's letters has inspired many seekers on the Path. In clear, compelling language, the author shows that in our search for spirit, the need is not to escape the world but to help transform it -- through the constant effort to be compassionate, resolute, and wise in daily life.

"I would never let the least fear or despair come before me, but if I cannot see the road, nor the goal for the fog, I would simply sit down and wait; I would not allow the fog to make me think no road was there, and that I was not to pass it. The fogs must lift.
"What then is the panacea finally, the royal talisman? It is DUTY, Selflessness. Duty persistently followed is the highest yoga, and is better than mantrams or any posture, or any other thing. If you can do no more than duty it will bring you to the goal." pp.2-3

Letters That Have Helped Me combines two volumes in one. The first, published in 1891, consists of letters written by W. Q. Judge ("Z") to a friend and co-worker, Mrs. Julia Campbell Ver Planck ("Jasper Niemand"). The second volume, compiled after the death of the author, contains letters and extracts from his letters written to a number of people in different parts of the world.

By JAMES A. LONG

EXPANDING HORIZONS

Widely used as an introduction to theosophy, this book features short essays and roundtable talks with varying age-groups. Here in refreshingly simple language is a re-presentation of "primeval spiritual ideas" distilled from the treasury of ancient tradition, the "god-wisdom" or theosophia inspiring every great religion.

Rather than presenting ready-made answers to the problems of life, Expanding Horizons presents practical insights on those basic questions which go to the root of the human predicament.

"Once we recognize that each man's concept of God is different, but that the quality of Deity is the same and that the Divine essence resides in the core of all that lives, then we have laid the foundation upon which to build a bridge of brotherhood over which man can travel from the darkness of past ages to the light of the future." - p.58

Also available in Spanish, Dutch, German, and Swedish Editions.

By G. De PURUCKER

FUNDAMENTALS OF THE ESOTERIC PHILOSOPHY

From 1924 to 1927 Katherine Tingley sponsored a series of private studies in The Secret Doctrine, with Dr. de Purucker as lecturer. This record of the meetings provides an excellent introduction to H. P. Blavatsky's masterwork, yet it stands on its own as a clear restatement of the philosophy expounded by all great thinkers and sages.

Beginning with the three fundamental postulates of The Secret Doctrine, the presentation moves to cosmic and human evolution, with emphasis on the interconnectedness of all beings. Other topics include man's nature and destiny; avataras and buddhas; initiation, the Mysteries, and ethical values.

By the time the reader closes FUNDAMENTALS, he has a comprehensive outline of the principles on which the theosophy of both ancient and modern time rests. Those interested in comparative religion will find a wealth of testimony supporting the view that the wisdom-tradition of antiquity was once "the common inheritance of mankind."

The author makes clear that these lectures "are not for purposes of intellectual study only, or to amuse ourselves with abstruse or mystic knowledge"; rather, he stresses, that altruism and the living up to one's highest aspirations is the first step to knowledge and human betterment."

FOUNTAIN-SOURCE OF OCCULTISM

Many sincere seekers are bewildered, so great is the proliferation of metaphysical and occult practices. How can they know what is spiritually sound, occultly authentic in the profusion of half- and quarter-truths so widespread today. Fountain-Source restores occultism to its original purity and recreates the atmosphere and discipline of the ancient Mystery schools. The scope of teaching is vast: The Primeval Wisdom-Teaching, Discipline Precedes the Mysteries, Space and the Doctrine of Maya, Galaxies and Solar Systems: their Genesis, Structure, and Destiny, Hierarchies and the Doctrine of Emanations, Invisible Worlds and their Inhabitants, The Doctrine of the Spheres, Gods - Monads - Life-Atoms, Correlations of Cosmic and Human Constitutions, The Hierarchy of Compassion, Death and the Circulations of the Cosmos.

More than an exposition of teachings from The Secret Doctrine by H. P. Blavatsky, Fountain-Source addresses itself to all who sense the interrelatedness of human destiny with the cosmic design, who feel the call of the inward way, and take the ancient vow of service to humanity.

OCCULT GLOSSARY: A Compendium of Oriental and Theosophical Terms

Seeking purpose and meaning for their lives, an ever-growing number of people are delving into the world's sacred and philosophical literatures. Confronted with numerous foreign and specialised terms, they are looking for succinct and reliable definitions as well as a guide to their philosophical usage. G. de Purucker's Occult Glossary helps fill that need. A compendium of oriental and theosophical terms it is a succinct and reliable aid in discerning the occult or "hidden" meaning of many Sanskrit, Greek, and technical terms used in theosophical literature, throwing fresh light on such basic themes as karma, reincarnation, planetary and solar cycles, and man's evolutionary pilgrimage.

MAN IN EVOLUTION

This work will appeal to those who question Darwinist theories or find untenable the customary theological dogmas of human origin. Dr. de Purucker's critical analysis of biological and anthropological findings in relation to theosophic doctrine provides ample testimony that consciousness, not matter, is the causative factor behind evolution. "Man is his own history" - physically, the repository of all stocks below him, of which he is the source and not the end-on result; spiritually, the "intelligent agency" motivating and working through all forms to evolutionary perfection.

THE ESOTERIC TRADITION (2 volumes)

H. P. Blavatsky pointed to the fundamental concepts of The Secret Doctrine as comprising the principles of an ancient wisdom which far antedates the Vedas. The Esoteric Tradition unfolds the broad panorama of this enduring wisdom, allowing the reader to see universes, worlds, and men as different aspects of one cosmic pattern. Chapter headings include: Allegory and Mystical Symbolism, The Secret Doctrine of Gautama the Buddha, Evolutionary Pathway to the Gods, Worlds Visible and Invisible, Reimbodiment as Taught through the Ages, Death and After: A Study of Consciousness, Some Misunderstood Teachings of the Mysteries.

WIND OF THE SPIRIT

Wind of the Spirit makes a powerful appeal to each of us to seek our own inspired vision to live by. The author shows how the winds of change are coursing through world consciousness, tearing away deadwood and making room for new growth. Nearly a hundred articles examine such topics as the secret of human conflict, guarding our thoughts, common sense in the home, prayer and aspiration, soul loss and insincerity, predestination, help from the gods, and three stages of visioning truth.

The wind of the spirit, at times chill and bleak, is ultimately one of hope, for with it comes awareness of our common goals as a humanity. "Universal Brotherhood - not merely vague sentimentalism, but as a recognition of human solidarity based on nature's own laws - is, after all, the keynote of any true civilisation, and without it no civilisation can endure.

This is a practical book, helpful for the beginner, while the long-time student will benefit from a fresh view of basic principles.

By KATHERINE TINGLEY

THEOSOPHY: PATH OF THE MYSTIC

Katherine Tingley appeals to the heart in simple, direct language, emphasizing the dignity of the individual and the power within each person to shape his own character and life. To her, theosophy was a practical and inspirational philosophy for daily living.

This book is compiled from talks and writings on theosophy and its applicability to living the mystic life, to education, prison reform, and the problems of society and human relationships. Katherine Tingley's great objective throughout the many varied activities she undertook was to make theosophy "immensely serviceable" to all.

"Never can we reach that point of spiritual discernment until we have found within our own hearts something new: a larger sympathy for all that lives, and a broader, deeper, grander conception of human life and the superb laws that govern it." - p.22

THE GODS AWAIT

Thought-provoking and inspiriting, The Gods Await applies theosophic principles to human life, emphasizing remedies for "man's inhumanity to man." It discusses freedom of thought, world peace, and reformation of the criminal justice system -- setting forth the problems with their root-causes and possible solutions.

Speaking to the intuition as well as the mind, the author encourages us to recognize our duality and look to the spiritual center within, then act fearlessly -- for "there is always another chance," no matter what our apparent failures. Here is a plea for social action and individual renewal based on self-knowledge, compassion, and the innate divinity of mankind.

"In that inner consciousness in which we all share there is an unsilenceable voice calling to us to render help. . . . in truth it is utterly impossible for any fragment of humanity to be secure and in peace and untroubled while any other fragment is in peril or oppressed, because inwardly and in reality we are one." - p.22

"he who would enter upon the path that leads to truth must put new interpretations on the failings and mistakes of his fellow men. He must come to understand the law of eternal justice . . . and to know the necessity it implies for an unconquerable compassion . . ." - p.61

By CHARLES J. RYAN



H.P. BLAVATSKY AND THE THEOSOPHICAL MOVEMENT

". . . some day, if not at once, the loftiness and purity of her aims, the wisdom and scope of her teachings, will be recognized more fully, and her memory will be accorded the honor to which it is justly entitled." -- Editorial, New York Daily Tribune, May 10, 1891

The most significant event of the nineteenth century was the introduction of the religious philosophy of the East to the notice of the West. But it was H. P. Blavatsky who gave it the needed higher interpretation, thus changing the current of Occidental thought and "directing it towards the sun." H.P.B., an unsolved mystery to the Victorian mind and a timeless challenge to our own, plowed deep into the strata of archaic truth, and called for the restitution of spiritual values and the recognition of man's divine heritage.

This well-researched portrayal of Blavatsky's life and work also covers the years following her death on May 8, 1891, and the efforts of theosophists to carry the movement into the twentieth century. Combining primary source material with concise narrative, Professor Ryan has crafted a penetrating synthesis of theosophical history and philosophy which reveals the impact of spiritual truths on humanity's thought-life.

                  Second and Revised Edition with the author's emendations and additions

By NILS A. AMNEUS

LIFE'S RIDDLE

Filled with explanations and examples of the ancient wisdom's relevance to everyday life, this is a warm and conversational presentation of timeless principles. The author, who considers the universe a school of experience, draws from many disciplines to help us discern the eternal laws that underlie mother nature and human nature.

Short stimulating essays address life's dilemmas, and shed light on karma, death, reincarnation, and our various states of consciousness. Drawing widely from nature, world mythology, and religious scriptures, Amneus portrays the sympathetic relationship between the personal and the higher ego to be an eternally evolving and hopeful one. "If we watch a sleeping person, we notice that the body lies there quietly, performing certain automatic functions. . . . We see from this that the body is not the man himself but, like the mind, is a tool used by the Ego for its evolution here on Earth."

By GRACE F. KNOCHE

THE MYSTERY SCHOOLS

Behind the world's religions, philosophies, and sciences lies the hidden source of humanity's inner life and spiritual sustenance. Through the intellectual awakening of infant mankind millions of years ago, to the subsequent misuse of knowledge which led to the foundation of Mystery colleges by great sages and seers, The Mystery Schools traces this movement back to the earliest times. It describes the role of the brotherhood of adepts in discovering, disseminating, and preserving the truths of nature and man, and discusses the purposes and methods of the Mysteries, the pattern of esotericism, routes of initiation, and the Mystery schools today.

"A Mystery school is a university of the soul, a school for the study of the mysteries of the inner nature of man and of surrounding nature. By understanding these mysteries, the student perceives his intimate relationship with divinity, and strives through self-discipline and devotion to become at one with his inner god.

This book attempts to present certain fundamental lines of teaching which it is hoped will give a more or less clear picture of what a Mystery school really is. Full and specific knowledge of the Mystery schools - where they have been, where now they function, what are their chief characteristics - has not been given out. The student can find, however, a generous amount of information scattered here and there in the literatures of the past and can build up for himself a coherent picture of the pageantry of the Mystery schools, a picture which will turn into the reality of experience only as he becomes inwardly prepared through lifetimes of dedication and the study and practice of the ancient wisdom." - Foreword

Grace F. Knoche has been leader of The Theosophical Society and editor of Sunrise magazine since 1971.

Second and Revised Edition

TO LIGHT A THOUSAND LAMPS: A Theosophic Vision

Written with directness and warmth, To Light a Thousand Lamps shares a universal perspective on the central questions of human existence, while providing practical insights on daily living and spiritual growth. Offering a thoughtful critique of religious and scientific views and current practices in light of theosophy, the author presents the foundation ideas of mankind's spiritual heritage, addressing our responsibility as partners in a oneness that reaches to the core of each and every being. In so doing she suggests how we can live with dignity, purpose, and compassion, whatever our circumstances.

"If enough men and women will not only believe in, but also follow their intuitions and consciously cast their lot with the cause of compassion, there is every reason to have confidence that our civilization will one day make the leap from self-centeredness to genuine brotherhood in every phase of the human enterprise."

By W. T. S. Thackara

EVOLUTION & CREATION: A THEOSOPHIC SYNTHESIS

Addressing the controversial question, "Is the universe intelligently designed?", this introductory booklet surveys critical problems in both Darwinian theory and creationist theology: organic complexity and the origin of life; the relationship of consciousness and matter; who or what is God; design, disparity, and imperfection; and the origin and evolution of man. The discussion reexamines these issues in light of modern scientific research and basic theosophic concepts underlying the world’s religious traditions – suggesting there is a common middle ground reconciling spiritual intuition and scientific knowledge. Useful for group study.

For full online catalogue click here.
For full text of online titles click here.

Price List

If you would like to order titles or receive a copy of the current TUP catalogue please contact:

The National Secretary,
The Theosophical Society (Pasadena),
PO BOX 60,
Exeter
Devon
EX4 4YP

Tel/fax: 01392 275884
e-mail: hall.123@btinternet.com

Please note the change of address for book ordering.

All TUP book purchases can now be ordered directly from:

York Publishing Services Ltd.
64 Hallfield Road
Layerthorpe
York
YO31 7ZQ

Tel: 01904 431213
e-mail : enqs@yps-publishing.co.uk

Payments by credit card or cheque/postal order to YPS.

Further reading on studying Theosophy:

Much Reading, Little Thought by William Quan Judge
Of Studying Theosophy by William Quan Judge
Theosophical Studies by William Quan Judge