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

• Study courses through the National Lodge (TS members only)

The Bhagavad Gita—A Study Course  by John Algeo, Ph.D.
This study course by John Algeo contains analysis and commentary in 28 lessons. Annie Besant’s translation  is used throughout the course.

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.

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 clicking on the SUBMIT REQUEST link and providing their name and membership ID number. (Your membership ID number is located on your membership card directly under your name.)

Exploring the Heart of Meditation, by Cecil Messer    SAMPLE
This course is best suited for those who have had some experience with meditation and would like to deepen their practice.     Submit Request

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

Frodo’s Quest and the Spiritual Journey, by Robert Ellwood    SAMPLE
Robert Ellwood interprets the mythological themes found in J. R. R. Tokien’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

An Introduction to Esoteric Principles, by Doss McDavid, Ph.D.   SAMPLE
An intermediate level course presenting some basic concepts of the Wisdom Tradition as set forth by H. P. Blavatksy with contrasting presentations by later generations of Theosophists. Submit Request

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. Blavatksy's The Secret Doctrine. Submit Request

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

Manual on Workshop Methods,  by the Department of Education    SAMPLE
This manual is especially designed with Theosophical study groups in mind, providing a number of creative ways to conduct a workshop with your local group.    Submit Request

Reincarnation Explained, by the Department of Education   SAMPLE
A collection of six articles,. each of which presents a different aspect of reincarntation.   Submit Request

Stranger Than Fiction: H. S. Olcott's Life in Theosophy, by John Algeo   SAMPLE
Explore the early years of the Theosophial 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

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

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

Theosophy and World Religions, by Robert Ellwood SAMPLE
This course is a survey of the world religions and how their teachings relate to timeless truths of Theosophy. Submit Request