https://theosophy.wiki/w-en/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Janet+Kerschner&feedformat=atomTheosophy Wiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T19:32:30ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.39.4https://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Ernest_Wood&diff=53506Ernest Wood2024-03-16T02:53:23Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Writings */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''ARTICLE UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br />
<br><br />
'''ARTICLE UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
[[File:Ernest Wood.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Ernest Wood]]<br />
[[File:Ernest Wood 1928 seated.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
[[File:Ernest and Hilda Wood.jpg|200px right|thumb|Ernest and Hilda Wood]]<br />
'''Ernest Wood''' was an English educator, writer, lecturer, and Sanskrit scholar who was active in the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar, Chennai, India]].<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
== Work as educator ==<br />
<br />
Dr. Wood was very active in the [[Society for the Promotion of National Education]] that was established in 1916 by [[Annie Besant]] and others.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical Society involvement ==<br />
<br />
Ernest Wood was highly in demand as a lecturer around the world. In 1924, he had the honor of presenting the [[Blavatsky Lectures|Blavatsky Lecture]] on the topic '''[http://resources.theosophical.org/pdf/BL_1924_Wood_Personal_Psychology_and_the_SubConscious_Mind.pdf "Personal Psychology and the Sub-conscious Mind"].'''<br />
<br />
He served as the Recording Secretary of the Theosophical Society; the Principle of the Sind National College, Hyderabad; Honorary Secretary of the Theosophical Educational Trust; President of Manchester city Lodge in England; and President of the Blavatsky Lodge in Sydney.<br />
<br />
== Later years ==<br />
<br />
In 1962, Dr. Wood helped to establish a [[Maria Montessori|Montessori school]] in Houston, Texas, the [http://www.schoolofthewoods.org/ School of the Woods]: <br />
<blockquote><br />
Some people understandably think the school was named for the sylvan setting of its campus. Its name, however, honors Ernest and Hilda Wood, who inspired and guided its founding along Montessori principles. Dr. Wood, a Sanskrit and Asian scholar, introduced the Montessori philosophy to the study group who were considering establishing a new nursery school. When the school opened, he was president of the first board of trustees.<ref>"A Brief History of School of the Woods (Established 1962)", School of the Woods [http://www.schoolofthewoods.org/History/History.php web page].</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The school has been operating continuously since 1962, and now has classes from preschool through high school.<br />
<br />
Ernest Wood died on September 17, 1965 at the age of 83.<br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
<br />
Mr. Wood was a prolific writer, and authored many articles that were printed in at least 18 different Theosophical periodicals. The [[Union Index of Theosophical Periodicals]] lists '''[http://www.austheos.org.au/cgi-bin/ui-csvsearch.pl?search=Ernest+Wood&method=exact 253 articles by or about Ernest Wood]'''.<br />
<br />
He also wrote numerous books, pamphlets, and courses on Theosophy, yoga, psychology, education, and other subjects.<br />
<br />
=== Books on Theosophy ===<br />
<br />
* '''''The New Theosophy'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: The Theosophical Press, 1929.<br />
* '''''A "Secret Doctrine" Digest; the laws and facts of nature and life as taught by H. P. Blavatsky in her monumental work the Secret Doctrine, with explanations where necessary by Ernest Wood'''''. Adyar, Madras, India: Theosophical Publishing House, 1956. 480 pages.<br />
* '''''The Seven Rays: a Theosophical Handbook'''''. Chicago: Theosophical Press, 1925. Available at [https://theosophical.org/files/resources/books/SevenRays/SevenRAys.pdf# HathiTrust].<br />
* '''''Concentration: An Approach to Meditation'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Quest Books, 1968. <br />
* '''''A Study of Pleasure and Pain'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Theosophical Pub. House, 1962, 1972. <br />
<br />
=== Books on Yoga ===<br />
* '''''Yoga Wisdom'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1970. 101 pages.<br />
* '''''Raja Yoga: The Occult Training of the Hindus''''<br />
* '''''Seven Schools of Yoga: An Introduction'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Quest Books, 1973.<br />
* '''''Yoga'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1956. 178 pages. Reprinted Baltimore, Md.: Penguin Books, 1959.<br />
* '''''Great Systems of Yoga'''''. 1954.<br />
* '''''Great Systems of Yoga'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1954. Available as HTML at [https://sacred-texts.com/hin/gsoy/index.htm sacred-texts.com].<br />
* '''''Yoga Dictionary'''''.<br />
<br />
=== Books on other religious topics ===<br />
* '''''Zen Dictionary'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1962. 165 pages.<br />
* '''''Vedanta Dictionary'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, c1964. 225 pages.<br />
* '''''Pinnacle of Indian Thought'''''. 1967.<br />
* '''''The Occult Training of the Hindus'''''. Madras: Ganesh, 1952. 120 pages.<br />
<br />
=== Books on India ===<br />
* '''''An Englishman Defends Mother India, a complete constructive replay to "Mother India"'''''. Madras, Ganech & Co., 1928. 458 pages.<br />
* '''''Text Book of Indian citizenship. Vol. I'''''. Madras: Ganesh & Co., 1920. Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/100622072 HathiTrust].<br />
<br />
=== Books on self-help ===<br />
* '''''Taking Charge of Your Life'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Theosophical Pub. House, 1985. 129 pages. "Originally published under the title: Character building."<br />
* '''''Mind and Memory Training'''''. Chicago, The Theosophical Press, 1900? 95 pages. Second edition, revised London: Sir I. Pitman & Sons,Ltd., 1947. Reprinted Adyar: Theosophical Publishing House, 1974.<br />
* '''''Memory training: a Practical Course'''''. Theosophical Publishing House, 1915. Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/102405426 Hathitrust]. <br />
<br />
=== Books, Sanskrit translations ===<br />
* '''''The Bhagavad Gita Explained, with a literal translation from the original Sanskrit'''''. San Francisco, Calif., The American Academy of Asian Studies Graduate School, 1961. 232 p.<br />
* '''''The Garuda Purana'''''. Allahabad: Pāṇiṇi Office, 1911. Translation with Subrahmanyam. Available as HTML with commentary at [https://sacred-texts.com/hin/gpu/index.htm sacred-texts.com]. <br />
** New York: AMS Press, 1974. Introduction by Sris Chandra Vasu. "An adaptation and abridgement of the Garuḍapurāṇa, 'done for the helping of those who cannot understand the difficult earlier works.'" Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/000015073 HathiTrust].<br />
* '''''The Glorious Presence; a study of the Vedanta philosophy and its relations to modern thought. Including a new translation of Shankara's Ode to the south-facing form.'''''. New York: Dutton, 1951. London; New York: Rider, 1952. Translation of Śaṅkarācārya.<br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
In 1924, Dr. Wood was awarded the [[Subba Row Medal]] for his contributions to Theosophical literature, and especially for writing ''Intention of the Will''.<br />
<br />
The '''School of the Woods''' in Houston, Texas is named after Ernest and Hilda Woo Wood, Ernesdt] at Theosophy Worldd.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/wood-ernest Wood, Ernest] at Theosophy World<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
[[Category:Writers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Business careers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Sanskrit scholars|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality English|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:People|Wood, Ernest]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Ernest_Wood&diff=53505Ernest Wood2024-03-16T02:44:10Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Writings */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''ARTICLE UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br />
<br><br />
'''ARTICLE UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
[[File:Ernest Wood.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Ernest Wood]]<br />
[[File:Ernest Wood 1928 seated.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
[[File:Ernest and Hilda Wood.jpg|200px right|thumb|Ernest and Hilda Wood]]<br />
'''Ernest Wood''' was an English educator, writer, lecturer, and Sanskrit scholar who was active in the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar, Chennai, India]].<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
== Work as educator ==<br />
<br />
Dr. Wood was very active in the [[Society for the Promotion of National Education]] that was established in 1916 by [[Annie Besant]] and others.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical Society involvement ==<br />
<br />
Ernest Wood was highly in demand as a lecturer around the world. In 1924, he had the honor of presenting the [[Blavatsky Lectures|Blavatsky Lecture]] on the topic '''[http://resources.theosophical.org/pdf/BL_1924_Wood_Personal_Psychology_and_the_SubConscious_Mind.pdf "Personal Psychology and the Sub-conscious Mind"].'''<br />
<br />
He served as the Recording Secretary of the Theosophical Society; the Principle of the Sind National College, Hyderabad; Honorary Secretary of the Theosophical Educational Trust; President of Manchester city Lodge in England; and President of the Blavatsky Lodge in Sydney.<br />
<br />
== Later years ==<br />
<br />
In 1962, Dr. Wood helped to establish a [[Maria Montessori|Montessori school]] in Houston, Texas, the [http://www.schoolofthewoods.org/ School of the Woods]: <br />
<blockquote><br />
Some people understandably think the school was named for the sylvan setting of its campus. Its name, however, honors Ernest and Hilda Wood, who inspired and guided its founding along Montessori principles. Dr. Wood, a Sanskrit and Asian scholar, introduced the Montessori philosophy to the study group who were considering establishing a new nursery school. When the school opened, he was president of the first board of trustees.<ref>"A Brief History of School of the Woods (Established 1962)", School of the Woods [http://www.schoolofthewoods.org/History/History.php web page].</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The school has been operating continuously since 1962, and now has classes from preschool through high school.<br />
<br />
Ernest Wood died on September 17, 1965 at the age of 83.<br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
<br />
Mr. Wood was a prolific writer, and authored many articles that were printed in at least 18 different Theosophical periodicals. The [[Union Index of Theosophical Periodicals]] lists '''[http://www.austheos.org.au/cgi-bin/ui-csvsearch.pl?search=Ernest+Wood&method=exact 253 articles by or about Ernest Wood]'''.<br />
<br />
He also wrote numerous books, pamphlets, and courses on Theosophy, yoga, psychology, education, and other subjects.<br />
<br />
=== Books on Theosophy ===<br />
<br />
* '''''The New Theosophy'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: The Theosophical Press, 1929.<br />
* '''''The Seven Rays: a Theosophical Handbook'''''. Chicago: Theosophical Press, 1925. Available at [https://theosophical.org/files/resources/books/SevenRays/SevenRAys.pdf# HathiTrust].<br />
* '''''Concentration: An Approach to Meditation'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Quest Books, 1968. <br />
* '''''A Study of Pleasure and Pain'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Theosophical Pub. House, 1962, 1972. <br />
'.<br />
<br />
=== Books on Yoga ===<br />
* '''''Yoga Wisdom'''''. Castle Books.<br />
* '''''Raja Yoga: The Occult Training of the Hindus''''<br />
* '''''Seven Schools of Yoga: An Introduction'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Quest Books, 1973.<br />
* '''''Yoga'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1956. 178 pages. Reprinted Baltimore, Md.: Penguin Books, 1959.<br />
* '''''Great Systems of Yoga'''''. 1954.<br />
* '''''Great Systems of Yoga'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1954. Available as HTML at [https://sacred-texts.com/hin/gsoy/index.htm sacred-texts.com].<br />
* '''''Yoga Dictionary'''''.<br />
<br />
=== Books on other religious topics ===<br />
* '''''Zen Dictionary'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1962. 165 pages.<br />
* '''''Vedanta Dictionary'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, c1964. 225 pages.<br />
* '''''Pinnacle of Indian Thought'''''. 1967.<br />
<br />
=== Books on India ===<br />
* '''''An Englishman Defends Mother India, a complete constructive replay to "Mother India"'''''. Madras, Ganech & Co., 1928. 458 pages.<br />
* '''''Text Book of Indian citizenship. Vol. I'''''. Madras: Ganesh & Co., 1920. Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/100622072 HathiTrust].<br />
<br />
=== Books on self-help ===<br />
* '''''Taking Charge of Your Life'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Theosophical Pub. House, 1985. 129 pages. "Originally published under the title: Character building."<br />
* '''''Mind and Memory Training'''''. Chicago, The Theosophical Press, 1900? 95 pages. Second edition, revised London: Sir I. Pitman & Sons,Ltd., 1947. Reprinted Adyar: Theosophical Publishing House, 1974.<br />
* '''''Memory training: a Practical Course'''''. Theosophical Publishing House, 1915. Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/102405426 Hathitrust]. <br />
<br />
=== Books, Sanskrit translations ===<br />
* '''''The Bhagavad Gita Explained, with a literal translation from the original Sanskrit'''''. San Francisco, Calif., The American Academy of Asian Studies Graduate School, 1961. 232 p.<br />
* '''''The Garuda Purana'''''. Allahabad: Pāṇiṇi Office, 1911. Translation with Subrahmanyam. Available as HTML with commentary at [https://sacred-texts.com/hin/gpu/index.htm sacred-texts.com]. <br />
** New York: AMS Press, 1974. Introduction by Sris Chandra Vasu. "An adaptation and abridgement of the Garuḍapurāṇa, 'done for the helping of those who cannot understand the difficult earlier works.'" Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/000015073 HathiTrust].<br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
In 1924, Dr. Wood was awarded the [[Subba Row Medal]] for his contributions to Theosophical literature, and especially for writing ''Intention of the Will''.<br />
<br />
The '''School of the Woods''' in Houston, Texas is named after Ernest and Hilda Woo Wood, Ernesdt] at Theosophy Worldd.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/wood-ernest Wood, Ernest] at Theosophy World<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
[[Category:Writers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Business careers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Sanskrit scholars|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality English|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:People|Wood, Ernest]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Ernest_Wood&diff=53504Ernest Wood2024-03-16T02:36:31Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Writings */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''ARTICLE UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br />
<br><br />
'''ARTICLE UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
[[File:Ernest Wood.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Ernest Wood]]<br />
[[File:Ernest Wood 1928 seated.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
[[File:Ernest and Hilda Wood.jpg|200px right|thumb|Ernest and Hilda Wood]]<br />
'''Ernest Wood''' was an English educator, writer, lecturer, and Sanskrit scholar who was active in the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar, Chennai, India]].<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
== Work as educator ==<br />
<br />
Dr. Wood was very active in the [[Society for the Promotion of National Education]] that was established in 1916 by [[Annie Besant]] and others.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical Society involvement ==<br />
<br />
Ernest Wood was highly in demand as a lecturer around the world. In 1924, he had the honor of presenting the [[Blavatsky Lectures|Blavatsky Lecture]] on the topic '''[http://resources.theosophical.org/pdf/BL_1924_Wood_Personal_Psychology_and_the_SubConscious_Mind.pdf "Personal Psychology and the Sub-conscious Mind"].'''<br />
<br />
He served as the Recording Secretary of the Theosophical Society; the Principle of the Sind National College, Hyderabad; Honorary Secretary of the Theosophical Educational Trust; President of Manchester city Lodge in England; and President of the Blavatsky Lodge in Sydney.<br />
<br />
== Later years ==<br />
<br />
In 1962, Dr. Wood helped to establish a [[Maria Montessori|Montessori school]] in Houston, Texas, the [http://www.schoolofthewoods.org/ School of the Woods]: <br />
<blockquote><br />
Some people understandably think the school was named for the sylvan setting of its campus. Its name, however, honors Ernest and Hilda Wood, who inspired and guided its founding along Montessori principles. Dr. Wood, a Sanskrit and Asian scholar, introduced the Montessori philosophy to the study group who were considering establishing a new nursery school. When the school opened, he was president of the first board of trustees.<ref>"A Brief History of School of the Woods (Established 1962)", School of the Woods [http://www.schoolofthewoods.org/History/History.php web page].</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The school has been operating continuously since 1962, and now has classes from preschool through high school.<br />
<br />
Ernest Wood died on September 17, 1965 at the age of 83.<br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
<br />
Mr. Wood was a prolific writer, and authored many articles that were printed in at least 18 different Theosophical periodicals. The [[Union Index of Theosophical Periodicals]] lists '''[http://www.austheos.org.au/cgi-bin/ui-csvsearch.pl?search=Ernest+Wood&method=exact 253 articles by or about Ernest Wood]'''.<br />
<br />
He also wrote numerous books, pamphlets, and courses on Theosophy, yoga, psychology, education, and other subjects.<br />
* <br />
* <br />
*<br />
=== Books, Theosophical ===<br />
<br />
* '''''Yoga'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1956. 178 pages. <br />
* '''''The New Theosophy'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: The Theosophical Press, 1929.<br />
* '''''Great Systems of Yoga'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1954. Available as HTML at [https://sacred-texts.com/hin/gsoy/index.htm sacred-texts.com].<br />
* '''''Memory training: a Practical Course'''''. Theosophical Publishing House, 1915. Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/102405426 Hathitrust]. <br />
* '''''The Seven Rays: a Theosophical Handbook'''''. Chicago: Theosophical Press, 1925. Available at [https://theosophical.org/files/resources/books/SevenRays/SevenRAys.pdf# HathiTrust].<br />
* '''''Text Book of Indian citizenship. Vol. I'''''. Madras: Ganesh & Co., 1920. Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/100622072 HathiTrust].<br />
* '''''Concentration: An Approach to Meditation'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Quest Books, 1968. <br />
* '''''Zen Dictionary'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, 1962. 165 pages.<br />
* '''''Vedanta Dictionary'''''. New York: Philosophical Library, c1964. 225 pages.<br />
* '''''Mind and Memory Training'''''. Chicago, The Theosophical Press, 1900? 95 pages. Second edition, revised London: Sir I. Pitman & Sons,Ltd., 1947. Reprinted Adyar: Theosophical Publishing House, 1974.<br />
* '''''Seven Schools of Yoga: An Introduction'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Quest Books, 1973.<br />
* '''''Great Systems of Yoga'''''. 1954.<br />
* '''''Pinnacle of Indian Thought'''''. 1967.<br />
* '''''Yoga Dictionary'''''.<br />
* '''''A Study of Pleasure and Pain'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Theosophical Pub. House, 1962, 1972. <br />
* '''''Yoga Wisdom'''''. Castle Books.<br />
* '''''Raja Yoga: The Occult Training of the Hindus'''''.<br />
* '''''Taking Charge of Your Life'''''. Wheaton, Ill.: Theosophical Pub. House, 1985. 129 pages. "Originally published under the title: Character building."<br />
* '''''An Englishman Defends Mother India, a complete constructive replay to "Mother India"'''''. Madras, Ganech & Co., 1928. 458 pages.<br />
<br />
=== Books, Sanskrit translations ===<br />
* '''''The Bhagavad Gita Explained, with a literal translation from the original Sanskrit'''''. San Francisco, Calif., The American Academy of Asian Studies Graduate School, 1961. 232 p.<br />
* '''''The Garuda Purana'''''. Allahabad: Pāṇiṇi Office, 1911. Translation with Subrahmanyam. Available as HTML with commentary at [https://sacred-texts.com/hin/gpu/index.htm sacred-texts.com]. <br />
** New York: AMS Press, 1974. Introduction by Sris Chandra Vasu. "An adaptation and abridgement of the Garuḍapurāṇa, 'done for the helping of those who cannot understand the difficult earlier works.'" Available at [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/000015073 HathiTrust].<br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
In 1924, Dr. Wood was awarded the [[Subba Row Medal]] for his contributions to Theosophical literature, and especially for writing ''Intention of the Will''.<br />
<br />
The '''School of the Woods''' in Houston, Texas is named after Ernest and Hilda Woo Wood, Ernesdt] at Theosophy Worldd.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/wood-ernest Wood, Ernest] at Theosophy World<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
[[Category:Writers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Business careers|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Sanskrit scholars|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality English|Wood, Ernest]]<br />
[[Category:People|Wood, Ernest]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53257Vonda Urban2024-02-12T07:42:23Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Theosophical work */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was born as Wanda Urbanovicz on [[December 8]], 1918 in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was the youngest child of Carolina Janik and Michael Urbanovicz. Michael had emigrated from southern Poland in 1904, and Carolina in 1906. They married on November 20, 2013, and settled in Massachusetts, where Michael worked as a baker and later as a salesman.<ref>1920 United States Federal Census.</ref><ref>1930 United States Federal Census.</ref> Their children were Olga (1914), Irene (1915), Witold (1917), and Wanda (1918).<ref>Karolina Janik in 1935 Illinois, U.S., Federal Naturalization Records, 1856-1991.</ref> <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They didn’t have much money; so young Vonda and her sisters Irene and Olga sold pond lilies and household items door to door to help support the family.<br />
<br />
In school, Vonda loved showing off, acting in the school plays and reciting poetry.<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Olga moved to Chicago in the early 1930s, followed quickly by her sisters. Vonda and Irene shortened their surname to Urban, and according to their niece, "became city girls. They struck out on their own and made careers for themselves."<ref>Deborah Urban, quoted by Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They began by selling handmade, silkscreened greeting cards and wrapping paper (even selling it at Marshall Field's). Eventually Irene got married and Vonda, who had studied dance, started teaching at several venues, eventually landing at the preeminent Aragon Ballroom in 1954.<ref>Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Michael Urbanowicz died in 1942, and his wife Carolina and son Witold moved to Chicago. Vonda and her husband Galen "later took on the responsibility for caring for her brother Witold. To earn a living, and to help support her mother, Vonda worked as a part-time bookkeeper and accountant for many Chicago firms."<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
Beginning in 1954, the vivacious Vonda Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago, and became something of a local celebrity. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest Latin dance styles such as mambo, bossa nova, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. After marrying a band leader and music teacher, Galen Williams, on October 16, 1957, she played drums in his dance band &ndash; the first female drummer in that time. They divorced in the 1970s.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met[[ Boris de Zirkoff]], the grandnephew of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Madame Blavatsky]]. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling [[Collected Writings (book)|H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings]] and working on his edition of her [[Secret Doctrine (book)|''Secret Doctrine'']]. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life. "She also taught an astrology class, where the group would read astrological charts. Altogether she taught approximately 1,000 pupils about the philosophy."<ref>Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s [[The Voice of the Silence (book)|Voice of the Silence]] was, “Thou canst not travel on [[Spiritual Path|the Path]] before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other Theosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Final years ==<br />
<br />
Vonda continued teaching Theosophy almost to the end of her life. She died of pancreatic cancer on [[June 3]], 2011. <br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53256Vonda Urban2024-02-12T07:40:56Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was born as Wanda Urbanovicz on [[December 8]], 1918 in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was the youngest child of Carolina Janik and Michael Urbanovicz. Michael had emigrated from southern Poland in 1904, and Carolina in 1906. They married on November 20, 2013, and settled in Massachusetts, where Michael worked as a baker and later as a salesman.<ref>1920 United States Federal Census.</ref><ref>1930 United States Federal Census.</ref> Their children were Olga (1914), Irene (1915), Witold (1917), and Wanda (1918).<ref>Karolina Janik in 1935 Illinois, U.S., Federal Naturalization Records, 1856-1991.</ref> <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They didn’t have much money; so young Vonda and her sisters Irene and Olga sold pond lilies and household items door to door to help support the family.<br />
<br />
In school, Vonda loved showing off, acting in the school plays and reciting poetry.<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Olga moved to Chicago in the early 1930s, followed quickly by her sisters. Vonda and Irene shortened their surname to Urban, and according to their niece, "became city girls. They struck out on their own and made careers for themselves."<ref>Deborah Urban, quoted by Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They began by selling handmade, silkscreened greeting cards and wrapping paper (even selling it at Marshall Field's). Eventually Irene got married and Vonda, who had studied dance, started teaching at several venues, eventually landing at the preeminent Aragon Ballroom in 1954.<ref>Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Michael Urbanowicz died in 1942, and his wife Carolina and son Witold moved to Chicago. Vonda and her husband Galen "later took on the responsibility for caring for her brother Witold. To earn a living, and to help support her mother, Vonda worked as a part-time bookkeeper and accountant for many Chicago firms."<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
Beginning in 1954, the vivacious Vonda Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago, and became something of a local celebrity. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest Latin dance styles such as mambo, bossa nova, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. After marrying a band leader and music teacher, Galen Williams, on October 16, 1957, she played drums in his dance band &ndash; the first female drummer in that time. They divorced in the 1970s.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met[[ Boris de Zirkoff]], the grandnephew of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Madame Blavatsky]]. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling [[Collected Writings (book)|H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings]] and working on his edition of her [[Secret Doctrine (book)|''Secret Doctrine'']]. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life. "She also taught an astrology class, where the group would read astrological charts. Altogether she taught approximately 1,000 pupils about the philosophy."<ref>Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other Theosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Final years ==<br />
<br />
Vonda continued teaching Theosophy almost to the end of her life. She died of pancreatic cancer on [[June 3]], 2011. <br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53255Vonda Urban2024-02-12T07:36:22Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Theosophical work */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was born as Wanda Urbanovicz on [[December 8]], 1918 in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was the youngest child of Carolina Janik and Michael Urbanovicz. Michael had emigrated from southern Poland in 1904, and Carolina in 1906. They married on November 20, 2013, and settled in Massachusetts, where Michael worked as a baker and later as a salesman.<ref>1920 United States Federal Census.</ref><ref>1930 United States Federal Census.</ref> Their children were Olga (1914), Irene (1915), Witold (1917), and Wanda (1918).<ref>Karolina Janik in 1935 Illinois, U.S., Federal Naturalization Records, 1856-1991.</ref> <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They didn’t have much money; so young Vonda and her sisters Irene and Olga sold pond lilies and household items door to door to help support the family.<br />
<br />
In school, Vonda loved showing off, acting in the school plays and reciting poetry.<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Olga moved to Chicago in the early 1930s, followed quickly by her sisters. Vonda and Irene shortened their surname to Urban, and according to their niece, "became city girls. They struck out on their own and made careers for themselves."<ref>Deborah Urban, quoted by Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They began by selling handmade, silkscreened greeting cards and wrapping paper (even selling it at Marshall Field's). Eventually Irene got married and Vonda, who had studied dance, started teaching at several venues, eventually landing at the preeminent Aragon Ballroom in 1954.<ref>Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Michael Urbanowicz died in 1942, and his wife Carolina and son Witold moved to Chicago. Vonda and her husband Galen "later took on the responsibility for caring for her brother Witold. To earn a living, and to help support her mother, Vonda worked as a part-time bookkeeper and accountant for many Chicago firms."<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
Beginning in 1954, the vivacious Vonda Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago, and became something of a local celebrity. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest Latin dance styles such as mambo, bossa nova, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. After marrying a band leader and music teacher, Galen Williams, on October 16, 1957, she played drums in his dance band &ndash; the first female drummer in that time. They divorced in the 1970s.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met[[ Boris de Zirkoff]], the grandnephew of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Madame Blavatsky]]. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling [[Collected Writings (book)|H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings]] and working on his edition of her [[Secret Doctrine (book)|''Secret Doctrine'']]. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life. "She also taught an astrology class, where the group would read astrological charts. Altogether she taught approximately 1,000 pupils about the philosophy."<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other THeosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Final years ==<br />
<br />
Vonda continued teaching Theosophy almost to the end of her life. She died of pancreatic cancer on [[June 3]], 2011. Her ashes were buried in Hawai'i<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53254Vonda Urban2024-02-12T07:27:38Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was born as Wanda Urbanovicz on [[December 8]], 1918 in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was the youngest child of Carolina Janik and Michael Urbanovicz. Michael had emigrated from southern Poland in 1904, and Carolina in 1906. They married on November 20, 2013, and settled in Massachusetts, where Michael worked as a baker and later as a salesman.<ref>1920 United States Federal Census.</ref><ref>1930 United States Federal Census.</ref> Their children were Olga (1914), Irene (1915), Witold (1917), and Wanda (1918).<ref>Karolina Janik in 1935 Illinois, U.S., Federal Naturalization Records, 1856-1991.</ref> <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They didn’t have much money; so young Vonda and her sisters Irene and Olga sold pond lilies and household items door to door to help support the family.<br />
<br />
In school, Vonda loved showing off, acting in the school plays and reciting poetry.<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Olga moved to Chicago in the early 1930s, followed quickly by her sisters. Vonda and Irene shortened their surname to Urban, and according to their niece, "became city girls. They struck out on their own and made careers for themselves."<ref>Deborah Urban, quoted by Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They began by selling handmade, silkscreened greeting cards and wrapping paper (even selling it at Marshall Field's). Eventually Irene got married and Vonda, who had studied dance, started teaching at several venues, eventually landing at the preeminent Aragon Ballroom in 1954.<ref>Becky Schlikerman, "Vonda Urban, 1918-2011" ''Chicago Tribune'' June 12, 2011.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Michael Urbanowicz died in 1942, and his wife Carolina and son Witold moved to Chicago. Vonda and her husband Galen "later took on the responsibility for caring for her brother Witold. To earn a living, and to help support her mother, Vonda worked as a part-time bookkeeper and accountant for many Chicago firms."<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
Beginning in 1954, the vivacious Vonda Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago, and became something of a local celebrity. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest Latin dance styles such as mambo, bossa nova, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. After marrying a band leader and music teacher, Galen Williams, on October 16, 1957, she played drums in his dance band &ndash; the first female drummer in that time. They divorced in the 1970s.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met Boris de Zirkoff, the grandnephew of Madame Blavatsky. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings and working on his edition of her Secret Doctrine. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other THeosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53253Vonda Urban2024-02-12T06:59:14Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Early life */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was born as Wanda Urbanovicz on ...... 1918 in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was the youngest child of Carolina Janik and Michael Urbanovicz. Michael had emigrated from southern Poland in 1904, and Carolina in 1906. They married on November 20, 2013, and settled in Massachusetts, where Michael worked as a baker and later as a salesman. Their children were Olga (1914), Irene (1915), Witold (1917), and Wanda (1918). <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
They didn’t have much money; so young Vonda and her sisters Irene and Olga sold pond lilies and household items door to door to help support the family.<br />
<br />
In school, Vonda loved showing off, acting in the school plays and reciting poetry.<br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
When the family moved to Chicago, Vonda and Irene took singing and dance lessons at local studios. Later, from about 1955 until 1964, Vonda was to teach ballroom dancing, the Mambo and the Bossa Nova, at studios, country clubs, and finally at Chicago’s famous Aragon Ballroom, where she attracted some attention. While teaching dance, she met her husband Galen, a musician. She even played percussion in his band for a while. She and Galen later took on the responsibility for caring for her brother Witold.<br />
<br />
To earn a living, and to help support her mother, Vonda worked as a part-time bookkeeper and accountant for many Chicago firms.<br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. She also played drums in a dance band led by her husband Galen &ndash; the first female drummer in that at that time.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met Boris de Zirkoff, the grandnephew of Madame Blavatsky. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings and working on his edition of her Secret Doctrine. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other THeosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53252Vonda Urban2024-02-11T04:16:39Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Early life */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
My dear friend and mentor Vonda Urban, born in 1918, was the youngest of the four children of Caroline Janik and Michael Urbanovich. The family had emigrated from southern Poland and settled in Indian Orchard, a suburb of Springfield, Massachusetts. They didn’t have much money; so young Vonda and her sisters Irene and Olga sold pond lilies and household items door to door to help support the family.<br />
<br />
In school, Vonda loved showing off, acting in the school plays and reciting poetry.<br />
<br />
When the family moved to Chicago, Vonda and Irene took singing and dance lessons at local studios. Later, from about 1955 until 1964, Vonda was to teach ballroom dancing, the Mambo and the Bossa Nova, at studios, country clubs, and finally at Chicago’s famous Aragon Ballroom, where she attracted some attention. While teaching dance, she met her husband Galen, a musician. She even played percussion in his band for a while. She and Galen later took on the responsibility for caring for her brother Witold.<br />
<br />
To earn a living, and to help support her mother, Vonda worked as a part-time bookkeeper and accountant for many Chicago firms.<br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. She also played drums in a dance band led by her husband Galen &ndash; the first female drummer in that at that time.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met Boris de Zirkoff, the grandnephew of Madame Blavatsky. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings and working on his edition of her Secret Doctrine. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other THeosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53251Vonda Urban2024-02-11T04:08:01Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Theosophical work */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. She also played drums in a dance band led by her husband Galen &ndash; the first female drummer in that at that time.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met Boris de Zirkoff, the grandnephew of Madame Blavatsky. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings and working on his edition of her Secret Doctrine. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other THeosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53250Vonda Urban2024-02-11T04:07:25Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Theosophical work */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. She also played drums in a dance band led by her husband Galen &ndash; the first female drummer in that at that time.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban was a truly independent student and teacher of [[Theosophy]], associated with Theosophists from the [[Point Loma]] tradition, the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Adyar Theosophical Society]], and others, but did not join the organizations. She worked with the editors of independent Theosophical journals, [[Boris de Zirkoff|Boris de Zirkoff's]] [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']] and [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], edited by W. Emmett Small and Helen Todd. She also wrote for the academic journal ''Theosophical History'' and for the journal of the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her mother was interested in spiritualism, and when attending a spiritualist gathering in Chicago, she heard [[George Cardinal LeGros]], a [[Point Loma]] Theosophist, speak on Theosophy. She told her daughters Irene and Vonda about him, and this led to their life long involvement with Theosophy.<br />
<br />
Vonda and Galen became close friends with Cardinal and his wife Elaine, and spent many evenings together. She called those 10 or 12 years the “wonder years.” At one lecture at Cardinal’s home in Chicago, she met Boris de Zirkoff, the grandnephew of Madame Blavatsky. She would later become a researcher for Boris as he was compiling H. P. Blavatsky’s collected writings and working on his edition of her Secret Doctrine. She found items he needed at the University of Chicago, Newberry Library, and the Field Museum of Natural History. She also helped proofread the final volumes and index of the [[Collected Writings (book)|Collected Writings]].<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher." She hosted five or six classes a week for the rest of her life.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Vonda wrote many articles for Theosophical magazines including [[Theosophia]], [[The Eclectic Theosophist]], and [[Theosophical History]]. She lectured frequently at the Akbar Lodge in Chicago, and once or twice a year at the [[Olcott (campus)|Wheaton Illinois headquarters]] of The [[Theosophical Society in America]], several of the Wheaton lectures having been recorded. Vonda was famous for giving away books, pamphlets and recordings at her lectures, and would often have her audience read along with her as she quoted certain passages. She felt it might encourage them to continue their reading after her lecture was concluded.<br />
<br />
Vonda Urban guided and nurtured countless students of Theosophy over the past four decades. Well versed in Theosophy, she was always gentle and caring, always upbeat and inspiring, but also sternly concerned and involved with her fellow students’ growth in the mundane world. She charged us with leading lives that reflected the profound teachings we were studying. Her favorite passage from H. P. Blavatsky’s Voice of the Silence was, “Thou canst not travel on the Path before thou hast become that Path itself.”<ref>Jon Knebel narrative. Written ca2011. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her sister Irene worked with her to develop some excellent diagrams depicting [[Chains and Rounds]] and other THeosophical concepts.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53249Vonda Urban2024-02-11T03:53:20Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Dance career */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor. She also played drums in a dance band led by her husband Galen &ndash; the first female drummer in that at that time.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher."<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53248Vonda Urban2024-02-11T03:41:31Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was an independent teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about Vonda was her impersonal and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their failings as humans, part of Nature's evolution. Absolutely non judgemental.<ref>Richard Robb in text message to Michael Conlin. 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher."<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53247Vonda Urban2024-02-11T03:35:32Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png|right|160px|thumb|Advertisment in ''Daily Northwestern'', 1972]]<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
In 1972, Miss Urban began offering classes in "Esoteric Philosophy as set forth by H. P. Blavatsky and her teachers." She advertised in the ''Daily Northwestern'' and listed her telephone number in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory under "Philosopher."<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=File:Vonda_Urban_1972_advertisement.png&diff=53246File:Vonda Urban 1972 advertisement.png2024-02-11T03:28:41Z<p>Janet Kerschner: Advertisement in ''Daily Northwestern'' on April 28, 1972 by Vonda Urban offering Theosophy classes.</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Advertisement in ''Daily Northwestern'' on April 28, 1972 by [[Vonda Urban]] offering Theosophy classes.</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53244Vonda Urban2024-02-10T23:36:43Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. Her handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53243Vonda Urban2024-02-10T23:31:24Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Dance career */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
<br />
In the 1950s, Miss Urban taught ballroom dancing at the elegant '''Aragon Ballroom''' in Chicago. As many as 18,000 patrons visited the venue every week to enjoy the maple dance floor could could hold 8,000 at one time. Six nights a week, radio station WGN broadcast a nationwide hour-long program featuring the famous bands who were playing: the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Eddy Howard, Teddy Phillips, Dick Jurgens, Chuck Foster, and Buddy Morrow. Lessons in the newest dance styles such as mambo, rhumba, cha cha, and merengue were offered free every Sunday night, and the classic fox trot and waltz on Tuesdays, with Vonda Urban as the instructor.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53242Vonda Urban2024-02-10T22:56:33Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Boris_de_Zirkoff&diff=53241Boris de Zirkoff2024-02-10T22:56:11Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Boris de Zirkoff.jpg|400px|right|thumb|Boris de Zirkoff. Photo by Colette Dowlathah.]]<br />
'''Boris Mihailovich de Zirkoff''' (1902–1981) was a relative of [[H. P. Blavatsky]] and the editor of her written works. After living for many years in the [[Point Loma]] community, he moved to Los Angeles in 1942, where he created and edited the periodical [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']]. He expressed his philosophy of life:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>The only thing that counts with me ... is what WORK men do, Theosophists and others, for the benefit of mankind, for the spiritual enlightenment of others, for the Cause of Light and Peace, entrusted into our care by the Masters and their Messengers, from age to age."<ref>Boris de Zirkoff to A. J. Hamerster. February 14, 1937. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
== Early years ==<br />
<br />
De Zirkoff was born in Petrograd, Russia <nowiki>[</nowiki>now known as Saint Petersburg<nowiki>]</nowiki> on [[March 7]], 1902. His mother was Lydia Dmitriyevna von Hahn.<ref>"Zirkoff, Boris de". ''Theosophical Encyclopedia''. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing Company, 2006. 688-689. Available at [http://theosophy.ph/encyclo/index.php?title=Zirkoff,_Boris_de Theosopedia],</ref> who was a second cousin to [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]. His father was Mihail Vassilyevich de Zirkoff, a general in the Russian Imperial Army.<ref>John Cooper. "Last Link with H. P. Blavatsky Broken: Death of Boris de Zirkoff (1902-1981)." ''Theosophy in Australia'' 45.2 (June 1981): 232-233.</ref> According to a friend, scholar [[W. Y. Evans-Wentz]], de Zirkoff was "in his own right a Baron."<ref>Letter from W. Y. Evans-Wentz. ''Theosophia'' Tribute Issue 37.4 (Summer 1981): 4.</ref> Boris described his family relationship to [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]] in this way:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her father and my grandfather (my mother's father) were cousins. There was a considerable difference in age between the two branches of the family; hence I was born after HPB had died. This makes me something like a grand-nephew of HPB.<ref>Letter to Gertrud Bäzner. July 30, 1969. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Record Series 22. Theosophical Society in American Archives, Wheaton, Illinois.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In another account he wrote that "H.P.B.'s father, Peter von Hahn, and my mother's father, General Dmitry von Hahn, were first cousins."<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to C. Jinarajadasa. February 15, 1937. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> Modern genealogists would call this relationship "second cousin once removed." <br />
<br />
Young Boris was tutored at home. He had an aptitude for languages, eventually mastering Russian, English, Swedish, German, and French, as well as the classics. As a boy in Russia, Boris was aware of his famous relative, but knew little of her. "I became interested in H.P.B. when I was a boy of twelve. I came across references to her in books. Her name was anathema in my family so I just kept my interest in her to myself."<ref>L. H. Leslie-Smith, "An Interview with Boris de Zirkoff," ''The Theosophist'' 99 (March 1978), 161-163.</ref> <br />
<br />
Turmoil during the Russian Revolution in 1917 forced Boris to flee with his mother and stepfather across Finland.<br />
<br />
== Introduction to Theosophy ==<br />
<br />
After settling in Sweden in the home of Mrs. Wicander, he discovered [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']]. According to one account, he found a Swedish translation in a library,<ref>John Cooper. "Last Link with H. P. Blavatsky Broken: Death of Boris de Zirkoff (1902-1981)." ''Theosophy in Australia'' 45.2 (June 1981): 232-233.</ref> but another version of the story tells that he first saw HPB's masterwork in the home of the Russian Consul.<ref>"Zirkoff, Boris de". ''Theosophical Encyclopedia''. Quezon City, Philippines: Theosophical Publishing Company, 2006. 688-689. Available at [http://theosophy.ph/encyclo/index.php?title=Zirkoff,_Boris_de Theosopedia],</ref> The [[Theosophical Movement]] was well established in Sweden at that time. De Zirkoff met [[Katherine Tingley]] during one of her European tours as head of the [[Universal Brotherhood and Theosophical Society]], and she invited him to live at [[Point Loma]] in California.<br />
<br />
[[File:BdeZ life at Point Loma.jpg|300px|right|thumb|Notes typed by B de Z on a photograph show where he worked at Point Loma. Image from TSA Archives.]]<br />
<br />
== Life at Point Loma ==<br />
<br />
Late in 1923, the 21-year-old de Zirkoff left Sweden and sailed on the S. S. ''Leviathan'' from Southampton to New York, arriving December 21.<ref>New York, Passenger Lists, 1820-1957.Microfilm Roll: Roll 3431.</ref> He moved to the [[Point Loma]] community near San Diego, California. There he became acquainted with pupils of HPB including [[Henry T. Edge|Dr. Henry T. Edge]], [[Charles J. Ryan]], [[Reginald Machell]], and [[Herbert Coryn|Dr. Herbert Coryn]].<br />
<br />
He became a naturalized citizen of the United States on [[December 18]], 1936.<ref>U. S. Naturalization Record Indexes, 1791-1992 (Indexed in World Archives Project).</ref><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
[[File:Boris de Zirkoff reading.jpg|280px|right|thumb|Boris de Zirkoff in his study]]<br />
<br />
== Collected Writings project ==<br />
<br />
For many years, BdeZ engaged with utter dedication in editing the [[Collected Writings (book)|collected writings]] of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]. Asked how he came to undertake that project, he said,<br />
<blockquote><br />
When I came to Point Loma in 1924 and began to read some of the old theosophical publications like ''The Theosophist'' and ''Lucifer'' it became obvious to me that H. P. B. had written a great deal more than ''The Secret Doctrine'' and ''Isis Unveiled''. Nothing had been done about it. Her writings were, to my understanding, voluminous but inaccessible except to those who could consult old publications which, obviously hardly anybody could do except those in large centres. So I felt that there was a very real and urgent need to have her collected writings put together in uniform editions. In 1924 or in 1925, I began doing just that, quietly, without saying very much to anybody. A couple of years later, I told Katherine Tingley, who was the Leader in Point Loma, that I was doing so and from then on it became an official undertaking.<ref>L. H. Leslie-Smith, "An Interview with Boris de Zirkoff," ''The Theosophist'' 99 (March 1978), 162.</ref> <br />
</blockquote><br />
While at Point Loma, his expenses were covered, but after he left in 1942, he was "supported by donations from people all over the world who are interested in seeing the project completed."<ref>L. H. Leslie-Smith, "An Interview with Boris de Zirkoff," ''The Theosophist'' 99 (March 1978), 162.</ref> The massive body of his correspondence demonstrates his perseverance and scholarship in approaching this work, and the warm personal relationships he maintained with fellow Theosophists, librarians, scientists, and other sources around the world. A correspondent in London, Mrs. Mary L. Stanley, researched numerous questions for him in the British Museum's library (now the British Library). He wrote a special acknowledgement in his Foreword to Volume 6:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Her able, many-sided and sustained research-work in the British Museum contributed very materially to the accuracy of the many quotations which had to be checked, and of the various data that had to be verified. This exacting and painstaking labor stands as a major contribution not only in the production of former volumes, but in the preparation of the MSS. for volumes yet to be published.<br />
</blockquote> <br />
<br />
In a letter to her he joked, "You are acquiring a wreath of laurels, like classic poets, as a result of all this scholastic work. I wonder whether this will affect very materially your next incarnation! One good thing would be, not to run into me next time, not even by remote control!"<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to Mary L. Stanley. April 17, 1953. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
De Zirkoff's work received international recognition and cooperation from the major Theosophical organizations. In 1981 he was awarded the [[Subba Row Medal]] of the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)]] to acknowledge his superb contributions to Theosophical literature.<ref>Anonymous, "Boris de Zirkoff Awarded the T Subba Row Medal," ''The American Theosophist'' 69.3 (March, 1981), 52.</ref><br />
<br><br />
== Editorship of ''Theosophia'' ==<br />
[[File:Boris De Zirkoff on Theosophia cover.JPG|150px|left|thumb|Boris de Zirkoff on final issue of ''Theosophia'']].<br />
[[Theosophia (periodical)|'''''Theosophia''''']] was an independent quarterly periodical published in Los Angeles from May-June 1944 to Summer 1981. The final issue, pictured here, was a tribute to the recently deceased editor.<br />
<br><br />
Throughout its existence, the magazine maintained a neutral attitude toward the various Theosophical organizations, and a high standard of scholarship. Every issue began with an article by Boris de Zirkoff. Schedules of lectures were often listed for the Los Angeles and San Diego areas. Book reviews and transcriptions of radio lectures and interviews were occasionally included.<br />
<br><br />
Excerpts from Blavatsky's writings were frequently featured. The best writers from all the Theosophical traditions had articles printed on its pages; new writings were combined with reprints from older periodicals. Some well-known authors were [[William Quan Judge]], [[Henry Steel Olcott]], [[Gottfried de Purucker]], [[Mary K. Neff]], [[Sven Eek]], [[Ernest Wood]], [[Henry T. Edge]], [[Charles Johnston]], [[Josephine Ransom]], [[Manly P. Hall]], [[L. Gordon Plummer]], [[Herbert Coryn]], [[George William Russell]] writing as AE, and [[Julia Keightley]] writing as Jasper Niemand. Harold W. Dempster and Arthur L. Joquel were among the most frequent contributors.<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br />
== Tours and lectures ==<br />
[[File:BdeZ to Florence Metz.jpg|260px|right|thumb|Note to Florence Metz in autograph album, November 17, 1975]]<br />
De Zirkoff was also a fine lecturer. In 1959 he toured Europe, speaking in Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.<ref>Letter from Lucie and Jan Molijn. ''Theosophia'' Tribute Issue 37.4 (Summer 1981): 12.</ref> In London he stayed with [[Laurence J. Bendit|Laurence]] and [[Phoebe D. Bendit]], and spent considerable time reviewing archival materials that related to his compilation of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Helena Petrovna Blavatsky's]] [[Collected Writings (book)|''Collected Writings'']]. He was especially interested in the 1887-1897 minutes book of the [[Blavatsky Lodge]].<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to Laurence Bendit. July 9, 1959. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
As a close friend of Stephan Hoeller, he was frequently invited to speak at the Besant Lodge in Hollywood, California. <br />
<br />
His address at the 1975 [[World Congress of the Theosophical Society (Adyar)#Sixth World Congress|Centennial World Congress]], entitled [https://archive.org/details/centenary-talks-5 "The Dream that Never Dies,"] was "truly a high point of that week-long gathering."<ref>Letter from Elwood and Alicia Schenck. ''Theosophia'' Tribute Issue 37.4 (Summer 1981): 9.</ref><br />
<br />
Here are some of his other lecture engagements:<br />
<br />
* April 15, 1959 at Amsterdam on "Man Matching the Atom"<br />
* April 23, 1959 at Amsterdam on "H.P.B.'s Original Teachings Concerning the Ancient Wisdom and the Occult Hierarchy"<br />
* October 11, 1975 at [[Krotona School of Theosophy]] on "Problems of Editing the Works of H. P. Blavatsky"<br />
* 1950s in Los Angeles area on [https://soundcloud.com/user-878134781/sets/private-class-in-theosophy-by-boris-de-zirkoff "Private Class in Theosophy"]<br />
<br />
== Views on reconciliation movement ==<br />
<br />
When a friend urged Mr. de Zirkoff to hold a meeting to bring together Adyar Society President [[Nilakanta Sri Ram|N. Sri Ram]] and the heads of other Theosophical groups, he rejected the idea and proposed instead that something new should grow out of the old structures: <br />
<blockquote><br />
No, I am having no special meeting of any kind here for Sri Ram... I am not a good man to bring various opposing factions together, and showing them some sort of neutral ground where they can meet. I like the idea in the abstract, but I am not the man to do so. <br />
<br />
Personally, I prefer to try and build something new, to try and erect a new house, plant a flower garden (metaphorically speaking), elevate a banner which everybody can see if they clear their eyes of dust, and proclaim a principle, which all can hear if they wash their ears! If they like it, they will come along and become unified in helping it to grow. If they do not like it, they are welcome to stay behind and lick whatever kind of chops they have...<br />
<br />
If you want to know what I feel about the Movement, it is this: I do not believe it can be unified. I do not even think it should be except on very general lines of common objective and distant goal. But there is a new growth, a fresh shoot in the Movement; this is to be encouraged, nourished, tended; it is to be seen in many continents and lands. It will be used for future efforts. When the new shoot is grown up, the rest will appear like a bunch of weeds compared with its luxuriant growth and sturdy nature.<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to Russell Lloyd Jones. May 27, 1954. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
== Later life ==<br />
<br />
For many years Mr. de Zirkoff had wanted to visit the headquarters of the original [[Theosophical Society]] in Adyar, Chennai, India, and especially to visit the Adyar Archives. Finally in December 1977 he was able to travel there to meet the former archivist Zoltán de Álgya-Pap with whom he had corresponded for many years, who was also visiting.<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letters to Alwyn Miechel, September 9, 1977 and January 28, 1978. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
Early in 1981, the twelfth volume of the ''Collected Writings'' series was published, and the next two volumes were at the printer. [[Radha Burnier]], President of the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar]] wrote to "Dear Brother Boris" on February 23rd:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
The members of the General Council and myself, unanimously considered you as the fittest person to receive the [[Subba Row Medal|Subba Row medal]] now. The work you have done in preparing the Collective writings of our great Founder, H.P. Blavatsky, is monumental. Every token of the appreciation that is felt in respect of your lifelong labour, appears to be inadequate. However, in grateful recognition of your untiring efforts during several decades, to make available to the world the wealth of knowledge contained in H. P. B.'s writings, I have the honour to request Miss Joy Mills to present to you, on behalf of the Society the Subba Row medal.<ref>Letter from Radha Burnier. ''Theosophia'' Tribute Issue 37.4 (Summer 1981): 27.</ref> <br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Radha Burnier truly appreciated in the breadth and depth of scholarship that went into the ''Collected Writings'' project, since during the 1950s she had responded with patience and precision to hundreds of questions that Mr. de Zirkoff sent to the [[Adyar Library and Research Centre]] concerning Sanskrit and Tamil terms. Many other friends and coworkers wrote of Boris de Zirkoff <br />
when, after a long illness, he passed away on [[March 4]], 1981. A final issue of ''Theosophia'', the Tribute Issue, was filled with letters praising their friend's dedication, scholarship, and helpfulness, his wit, humor, and simple, undemanding lifestyle. Joy Mills quoted a letter Boris had written to her:<br />
<blockquote><br />
The only thing I live for and work for is the perpetuation and dissemination of genuine Theosophy whether it be through the words of H. P. B. or those who have remained true to her message and the instructions of Those standing behind her.<ref>Letter from Joy Mils. ''Theosophia'' Tribute Issue 37.4 (Summer 1981): 24.</ref> <br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
== Awards and honors ==<br />
In 1981, shortly before he died, Mr. de Zirkoff was awarded the [[Subba Row Medal]] for his huge contribution to Theosophical literature.<ref>Anonymous, "Boris de Zirkoff Awarded the T. Subba Row Medal," ''The American Theosophist'' 69.3 (March, 1981), 52.<br />
</ref><br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
<br />
In addition to his major contributions in compiling the ''Collected Writings'' and in publishing ''Theosophia'', Mr. de Zirkoff frequently wrote other articles and books.<br />
<br />
=== Periodicals ===<br />
The [[Union Index of Theosophical Periodicals]] lists over [http://www.austheos.org.au/cgi-bin/ui-csvsearch.pl?search=zirkoff&header=field4 300 articles by Boris de Zirkoff], and dozens more are [http://www.austheos.org.au/cgi-bin/ui-csvsearch.pl?search=zirkoff&header=field3 about de Zirkoff and his books].<br />
[[File:BdeZ - The Dream.jpg|160px|right|thumb|Advertisement in ''The Canadian Theosophist'']]<br />
In addition to his own [[Theosophia (periodical)|''Theosophia'']], the periodicals included [[Theosophy (periodical)|''Theosophy'']], [[Theosophy World (periodical)|''Theosophy World'']], [[Theosophy in New Zealand (periodical)|''Theosophy in New Zealand'']], [[Theosophy in Australia (periodical)|''Theosophy in Australia'']], [[The American Theosophist (periodical)|''The American Theosophist'']], [[Discovery (periodical)|''Discovery'']], [[The Canadian Theosophist (periodical)|''The Canadian Theosophist'']], [[The Eclectic Theosophist (periodical)|''The Eclectic Theosophist'']], [[Le Lotus Bleu (periodical)|''Le Lotus Bleu'']], [[The Theosophical Path (periodical)|''The Theosophical Path'']], [[The Theosophical Journal (periodical)|''The Theosophical Journal'']], [[Theosophical Digest (periodical)|''Theosophical Digest'']], and [[The Theosophical Forum (periodical)|''The Theosophical Forum'']].<br />
<br />
Mr. de Zirkoff also contributed articles to periodicals that have not yet been indexed. The August, 1933 issue of the [[Theosophical Club]] publication ''Lucifer'' calls for support of the Collected Writings project,<ref>A sample from August 1933 is available in Box 1 of the Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> for example. When he visited Adyar for the first (and probably the only) time in December 1977, he was asked to contribute an article to the ''Madras Theosophical Federation Bulletin''.<ref>Boris de Zirkoff, "East of Tomorrow," ''Madras Theosophical Federation Bulletin'' 25.1 (January 1978), 1. Available in Box 1 of the Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
In 1983, after Boris de Zirkoff had died, W. Emmett Small compiled and edited fifty articles from ''Theosophia'' into a volume published as '''''The Dream That Never Dies: Boris de Zirkoff Speaks Out on Theosophy'''''.<br />
<br />
=== Other books and shorter works ===<br />
<br />
* '''''Hypnotism, Mesmerism. and Reincarnation: Some Startling Facts in the Light of Esoteric Philosophy'''''. Los Angeles: Blavatsky Writings Publication Fund, 1956.<br />
* '''''What of Reincarnation?'''''. La Habra, CA: Ande Herald Press, 1974. <br />
* '''''Rebirth of the Occult Tradition: How the Secret Doctrine of H. P Blavatsky was Written'''''. Adyar, Chennai, India: Theospihcal Publishing House, 1987. Reprinted in 1990. It was also issued in a Dutch translation in 1980.<br />
* Bibliography to '''''When Daylight Comes: A Biography of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky''''' by Howard Murphet. Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House), 1975.<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to Eugene V. Prostov. August 4, 1975. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref><br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Articles ===<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/international-group-theosophists International Group of Theosophists] in Theosophy World.<br />
<br />
=== Archival legacy ===<br />
[[File:BdeZ book plate.jpg|160px|right|thumb|Book plate from library of Boris de Zirkoff]]<br />
Boris de Zirkoff left his fine library to the [[Henry S. Olcott Memorial Library]] of the [[Theosophical Society in America]], where it is held intact in the Rare Books Room. His papers, including his massive correspondence and research files used in his work on H. P Blavatsky's collected writings and her letters, are in the Archives Department.<br />
<br />
His correspondence with [[Walter A. Carrithers, Jr.]] is available in the '''''Walter A. Carrithers, Jr. Papers''''' of the Theosophical Society in America Archives.<br />
<br />
=== Audio recordings of lectures ===<br />
<br />
* '''''[https://archive.org/details/1059_20190801 "H.P.B."]'''''. 1970. 30 minutes. Recorded at the Theosophical Society in America in Wheaton, Illinois. Mr. de Zirkoff pays tribute to the enduring literary works of H.P. Blavatsky and her important role as a co-founder of the Theosophical Society.<br />
* '''''[https://archive.org/details/140001 "Science and Theosophy"]'''''. 1974. 90 minutes. Recorded at the Theosophical Society in America in Wheaton, Illinois. This refers to H.P. Blavatsky's assertion in [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']] that the basis for esotericism is the infinite divisibility of the atom.<br />
* '''''[https://archive.org/details/lifeofhpbdezirkoff "The Life of HPB"]'''''. 1958. 49 minutes. Recorded at the Theosophical Society in America in Wheaton, Illinois. The early life of Madame H. P. Blavatsky prior to the formation of the Theosophical Society.<br />
* '''''[https://archive.org/details/centenary-talks-5 "The Dream that Never Dies"]'''''. 1975. 43 minutes. Talk #4. The Centenary World Congress, held in New York City on November 15, 1975 celebrated the centenary of the Theosophical Society, which was founded in New York on 1875. Boris de Zirkoff presented the fourth lecture.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Writers|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:Point Loma|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:Independent Theosophists|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:Editors|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Russian|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Naturalized American|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:People|de Zirkoff, Boris]]<br />
[[Category:People who encountered Mahatmas|de Zirkoff, Boris]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Mahatma&diff=53240Mahatma2024-02-10T21:36:34Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Mahatma''' (devanāgarī: महात्मन् ''mahātma'') is a [[Sanskrit]] term meaning "Great Soul". This epithet is commonly applied to saints, spiritual teachers, and even prominent people.<br />
<br />
In [[Theosophy|Theosophical]] literature the term is used in a specific way, to refer to exalted beings who have attained great power and knowledge:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>'''Mahâtma'''. Lit., “great soul”. An [[adept]] of the highest order. Exalted beings who, having attained to the mastery over their [[Principle#Individuality_and_personality|lower principles]] are thus living unimpeded by the “man of flesh”, and are in possession of knowledge and power commensurate with the stage they have reached in their spiritual evolution. Called in Pali Rahats and Arhats.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''The Theosophical Glossary'' (Krotona, CA: Theosophical Publishing House, 1973), 201.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Theosophical teacher [[Vonda Urban]] said the Mahatmas are '''human beings "who have reached the full maturity of their humanhood."'''<Ref>Vonda Urban responding to an audience question following [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.</ref><br />
<br />
The Mahatmas are usually referred to as [[Adepts]] and [[Masters of the Wisdom]] in Theosophical literature.<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
*[[Masters of Wisdom]]<br />
*[[Adepts]]<br />
<br />
==Online resources==<br />
<br />
*[[Masters_of_Wisdom#Online_resources|Resources on Masters, Adepts and Mahatmas]]<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/mahatma Mahatma] in Theosophy World<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Sanskrit terms]]<br />
[[Category:Theosophical concepts]]<br />
[[Category:Concepts in The Secret Doctrine]]<br />
[[Category:Hindu concepts]]<br />
[[Category:Mahatmas and Adepts]]<br />
<br />
[[it:Mahatma]]<br />
[[ru:Махатма]]<br />
[[es:Mahatma]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53239Vonda Urban2024-02-10T21:18:17Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Video */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from and references to:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
:::'''''H.P. Blavatsky, Tibet, and Tulku''''' by Geoffrey Barborka Wheaton, Illinois: Theosophical Publishing House, 1966'''.<br><br />
:::'''[https://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/3424017.html ''Nightmare Tales'']''' by H. P. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53238Vonda Urban2024-02-10T21:06:29Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Additional resources */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png|right|220|thumb|"Messianic Messenger" lecture in 1991]]<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=File:Vonda_Urban_lecturing.png&diff=53237File:Vonda Urban lecturing.png2024-02-10T21:05:17Z<p>Janet Kerschner: Vonda Urban lecturing on [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
[[Vonda Urban]] lecturing on [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53236Vonda Urban2024-02-10T20:58:49Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Video */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
:::'''[https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/hpb-aps/bl-toc.htm#hpb 1885 letter from HPB to Patience Sinnett]<br><br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53235Vonda Urban2024-02-10T20:34:25Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Video */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_No._45|Mahatma Letter 44]]<br><br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53234Vonda Urban2024-02-10T20:28:06Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Video */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was comprised of photocopied excerpts from:<br />
:::'''[[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]]<br><br />
:::'''[[Mahatma_Letter_to_H._S._Olcott_-_LMW_1_No._19|1888 letter from Koot Hoomi to Olcott]]'''<br><br />
:::'''Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'''''<br><br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53233Vonda Urban2024-02-10T20:09:18Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Video */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America. Handout is not available, but it was photocopies of excerpts from [[Mahatma Letter No. 22|Mahatma Letter 26]], Constance Wachtmeister's ''[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=yale.39002013512174&seq=9 Reminiscences]'',<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53232Vonda Urban2024-02-10T15:34:33Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Vonda Urban]]<br />
'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png|right|250px|thumb|Dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom]]<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=File:Cha_cha_backstage_at_Aragon_Ballroom.png&diff=53231File:Cha cha backstage at Aragon Ballroom.png2024-02-10T15:33:24Z<p>Janet Kerschner: Vonda Urban dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom. From photo posted online by Robert F. Hert.</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
[[Vonda Urban]] dancing cha cha backstage at the Aragon Ballroom. From photo posted online by Robert F. Hert.</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=File:Vonda_Urban_portrait.jpg&diff=53230File:Vonda Urban portrait.jpg2024-02-10T15:30:04Z<p>Janet Kerschner: Portrait of Vonda Urban. From Internet.</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Portrait of [[Vonda Urban]]. From Internet.</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53229Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:50:43Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Theosophical work */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[George Cardinal LeGros]] (1905-1988) was one of her teachers.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53228Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:48:30Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Vonda_Urban_diagram.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Chains and Rounds diagram by Vonda Urban and Irene Stashinski]]<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Helena_Petrovna_Blavatsky&diff=53227Helena Petrovna Blavatsky2024-02-10T14:48:17Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Video */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:HP Blavatsky 1.jpg|250px|right|thumb|H. P. Blavatsky in London on [[January 8]], 1889.]]<br />
[[File:Borglum_portrait_of_HPB.jpg|300px|right|thumb|[[Gutzon Borglum]] portrait]]<br />
'''Helena Petrovna Blavatsky''' (Russian: Еле́на Петро́вна Блава́тская, Ukrainian: Олена Петрівна Блаватська) was born on [[August 12]], 1831 (31 July, old style) at Ekaterinoslav, then part of Russia, which today is Dnipro, Ukraine. She was a [[Theosophist]], writer, and traveler.<br />
<br />
In 1875 (together with Colonel [[H. S. Olcott]], attorney [[William Quan Judge]] and others) she established the [[Theosophical Society]]. Blavatsky was the main source of [[Theosophy#Modern Theosophy|Theosophical teachings]] and discussed the major themes of Theosophy in many articles and several major works, including [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']], [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']], [[The Key to Theosophy (book)|''The Key to Theosophy'']], and [[The Voice of the Silence (book)|''The Voice of the Silence'']]. She died in London, on [[May 8]], 1891. <br />
<br />
Blavatsky, widely known as '''HPB''', was instrumental in bringing the spiritual wisdom of the East and that of the ancient Western mysteries to the modern West, where they were virtually unknown.<br />
<br />
See also: <br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky writings]]'''<br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky correspondence]]'''<br />
:: '''[[:Category:Associates of HPB|Associates of HPB]]'''<br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky photographs and portraits|Photos of HPB]]'''<br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky resources|Resources related to HPB]]'''<br />
:: '''[[H.P.Blavatsky's heritage in the modern world|Heritage in the Modern World]]'''<br />
<br />
== Early years ==<br />
[[File:HPB's house - Ukraine.jpg|250px|left|thumb|[[H. P. Blavatsky House-Museum|H. P. Blavatsky house/museum]] in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine]]<br />
Helena Petrovna von Hahn (Russian: Елена Петровна Ган, Ukrainian: Олена Петрівна Ган) was the first child of Colonel Peter Alexeyevich von Hahn (1798-1873) and Helena Andreyevna Hahn (née de Fadeyev), a well-known social novelist. She was born at Ekaterinoslav in Southern Russia on [[August 12]], 1831 (or [[July 31]] in the Julian Calendar, then current in Russia). Having been born on the seventh month of the year she was called by the servants and locals "the Sedmitchka" (a possible alternate spelling--Sedgmika), an untranslatable term, meaning one connected with number Seven (other pet names she had were "Lelinka" and "Lyolya", diminutive of Helena).<br />
<br />
Although no official record has ever been produced of the exact time of her birth, it has been determined with sufficient accuracy by astrological rectification, based on various important events in H.P.B.’s life, to have been 1:42 A.M., local time, which, equated for Greenwich, would be 11:22 P.M., on August 11th, 1831.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xxvi.</ref><br />
[[File:H.Hahn and H.Blavatsky.jpg|250px|right|thumb|HPB and her mother. H. P. B. museum in Dnepropetrovsk. Painter unknown.]]<br />
[[File:Nikofor_V_Blavatsky.jpg|180px|right|thumb|Nikofor V. Blavatsky]]<br />
Helena was born prematurely. As in 1831 Russia was suffering from a widespread epidemic of cholera that had ravaged several members of her parents’ household, there was fear for the infant’s life. An immediate baptism took place, during which a child who fell asleep holding a candle in the first row behind the officiating priest set fire to his robes during the ceremony.<br />
<br />
Helena had a sister [[Vera Petrovna de Zhelihovsky|Vera Petrovna]] ([[April 29]], 1835 - 1896) and a brother, Leonid (June, 1840 - [[November 9]], 1885).<br />
<br />
According to [[Vera Petrovna de Zhelihovsky|Vera P. de Zhelihovsky]], her mother, at the time, was worried about the destiny of her elder daughter, "gifted from childhood by outstanding features".<ref>Zhelikhovskaya [Желиховская]. ''Elena P. Blavatskaya'' [Е. П. Блаватская]. II. С.246. Quotation translated from Russian.</ref> <br />
<br />
The first ten years of Helena’s life were spent in frequent changes from one place of residence to another, partly due to the fact that her father’s battery of Horse-Artillery was being transferred from place to place, and partly because of the precarious health of her mother.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xxx.</ref> Helena’s mother died on [[July 6]], 1842 at the age of 28 of galloping consumption. Before her death, her mother said:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Well! Perhaps it is for the better that I am dying: at least, I will not suffer from seeing Helena’s hard lot! I am quite sure that her destiny will be not womanly, that she will suffer much".<ref>Jelihovsky. Helena Petrovna Blavatsky // Lucifer. C.204; The Theosophist. C. 240</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Her father would die was on [[July 27]], 1873, after only three days of illness, while HPB was in New York ready to start her public career.<br />
<br />
After her mother’s death, Helena’s grandfather Andrei Mikhailovich and Grandmother Helena Pavlovna (who was an accomplished amateur scientist) took the children to Saratov, where they had quite a different life. Fadeyev’s house was visited by Saratov’s intellectuals.<br />
<br />
Helena was clairvoyant from early childhood. In occasions she saw the magestic figure of a Hindu in a white turban, whom she called her "Protector", since he had saved her in dangers. One of these accidents took place when she was a young child. Wanting to examine a picture hanging high up on a wall, she piled up a couple of tables and a chair and started climbing. When she reached the painting she lost her balance and remembered nothing else. She then found herself safe on the floor, both tables and the chair standing in their usual places, with the trace of a small hand left on the dusty wall under the picture. Another instance took place when she was 13 years old. She was riding a horse which became frightened and ran away. She fell from her seat, her foot got caught in the stirrup and hung on to it. Instead of being killed she felt someone’s arms around her body supporting her until the horse was stopped.<ref>Helene F. Pissareff, "Helena Petrovna Blavatsky," The Theosophist, 34:4 (January, 1913), 505-506.</ref><br />
<br />
=== First marriage ===<br />
<br />
The Winter season of 1848-49 was spent at Tiflis in the mansion of the old Princes Chavchavadze. Striving for full independence 16-year old Helena became betrothed to vice-governor of Erevan, Nikifor Vladimirovich Blavatsky (1810-1873?), who was about 40 years old. Their wedding ceremony took place on [[July 7]], 1849. In October Helena left her husband and started on horseback for Tiflis to rejoin her relatives.<ref>[http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/hishpb1.htm# New Light on the First Marriage of HPB] by Marina Cesar Sisson</ref><ref>исьмо А. М. Дондукову-Корсакову от 1 марта 1882 года // Блаватская Е. П. «Письма друзьям и сотрудникам». Сборник. Перев. с англ. — М., 2002. — С. 250 ISBN 5-93975-062-1</ref> Nikifor Blavatsky tried to obtain a divorce on the ground that "his marriage had never been more than a form." His attempt failed, however, owing to the fact that Russian law at the time regarded divorce with disfavor.<br />
<br />
It is not certain when Nikifor died, but newspapers indicated that it was about 1873.<ref>Anonymous. "Eventful Careers. Two Women with Strange and Romantic Histories" ''National Aegis'' [Worcester, Massachusetts] (October 17, 1874), 2. Article first printed in the ''Brooklyn Eagle''. Nikifor Blavatsky was said to have died "recently" in his 97th year, 24 years after he married HPB. The article goes on to describe a legal case between HPB and Madame Gerebko.</ref> In Helena's scrapbook there is a cutting from a newspaper talking about her life, where we find the sentence: "For many years they [Helena and Nikifor] resided together at Odessa, and finally a legal separation was affected." To this, HPB added two notes. The one commenting on her stay with her husband "for many years" said: "a lie—was with him but for three weeks." To the second phrase: "finally a legal separation was affected" she added "legal, because he died." The name and date of the newspaper do not appear in print, but H.P.B. wrote in ink above the cutting: "From the N. Y. Mercury, Jan. 18, 1875."<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), 54.</ref><br />
<br />
=== Travels ===<br />
<br />
Shortly after her marriage Mme. Blavatsky began more than 20 years of extensive travel all over the world, which is extremely difficult to trace in any coherent manner. Between 1848 and 1875 she went around the world three times in search of wisdom about the nature of life and the reason for human existence. This brought her into contact with mystic traditions the world over. Since she traveled alone, this period of Blavatsky’s life is difficult for her biographers to document, although she wrote and talked about her adventures in later years. N. A. Fadeyeva reported that only her father knew where his daughter was, and from time to time would send money to her.<br />
<br />
=== Music, art, and languages ===<br />
<br />
Mme. Blavatsky was early trained in the music, arts, and languages expected of young women in her class. She spoke Russian at home, and learned French and English from her governess, becoming perfectly proficient in all '''three languages'''. An American newspaper reported, probably with a bit of exageration, "Her knowledge of languages is extraordinary. She converses and writes fluently in Russian, Polish, Romaic [modern Greek], Low Dutch, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and English."<ref>Anonymous. "Eventful Careers: Two Women with Strange and Romantic Careers" ''National Aegis'' (Worcester, Mass.) (October 17, 1874), 2.</ref> <br />
<br />
[[Henry Steel Olcott|Colonel Henry S. Olcott]] wrote of her '''musical ability''':<br />
<blockquote><br />
She was a splendid pianist, playing with a touch and expression that were simply superb. Her hands were models &ndash; ideal and actual &ndash; for a sculptor and never seen to such advantage as when flying over the keyboard to find its magical melodies. She was a pupil of Moscheles, and when in London as a young girl, with her father, played at a charity concert with Madame Clara Schumann and Madame Arabella Goddard in a piece of Schumann's for three pianos. During the time of our relationship she played scarcely at all. Once a cottage piano was bought and she played on it for a few weeks, but then it remained closed ever after until sold, and served as a double bookshelf. There were times when she was occupied by one of the Mahatmas, when her playing was indescribably grand. She would sit in the dusk sometimes, with nobody else in the room beside myself, and strike from the sweet-toned instrument improvisations that might well make one fancy he was listening to the Gandhavas, or heavenly choristers. It was the harmony of heaven.<ref>H.S. Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' Vol. I, 458-59.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her cousin, Count Witte, in his ''Memoirs'', referred to this musical talent at some length, and [[William Kingsland]] gave this account:<br />
<blockquote><br />
I well remember on one occasion, on a visit by her to my house in London in 1889, she sat down at the piano and played Schubert's ''Erl-König'', to to my great surprise and delight, as I had never even heard that she had ever been a pianist.<ref>William Kingsland, ''The Real H. P Blavatsky'' (London: J. M. Watkins, 1928), 37-38.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Clearly she sought out pianos whenever they were available. [[A. P. Sinnett]] reported "finding her at the piano in the ball room of [[A. O. Hume|Mr. Hume's]] house" in India.<ref>A. P. Sinnett, ''Early Days of Theosophy in Europe'' (London: Theosophical Publishing House, 1922): 38.</ref><br />
<br />
'''Drawing''' was a skill that HPB demonstrated frequently in her Scrapbooks. She enjoyed the company of artists such as [[William R. O’Donovan]], [[Thomas Le Clear]], [[Albert Rawson]], [[Hermann Schmiechen]], [[Monsieur Harrisse]], [[Reginald Machell]], [[Isabelle de Steiger]], and Walter Paris. Several artists she entertained in New York were members of the Tile Club. She was equally proficient in pencil sketches of landscapes, portraits, and caricatures such as these:<br />
<br />
<gallery widths="130px" heights="150px" perrow="6"><br />
File:HPB scrapbook title page.jpg<br />
File:Napoleon sketch.jpg<br />
File:Henry Olcott 1877.jpg<br />
File:Faust opera.jpg<br />
File:Moloney cartoon.png<br />
File:HPB Pencil Sketch scanned from MPH The Phoenix.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Meeting Master Morya ===<br />
[[File:Ramsgate sketch by HPB.PNG|right|300px|thumb|Blavatsky's drawing of a boat scene illustrating a "Memorable night."]]<br />
In her Sketchbook, now in the Adyar Archives, Mme. Blavatsky says that she met her Teacher, [[Morya|Master M.]], in the physical body for the first time on her twentieth birthday at Ramsgate, a seaside town some 70 miles from London. She wrote in French, <br />
<br />
<blockquote>Nuit mémorable! Certaine nuit par au clair de lune qui se couchait a Ramsgate 12 Aout, 1851(*) lorsque je recontrais M. le Maître – de mes rêves!!<br><br />
(*) Le 12 Aout c’est Juillet 31 style russe jour de ma naissance – Vingt ans!</blockquote><br />
<br />
An English translation provided in the Cranston book reads, "Memorable night! On a certain night by the light of the moon that was setting at Ramsgate on August 12, 1851,(*) when I met M. the Master of my dreams!! (* August 12 is July 31 in the Russian calendar, the day of my birth – Twenty years!)"<br />
<br />
However, she told Countess [[Constance Wachtmeister]] that “Ramsgate” was a blind, and that this took place in Hyde Park, London. She told [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]] that this was "in the year of the first Nepal Embassy", that is, in 1850.<br />
<br />
It is almost certain that H.P.B. was in London in the Summer of 1854, because she says that she met her Master again "in the house of a stranger in England, where he had come in the company of a dethroned native prince". This was undoubtedly Prince Dhuleep Singh, Mahârâja of Lahore.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xli.</ref><br />
<br />
=== In Tibet ===<br />
<br />
The subject of Mme. Blavatsky’s stay in Tibet is wrapped in considerable mystery, as she kept the specific information secret. In 1884 she wrote the following:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>I have lived at different periods in Little Tibet as in Great Tibet, and . . . these combined periods form more than seven years. Yet, I have never stated either verbally or over my signature that I had passed seven consecutive years in a convent. What I have said, and repeat now, is, that I have stopped in Lamaistic convents; that I have visited Tzi-gadze, the Tashi-Lhünpo territory and its neighbourhood, and that I have been further in, and in such places of Tibet as have never been visited by any other European, and that he can ever hope to visit.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. VI (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1989), 272.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Sometime during 1852 she attempted to get into Tibet through Nepal. This first attempt failed through what she believed to be the opposition of the British Resident. When she tried to cross the Rangit river, she was seen and brought back.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xl.</ref><br />
<br />
In 1855 she and some friends formed a plan to penetrate Tibet under various disguises. According to Mr. Sinnett, H.P.B. crossed into Tibetan territory, with the help of a Tartar Shaman who was on his way home to Siberia, while the others were prevented from carrying out their plan.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlii.</ref><br />
<br />
It is presumed that sometime in 1868 H.P.B. went via India to some parts of Tibet. It is on this journey that she met [[Koot Hoomi|Master K.H.]] for the first time, and lived in the house of his sister at Shigadze.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlviii.</ref><br />
<br />
On [[November 11]], 1870, her aunt, Miss [[Nadyezhda Andreyevna de Fadeyev]], received the first known letter from Master K.H. stating that H.P.B. was well and would be back with the family soon.<br />
<br />
It is important to bear in mind the term Tibet was then used in a general manner that included not only Tibet proper, but also regions such as Ladakh (then known as Little Tibet).<br />
<br />
=== Société Spirite ===<br />
<br />
In 1871 Mme. Blavatsky embarked for Egypt from Greece, where she had seen [[Hillarion|Master Hillarion]]. The ship was carrying guns and gunpowder as a protection against pirates and on [[July 4]], 1871, its powder magazine blew up, with a considerable loss of life. H.P.B., however, was uninjured. She eventually reached Alexandria with hardly any means at all. In October or November she went to Cairo where she met [[Emma Coulomb]] (then still Miss Emma Cutting) who was able to loan her some money for the time being.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlix.</ref><br />
<br />
It was here that H.P.B. made a first attempt at investigating and explaining the nature of [[phenomena]]. For that purpose, she formed the Société Spirite (“Spiritist Society”) for the investigation of the [[Spiritism]] of the French occultist [[Allan Kardec]]. It would appear that this was done against the advice of Paulos Metamon, a well-known Coptic mystic and occultist with whom she was in touch at the time.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlix.</ref> Her sister Vera de Zhelihovsky, who was in correspondence with her during these years, wrote that H.P.B. chose to start in this way “since there was no other [philosophy available]; to give people a chance to see for themselves how mistaken they were. She would first give room to an already established and accepted teaching and then, when the public would see that nothing was coming out of it, she would then offer her own explanations”.<ref>John Algeo (ed.), ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky''. (Wheaton: Theosophical Publishing House, 2003), 21.</ref><br />
<br />
However, the Société Spirite failed within a fortnight as Blavatsky could not find honest and qualified mediums to do the kind of research she had envisioned.<br />
<br />
== Life in the United States ==<br />
<br />
Probably in June, 1873, while in Paris, Mme. Blavatsky received an order from [[Morya|her Master]] to go to New York. She arrived in New York on [[July 8]] and began to work designing illustrated advertising-cards. She also seems to have tried some ornamental leather work, artificial flowers, and cravats.<br />
<br />
In July of 1874 Col. [[Henry Steel Olcott|Henry S. Olcott]] became interested in [[Spiritualism]] and decided to investigate and report as a journalist the spiritualistic phenomena taking place at the Eddy farmhouse in Chittenden, Vermont. He went back to New York after a few days and published an account for the New York Sun. On [[September 17]] he returned to Chittenden for further investigation and on [[October 14]], acting on instructions received, HPB joined him, quickly becoming friends.<br />
<br />
Through her [[Occultism|occult]] training, Mme. Blavatsky had develop [[Siddhi|psychic abilities]] that allowed her to command the [[elemental]]s (certain invisible powers of nature) through which she could perform many [[phenomena]]. Col. Olcott began to witness some of these abilities and naturally became very interested in this. As she began to instruct him in the [[Occult Science]] and the [[Esoteric Philosophy]], the two started working together in connection with the Spiritualistic movement in the US. During this time, HPB performed at will many phenomena normally ascribed to “the spirits,” and published articles in different spiritualistic journals explaining the origin and nature of these psychic incidents, in ways that contradicted many of the Spiritualists' theories. Most spiritualists were not pleased with HPB’s attempt to reform, sometimes quite radically, their beliefs.<br />
<br />
See also: [[Phenomena]]<br />
<br />
[[File:HPB citizenship.jpg|160px|right|thumb|Grant of citizenship]]<br />
=== American citizenship ===<br />
[[File:HPB citizenship 1.jpg|200px|left|thumb|Certificate of citizenship]]<br />
On [[September 22]], 1874, Mme. Blavatsky signs a U.S.A. Government application form expressing her intention to become naturalized.<br />
<br />
On [[July 8]], 1878, "Helen P. Blavatsky" appeared in the Court of Common Pleas in New York City and completed the process of applying for citizenship in the United States. She was the first Russian woman to be naturalized as an American citizen.<br />
<br />
In 1978, [[Boris de Zirkoff]] stated that her naturalization papers were in the hands of Geoffrey Watkins at the time,<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to Dora Kunz. October 17, 1978. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> who was the son of [[John Watkins]], a personal friend of Blavatsky.<ref>[https://watkinsbooks.com/history/ "History of Watkins"] at WatkinsBooks.com</ref><br />
<br />
=== Second marriage ===<br />
<br />
On [[April 3]], 1875, a few months before founding the [[Theosophical Society]], Mme. Blavatsky married a Georgian importer living in Philadelphia, [[Michael C. Betanelly]]. The wedding was conducted by Rev. William H. Furness at the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia.<ref>GBC letter to Boris de Zirkoff, dated March 9, 1956. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives. The church was located at Chestnut and Van Pelt Street, and the pastor described HPB as Russian, aged 36 [she was actually 43] and her husband as Russian, aged 33.</ref> She agreed to this marriage after her suitor conceded that she could retain her name and independence, and that it was a marriage in name only. Colonel Olcott was astonished at the situation and she later told him that the situation resulted from karmic complications from past lives.<ref>Charles J. Ryan, ''H. P. Blavatsky and the Theosophical Movement'' (Pasadena: Theosophical University Press), 55.</ref> The marriage broke off after several months and Betanelly sued for divorce, which was finally granted on [[May 25]], 1878, with [[William Quan Judge|William Q. Judge]] acting as Blavatsky's counsel.<br />
<br />
=== The White Dog ===<br />
[[File:White dog cafe.jpg|right|150px|thumb|White Dog Cafe]]<br />
In 1875 Mme. Blavatsky resided at 3420 Sansom Street, in Philadelphia, PA. During the last days of January, she injured her leg and her knee. By the middle of April [[John King]] cured the leg, but the trouble returned owing to lack of rest. By May her leg grew worse, becoming paralyzed and doctors and surgeons said the leg should be amputated. She dismissed their advice saying, <br />
<br />
<blockquote>Fancy my father's daughter--on a wooden leg--fancy my leg going in the spirit land before me!<ref>John Algeo, ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky'' Letter No. 47, (Wheaton, IL: The Theosophical Publishing House, 2003), 176-177.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
A message precipitated from John King claimed that he would cure it. On [[June 3]], at midnight, HPB laid cold, pulse-less, and rigid; her injured leg had swollen to twice the natural size and had turned black. Her physician had given her up and her attendants thought her to be dead. However, within a few hours, the swelling subsided and she revived. Her leg was cured after two days of cold ''poultices'' and having a white pup laying at night across it. The story of the white dog has entered into Philadelphia lore with a restaurant called "The White Dog Cafe" located since 1983 in the building where Blavatsky lived. <br />
<br />
During that time HPB was very ill and, according to her husband [[Michael C. Betanelly]], she sometimes appeared to be "dead". As it would appear from [[Serapis|Master Serapis]]' letters to [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] she underwent a serious trial or [[initiation]]. By the end of June, HPB had recovered fully.<br />
<br />
=== The Miracle Club ===<br />
<br />
While living in New York, Mme. Blavatsky started publishing some articles and letters on [[spiritualism]], [[magic]], and [[occultism]]. According to [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] this and "the stories that were afloat about her magical powers, and our several affirmations of the existence of non-human races of spiritual beings, drew into our acquaintanceship numbers of bright, clever people of occult leanings".<ref>Henry Steel Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' First Series (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1974), 113-114.</ref> At this time Mme. Blavatsky recorded the following in her scrap-book:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>An attempt in consequence of orders received from [[Tuitit Bey|T*** B***]] through P*** personating [[John King]]. Ordered to begin telling the public the truth about the [[phenomena]] and their [[Mediumship|mediums]]. And now my martyrdom will begin! I shall have all the [[Spiritualism|Spiritualists]] against me, in addition to the [[Christianity|Christians]] and the Sceptics. Thy will, oh [[Morya|M.]], be done. H.P.B.<ref>Henry Steel Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' First Series (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1974), 25.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
In May 1875 it was decided to form a private investigating committee under the title of the "Miracle Club" where the phenomena of spiritualism would be studied, tested, and demonstrated; "All the manifestations, including materialisations, to occur in the light, and without a cabinet".<ref>Henry Steel Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' First Series (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1974), 25-26.</ref> This attempt, however, failed, mainly because the medium that was to be involved wanted to earn money from this endeavor, something HPB always opposed.<br />
<br />
=== Founding of the Theosophical Society ===<br />
<br />
In July 1875, HPB wrote in her scrapbook:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Orders received from India direct to establish a philosophico-religious society and choose a name for it, also to choose Olcott.<ref>Daniel H. Caldwell, ''The Esoteric World of Madame Blavatsky'' (Wheaton, Ill., Quest Books, 2001), 71</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
On [[September 7]], sixteen or seventeen people joined HPB in her rooms at 46 Irving Place to hear a lecture by [[George H. Felt]] on "The Lost Canon of Proportion of the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans." The talk was enthusiastically received and [[Henry Steel Olcott|H. S. Olcott]] wrote on a slip of paper, "Would it not be a good thing to form a society from this kind of study?" He handed it to [[William Quan Judge|W. Q. Judge]] to pass it to HPB, who nodded in assent.<ref>Sylvia Cranston, ''H.P.B. The Extraordinary Life & Influence of Helena Blavatsky'', (New York: Putnam Book, 1993), 143.</ref><br />
<br />
At subsequent meetings bylaws were decided upon and officers were elected, with Col. Olcott as President, [[G. H. Felt]] and Dr. [[Seth Pancoast]] as Vice-Presidents; Madame Blavatsky, Corresponding Secretary; and W. Q. Judge as Counsel to the Society.<br />
<br />
On [[November 17]], seventy days after the formation of the Society was proposed, Col. Olcott gave his inaugural address as President-Founder of the newly formed [[Theosophical Society]].<br />
<br />
See also [[Founding of the Theosophical Society]].<br />
<br />
=== The "Lamasery" ===<br />
[[File:HP Blavatsky 1877.jpg|200px|right|thumb|H. P. Blavatsky around 1876-1877, in New York.]]<br />
Since June 1876 till December 1878 Mme. Blavatsky and [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] lived in an apartment situated at 302 West 47th Street in New York. Known as [[The Lamasery|the "Lamasery"]], the place became the unofficial headquarters of the newly formed Theosophical Society and a center of attraction for people interested in [[Occultism]], [[Kabbalah]], [[Spiritualism]], Platonism, as well as those curious about [[phenomena]]. Col. Olcott and Mr. Judge were nearly always present, and, after the departure of the visitors would remain far into the night immersed in study and discussion.<br />
<br />
See also [[The Lamasery]].<br />
<br />
=== ''Isis Unveiled'' ===<br />
<br />
H. P. Blavatsky's first major literary effort was [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']], a critical response to the growing materialism in both scientific and religious institutions. The book was started in 1875, a few months before the formation of the [[Theosophical Society]], although at the time HPB did not know what was to become of the growing pile of manuscripts.<br />
<br />
Described as "A Master-Key to the Mysteries of Ancient and Modern Science and Theology," the book was published in two volumes on [[September 29]], 1877, quickly becoming a classic in occult literature. Two large editions of this "epoch-making" work were sold immediately, and new editions have been appearing ever since.<br />
<br />
On [[December 18]], 1878, five months after being officially naturalized as a U.S. citizen, Mme. Blavatsky (along with [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]], [[Edward Wimbridge]], and [[Rosa Bates]]) left for India via England. She would not return to the country again. The party arrived in London on [[January 3]], 1879, and spent two weeks at the house of [[Harry J. Billing|Dr.]] and [[Mary Hollis Billing|Mrs. Billing]]. They sailed for Bombay on [[January 19]].<br />
<br />
== Life in India ==<br />
=== Arriving at Bombay ===<br />
Mme. Blavatsky and the party arrived in Bombay on [[February 16]], 1879. In October of this year she started publishing [[The Theosophist (periodical)|The Theosophist]]. On [[December 4]] [[Founders#"The Founders"|the Founders]] visited [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]], editor of [[The Pioneer (periodical)|''The Pioneer'']], who would become an important figure in the early [[Theosophical Society]]. A second visit was paid in 1880 where Mme. Blavatsky performed many wonderful [[phenomena]] that Mr. Sinnett described in his book [[The Occult World (book)|''The Occult World'']].<br />
<br />
During 1880 Mme. Blavatsky suffered many personal attacks concerning her identity and antecedents. Being Russian and earning money from publication of stories in Russian newspapers, the British government feared she was a Russian spy.<br />
<br />
=== Taking Pansil ===<br />
[[File:Pansil Certification Letter - HS Olcott.jpeg|200px|left]]<br />
On [[May 19]], 1880, at the invitation of two head Buddhist monks of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Mme. Blavatsky and a group of [[Theosophist]]s went to the island. Here they "took Pansil", that is, they formally identified themselves with [[Buddhism]] by reciting the [[Five Precepts]] (''pancha-sila'') at the Vijayananda Vihara, in Galle.<br />
<br />
[[H. S. Olcott|Col. Olcott]] certified this in his own handwriting:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>"This is to certify that on the 19th May 1880 the Founders of the Theosophical Society Madame H. P. Blavatsky and myself took the Panchasila for the first time at Vijayananda Vihara from Akmemana Dhammarama Thera."</blockquote><br />
<br />
=== "Crow's Nest" period ===<br />
[[File:Crows Nest Bombay.jpg|380px|right|thumb|Crow's Nest, Bombay]]<br />
By the end of December 1880, after their second visit to the Sinnetts, Mme. Blavatsky and Col. Olcott moved to a spacious house on the hill of Breach Candy, Bombay, nicknamed the "Crow's Nest". This became a great center of Theosophical activity, [[phenomena]], and visitations by the [[Masters of Wisdom]].<br />
<br />
In July 1882 Mme. Blavatsky traveled incognito to go into Sikkim. At about thirty miles into Sikkim territory she met physically Masters [[Morya|M.]] and [[Koot Hoomi|K.H.]] with whom she spent two days. The latter, wrote about this in [[Mahatma Letter No. 92#Page 20|one of his letters]]:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>I do not believe I was ever so profoundly touched by anything I witnessed in all my life, as I was with the poor old creature’s ecstatic rapture, when meeting us recently both in our natural bodies, one — after three years, the other — nearly two years absence and separation in flesh. Even our phlegmatic M. was thrown off his balance by such an exhibition — of which he was chief hero. He had to use his power, and plunge her into a profound sleep, otherwise she would have burst some blood-vessel including kidneys, liver and her “interiors” — to use our friend [[William Oxley|Oxley’s]] favourite expression — in her delirious attempts to flatten her nose against his riding mantle besmeared with the Sikkim mud! We both laughed; yet could we feel otherwise but touched?<ref>Vicente Hao Chin, Jr., ''The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in chronological sequence'' No. 92 (Quezon City: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 297.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
=== Adyar Period ===<br />
<br />
On [[April 23]], 1882, [[Founders#"The Founders"|the Founders]] arrived by ship at Madras, where they met [[T. Subba Row]], and others. On [[May 31]] they were taken to see a piece of property as a possible new headquarters for the Theosophical Society. When Mme. Blavatsky saw the Estate she declared "Master wants this purchased".<ref>[http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/chettyodl.htm# Old Diary Leaves] by G. Subbiah Chetty</ref><br />
<br />
On [[December 17]] Mme. Blavatsky and [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] left Bombay by train heading for Adyar, accompanied by the [[Emma Coulomb|Emma]] and [[Alexis Coulomb]], [[Damodar K. Mavalankar|Damodar]], [[Gwala K. Deb|"Mr. Deb"]], Dora Swami Naidu, and five Hindu servants. They arrived on the [[December 19|19th]], 1882.<br />
<br />
In 1883 she passed most of her time editing [[The Theosophist (periodical)|''The Theosophist'']] (which was the main source of Theosophical teachings at the time) and answering correspondence. It also fell to her to take charge of both [[chela]]s and lay chelas.<ref>Josephine Ransom, ''A Short History of The Theosophical Society'' (Adyar, Madras, India: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1989), 178.</ref><br />
<br />
In the second part of the year she spent about three months in the "Blue Mountains" (Nilgiri Hills) investigating the primitive Toda people living there. Her account was eventually published in book form under the title of [[The People of the Blue Mountains (book)|''The People of the Blue Mountains'']].<br />
<br />
=== Visiting Europe ===<br />
<br />
At a council meeting on [[January 20]], 1884, it was decided that Mme. Blavatsky should accompany [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] on his trip to Europe, partly for reasons of health. Before leaving the President issued a special order designating some members of the General Council to act as a Board of Control during his absence to take care of the official business.<br />
<br />
They left [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]] and reached Marseilles on [[March 13]]. HPB stayed in France for about three weeks, mostly in Paris. On [[April 7]], she unexpectedly appeared at the election of officers in the [[London Lodge]]. <br />
<br />
On [[August 17]] she visited the [[Gebhard Family]] at Elberfeld, Germany. It was here that she heard from [[Damodar K. Mavalankar]] in Adyar about the attack from the Missionaries, incited by [[Emma Coulomb]], accusing HPB of having fraudulent [[phenomena]].<br />
<br />
Mme. Blavatsky left for India on [[November 1]], 1884, accompanied by [[Isabelle Cooper-Oakley]] and [[A. J. Cooper-Oakley|her husband]]. They were joined by [[Charles Webster Leadbeater|C. W. Leadbeater]] at Port Said, in north east Egypt. After stopping in Cairo, they went to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and joined [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] there. They arrived at [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]] on [[December 17]], 1884.<br />
<br />
=== The Hodgson Report ===<br />
<br />
In 1884, while [[Founders#"The Founders"|the Founders]] were in Europe, the members of the Board of Control at Adyar could not tolerate [[Emma Coulomb]] any longer. They asked her to leave and she planned to take revenge. She and her husband Alexis went to the missionaries in Madras (now Chennai) and organized an attack on Mme. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
When HPB arrived at Madras on [[December 17]], she received a tumultuous reception. She spoke in Pachaiappa's Hall packed with supporters, and declared that [[Emma Coulomb]]'s letters, as they stand, had not been written by her.<br />
<br />
The [[Society for Psychical Research]] (S.P.R.) decided to send young [[Richard Hodgson]] to [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]] to investigate Mme. Blavatsky's [[phenomena]], the production of the [[Mahatma Letters]], and the Coulomb's accusations. He arrived at Adyar in November, 1884, were he was friendly received. However, he began to be deceived by Emma and her husband into believing that she had faked them. <br />
<br />
In April 1885 Hodgson returned to London. At the General Meeting of the S.P.R. held on [[June 24]] he presented a 200-page report declaring that Mme. Blavatsky was one of the most gifted, ingenious and interesting impostors in history.<br />
<br />
Although her reputation was seriously damaged due to this report, the next years of her life can be regarded as the most productive in her role as a spiritual teacher.<br />
<br />
In January 1885, while in [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]], Mme. Blavatsky became seriously ill. One night when she was about to die [[Morya|Master M.]] came and laid his hands upon her to bring her back from death.<ref>Josephine Ransom, ''A Short History of The Theosophical Society'' (Adyar, Madras, India: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1989), 218.</ref> Unable to perform any administrative duties due to her health, on [[March 21]] 1885 she resigned as Corresponding Secretary of the [[Theosophical Society]]. <br />
<br />
Eventually, partly because of her health and partly to diffuse the effects of the accusations brought by the [[Emma Coulomb|Coulombs]], Mme. Blavatsky was "sent to Europe", in spite of her protests.<br />
<br />
That this move had been contemplated by the [[Masters of Wisdom|Masters]] for some time can be ascertained from a letter [[Koot Hoomi|Master K.H.]] wrote to [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]] in October, 1884. In reference to Mme. Blavatsky, he stated:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>She is permitted to retire for three reasons (1) to disconnect the [[Theosophical Society|T.S.]] from her [[phenomena]], now tried to be represented all fraudulent; (2) to help it by removing the chief cause of the hatred against it; (3) to try and restore the health of the body, so it may be used for some years longer.<ref>Vicente Hao Chin, Jr., ''The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in chronological sequence'' No. 130 (Quezon City: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 434.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Later researches such as those made by [[Vernon Harrison|Dr. Vernon Harrison]], an expert on forgery, and [[Walter A. Carrithers, Jr.]] (pen name of Adlai E. Waterman) showed that the Hodgson's research was faulty and biased. <br />
<br />
See also: [[Hodgson Report]].<br />
<br />
== Life in Europe ==<br />
On [[March 31]], 1885, [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Mme. Blavatsky]] sailed away from India, never to return. With her went [[Babaji]], [[Franz Hartmann|Dr. Hartmann]], and [[Mary Flynn]] to look after her.<br />
<br />
She stayed in Torre del Greco, Italy, for about three months, and in August decided to go to Wurzburg, near Munich, Germany. With the regaining of her health she started to become involved in the administration of the TS in Europe and she started working in a systematic way on her next book, [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
=== ''The Secret Doctrine'' === <br />
<br />
In May 1879, soon after moving to India, Mme. Blavatsky started designing a new book on [[Theosophy]] that would eventually become [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
In January 1884 the Supplement to [[The Theosophist (periodical)|''The Theosophist'']] published an advertising announcing "a New Version of [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']]", which was to be published in monthly. Although Mme. Blavatsky had some written material to start the monthly installments, this never came to fruition in the way planned, due to ill-health, her travel to Europe, and the [[Hodgson_Report#Coulomb_affair|Coulomb affair]].<br />
<br />
In the fall of 1885, a few months after moving to Wurzburg, Germany, HPB started working steadily on its writing. The [[Constance Wachtmeister|Countess Wachtmeister]] moved with HPB to help her in this endeavor. As the writing of the book developed with the help of Masters [[Morya|M.]] and [[Koot Hoomi|K.H.]], HPB realized it was much more than a rewriting of ''Isis Unveiled''. In a letter to [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]] she said she felt that this could vindicate the [[Theosophical Society]] after the unfavorable [[Hodgson Report|Report]] that Hodgson made.<ref>A. Trevor Barker, ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky to A. P. Sinnett'' Letter No. CXVI, (Pasadena, CA: Theosophical University Press, 1973), 79.</ref><br />
<br />
In the spring of 1886 she sent a preliminary manuscript of the first volume to Adyar, where [[T. Subba Row]] was supposed to read it and contribute in what had to do with [[Hinduism|Hindu philosophy]]. However, he refused to do so. HPB moved to Ostende, Belgium, where she continued working on the book, and finished it after moving to London, where he had the help of a group of young members. The First Volume of ''The Secret Doctrine'' came off the Press on [[October 20]], 1888, while the Second Volume was out towards the end of the year.<br />
<br />
=== Bright's disease ===<br />
[[File:HPB reading book JPEG.jpg|160px|left|thumb|HPB reading in London, in 1887.]]<br />
By the end of March 1887, in Ostende, HPB fell gravely ill with a kidney infection. She was not expected to live. [[Morya|Master M.]] came at night and asked her if she wanted to be freed from the body or live, amidst much suffering, finish ''The Secret Doctrine'' and do some more work for [[Theosophy]] in Europe. She agreed, although regretfully. In a letter to [[Jirah Dewey Buck|J.G. Buck]] she wrote: "No luck! Saved once more and forced to accept a new lease of life."<ref>H. P. Blavatsky, Letter to J.G. Buck, London, May 7 1886.</ref><br />
<br />
=== Move to London ===<br />
<br />
Before Blavatsky's health crisis, [[Archibald Keightley|Archibald]] and [[Bertram Keightley]] had been asking her to move to London, where she would find a band of devoted young workers to help her in her work. Blavatsky agreed, and soon after her recovery, on [[May 1]], 1887, they went to Ostende to help her move. Blavatsky related this in her characteristic humorous way:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>A deputation from London came to Ostende, packed me up and brought me over, kidneys, paralysed legs and all. A pretty piece of luggage!<ref>H. P. Blavatsky, Letter to J.G. Buck, London, May 7 1886.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
She settled with a few devoted friends in Lansdowne Road, Notting Hill, in September 1887,<ref>''The Vahan''. January 1, 1891.</ref> where a group of earnest students took care of her and helped her finish and publish her greatest work, [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
=== Blavatsky Lodge ===<br />
<br />
Soon after Blavatsky arrived in London, the group of students that had gathered around her convinced her of the need to form a TS Lodge. This was done, and they called it "[[Blavatsky Lodge|The Blavatsky Lodge of the Theosophical Society]]". In addition, they decided to form a Theosophical Publishing Company and start a Theosophical journal they daringly called [[Lucifer (periodical)|Lucifer]], with HPB and Mabel Collins as editors. HPB wrote many articles for this.<br />
<br />
After the publishing of [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']] the Lodge met regularly to discuss with HPB any obscure points they found in its first volume. The dialogues they held were partially published under the title [http://www.phx-ult-lodge.org/Transactions.htm# ''Transactions of the Blavatsky Lodge''] and later a complete version was published as [https://www.hightail.com/download/bWJvY05rdGpubVhvS3NUQw# ''The Secret Doctrine Commentaries'']. In these meetings the content of another important book by HPB, [[The Key to Theosophy (book)|''The Key to Theosophy'']] was also discussed before its publication.<br />
<br />
=== Esoteric Section ===<br />
[[File:Blavatsky Olcott.jpg|300px|right|thumb|Last photo of Mme. Blavatsky and Col. Olcott together, taken in London, Oct. 1888]]<br />
On [[October 9]], 1888, as a response to the demand by many earnest members to have esoteric teachings given by H. P. Blavatsky, [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] agreed to form the "[[Esoteric Section|Esoteric Section of the Theosophical Society]]" with Mme. Blavatsky as its responsible head.<br />
<br />
In August 1890 she formed an [[Esoteric_Section#Inner_Group|"Inner Group"]] of this Section mainly with some of her students living in London at the time. The group held its meetings weekly in HPB's place, at 19 Avenue Rd, in a room specially built for it. Participants would ask questions in regards to the [[Esoteric Philosophy]] or the spiritual practice and HPB would answer.<br />
<br />
=== ''The Voice of the Silence'' ===<br />
<br />
In July, 1889, Mme. Blavatsky went to Fontainebleau, France, for a few week's rest. There she wrote most of the material that would turn into the mystical Theosophical work known as [[The Voice of the Silence (book)|''The Voice of the Silence'']]. This book is a translation of three treatises contained in a secret work, ''[[The Book of the Golden Precepts]]'', which she had learned by heart during her training in Tibet.<br />
<br />
During this time HPB received a visit from the newly joined [[Herbert Burrows]] and [[Annie Besant]]. In regards to the writing of this book, Mrs. Besant said:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>She wrote it swiftly, without any material copy before her. I sat in the room while she was writing it. I know that she did not write it referring to any books, but she wrote it down steadily, hour after hour, exactly as though she were writing either from memory or from reading it where no book was and in the evening made me read it aloud to see if the 'English was decent.' Herbert Burrows was there, and Mrs. Candler, a staunch American Theosophist, and we sat round HPB while I read. The translation was in perfect and beautiful English, flowing and musical; only a word or two could we find to alter, and she looked at us like a startled child, wondering at our praises—praise that any one with the literary sense would endorse if they read that exquisite prose poem.<ref>Annie Besant, ''The Masters'', (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Press, 1977), 32-33.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
<br />
There exists no definite evidence that Mme. Blavatsky had ever published any articles, essays or letters to editors prior to October, 1874, although there are statements that seem to indicate that her literary work began much earlier in life. Besides the books she wrote, for much of her adult life HPB supported herself by writing travelogues and stories for Russian periodicals. <br />
<br />
For a list of her books and other writings, see '''[[Blavatsky writings]]'''.<br />
<br />
[[File:HPB death mask.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Death mask of HPB, from ''The Theosophist'', May 1991]]<br />
<br />
== Death ==<br />
In April, 1891, a very serious epidemic of influenza struck London. Practically the entire staff at 19 Avenue Rd. was affected, with three of them being at death's door. On [[April 25]]th, H.P.B. had a very high fever. On the [[April 30|30th]], she developed an abscess in her throat, and then another on the bronchial tubes, and became progressively weaker. On [[May 6]] she somewhat improved and managed to walk into her sitting room, although she said she felt she was dying. However, on [[May 8]], at 11 a.m., H.P.B. grew worse. A nurse, Miss Black, was present, along with several of the [[Inner Group]]. Seated in her chair, she passed away at 2:25 p.m., GMT. [[Laura M. Cooper|Miss Laura Cooper]] was standing behind the chair, while [[Walter Gornold]] knelt holding her right hand.<ref>Daniel H. Caldwell, ''The Esoteric World of Madame Blavatsky: Insights into the Life of a Modern Sphinx'' (Wheaton:Quest Books, 2001), 396-397.</ref><ref>Laura M. Cooper, "How She Left Us" ''In Memory of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky'' (London: Theosophical Publishing Society, 1891) 3-7.</ref> Mr. Wright "knelt beside her holding her left hand, and as she passed away took the ring from off her fourth finger."<ref>Anonymous, "Faces of Friends" ''The Path'' 8.11 (February, 1894), 351-352.</ref> The Countess [[Constance Wachtmeister]] and [[Isabel Cooper-Oakley]] arrived just after she passed. Miss Cooper left a detailed account of the event.<ref>Laura M. Cooper, 3-7.</ref><br />
<br />
H.P.B. had left instructions that "no parade or show of any kind should be made over her body."<ref>G. R. S. Mead,"The Cremation," ''H.P.B.: In Memory of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky'' (London: Theosophical Publishing Society, 1891), 7.</ref> Her body was cremated at Woking Crematorium, Surrey, on [[May 11]], 1891. [[G. R. S. Mead]], General Secretary of the European Section and H.P.B.'s private secretary, addressed the small assembly of officers, staff, and friends, and then the ashes were returned to her own rooms.<ref>G. R. S. Mead,"The Cremation," 8-11. Available at [https://archive.org/stream/hpbinmemoryhele00unkngoog/hpbinmemoryhele00unkngoog_djvu.txt Internet Archive].</ref><br />
<br />
Between May 8 and 9 [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] had received three distinct warnings about Mme. Blavatsky's passing. He had received a cablegram about the fact on [[May 10]].<br />
<br />
On [[July 9]], 1891, the First Annual Convention of the European Branches was held in London. [[William Quan Judge|W. Q. Judge]] offered a resolution for the creation of an "H.P.B. Memorial Fund". Col. Olcott, as Chairman, suggested the partition of H.P.B.'s ashes. Some of the ashes are buried under the Blavatsky and Olcott statues in the [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar headquarters]] that they had established in 1882.<br />
[[File:HPB-HSO statues in Adyar.jpg|280px|right|thumb|Statues of H.P. Blavatsky and H.S. Olcott at Adyar headquarters.]]<br />
<br />
== Tributes and memorials ==<br />
<br />
Almost every year, the Theosophical Society in England sponsors one of its '''[[Blavatsky Lectures]]''', delivered by some of the best speakers in the Theosophical world.<br />
<br />
The first '''Blavatsky Lodge''' was in London, but similar names have also been adopted by groups in Sydney, Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Colombia, Vancouver, Mumbai, Richmond (BC), and at least seven groups in the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. The name '''Blavatsky Hall''' has been used in London, Mumbai, Chennai, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. '''Blavatsky Avenue''' is found in Jakarta and in Adyar, Chennai. The '''Blavatsky Study Centre''' is at the [http://tsperth.wikkii.com/wiki/Mt._Helena_Retreat Mt. Helena Retreat] near Perth, Australia.<br />
<br />
'''[[H. P. Blavatsky House-Museum]]''' in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine, is a museum located in the house in which HPB was born.<br />
<br />
The '''[[H. P. B. Library]]''' in Canada was founded by [[Alice L. Cleather]], who also helped establish the '''[[Blavatsky Association]]''' that existed from 1923 to 1945.<br />
<br />
A brief summary of her continued influence in many countries can be found at '''"[[H.P.Blavatsky's heritage in the modern world]]"'''.<br />
<br />
=== Fictional and dramatic accounts ===<br />
<br />
Madame Blavatsky continues to fascinate modern writers, and is frequently mentioned in plays, popular fiction, Web-based fan fiction, and blog postings. Here are some examples:<br />
<br />
* Serra, Francesca Serra. ''La grande Blavatsky''. 2016. Italian novel.<br />
<br />
[[File:Bronze_medallion.jpg|right|230px|thumb|Bronze medallion by William R. O'Donovan]]<br />
<br />
== Paintings and sculptures of HPB ==<br />
<br />
American sculptor [[William R. O’Donovan]] created a bronze medallion of Madame Blavatsky while the [[Founders]] were still in New York. It appeared as the frontispiece in the first volume of [[Old Diary Leaves (book)|''Old Diary Leaves'']].<br />
<br />
See also '''[[Blavatsky photographs and portraits]]'''<br />
<br />
== Additional resources about HPB ==<br />
<br />
For a listing of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky's writings, including digital versions, see '''[[Blavatsky writings]]'''.<br />
<br />
=== Biographies ===<br />
<br />
Numerous biographies have been written. These are some of the most significant:<br />
* Butt, G. Baseden. '''''Madame Blavatsky'''''. London: Rider & Co., 1925. Has careful annotations of phenomena.<br />
* Cranston, Sylvia [Anita Atkins]. '''''H. P. B. The Extraordinary Life and Influence of Helena Blavatsky, Founder of the Modern Theosophical Movement'''''. New York: TarcherPerigee, 1993. Available at [https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/cranston/HPB-Cranston_ebook.pdf '''Theosophical University Press''']. This work is probably the most complete and thoroughly documented biography<br />
* Goodrick-Clarke, Nicholas. '''''Helena Blavatsky'''''. Berkeley: North Atlantic Books, 2004.<br />
* Lachman, Gary. '''''Madame Blavatsky: The Mother of Modern Spirituality'''''. New York: Jeremy P. Tarcher/Penguin, 2012.<br />
* Meade, Marion. '''''Madame Blavatsky: The Woman Behind the Myth'''''. New York: Putnam, 1980.<br />
* Williams, Gertrude Marvin. '''''[https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.178230 Priestess of the Occult]'''''. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1946. This biography is overtly hostile and is known to have numerous errors of fact and interpretation.<br />
<br />
=== Autobiographies ===<br />
<br />
In a category of its own is a '''purported autobiography dictated from beyond the grave''' by Madame Blavatsky. Joseph M. Wade, in the preface to this work, described how the spirit of George W. Stephens operated a typewriting machine designed by G. W. N. Yost, whose spirit supervised the operation. The typewriter was enclosed in a cabinet placed a few feet away from a medium who was connecting with HPB.<br />
* Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna and Joseph M. Wade. '''''Posthumous Memoirs of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky'''''. Boston: Jos. M Wade and London: H. A. Copley, 1896. Available from [https://cdn.loc.gov/service/gdc/dcmsiabooks/po/st/hu/mo/us/me/mo/ir/00/wa/de/posthumousmemoir00wade/posthumousmemoir00wade.pdf Library of Congress].<br />
<br />
===Articles and pamphlets===<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/blavatsky-helena-petrovna Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna] in Theosophy World<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/blavatsky-and-mount-rushmore Blavatsky and Mount Rushmore] by John Algeo<br />
* [http://hpb.narod.ru/HPB_Light_Bringer.htm# H. P. Blavatsky - the Light-Bringer] by Geoffrey A. Barborka<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/dallasblavatsky.htm# HPB - Chronological Review of Events in her Life] published by Blavatsky Study Center<br />
* [https://cdn.website-editor.net/e4d6563c50794969b714ab70457d9761/files/uploaded/AdyarPamphlet_No157.pdf# The Theosophical Society and H.P.B.] by Annie Besant and H.T. Patterson<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyfoundation.org/carrith1.htm# The Truth About Madame Blavatsky] by Walter A. Carrithers, Jr.<br />
* [http://blavatskyarchives.com/cooperl1891.htm# How She Left Us] by Laura M. Cooper<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/esoteric-she# The Esoteric She] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/h-p-b-lion-hearted-colleague-passes# H.P.B. - A Lion-Hearted Colleague Passes] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/h-p-b-at-enghien# H.P.B. at Enghien] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/hpb-was-not-deserted-by-the-masters# H.P.B. Was Not Deserted by the Masters] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/your-till-death-and-after# "Yours Till Death and After, H.P.B."] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/mead.html# Address Read at the Cremation of HPB's Body] by G. R. S. Mead<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/meadconhpb.htm# Concerning H.P.B. - Stray Thoughts on Theosophy] by G.R.S. Mead<br />
* [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/shearman2.html# A Message Ahead of Its Time] by Hugh Shearman<br />
* [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/hishpb1.htm# New Light on the First Marriage of HPB] by Marina Cesar Sisson<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/against-blavatsky-rene-guenons-critique-of-theosophy Against Blavatsky: Rene Guenon's Critique of Theosophy] by Richard Smoley<br />
* Carlson, Marie. “To Spy or Not to Spy: ‘The Letter’ of H.P. Blavatsky to the Third Section,” ''Theosophical History'' 5/7 (July 1995): 225-231.<br />
* [http://blavatskytheosophy.com/praise-for-h-p-blavatsky-and-theosophy# Praise for H.P. Blavatsky and Theosophy] at BlavatskyTheosophy.com<br />
* [https://archive.org/details/JinarajadasaThePersonalityOfHPBlavatsky ''The Personality of H. P. Blavatsky''] by C. Jinarajadasa, 1930.<br />
<br />
===Books===<br />
* [http://blavatskyarchives.com/theosophypdfs/wachtmeister_reminiscences_of_h__p__blavatsky_1893.pdf# Reminiscences of H.P. Blavatsky and ''The Secret Doctrine''] by Countess Constance Wachtmeister<br />
<br />
=== Archives ===<br />
* [https://www.blavatskyarchives.com/hern2000.htm Records of the British Government's Surveillance of Theosophical Society Personalities and Others in the Oriental and India Office Collection], with introduction by Anthony Hern.<br />
<br />
=== Natal horoscope and astrological commentary ===<br />
<br />
* [https://www.astro.com/astro-databank/Blavatsky,_Helena Blavatsky, Helena] at Astro-Databank.<br />
* [https://www.astro-seek.com/birth-chart/helena-blavatsky-horoscope Helena Blavatsky Birth Chart] at Asto-Seek.<br />
* [https://www.makara.us/04mdr/01writing/03tg/bios/Blavatsky.htm Helena P. Blavatsky] by Michael D. Robbins, 2005. This source gives a very detailed account of HPB's life, but should be read with caution, as it relays errors about Yuri and other incidents and relationships.<br />
* [https://arthealswounds.wordpress.com/2019/08/12/sphinx-of-the-wisdom-tradition-helena-petrovna-blavatsky/ Sphinx of the Wisdom Tradition: Helena Petrovna Blavatsky] from Proteus Astrology. August 12, 2019.<br />
* [https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/Record/3116874 The Life and Horoscope of Madame Blavatsky] by A.F. Orchard and A. Fletcher. London: Birch & Whittington, [1924]. <br />
* [http://www.astro.com/cgi/chart.cgi?wgid=wgeJxNTssKwjAQ_Bpvq2Q3lVbDHiqIHr2I5y2NtbSJ0qSW_r0pgngZhhnmMbVdy2Qax4LG13zo5S0xdDOcbW-9rEhdNnAHJCgAC42gaI85OJ3Z7Q4a6UHBsZNoh9Y_Q0rDtYSvmRWechhBoyKgXBegjNSVF2f5rz3Bb3Xx61TGSEkux2YMMZFl2FRxfqWrLj5Y4mQeYeY1miEw3k4fTvg8TA# H. P. Blavatsky's Natal Chart] at Astrodienst.<br />
* [http://www.khaldea.com/charts/helenapetrovnablavatsky.shtml Helena Petrovna Blavatsky Natal Horoscope] at Khaldea.<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/algeo/The%20Real%20Madame%20Blavatsky.mp3# The Real Madame Blavatsky] by John Algeo.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/algeo/Olcott%20and%20Blavatsky:%20Theosophical%20Twins.mp3# Olcott and Blavatsky: Theosophical Twins] by John Algeo.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/bruce/H.%20P.%20Blavatsky%20Remembered:%20White%20Lotus%20Day%20Commemoration.mp3# H. P. Blavatsky Remembered: White Lotus Day Commemoration] by David Bruce.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/dezirkoff/The%20Life%20of%20HPB.mp3# The Life of HPB] Boris de Zirkoff.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/hoeller/H.%20P.%20Blavatsky:%20Woman%20of%20Mystery.mp3# H. P. Blavatsky: Woman of Mystery] by Stephan Hoeller.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
*[https://youtu.be/jSYczL-glX0# Olcott and Blavatsky: Theosophical Twins] by John Algeo<br />
*[https://youtu.be/aArPJidVsLw# Who Was HPB?] By Michael Gomes<br />
*[https://youtu.be/Tjy4t9qCRQs# The Mysterious Madame Blavatsky] by Stephan Hoeller and William Metzger<br />
*[https://youtu.be/ckLObdbosB4# HPB as Modern Gnostic] by Stephan Hoeller<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj5QW8vcylM# H. P. Blavatsky: Teacher and Mystery Woman by Stephan Hoeller]<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcNkoQXUbWA# Blavatsky and the Once and Future Gnosis] by Stephan Hoeller<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIqlw020DQU# H. P. Blavatsky, Manly P. Hall, and the Secret Teachings of all Ages] by Mitch Horowitz<br />
*[https://youtu.be/dKdaoWOrAnQ# HPB versus Darth Vader] by Mitch Horowitz<br />
*[https://youtu.be/9J2yYBAad9A# HPB and the War of the Worldviews] by Doss McDavid<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
*[https://youtu.be/VRbfJAUDsck# A Priestess of Isis] by Adam Warcup<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=yZZYFsrBzCM# Blavatsky's Tibet: Sacred Power Places and their Spiritual Mysteries] by Glenn Mullin<br />
*[http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/blavatskyvideos2.htm Recommended videos] listed by Blavatsky Archives.<br />
<br />
=== Websites ===<br />
* [http://art-roerich.org.ua/ Bakhmut Roerich Society] in Ukraine offers a wealth of Russian-language and some English materials by and about HPB and the Roerichs.<br />
* [http://exhibition.theosophy.in.ua/en/ H. P. Blavatsky Online Exhibition] by the Theosophical Society in Ukraine.<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/dallasblavatsky.htm Chronological Review of Events in Her Life] by W. Dallas TenBroeck, published in Blavatsky Study Center website.<br />
* [http://www.theosophy-nw.org/theosnw/theos/hpb-selc.htm# H. P. Blavatsky - Theosophical Topics in Depth] Links to articles, letters, and books on and by HPB.<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/refutation-of-charges# Refutation of charges against Madame Blavatsky] at Blavatsky Net.<br />
*[http://ru.teopedia.org/hpb/%D0%97%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BB%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D1%81%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%86%D0%B0# Articles, books and quotations from HPB in Russian language] at Теопедия (Teopedia).<br />
* Blavatsky, H. P. [https://www.theosophy-ult.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Blavatsky-letters-to-Sinnett.pdf "Letter LXI"] ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky to A. P. Sinnett'' (London: T. Fisher Unwin, Ltd., 1925), 148-156. HPB answers many questions about her life to A. P. Sinnett.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Founders|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Writers|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Editors|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Clairvoyants|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Received Mahatma Letters|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Chelas|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Russian|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Naturalized American|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Anti-vivisectionists|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Received Mahatma Letters|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:People who encountered Mahatmas|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:People who witnessed phenomena|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Feminists|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:People|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
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[[fr:Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]<br />
[[ru:Блаватская]]<br />
[[es:Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]<br />
[[it:Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Helena_Petrovna_Blavatsky&diff=53226Helena Petrovna Blavatsky2024-02-10T14:47:44Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Audio */</p>
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<div>[[File:HP Blavatsky 1.jpg|250px|right|thumb|H. P. Blavatsky in London on [[January 8]], 1889.]]<br />
[[File:Borglum_portrait_of_HPB.jpg|300px|right|thumb|[[Gutzon Borglum]] portrait]]<br />
'''Helena Petrovna Blavatsky''' (Russian: Еле́на Петро́вна Блава́тская, Ukrainian: Олена Петрівна Блаватська) was born on [[August 12]], 1831 (31 July, old style) at Ekaterinoslav, then part of Russia, which today is Dnipro, Ukraine. She was a [[Theosophist]], writer, and traveler.<br />
<br />
In 1875 (together with Colonel [[H. S. Olcott]], attorney [[William Quan Judge]] and others) she established the [[Theosophical Society]]. Blavatsky was the main source of [[Theosophy#Modern Theosophy|Theosophical teachings]] and discussed the major themes of Theosophy in many articles and several major works, including [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']], [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']], [[The Key to Theosophy (book)|''The Key to Theosophy'']], and [[The Voice of the Silence (book)|''The Voice of the Silence'']]. She died in London, on [[May 8]], 1891. <br />
<br />
Blavatsky, widely known as '''HPB''', was instrumental in bringing the spiritual wisdom of the East and that of the ancient Western mysteries to the modern West, where they were virtually unknown.<br />
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See also: <br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky writings]]'''<br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky correspondence]]'''<br />
:: '''[[:Category:Associates of HPB|Associates of HPB]]'''<br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky photographs and portraits|Photos of HPB]]'''<br />
:: '''[[Blavatsky resources|Resources related to HPB]]'''<br />
:: '''[[H.P.Blavatsky's heritage in the modern world|Heritage in the Modern World]]'''<br />
<br />
== Early years ==<br />
[[File:HPB's house - Ukraine.jpg|250px|left|thumb|[[H. P. Blavatsky House-Museum|H. P. Blavatsky house/museum]] in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine]]<br />
Helena Petrovna von Hahn (Russian: Елена Петровна Ган, Ukrainian: Олена Петрівна Ган) was the first child of Colonel Peter Alexeyevich von Hahn (1798-1873) and Helena Andreyevna Hahn (née de Fadeyev), a well-known social novelist. She was born at Ekaterinoslav in Southern Russia on [[August 12]], 1831 (or [[July 31]] in the Julian Calendar, then current in Russia). Having been born on the seventh month of the year she was called by the servants and locals "the Sedmitchka" (a possible alternate spelling--Sedgmika), an untranslatable term, meaning one connected with number Seven (other pet names she had were "Lelinka" and "Lyolya", diminutive of Helena).<br />
<br />
Although no official record has ever been produced of the exact time of her birth, it has been determined with sufficient accuracy by astrological rectification, based on various important events in H.P.B.’s life, to have been 1:42 A.M., local time, which, equated for Greenwich, would be 11:22 P.M., on August 11th, 1831.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xxvi.</ref><br />
[[File:H.Hahn and H.Blavatsky.jpg|250px|right|thumb|HPB and her mother. H. P. B. museum in Dnepropetrovsk. Painter unknown.]]<br />
[[File:Nikofor_V_Blavatsky.jpg|180px|right|thumb|Nikofor V. Blavatsky]]<br />
Helena was born prematurely. As in 1831 Russia was suffering from a widespread epidemic of cholera that had ravaged several members of her parents’ household, there was fear for the infant’s life. An immediate baptism took place, during which a child who fell asleep holding a candle in the first row behind the officiating priest set fire to his robes during the ceremony.<br />
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Helena had a sister [[Vera Petrovna de Zhelihovsky|Vera Petrovna]] ([[April 29]], 1835 - 1896) and a brother, Leonid (June, 1840 - [[November 9]], 1885).<br />
<br />
According to [[Vera Petrovna de Zhelihovsky|Vera P. de Zhelihovsky]], her mother, at the time, was worried about the destiny of her elder daughter, "gifted from childhood by outstanding features".<ref>Zhelikhovskaya [Желиховская]. ''Elena P. Blavatskaya'' [Е. П. Блаватская]. II. С.246. Quotation translated from Russian.</ref> <br />
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The first ten years of Helena’s life were spent in frequent changes from one place of residence to another, partly due to the fact that her father’s battery of Horse-Artillery was being transferred from place to place, and partly because of the precarious health of her mother.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xxx.</ref> Helena’s mother died on [[July 6]], 1842 at the age of 28 of galloping consumption. Before her death, her mother said:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Well! Perhaps it is for the better that I am dying: at least, I will not suffer from seeing Helena’s hard lot! I am quite sure that her destiny will be not womanly, that she will suffer much".<ref>Jelihovsky. Helena Petrovna Blavatsky // Lucifer. C.204; The Theosophist. C. 240</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Her father would die was on [[July 27]], 1873, after only three days of illness, while HPB was in New York ready to start her public career.<br />
<br />
After her mother’s death, Helena’s grandfather Andrei Mikhailovich and Grandmother Helena Pavlovna (who was an accomplished amateur scientist) took the children to Saratov, where they had quite a different life. Fadeyev’s house was visited by Saratov’s intellectuals.<br />
<br />
Helena was clairvoyant from early childhood. In occasions she saw the magestic figure of a Hindu in a white turban, whom she called her "Protector", since he had saved her in dangers. One of these accidents took place when she was a young child. Wanting to examine a picture hanging high up on a wall, she piled up a couple of tables and a chair and started climbing. When she reached the painting she lost her balance and remembered nothing else. She then found herself safe on the floor, both tables and the chair standing in their usual places, with the trace of a small hand left on the dusty wall under the picture. Another instance took place when she was 13 years old. She was riding a horse which became frightened and ran away. She fell from her seat, her foot got caught in the stirrup and hung on to it. Instead of being killed she felt someone’s arms around her body supporting her until the horse was stopped.<ref>Helene F. Pissareff, "Helena Petrovna Blavatsky," The Theosophist, 34:4 (January, 1913), 505-506.</ref><br />
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=== First marriage ===<br />
<br />
The Winter season of 1848-49 was spent at Tiflis in the mansion of the old Princes Chavchavadze. Striving for full independence 16-year old Helena became betrothed to vice-governor of Erevan, Nikifor Vladimirovich Blavatsky (1810-1873?), who was about 40 years old. Their wedding ceremony took place on [[July 7]], 1849. In October Helena left her husband and started on horseback for Tiflis to rejoin her relatives.<ref>[http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/hishpb1.htm# New Light on the First Marriage of HPB] by Marina Cesar Sisson</ref><ref>исьмо А. М. Дондукову-Корсакову от 1 марта 1882 года // Блаватская Е. П. «Письма друзьям и сотрудникам». Сборник. Перев. с англ. — М., 2002. — С. 250 ISBN 5-93975-062-1</ref> Nikifor Blavatsky tried to obtain a divorce on the ground that "his marriage had never been more than a form." His attempt failed, however, owing to the fact that Russian law at the time regarded divorce with disfavor.<br />
<br />
It is not certain when Nikifor died, but newspapers indicated that it was about 1873.<ref>Anonymous. "Eventful Careers. Two Women with Strange and Romantic Histories" ''National Aegis'' [Worcester, Massachusetts] (October 17, 1874), 2. Article first printed in the ''Brooklyn Eagle''. Nikifor Blavatsky was said to have died "recently" in his 97th year, 24 years after he married HPB. The article goes on to describe a legal case between HPB and Madame Gerebko.</ref> In Helena's scrapbook there is a cutting from a newspaper talking about her life, where we find the sentence: "For many years they [Helena and Nikifor] resided together at Odessa, and finally a legal separation was affected." To this, HPB added two notes. The one commenting on her stay with her husband "for many years" said: "a lie—was with him but for three weeks." To the second phrase: "finally a legal separation was affected" she added "legal, because he died." The name and date of the newspaper do not appear in print, but H.P.B. wrote in ink above the cutting: "From the N. Y. Mercury, Jan. 18, 1875."<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), 54.</ref><br />
<br />
=== Travels ===<br />
<br />
Shortly after her marriage Mme. Blavatsky began more than 20 years of extensive travel all over the world, which is extremely difficult to trace in any coherent manner. Between 1848 and 1875 she went around the world three times in search of wisdom about the nature of life and the reason for human existence. This brought her into contact with mystic traditions the world over. Since she traveled alone, this period of Blavatsky’s life is difficult for her biographers to document, although she wrote and talked about her adventures in later years. N. A. Fadeyeva reported that only her father knew where his daughter was, and from time to time would send money to her.<br />
<br />
=== Music, art, and languages ===<br />
<br />
Mme. Blavatsky was early trained in the music, arts, and languages expected of young women in her class. She spoke Russian at home, and learned French and English from her governess, becoming perfectly proficient in all '''three languages'''. An American newspaper reported, probably with a bit of exageration, "Her knowledge of languages is extraordinary. She converses and writes fluently in Russian, Polish, Romaic [modern Greek], Low Dutch, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and English."<ref>Anonymous. "Eventful Careers: Two Women with Strange and Romantic Careers" ''National Aegis'' (Worcester, Mass.) (October 17, 1874), 2.</ref> <br />
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[[Henry Steel Olcott|Colonel Henry S. Olcott]] wrote of her '''musical ability''':<br />
<blockquote><br />
She was a splendid pianist, playing with a touch and expression that were simply superb. Her hands were models &ndash; ideal and actual &ndash; for a sculptor and never seen to such advantage as when flying over the keyboard to find its magical melodies. She was a pupil of Moscheles, and when in London as a young girl, with her father, played at a charity concert with Madame Clara Schumann and Madame Arabella Goddard in a piece of Schumann's for three pianos. During the time of our relationship she played scarcely at all. Once a cottage piano was bought and she played on it for a few weeks, but then it remained closed ever after until sold, and served as a double bookshelf. There were times when she was occupied by one of the Mahatmas, when her playing was indescribably grand. She would sit in the dusk sometimes, with nobody else in the room beside myself, and strike from the sweet-toned instrument improvisations that might well make one fancy he was listening to the Gandhavas, or heavenly choristers. It was the harmony of heaven.<ref>H.S. Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' Vol. I, 458-59.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Her cousin, Count Witte, in his ''Memoirs'', referred to this musical talent at some length, and [[William Kingsland]] gave this account:<br />
<blockquote><br />
I well remember on one occasion, on a visit by her to my house in London in 1889, she sat down at the piano and played Schubert's ''Erl-König'', to to my great surprise and delight, as I had never even heard that she had ever been a pianist.<ref>William Kingsland, ''The Real H. P Blavatsky'' (London: J. M. Watkins, 1928), 37-38.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Clearly she sought out pianos whenever they were available. [[A. P. Sinnett]] reported "finding her at the piano in the ball room of [[A. O. Hume|Mr. Hume's]] house" in India.<ref>A. P. Sinnett, ''Early Days of Theosophy in Europe'' (London: Theosophical Publishing House, 1922): 38.</ref><br />
<br />
'''Drawing''' was a skill that HPB demonstrated frequently in her Scrapbooks. She enjoyed the company of artists such as [[William R. O’Donovan]], [[Thomas Le Clear]], [[Albert Rawson]], [[Hermann Schmiechen]], [[Monsieur Harrisse]], [[Reginald Machell]], [[Isabelle de Steiger]], and Walter Paris. Several artists she entertained in New York were members of the Tile Club. She was equally proficient in pencil sketches of landscapes, portraits, and caricatures such as these:<br />
<br />
<gallery widths="130px" heights="150px" perrow="6"><br />
File:HPB scrapbook title page.jpg<br />
File:Napoleon sketch.jpg<br />
File:Henry Olcott 1877.jpg<br />
File:Faust opera.jpg<br />
File:Moloney cartoon.png<br />
File:HPB Pencil Sketch scanned from MPH The Phoenix.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
=== Meeting Master Morya ===<br />
[[File:Ramsgate sketch by HPB.PNG|right|300px|thumb|Blavatsky's drawing of a boat scene illustrating a "Memorable night."]]<br />
In her Sketchbook, now in the Adyar Archives, Mme. Blavatsky says that she met her Teacher, [[Morya|Master M.]], in the physical body for the first time on her twentieth birthday at Ramsgate, a seaside town some 70 miles from London. She wrote in French, <br />
<br />
<blockquote>Nuit mémorable! Certaine nuit par au clair de lune qui se couchait a Ramsgate 12 Aout, 1851(*) lorsque je recontrais M. le Maître – de mes rêves!!<br><br />
(*) Le 12 Aout c’est Juillet 31 style russe jour de ma naissance – Vingt ans!</blockquote><br />
<br />
An English translation provided in the Cranston book reads, "Memorable night! On a certain night by the light of the moon that was setting at Ramsgate on August 12, 1851,(*) when I met M. the Master of my dreams!! (* August 12 is July 31 in the Russian calendar, the day of my birth – Twenty years!)"<br />
<br />
However, she told Countess [[Constance Wachtmeister]] that “Ramsgate” was a blind, and that this took place in Hyde Park, London. She told [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]] that this was "in the year of the first Nepal Embassy", that is, in 1850.<br />
<br />
It is almost certain that H.P.B. was in London in the Summer of 1854, because she says that she met her Master again "in the house of a stranger in England, where he had come in the company of a dethroned native prince". This was undoubtedly Prince Dhuleep Singh, Mahârâja of Lahore.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xli.</ref><br />
<br />
=== In Tibet ===<br />
<br />
The subject of Mme. Blavatsky’s stay in Tibet is wrapped in considerable mystery, as she kept the specific information secret. In 1884 she wrote the following:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>I have lived at different periods in Little Tibet as in Great Tibet, and . . . these combined periods form more than seven years. Yet, I have never stated either verbally or over my signature that I had passed seven consecutive years in a convent. What I have said, and repeat now, is, that I have stopped in Lamaistic convents; that I have visited Tzi-gadze, the Tashi-Lhünpo territory and its neighbourhood, and that I have been further in, and in such places of Tibet as have never been visited by any other European, and that he can ever hope to visit.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. VI (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1989), 272.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Sometime during 1852 she attempted to get into Tibet through Nepal. This first attempt failed through what she believed to be the opposition of the British Resident. When she tried to cross the Rangit river, she was seen and brought back.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xl.</ref><br />
<br />
In 1855 she and some friends formed a plan to penetrate Tibet under various disguises. According to Mr. Sinnett, H.P.B. crossed into Tibetan territory, with the help of a Tartar Shaman who was on his way home to Siberia, while the others were prevented from carrying out their plan.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlii.</ref><br />
<br />
It is presumed that sometime in 1868 H.P.B. went via India to some parts of Tibet. It is on this journey that she met [[Koot Hoomi|Master K.H.]] for the first time, and lived in the house of his sister at Shigadze.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlviii.</ref><br />
<br />
On [[November 11]], 1870, her aunt, Miss [[Nadyezhda Andreyevna de Fadeyev]], received the first known letter from Master K.H. stating that H.P.B. was well and would be back with the family soon.<br />
<br />
It is important to bear in mind the term Tibet was then used in a general manner that included not only Tibet proper, but also regions such as Ladakh (then known as Little Tibet).<br />
<br />
=== Société Spirite ===<br />
<br />
In 1871 Mme. Blavatsky embarked for Egypt from Greece, where she had seen [[Hillarion|Master Hillarion]]. The ship was carrying guns and gunpowder as a protection against pirates and on [[July 4]], 1871, its powder magazine blew up, with a considerable loss of life. H.P.B., however, was uninjured. She eventually reached Alexandria with hardly any means at all. In October or November she went to Cairo where she met [[Emma Coulomb]] (then still Miss Emma Cutting) who was able to loan her some money for the time being.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlix.</ref><br />
<br />
It was here that H.P.B. made a first attempt at investigating and explaining the nature of [[phenomena]]. For that purpose, she formed the Société Spirite (“Spiritist Society”) for the investigation of the [[Spiritism]] of the French occultist [[Allan Kardec]]. It would appear that this was done against the advice of Paulos Metamon, a well-known Coptic mystic and occultist with whom she was in touch at the time.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. I (Wheaton, Ill: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), xlix.</ref> Her sister Vera de Zhelihovsky, who was in correspondence with her during these years, wrote that H.P.B. chose to start in this way “since there was no other [philosophy available]; to give people a chance to see for themselves how mistaken they were. She would first give room to an already established and accepted teaching and then, when the public would see that nothing was coming out of it, she would then offer her own explanations”.<ref>John Algeo (ed.), ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky''. (Wheaton: Theosophical Publishing House, 2003), 21.</ref><br />
<br />
However, the Société Spirite failed within a fortnight as Blavatsky could not find honest and qualified mediums to do the kind of research she had envisioned.<br />
<br />
== Life in the United States ==<br />
<br />
Probably in June, 1873, while in Paris, Mme. Blavatsky received an order from [[Morya|her Master]] to go to New York. She arrived in New York on [[July 8]] and began to work designing illustrated advertising-cards. She also seems to have tried some ornamental leather work, artificial flowers, and cravats.<br />
<br />
In July of 1874 Col. [[Henry Steel Olcott|Henry S. Olcott]] became interested in [[Spiritualism]] and decided to investigate and report as a journalist the spiritualistic phenomena taking place at the Eddy farmhouse in Chittenden, Vermont. He went back to New York after a few days and published an account for the New York Sun. On [[September 17]] he returned to Chittenden for further investigation and on [[October 14]], acting on instructions received, HPB joined him, quickly becoming friends.<br />
<br />
Through her [[Occultism|occult]] training, Mme. Blavatsky had develop [[Siddhi|psychic abilities]] that allowed her to command the [[elemental]]s (certain invisible powers of nature) through which she could perform many [[phenomena]]. Col. Olcott began to witness some of these abilities and naturally became very interested in this. As she began to instruct him in the [[Occult Science]] and the [[Esoteric Philosophy]], the two started working together in connection with the Spiritualistic movement in the US. During this time, HPB performed at will many phenomena normally ascribed to “the spirits,” and published articles in different spiritualistic journals explaining the origin and nature of these psychic incidents, in ways that contradicted many of the Spiritualists' theories. Most spiritualists were not pleased with HPB’s attempt to reform, sometimes quite radically, their beliefs.<br />
<br />
See also: [[Phenomena]]<br />
<br />
[[File:HPB citizenship.jpg|160px|right|thumb|Grant of citizenship]]<br />
=== American citizenship ===<br />
[[File:HPB citizenship 1.jpg|200px|left|thumb|Certificate of citizenship]]<br />
On [[September 22]], 1874, Mme. Blavatsky signs a U.S.A. Government application form expressing her intention to become naturalized.<br />
<br />
On [[July 8]], 1878, "Helen P. Blavatsky" appeared in the Court of Common Pleas in New York City and completed the process of applying for citizenship in the United States. She was the first Russian woman to be naturalized as an American citizen.<br />
<br />
In 1978, [[Boris de Zirkoff]] stated that her naturalization papers were in the hands of Geoffrey Watkins at the time,<ref>Boris de Zirkoff letter to Dora Kunz. October 17, 1978. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> who was the son of [[John Watkins]], a personal friend of Blavatsky.<ref>[https://watkinsbooks.com/history/ "History of Watkins"] at WatkinsBooks.com</ref><br />
<br />
=== Second marriage ===<br />
<br />
On [[April 3]], 1875, a few months before founding the [[Theosophical Society]], Mme. Blavatsky married a Georgian importer living in Philadelphia, [[Michael C. Betanelly]]. The wedding was conducted by Rev. William H. Furness at the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia.<ref>GBC letter to Boris de Zirkoff, dated March 9, 1956. Boris de Zirkoff Papers. Records Series 22. Theosophical Society in America Archives. The church was located at Chestnut and Van Pelt Street, and the pastor described HPB as Russian, aged 36 [she was actually 43] and her husband as Russian, aged 33.</ref> She agreed to this marriage after her suitor conceded that she could retain her name and independence, and that it was a marriage in name only. Colonel Olcott was astonished at the situation and she later told him that the situation resulted from karmic complications from past lives.<ref>Charles J. Ryan, ''H. P. Blavatsky and the Theosophical Movement'' (Pasadena: Theosophical University Press), 55.</ref> The marriage broke off after several months and Betanelly sued for divorce, which was finally granted on [[May 25]], 1878, with [[William Quan Judge|William Q. Judge]] acting as Blavatsky's counsel.<br />
<br />
=== The White Dog ===<br />
[[File:White dog cafe.jpg|right|150px|thumb|White Dog Cafe]]<br />
In 1875 Mme. Blavatsky resided at 3420 Sansom Street, in Philadelphia, PA. During the last days of January, she injured her leg and her knee. By the middle of April [[John King]] cured the leg, but the trouble returned owing to lack of rest. By May her leg grew worse, becoming paralyzed and doctors and surgeons said the leg should be amputated. She dismissed their advice saying, <br />
<br />
<blockquote>Fancy my father's daughter--on a wooden leg--fancy my leg going in the spirit land before me!<ref>John Algeo, ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky'' Letter No. 47, (Wheaton, IL: The Theosophical Publishing House, 2003), 176-177.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
A message precipitated from John King claimed that he would cure it. On [[June 3]], at midnight, HPB laid cold, pulse-less, and rigid; her injured leg had swollen to twice the natural size and had turned black. Her physician had given her up and her attendants thought her to be dead. However, within a few hours, the swelling subsided and she revived. Her leg was cured after two days of cold ''poultices'' and having a white pup laying at night across it. The story of the white dog has entered into Philadelphia lore with a restaurant called "The White Dog Cafe" located since 1983 in the building where Blavatsky lived. <br />
<br />
During that time HPB was very ill and, according to her husband [[Michael C. Betanelly]], she sometimes appeared to be "dead". As it would appear from [[Serapis|Master Serapis]]' letters to [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] she underwent a serious trial or [[initiation]]. By the end of June, HPB had recovered fully.<br />
<br />
=== The Miracle Club ===<br />
<br />
While living in New York, Mme. Blavatsky started publishing some articles and letters on [[spiritualism]], [[magic]], and [[occultism]]. According to [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] this and "the stories that were afloat about her magical powers, and our several affirmations of the existence of non-human races of spiritual beings, drew into our acquaintanceship numbers of bright, clever people of occult leanings".<ref>Henry Steel Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' First Series (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1974), 113-114.</ref> At this time Mme. Blavatsky recorded the following in her scrap-book:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>An attempt in consequence of orders received from [[Tuitit Bey|T*** B***]] through P*** personating [[John King]]. Ordered to begin telling the public the truth about the [[phenomena]] and their [[Mediumship|mediums]]. And now my martyrdom will begin! I shall have all the [[Spiritualism|Spiritualists]] against me, in addition to the [[Christianity|Christians]] and the Sceptics. Thy will, oh [[Morya|M.]], be done. H.P.B.<ref>Henry Steel Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' First Series (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1974), 25.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
In May 1875 it was decided to form a private investigating committee under the title of the "Miracle Club" where the phenomena of spiritualism would be studied, tested, and demonstrated; "All the manifestations, including materialisations, to occur in the light, and without a cabinet".<ref>Henry Steel Olcott, ''Old Diary Leaves'' First Series (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1974), 25-26.</ref> This attempt, however, failed, mainly because the medium that was to be involved wanted to earn money from this endeavor, something HPB always opposed.<br />
<br />
=== Founding of the Theosophical Society ===<br />
<br />
In July 1875, HPB wrote in her scrapbook:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Orders received from India direct to establish a philosophico-religious society and choose a name for it, also to choose Olcott.<ref>Daniel H. Caldwell, ''The Esoteric World of Madame Blavatsky'' (Wheaton, Ill., Quest Books, 2001), 71</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
On [[September 7]], sixteen or seventeen people joined HPB in her rooms at 46 Irving Place to hear a lecture by [[George H. Felt]] on "The Lost Canon of Proportion of the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans." The talk was enthusiastically received and [[Henry Steel Olcott|H. S. Olcott]] wrote on a slip of paper, "Would it not be a good thing to form a society from this kind of study?" He handed it to [[William Quan Judge|W. Q. Judge]] to pass it to HPB, who nodded in assent.<ref>Sylvia Cranston, ''H.P.B. The Extraordinary Life & Influence of Helena Blavatsky'', (New York: Putnam Book, 1993), 143.</ref><br />
<br />
At subsequent meetings bylaws were decided upon and officers were elected, with Col. Olcott as President, [[G. H. Felt]] and Dr. [[Seth Pancoast]] as Vice-Presidents; Madame Blavatsky, Corresponding Secretary; and W. Q. Judge as Counsel to the Society.<br />
<br />
On [[November 17]], seventy days after the formation of the Society was proposed, Col. Olcott gave his inaugural address as President-Founder of the newly formed [[Theosophical Society]].<br />
<br />
See also [[Founding of the Theosophical Society]].<br />
<br />
=== The "Lamasery" ===<br />
[[File:HP Blavatsky 1877.jpg|200px|right|thumb|H. P. Blavatsky around 1876-1877, in New York.]]<br />
Since June 1876 till December 1878 Mme. Blavatsky and [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] lived in an apartment situated at 302 West 47th Street in New York. Known as [[The Lamasery|the "Lamasery"]], the place became the unofficial headquarters of the newly formed Theosophical Society and a center of attraction for people interested in [[Occultism]], [[Kabbalah]], [[Spiritualism]], Platonism, as well as those curious about [[phenomena]]. Col. Olcott and Mr. Judge were nearly always present, and, after the departure of the visitors would remain far into the night immersed in study and discussion.<br />
<br />
See also [[The Lamasery]].<br />
<br />
=== ''Isis Unveiled'' ===<br />
<br />
H. P. Blavatsky's first major literary effort was [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']], a critical response to the growing materialism in both scientific and religious institutions. The book was started in 1875, a few months before the formation of the [[Theosophical Society]], although at the time HPB did not know what was to become of the growing pile of manuscripts.<br />
<br />
Described as "A Master-Key to the Mysteries of Ancient and Modern Science and Theology," the book was published in two volumes on [[September 29]], 1877, quickly becoming a classic in occult literature. Two large editions of this "epoch-making" work were sold immediately, and new editions have been appearing ever since.<br />
<br />
On [[December 18]], 1878, five months after being officially naturalized as a U.S. citizen, Mme. Blavatsky (along with [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]], [[Edward Wimbridge]], and [[Rosa Bates]]) left for India via England. She would not return to the country again. The party arrived in London on [[January 3]], 1879, and spent two weeks at the house of [[Harry J. Billing|Dr.]] and [[Mary Hollis Billing|Mrs. Billing]]. They sailed for Bombay on [[January 19]].<br />
<br />
== Life in India ==<br />
=== Arriving at Bombay ===<br />
Mme. Blavatsky and the party arrived in Bombay on [[February 16]], 1879. In October of this year she started publishing [[The Theosophist (periodical)|The Theosophist]]. On [[December 4]] [[Founders#"The Founders"|the Founders]] visited [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]], editor of [[The Pioneer (periodical)|''The Pioneer'']], who would become an important figure in the early [[Theosophical Society]]. A second visit was paid in 1880 where Mme. Blavatsky performed many wonderful [[phenomena]] that Mr. Sinnett described in his book [[The Occult World (book)|''The Occult World'']].<br />
<br />
During 1880 Mme. Blavatsky suffered many personal attacks concerning her identity and antecedents. Being Russian and earning money from publication of stories in Russian newspapers, the British government feared she was a Russian spy.<br />
<br />
=== Taking Pansil ===<br />
[[File:Pansil Certification Letter - HS Olcott.jpeg|200px|left]]<br />
On [[May 19]], 1880, at the invitation of two head Buddhist monks of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Mme. Blavatsky and a group of [[Theosophist]]s went to the island. Here they "took Pansil", that is, they formally identified themselves with [[Buddhism]] by reciting the [[Five Precepts]] (''pancha-sila'') at the Vijayananda Vihara, in Galle.<br />
<br />
[[H. S. Olcott|Col. Olcott]] certified this in his own handwriting:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>"This is to certify that on the 19th May 1880 the Founders of the Theosophical Society Madame H. P. Blavatsky and myself took the Panchasila for the first time at Vijayananda Vihara from Akmemana Dhammarama Thera."</blockquote><br />
<br />
=== "Crow's Nest" period ===<br />
[[File:Crows Nest Bombay.jpg|380px|right|thumb|Crow's Nest, Bombay]]<br />
By the end of December 1880, after their second visit to the Sinnetts, Mme. Blavatsky and Col. Olcott moved to a spacious house on the hill of Breach Candy, Bombay, nicknamed the "Crow's Nest". This became a great center of Theosophical activity, [[phenomena]], and visitations by the [[Masters of Wisdom]].<br />
<br />
In July 1882 Mme. Blavatsky traveled incognito to go into Sikkim. At about thirty miles into Sikkim territory she met physically Masters [[Morya|M.]] and [[Koot Hoomi|K.H.]] with whom she spent two days. The latter, wrote about this in [[Mahatma Letter No. 92#Page 20|one of his letters]]:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>I do not believe I was ever so profoundly touched by anything I witnessed in all my life, as I was with the poor old creature’s ecstatic rapture, when meeting us recently both in our natural bodies, one — after three years, the other — nearly two years absence and separation in flesh. Even our phlegmatic M. was thrown off his balance by such an exhibition — of which he was chief hero. He had to use his power, and plunge her into a profound sleep, otherwise she would have burst some blood-vessel including kidneys, liver and her “interiors” — to use our friend [[William Oxley|Oxley’s]] favourite expression — in her delirious attempts to flatten her nose against his riding mantle besmeared with the Sikkim mud! We both laughed; yet could we feel otherwise but touched?<ref>Vicente Hao Chin, Jr., ''The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in chronological sequence'' No. 92 (Quezon City: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 297.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
=== Adyar Period ===<br />
<br />
On [[April 23]], 1882, [[Founders#"The Founders"|the Founders]] arrived by ship at Madras, where they met [[T. Subba Row]], and others. On [[May 31]] they were taken to see a piece of property as a possible new headquarters for the Theosophical Society. When Mme. Blavatsky saw the Estate she declared "Master wants this purchased".<ref>[http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/chettyodl.htm# Old Diary Leaves] by G. Subbiah Chetty</ref><br />
<br />
On [[December 17]] Mme. Blavatsky and [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] left Bombay by train heading for Adyar, accompanied by the [[Emma Coulomb|Emma]] and [[Alexis Coulomb]], [[Damodar K. Mavalankar|Damodar]], [[Gwala K. Deb|"Mr. Deb"]], Dora Swami Naidu, and five Hindu servants. They arrived on the [[December 19|19th]], 1882.<br />
<br />
In 1883 she passed most of her time editing [[The Theosophist (periodical)|''The Theosophist'']] (which was the main source of Theosophical teachings at the time) and answering correspondence. It also fell to her to take charge of both [[chela]]s and lay chelas.<ref>Josephine Ransom, ''A Short History of The Theosophical Society'' (Adyar, Madras, India: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1989), 178.</ref><br />
<br />
In the second part of the year she spent about three months in the "Blue Mountains" (Nilgiri Hills) investigating the primitive Toda people living there. Her account was eventually published in book form under the title of [[The People of the Blue Mountains (book)|''The People of the Blue Mountains'']].<br />
<br />
=== Visiting Europe ===<br />
<br />
At a council meeting on [[January 20]], 1884, it was decided that Mme. Blavatsky should accompany [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] on his trip to Europe, partly for reasons of health. Before leaving the President issued a special order designating some members of the General Council to act as a Board of Control during his absence to take care of the official business.<br />
<br />
They left [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]] and reached Marseilles on [[March 13]]. HPB stayed in France for about three weeks, mostly in Paris. On [[April 7]], she unexpectedly appeared at the election of officers in the [[London Lodge]]. <br />
<br />
On [[August 17]] she visited the [[Gebhard Family]] at Elberfeld, Germany. It was here that she heard from [[Damodar K. Mavalankar]] in Adyar about the attack from the Missionaries, incited by [[Emma Coulomb]], accusing HPB of having fraudulent [[phenomena]].<br />
<br />
Mme. Blavatsky left for India on [[November 1]], 1884, accompanied by [[Isabelle Cooper-Oakley]] and [[A. J. Cooper-Oakley|her husband]]. They were joined by [[Charles Webster Leadbeater|C. W. Leadbeater]] at Port Said, in north east Egypt. After stopping in Cairo, they went to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and joined [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] there. They arrived at [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]] on [[December 17]], 1884.<br />
<br />
=== The Hodgson Report ===<br />
<br />
In 1884, while [[Founders#"The Founders"|the Founders]] were in Europe, the members of the Board of Control at Adyar could not tolerate [[Emma Coulomb]] any longer. They asked her to leave and she planned to take revenge. She and her husband Alexis went to the missionaries in Madras (now Chennai) and organized an attack on Mme. Blavatsky.<br />
<br />
When HPB arrived at Madras on [[December 17]], she received a tumultuous reception. She spoke in Pachaiappa's Hall packed with supporters, and declared that [[Emma Coulomb]]'s letters, as they stand, had not been written by her.<br />
<br />
The [[Society for Psychical Research]] (S.P.R.) decided to send young [[Richard Hodgson]] to [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]] to investigate Mme. Blavatsky's [[phenomena]], the production of the [[Mahatma Letters]], and the Coulomb's accusations. He arrived at Adyar in November, 1884, were he was friendly received. However, he began to be deceived by Emma and her husband into believing that she had faked them. <br />
<br />
In April 1885 Hodgson returned to London. At the General Meeting of the S.P.R. held on [[June 24]] he presented a 200-page report declaring that Mme. Blavatsky was one of the most gifted, ingenious and interesting impostors in history.<br />
<br />
Although her reputation was seriously damaged due to this report, the next years of her life can be regarded as the most productive in her role as a spiritual teacher.<br />
<br />
In January 1885, while in [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar]], Mme. Blavatsky became seriously ill. One night when she was about to die [[Morya|Master M.]] came and laid his hands upon her to bring her back from death.<ref>Josephine Ransom, ''A Short History of The Theosophical Society'' (Adyar, Madras, India: The Theosophical Publishing House, 1989), 218.</ref> Unable to perform any administrative duties due to her health, on [[March 21]] 1885 she resigned as Corresponding Secretary of the [[Theosophical Society]]. <br />
<br />
Eventually, partly because of her health and partly to diffuse the effects of the accusations brought by the [[Emma Coulomb|Coulombs]], Mme. Blavatsky was "sent to Europe", in spite of her protests.<br />
<br />
That this move had been contemplated by the [[Masters of Wisdom|Masters]] for some time can be ascertained from a letter [[Koot Hoomi|Master K.H.]] wrote to [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]] in October, 1884. In reference to Mme. Blavatsky, he stated:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>She is permitted to retire for three reasons (1) to disconnect the [[Theosophical Society|T.S.]] from her [[phenomena]], now tried to be represented all fraudulent; (2) to help it by removing the chief cause of the hatred against it; (3) to try and restore the health of the body, so it may be used for some years longer.<ref>Vicente Hao Chin, Jr., ''The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in chronological sequence'' No. 130 (Quezon City: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 434.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
Later researches such as those made by [[Vernon Harrison|Dr. Vernon Harrison]], an expert on forgery, and [[Walter A. Carrithers, Jr.]] (pen name of Adlai E. Waterman) showed that the Hodgson's research was faulty and biased. <br />
<br />
See also: [[Hodgson Report]].<br />
<br />
== Life in Europe ==<br />
On [[March 31]], 1885, [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Mme. Blavatsky]] sailed away from India, never to return. With her went [[Babaji]], [[Franz Hartmann|Dr. Hartmann]], and [[Mary Flynn]] to look after her.<br />
<br />
She stayed in Torre del Greco, Italy, for about three months, and in August decided to go to Wurzburg, near Munich, Germany. With the regaining of her health she started to become involved in the administration of the TS in Europe and she started working in a systematic way on her next book, [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
=== ''The Secret Doctrine'' === <br />
<br />
In May 1879, soon after moving to India, Mme. Blavatsky started designing a new book on [[Theosophy]] that would eventually become [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
In January 1884 the Supplement to [[The Theosophist (periodical)|''The Theosophist'']] published an advertising announcing "a New Version of [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']]", which was to be published in monthly. Although Mme. Blavatsky had some written material to start the monthly installments, this never came to fruition in the way planned, due to ill-health, her travel to Europe, and the [[Hodgson_Report#Coulomb_affair|Coulomb affair]].<br />
<br />
In the fall of 1885, a few months after moving to Wurzburg, Germany, HPB started working steadily on its writing. The [[Constance Wachtmeister|Countess Wachtmeister]] moved with HPB to help her in this endeavor. As the writing of the book developed with the help of Masters [[Morya|M.]] and [[Koot Hoomi|K.H.]], HPB realized it was much more than a rewriting of ''Isis Unveiled''. In a letter to [[Alfred Percy Sinnett|A. P. Sinnett]] she said she felt that this could vindicate the [[Theosophical Society]] after the unfavorable [[Hodgson Report|Report]] that Hodgson made.<ref>A. Trevor Barker, ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky to A. P. Sinnett'' Letter No. CXVI, (Pasadena, CA: Theosophical University Press, 1973), 79.</ref><br />
<br />
In the spring of 1886 she sent a preliminary manuscript of the first volume to Adyar, where [[T. Subba Row]] was supposed to read it and contribute in what had to do with [[Hinduism|Hindu philosophy]]. However, he refused to do so. HPB moved to Ostende, Belgium, where she continued working on the book, and finished it after moving to London, where he had the help of a group of young members. The First Volume of ''The Secret Doctrine'' came off the Press on [[October 20]], 1888, while the Second Volume was out towards the end of the year.<br />
<br />
=== Bright's disease ===<br />
[[File:HPB reading book JPEG.jpg|160px|left|thumb|HPB reading in London, in 1887.]]<br />
By the end of March 1887, in Ostende, HPB fell gravely ill with a kidney infection. She was not expected to live. [[Morya|Master M.]] came at night and asked her if she wanted to be freed from the body or live, amidst much suffering, finish ''The Secret Doctrine'' and do some more work for [[Theosophy]] in Europe. She agreed, although regretfully. In a letter to [[Jirah Dewey Buck|J.G. Buck]] she wrote: "No luck! Saved once more and forced to accept a new lease of life."<ref>H. P. Blavatsky, Letter to J.G. Buck, London, May 7 1886.</ref><br />
<br />
=== Move to London ===<br />
<br />
Before Blavatsky's health crisis, [[Archibald Keightley|Archibald]] and [[Bertram Keightley]] had been asking her to move to London, where she would find a band of devoted young workers to help her in her work. Blavatsky agreed, and soon after her recovery, on [[May 1]], 1887, they went to Ostende to help her move. Blavatsky related this in her characteristic humorous way:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>A deputation from London came to Ostende, packed me up and brought me over, kidneys, paralysed legs and all. A pretty piece of luggage!<ref>H. P. Blavatsky, Letter to J.G. Buck, London, May 7 1886.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
She settled with a few devoted friends in Lansdowne Road, Notting Hill, in September 1887,<ref>''The Vahan''. January 1, 1891.</ref> where a group of earnest students took care of her and helped her finish and publish her greatest work, [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
=== Blavatsky Lodge ===<br />
<br />
Soon after Blavatsky arrived in London, the group of students that had gathered around her convinced her of the need to form a TS Lodge. This was done, and they called it "[[Blavatsky Lodge|The Blavatsky Lodge of the Theosophical Society]]". In addition, they decided to form a Theosophical Publishing Company and start a Theosophical journal they daringly called [[Lucifer (periodical)|Lucifer]], with HPB and Mabel Collins as editors. HPB wrote many articles for this.<br />
<br />
After the publishing of [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']] the Lodge met regularly to discuss with HPB any obscure points they found in its first volume. The dialogues they held were partially published under the title [http://www.phx-ult-lodge.org/Transactions.htm# ''Transactions of the Blavatsky Lodge''] and later a complete version was published as [https://www.hightail.com/download/bWJvY05rdGpubVhvS3NUQw# ''The Secret Doctrine Commentaries'']. In these meetings the content of another important book by HPB, [[The Key to Theosophy (book)|''The Key to Theosophy'']] was also discussed before its publication.<br />
<br />
=== Esoteric Section ===<br />
[[File:Blavatsky Olcott.jpg|300px|right|thumb|Last photo of Mme. Blavatsky and Col. Olcott together, taken in London, Oct. 1888]]<br />
On [[October 9]], 1888, as a response to the demand by many earnest members to have esoteric teachings given by H. P. Blavatsky, [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] agreed to form the "[[Esoteric Section|Esoteric Section of the Theosophical Society]]" with Mme. Blavatsky as its responsible head.<br />
<br />
In August 1890 she formed an [[Esoteric_Section#Inner_Group|"Inner Group"]] of this Section mainly with some of her students living in London at the time. The group held its meetings weekly in HPB's place, at 19 Avenue Rd, in a room specially built for it. Participants would ask questions in regards to the [[Esoteric Philosophy]] or the spiritual practice and HPB would answer.<br />
<br />
=== ''The Voice of the Silence'' ===<br />
<br />
In July, 1889, Mme. Blavatsky went to Fontainebleau, France, for a few week's rest. There she wrote most of the material that would turn into the mystical Theosophical work known as [[The Voice of the Silence (book)|''The Voice of the Silence'']]. This book is a translation of three treatises contained in a secret work, ''[[The Book of the Golden Precepts]]'', which she had learned by heart during her training in Tibet.<br />
<br />
During this time HPB received a visit from the newly joined [[Herbert Burrows]] and [[Annie Besant]]. In regards to the writing of this book, Mrs. Besant said:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>She wrote it swiftly, without any material copy before her. I sat in the room while she was writing it. I know that she did not write it referring to any books, but she wrote it down steadily, hour after hour, exactly as though she were writing either from memory or from reading it where no book was and in the evening made me read it aloud to see if the 'English was decent.' Herbert Burrows was there, and Mrs. Candler, a staunch American Theosophist, and we sat round HPB while I read. The translation was in perfect and beautiful English, flowing and musical; only a word or two could we find to alter, and she looked at us like a startled child, wondering at our praises—praise that any one with the literary sense would endorse if they read that exquisite prose poem.<ref>Annie Besant, ''The Masters'', (Adyar, Madras: The Theosophical Press, 1977), 32-33.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
<br />
There exists no definite evidence that Mme. Blavatsky had ever published any articles, essays or letters to editors prior to October, 1874, although there are statements that seem to indicate that her literary work began much earlier in life. Besides the books she wrote, for much of her adult life HPB supported herself by writing travelogues and stories for Russian periodicals. <br />
<br />
For a list of her books and other writings, see '''[[Blavatsky writings]]'''.<br />
<br />
[[File:HPB death mask.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Death mask of HPB, from ''The Theosophist'', May 1991]]<br />
<br />
== Death ==<br />
In April, 1891, a very serious epidemic of influenza struck London. Practically the entire staff at 19 Avenue Rd. was affected, with three of them being at death's door. On [[April 25]]th, H.P.B. had a very high fever. On the [[April 30|30th]], she developed an abscess in her throat, and then another on the bronchial tubes, and became progressively weaker. On [[May 6]] she somewhat improved and managed to walk into her sitting room, although she said she felt she was dying. However, on [[May 8]], at 11 a.m., H.P.B. grew worse. A nurse, Miss Black, was present, along with several of the [[Inner Group]]. Seated in her chair, she passed away at 2:25 p.m., GMT. [[Laura M. Cooper|Miss Laura Cooper]] was standing behind the chair, while [[Walter Gornold]] knelt holding her right hand.<ref>Daniel H. Caldwell, ''The Esoteric World of Madame Blavatsky: Insights into the Life of a Modern Sphinx'' (Wheaton:Quest Books, 2001), 396-397.</ref><ref>Laura M. Cooper, "How She Left Us" ''In Memory of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky'' (London: Theosophical Publishing Society, 1891) 3-7.</ref> Mr. Wright "knelt beside her holding her left hand, and as she passed away took the ring from off her fourth finger."<ref>Anonymous, "Faces of Friends" ''The Path'' 8.11 (February, 1894), 351-352.</ref> The Countess [[Constance Wachtmeister]] and [[Isabel Cooper-Oakley]] arrived just after she passed. Miss Cooper left a detailed account of the event.<ref>Laura M. Cooper, 3-7.</ref><br />
<br />
H.P.B. had left instructions that "no parade or show of any kind should be made over her body."<ref>G. R. S. Mead,"The Cremation," ''H.P.B.: In Memory of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky'' (London: Theosophical Publishing Society, 1891), 7.</ref> Her body was cremated at Woking Crematorium, Surrey, on [[May 11]], 1891. [[G. R. S. Mead]], General Secretary of the European Section and H.P.B.'s private secretary, addressed the small assembly of officers, staff, and friends, and then the ashes were returned to her own rooms.<ref>G. R. S. Mead,"The Cremation," 8-11. Available at [https://archive.org/stream/hpbinmemoryhele00unkngoog/hpbinmemoryhele00unkngoog_djvu.txt Internet Archive].</ref><br />
<br />
Between May 8 and 9 [[Henry Steel Olcott|Col. Olcott]] had received three distinct warnings about Mme. Blavatsky's passing. He had received a cablegram about the fact on [[May 10]].<br />
<br />
On [[July 9]], 1891, the First Annual Convention of the European Branches was held in London. [[William Quan Judge|W. Q. Judge]] offered a resolution for the creation of an "H.P.B. Memorial Fund". Col. Olcott, as Chairman, suggested the partition of H.P.B.'s ashes. Some of the ashes are buried under the Blavatsky and Olcott statues in the [[Adyar (campus)|Adyar headquarters]] that they had established in 1882.<br />
[[File:HPB-HSO statues in Adyar.jpg|280px|right|thumb|Statues of H.P. Blavatsky and H.S. Olcott at Adyar headquarters.]]<br />
<br />
== Tributes and memorials ==<br />
<br />
Almost every year, the Theosophical Society in England sponsors one of its '''[[Blavatsky Lectures]]''', delivered by some of the best speakers in the Theosophical world.<br />
<br />
The first '''Blavatsky Lodge''' was in London, but similar names have also been adopted by groups in Sydney, Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Colombia, Vancouver, Mumbai, Richmond (BC), and at least seven groups in the [[Theosophical Society in America]]. The name '''Blavatsky Hall''' has been used in London, Mumbai, Chennai, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. '''Blavatsky Avenue''' is found in Jakarta and in Adyar, Chennai. The '''Blavatsky Study Centre''' is at the [http://tsperth.wikkii.com/wiki/Mt._Helena_Retreat Mt. Helena Retreat] near Perth, Australia.<br />
<br />
'''[[H. P. Blavatsky House-Museum]]''' in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine, is a museum located in the house in which HPB was born.<br />
<br />
The '''[[H. P. B. Library]]''' in Canada was founded by [[Alice L. Cleather]], who also helped establish the '''[[Blavatsky Association]]''' that existed from 1923 to 1945.<br />
<br />
A brief summary of her continued influence in many countries can be found at '''"[[H.P.Blavatsky's heritage in the modern world]]"'''.<br />
<br />
=== Fictional and dramatic accounts ===<br />
<br />
Madame Blavatsky continues to fascinate modern writers, and is frequently mentioned in plays, popular fiction, Web-based fan fiction, and blog postings. Here are some examples:<br />
<br />
* Serra, Francesca Serra. ''La grande Blavatsky''. 2016. Italian novel.<br />
<br />
[[File:Bronze_medallion.jpg|right|230px|thumb|Bronze medallion by William R. O'Donovan]]<br />
<br />
== Paintings and sculptures of HPB ==<br />
<br />
American sculptor [[William R. O’Donovan]] created a bronze medallion of Madame Blavatsky while the [[Founders]] were still in New York. It appeared as the frontispiece in the first volume of [[Old Diary Leaves (book)|''Old Diary Leaves'']].<br />
<br />
See also '''[[Blavatsky photographs and portraits]]'''<br />
<br />
== Additional resources about HPB ==<br />
<br />
For a listing of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky's writings, including digital versions, see '''[[Blavatsky writings]]'''.<br />
<br />
=== Biographies ===<br />
<br />
Numerous biographies have been written. These are some of the most significant:<br />
* Butt, G. Baseden. '''''Madame Blavatsky'''''. London: Rider & Co., 1925. Has careful annotations of phenomena.<br />
* Cranston, Sylvia [Anita Atkins]. '''''H. P. B. The Extraordinary Life and Influence of Helena Blavatsky, Founder of the Modern Theosophical Movement'''''. New York: TarcherPerigee, 1993. Available at [https://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/cranston/HPB-Cranston_ebook.pdf '''Theosophical University Press''']. This work is probably the most complete and thoroughly documented biography<br />
* Goodrick-Clarke, Nicholas. '''''Helena Blavatsky'''''. Berkeley: North Atlantic Books, 2004.<br />
* Lachman, Gary. '''''Madame Blavatsky: The Mother of Modern Spirituality'''''. New York: Jeremy P. Tarcher/Penguin, 2012.<br />
* Meade, Marion. '''''Madame Blavatsky: The Woman Behind the Myth'''''. New York: Putnam, 1980.<br />
* Williams, Gertrude Marvin. '''''[https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.178230 Priestess of the Occult]'''''. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1946. This biography is overtly hostile and is known to have numerous errors of fact and interpretation.<br />
<br />
=== Autobiographies ===<br />
<br />
In a category of its own is a '''purported autobiography dictated from beyond the grave''' by Madame Blavatsky. Joseph M. Wade, in the preface to this work, described how the spirit of George W. Stephens operated a typewriting machine designed by G. W. N. Yost, whose spirit supervised the operation. The typewriter was enclosed in a cabinet placed a few feet away from a medium who was connecting with HPB.<br />
* Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna and Joseph M. Wade. '''''Posthumous Memoirs of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky'''''. Boston: Jos. M Wade and London: H. A. Copley, 1896. Available from [https://cdn.loc.gov/service/gdc/dcmsiabooks/po/st/hu/mo/us/me/mo/ir/00/wa/de/posthumousmemoir00wade/posthumousmemoir00wade.pdf Library of Congress].<br />
<br />
===Articles and pamphlets===<br />
* [https://www.theosophy.world/encyclopedia/blavatsky-helena-petrovna Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna] in Theosophy World<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/blavatsky-and-mount-rushmore Blavatsky and Mount Rushmore] by John Algeo<br />
* [http://hpb.narod.ru/HPB_Light_Bringer.htm# H. P. Blavatsky - the Light-Bringer] by Geoffrey A. Barborka<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/dallasblavatsky.htm# HPB - Chronological Review of Events in her Life] published by Blavatsky Study Center<br />
* [https://cdn.website-editor.net/e4d6563c50794969b714ab70457d9761/files/uploaded/AdyarPamphlet_No157.pdf# The Theosophical Society and H.P.B.] by Annie Besant and H.T. Patterson<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyfoundation.org/carrith1.htm# The Truth About Madame Blavatsky] by Walter A. Carrithers, Jr.<br />
* [http://blavatskyarchives.com/cooperl1891.htm# How She Left Us] by Laura M. Cooper<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/esoteric-she# The Esoteric She] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/h-p-b-lion-hearted-colleague-passes# H.P.B. - A Lion-Hearted Colleague Passes] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/h-p-b-at-enghien# H.P.B. at Enghien] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/hpb-was-not-deserted-by-the-masters# H.P.B. Was Not Deserted by the Masters] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/your-till-death-and-after# "Yours Till Death and After, H.P.B."] by William Q. Judge<br />
* [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/mead.html# Address Read at the Cremation of HPB's Body] by G. R. S. Mead<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/meadconhpb.htm# Concerning H.P.B. - Stray Thoughts on Theosophy] by G.R.S. Mead<br />
* [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/shearman2.html# A Message Ahead of Its Time] by Hugh Shearman<br />
* [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/hishpb1.htm# New Light on the First Marriage of HPB] by Marina Cesar Sisson<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/against-blavatsky-rene-guenons-critique-of-theosophy Against Blavatsky: Rene Guenon's Critique of Theosophy] by Richard Smoley<br />
* Carlson, Marie. “To Spy or Not to Spy: ‘The Letter’ of H.P. Blavatsky to the Third Section,” ''Theosophical History'' 5/7 (July 1995): 225-231.<br />
* [http://blavatskytheosophy.com/praise-for-h-p-blavatsky-and-theosophy# Praise for H.P. Blavatsky and Theosophy] at BlavatskyTheosophy.com<br />
* [https://archive.org/details/JinarajadasaThePersonalityOfHPBlavatsky ''The Personality of H. P. Blavatsky''] by C. Jinarajadasa, 1930.<br />
<br />
===Books===<br />
* [http://blavatskyarchives.com/theosophypdfs/wachtmeister_reminiscences_of_h__p__blavatsky_1893.pdf# Reminiscences of H.P. Blavatsky and ''The Secret Doctrine''] by Countess Constance Wachtmeister<br />
<br />
=== Archives ===<br />
* [https://www.blavatskyarchives.com/hern2000.htm Records of the British Government's Surveillance of Theosophical Society Personalities and Others in the Oriental and India Office Collection], with introduction by Anthony Hern.<br />
<br />
=== Natal horoscope and astrological commentary ===<br />
<br />
* [https://www.astro.com/astro-databank/Blavatsky,_Helena Blavatsky, Helena] at Astro-Databank.<br />
* [https://www.astro-seek.com/birth-chart/helena-blavatsky-horoscope Helena Blavatsky Birth Chart] at Asto-Seek.<br />
* [https://www.makara.us/04mdr/01writing/03tg/bios/Blavatsky.htm Helena P. Blavatsky] by Michael D. Robbins, 2005. This source gives a very detailed account of HPB's life, but should be read with caution, as it relays errors about Yuri and other incidents and relationships.<br />
* [https://arthealswounds.wordpress.com/2019/08/12/sphinx-of-the-wisdom-tradition-helena-petrovna-blavatsky/ Sphinx of the Wisdom Tradition: Helena Petrovna Blavatsky] from Proteus Astrology. August 12, 2019.<br />
* [https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/Record/3116874 The Life and Horoscope of Madame Blavatsky] by A.F. Orchard and A. Fletcher. London: Birch & Whittington, [1924]. <br />
* [http://www.astro.com/cgi/chart.cgi?wgid=wgeJxNTssKwjAQ_Bpvq2Q3lVbDHiqIHr2I5y2NtbSJ0qSW_r0pgngZhhnmMbVdy2Qax4LG13zo5S0xdDOcbW-9rEhdNnAHJCgAC42gaI85OJ3Z7Q4a6UHBsZNoh9Y_Q0rDtYSvmRWechhBoyKgXBegjNSVF2f5rz3Bb3Xx61TGSEkux2YMMZFl2FRxfqWrLj5Y4mQeYeY1miEw3k4fTvg8TA# H. P. Blavatsky's Natal Chart] at Astrodienst.<br />
* [http://www.khaldea.com/charts/helenapetrovnablavatsky.shtml Helena Petrovna Blavatsky Natal Horoscope] at Khaldea.<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/algeo/The%20Real%20Madame%20Blavatsky.mp3# The Real Madame Blavatsky] by John Algeo.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/algeo/Olcott%20and%20Blavatsky:%20Theosophical%20Twins.mp3# Olcott and Blavatsky: Theosophical Twins] by John Algeo.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/bruce/H.%20P.%20Blavatsky%20Remembered:%20White%20Lotus%20Day%20Commemoration.mp3# H. P. Blavatsky Remembered: White Lotus Day Commemoration] by David Bruce.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/dezirkoff/The%20Life%20of%20HPB.mp3# The Life of HPB] Boris de Zirkoff.<br />
* [https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/hoeller/H.%20P.%20Blavatsky:%20Woman%20of%20Mystery.mp3# H. P. Blavatsky: Woman of Mystery] by Stephan Hoeller.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
*[https://youtu.be/jSYczL-glX0# Olcott and Blavatsky: Theosophical Twins] by John Algeo<br />
*[https://youtu.be/aArPJidVsLw# Who Was HPB?] By Michael Gomes<br />
*[https://youtu.be/Tjy4t9qCRQs# The Mysterious Madame Blavatsky] by Stephan Hoeller and William Metzger<br />
*[https://youtu.be/ckLObdbosB4# HPB as Modern Gnostic] by Stephan Hoeller<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj5QW8vcylM# H. P. Blavatsky: Teacher and Mystery Woman by Stephan Hoeller]<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcNkoQXUbWA# Blavatsky and the Once and Future Gnosis] by Stephan Hoeller<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIqlw020DQU# H. P. Blavatsky, Manly P. Hall, and the Secret Teachings of all Ages] by Mitch Horowitz<br />
*[https://youtu.be/dKdaoWOrAnQ# HPB versus Darth Vader] by Mitch Horowitz<br />
*[https://youtu.be/9J2yYBAad9A# HPB and the War of the Worldviews] by Doss McDavid<br />
*[https://youtu.be/eT3MjQ7rFqc# Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger] by Vonda Urban<br />
*[https://youtu.be/VRbfJAUDsck# A Priestess of Isis] by Adam Warcup<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=yZZYFsrBzCM# Blavatsky's Tibet: Sacred Power Places and their Spiritual Mysteries] by Glenn Mullin<br />
*[http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/blavatskyvideos2.htm Recommended videos] listed by Blavatsky Archives.<br />
<br />
=== Websites ===<br />
* [http://art-roerich.org.ua/ Bakhmut Roerich Society] in Ukraine offers a wealth of Russian-language and some English materials by and about HPB and the Roerichs.<br />
* [http://exhibition.theosophy.in.ua/en/ H. P. Blavatsky Online Exhibition] by the Theosophical Society in Ukraine.<br />
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/dallasblavatsky.htm Chronological Review of Events in Her Life] by W. Dallas TenBroeck, published in Blavatsky Study Center website.<br />
* [http://www.theosophy-nw.org/theosnw/theos/hpb-selc.htm# H. P. Blavatsky - Theosophical Topics in Depth] Links to articles, letters, and books on and by HPB.<br />
* [http://www.blavatsky.net/index.php/refutation-of-charges# Refutation of charges against Madame Blavatsky] at Blavatsky Net.<br />
*[http://ru.teopedia.org/hpb/%D0%97%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BB%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D1%81%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%86%D0%B0# Articles, books and quotations from HPB in Russian language] at Теопедия (Teopedia).<br />
* Blavatsky, H. P. [https://www.theosophy-ult.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Blavatsky-letters-to-Sinnett.pdf "Letter LXI"] ''The Letters of H. P. Blavatsky to A. P. Sinnett'' (London: T. Fisher Unwin, Ltd., 1925), 148-156. HPB answers many questions about her life to A. P. Sinnett.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Founders|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Writers|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Editors|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Clairvoyants|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Received Mahatma Letters|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Chelas|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Russian|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Naturalized American|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Anti-vivisectionists|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Received Mahatma Letters|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:People who encountered Mahatmas|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:People who witnessed phenomena|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:Feminists|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
[[Category:People|Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna]]<br />
<br />
[[fr:Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]<br />
[[ru:Блаватская]]<br />
[[es:Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]<br />
[[it:Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53225Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:34:35Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Audio */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical Society in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-voice-of-silence The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/light-for-the-mind-love-for-the-heart-understanding-for-the-intellect Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/blavatsky-the-mystery Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/letters-that-have-helped-me-commemorating-william-q.-judge Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-1 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 1]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/a-tribute-to-hpb-white-lotus-day-1997-part-2 Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997 Part 2]'''. May 8, 1997. <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/conversations-in-occultism Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/psychic-and-noetic-action Psychic and Noetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-elixir-of-life Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-1 What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/what-death-really-is-part-2 What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53224Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:30:16Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Audio */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical SOciety in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hpb-messianic-messenger Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/voiceofthesilenceurban The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[ Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[ Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[ Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/hypnotism-a-psychic-malpractice Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[ Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/the-ensouling-of-our-human-nature Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[ Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[ Psychic and NOetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[ Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/karma-reincarnation-and-you Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[ What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[ What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005.<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53223Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:28:27Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Additional resources */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical SOciety in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
* '''[ Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/voiceofthesilenceurban The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[ Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[ Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[ Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[ Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[ Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
* '''[ Ensouling of Our Human Nature]'''. March 27, 1997. Based on insights from Theosophist G. de Purucker, this talk explores ways of living a noble life through a blending of heart and mind.<br />
* '''[ Conversations in Occultism]'''. September 25, 1997. H. P. Blavatsky answers W. Q. Judge's questions about the Kali Yuga, our present age. Includes discussion on elementals, mantras, mental discipline, and inner vibrations.<br />
* '''[ Psychic and NOetic Action]'''. May 28, 1998. According to the speaker, the brain is both physical and metaphysical. Our daily choice making originates either in selfish or selfless motive, and while the selection is made in our brain-mind, only selfless motives flow from the heart-light.<br />
* '''[ Elixir of Life]'''. September 30, 1999. A talk on selected works of H. P. Blavatsky, presenting longevity as a process of spiritual unfoldment based on knowledge and discipline.<br />
* '''[ Karma, Reincarnation, and You]'''. October 25, 2001. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[ What Death Really Is Part 1]'''. September 25, 2003. Through the understanding that everything we experience is the outflow of our own thoughts, emotions, and actions in past lives, we can find a new way to deal with our current challenges and pave the way to mental freedom.<br />
* '''[ What Death Really Is Part 2]'''. September 25, 2003.<br />
* '''[ In Honor of H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day Commemoration]'''. May 5, 2005. <br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53222Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:21:58Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Additional resources */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical SOciety in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
* '''[ Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger]''' October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[https://archive.org/details/voiceofthesilenceurban The Voice of the Silence]'''. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* '''[ Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]'''. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
* '''[ Blavatsky: The Mystery]'''. October 19, 1995. H. P. Blavatsky was called the sphinx of the 19th century. Glimpse the real nature of HPB's world. <br />
* '''[ Letters That Have Helped Me: Commemorating William Q. Judge]'''. March 21, 1996. A tribute to Judge on the 100th anniversary of his death. Extracts from his inspirational letters are included.<br />
* '''[ Hypnotism: A Psychic Malpractice]'''. October 24, 1996. Comments on hypnotism by H. P. Blavatsky and W. Q. Judge are examined. How is hypnotism different from mesmerism?<br />
* '''[ Tribute to H. P. Blavatsky: White Lotus Day 1997]'''. May 8, 1997. Recounts H. P. Blavatsky's work and tireless efforts to teach Theosophical principles.<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]'''. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53221Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:15:29Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Additional resources */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
All of the following lectures were delivered at the Theosophical SOciety in America, in Wheaton, Illinois.<br />
* [ Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: Messianic Messenger] October 1, 1991. Explores the relevance of Madame Blavatsky's life and teachings to modern times. HANDOUT <br />
* [ The Voice of the Silence]. May 1, 1992. How this classic book of Eastern Wisdom came to be shared with the world.<br />
* [ Light for the Mind, Love for the Heart, Understanding for the Intellect]. October 20, 1994. Spirit, Soul, and Body carry three separate lines of evolution. HANDOUT <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT3MjQ7rFqc Helena P. Blavatsky, Messianic Messenger]. 1991 at Theosophical Society in America.<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Vonda_Urban&diff=53220Vonda Urban2024-02-10T14:09:45Z<p>Janet Kerschner: Created page with "'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of Theosophy based in Chicago, Illinois. == Early life == == Dance career == == Theosophical work == == Additional resources == === Audio === === Video === == Notes == <references/> Urban, Vonda Urban, Vonda Urban, Vonda Urban, Vonda Urban, Vonda"</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Vonda Urban''' was a teacher of [[Theosophy]] based in Chicago, Illinois.<br />
<br />
== Early life ==<br />
<br />
== Dance career ==<br />
<br />
== Theosophical work ==<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Audio ===<br />
<br />
=== Video ===<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Educators|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Dancers|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Urban, Vonda]]<br />
[[Category:People|Urban, Vonda]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Janet_Kerschner/Sandbox&diff=51433Janet Kerschner/Sandbox2023-10-31T13:57:14Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Eugene W. Munson''' was a member of the [[American Theosophical Society]] and lecturer for the [[Krotona in Hollywood|Krotona Institute of Theosophy]].<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
On [[November 9]], 1877, Eugene Munson was born in Marshall, California to Miron Munson and Fannie Aldrich Munson.<ref>1926 Passenger list...........</ref> He had two older sisters and one younger brother. By 1880, the family had moved to Spokane, Washington.<ref>1880 United States Federal Census.</ref> Little is known of the life of Miron, but by 1900, Fannie had remarried to Joseph E. Cohenhour. They lived in Chicago with three of the children, including Eugene, who at age 23 was working as an electrician.<ref>1900 United States Federal Census.</ref><br />
<br />
At some point Eugene moved to Roswell, Idaho, a small town near Boise, where he was part owner of a general store, and regarded as "one of the substantial citizens of that community."<ref>"A Roswell Wedding" ''Caldwell Tribune'' 29 (August 1, 1908): 2.</ref> On August 1, 1908, he married Mattie Doll of Saugatuck, Michigan, and they moved into a well-furnished bungalow.<br />
<br />
Mr. Munson died on [[October 31]], 1952 in Los Angeles.<ref>1952 California, U.S., Death Index, 1940-1997.</ref><br />
<br />
== Theosophical Society activities ==<br />
<br />
Munson joined the San Buena Ventura Lodge of the American Theosophical Society on October 10, 1904. In 1909-10 he became president of the newly formed branch in Salt Lake City.<ref>"Salt Lake City" ''The Theosophic Messenger'' 11 no. 10 (July, 1910): 633.</ref> He was temporarily lodging in Utah and working as a draftsman, while lecturing weekly at Theosophical meetings.<ref>1910 United States Federal Census.</ref> In late 1912, he disposed of his Idaho property, including a ranch, and in early 1913 moved to [[Krotona in Hollywood]].<ref>''Caldwell Tribune'' 29 (December 20, 1912): 4. </ref><ref>''Caldwell Tribune'' 30 (January 10, 1913): 7. </ref> As the local newspaper reported:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Munson will soon leave for Krotona, California, near Los Angeles. Mr. and Mrs. Munson are moving so as to be near the new headquarters of the Theosophical society. They are thoroughly devoted to the Theosophical cause and feel it their duty to take a move active part in the work at Krotona.<ref>''Caldwell Tribune'' 30 (January 3, 1913): 4. </ref> <br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
He wrote articles for Theosophical periodicals, such as "Tesla's Wireless Power and Mr. Leadbeater's Prophecy"<ref>"Eugene W. Munson, "Tesla's Wireless Power and Mr. Leadbeater's Prophecy" ''The Messenger'' 3 no. 6 (November, 1915): 164-165.</ref> He demitted to the Krotona Lodge in 1917.<ref>Membership Ledger Cards roll 5. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> Beginning in 1917, he served as treasurer of the national Society.<ref>Eugene W. Munson. "Treasurer's Report" ''The Messenger'' Statistical Year Book supplement 5 no. 4 (September, 1917): 4.</ref><br />
<br />
When the Besant Lodge of Krotona was established in October 1920 with 56 members, he was a charter member and vice president, with [[Marie Poutz]] as president.<ref>"Besant Lodge, Krotona" ''The Messenger'' 8 no. 7 (December, 1920): 577.</ref><br />
<br />
=== Lecture tours ===<br />
<br />
After Krotona had become established in Hollywood, Munson was more active in the national organization. George H. Hall, Manager of the Krotona Estate, wrote:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Later he entered the service of The Theosophical Society in America as a National Lecturer, and traveled throughout the United States lecturing and organizing study classes and lodges. He was one of the best lecturers for the Society and made many friends all over the country. It was from this work that I called him in 1923 to help me at Hollywood before we moved to Ojai. When we sold the Hollywood property, he and Mrs. Munson were the first to move to Ojai, and for nearly thirty years we have worked together to build the new Krotona in the Ojai Valley.<ref>"Mr. Eugene W. Munson" ''The American Theosophist'' 40 no. 12 (December, 1952): 240.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
During the years 1916-1922, Munson worked as a National Lecturer of the [[American Theosophical Society]], touring for months on end. His presentations received excellent reviews from local newspapers. After speaking in Pueblo, Colorado, a reviewer wrote:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Mr. Munson has just competed a very successful course in Denver, speaking to capacity houses. He is a pleasant speaker and uses anecdotes, stereopticon and blackboard illustrations freely in demonstrating the more unfamiliar phases of his subject.<br />
<br />
He appears practical and level-headed, being an engineer by profession.<ref>"Lecture Course in Theosophy" ''Pueblo Chieftain'' (March 12, 1922): 6.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
During the First World War, he often lectured about topics related to current events, such as an occult view of the war and the rebirth of those who died in wartime in his lecture "What Comes Out of the War;" "The Occult Relations of France, Great Britain, and the United State;" and "The New International Ship of State" [referring to the League of Nations]. <br />
<br />
Usually Munson spoke more directly about Theosophical subjects, using the stereopticon slides of [[Thought-Forms|thought forms]] and the [[Astral Body|astral body]] developed by [[C. W. Leadbeater]]. Titles included "How Many Lives Have You Lived?," "Do the Dead Return," "The Path of Achievement," "The Inner Gates of the Soul," and "The Science of the Borderland" [Theosophical explanations of spiritualistic experiences]. A reviewer in Great Falls, Montana, wrote of "The Hidden Side of Things":<br />
<blockquote><br />
In the course of his address, which was heard by a large gathering of interested men and women, Mr. Munson described how telepathy is possible, explained what thoughts are, showing them as tangible objects, with shape and color visible to the occult eye. Mr. Munson also dealt somewhat at length on the evolution of the soul toward perfection.<br />
<br />
The lecture was the first of a series of four to be given here... The purpose of the lectures is to arouse interest in the science of theosophy with the idea of perfecting an organization in this city.<ref>"Theosophists Plan to Organize Here" Great Falls Daily Tribune (September 12, 1921): 9.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In addition to his extensive travel in the United States, Munson toured lodges in Canada from Vancouver to Toronto.<ref>See multiple references in ''The Canadian Theosophist'' 1 no. 1-4 (March-June 1920).</ref><br />
<br />
=== Work at Krotona Institute of Theosophy ===<br />
<br />
At the time of his death in 1952, Munson was a member of the Krotona Board of Trustees.<br />
<br />
== Other activities ==<br />
<br />
George Hall wrote:<br />
<blockquote><br />
In addition to his interest in Krotona and its activities, he took a keen interest in public affairs, and was always generous with his time and contributions to many outside interests. He did much to acquaint the people of the Valley with Krotona an to win for us the respect and friendliness of the community.<ref>"Mr. Eugene W. Munson" ''The American Theosophist'' 40 no. 12 (December, 1952): 240.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Eugene Munson was a 32° [[Co-Masonry|Co-Mason]].<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Munson, Eugene]]<br />
[[Category:TS Adyar|Munson, Eugene]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Munson, Eugene]]<br />
[[Category:Krotona Hollywood|Munson, Eugene]]<br />
[[Category:Co-Masons|Munson, Eugene]]<br />
[[Category:People|Munson, Eugene]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Some_sources_of_the_Gems&diff=51431Some sources of the Gems2023-10-30T18:07:07Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>This page is a to-do list of aphorisms for which the sources are not found yet. If you identify the sources please contact mailto:pavalmalakhov@gmail.com or mailto:jkerschner@theosophical.org.<br />
<br />
See [https://theosophy.wiki/en/Blavatsky_writings/Gems_from_the_East Gems from the East] and also [http://www.theosophyforward.com/articles/theosophy/1937-sources-of-the-gems-the-list-of-sources-of-the-aphorisms-used-in-gems-from-the-east-by-h-p-blavatsky Sources of the Gems]'' published in ''Theosophy Forward'' for information about the sources which were found.<br />
<br />
<br />
'''To be found:'''<br />
<br />
'''February'''<br />
:14. The soothsayer for evil never knows his own fate.<br />
:21. Without Karma, no fisherman could catch a fish; outside of Karma, no fish would die on dry land, or in boiling water. <br />
<br />
'''March'''<br />
:16. Truth is brighter than the sun; truth is the sunny day of Reason, and falsehood the mind's dark night.<br />
:18. The light of all flesh is the sun; the light of the soul — truth everlasting.<br />
<br />
'''April'''<br />
:22. Empty thy mind of evil, but fill it with good.<br />
:25. To forgive without forgetting, is again to reproach the wrong-doer every time the act comes back to us.<br />
:29. People talk of the Devil. Every man has seen him; he is in every sinful heart.<br />
<br />
'''May'''<br />
:2. He who feeds the hungry before he has assuaged his own hunger, prepares for himself eternal food. He who renounces that food for the sake of a weaker brother is — a god.<br />
:26. There is more courage in facing the world with undisguised truth, than in descending into a wild beast's den. (Хошанг?)<br />
:29. Wealth in the hands of one who thinks not of helping mankind with it, is sure to turn one day into dry leaves.<br />
:30. Like as the night follows the day, so misfortune is the shadow of joy; Karma bestowing her lots with both hands.<br />
<br />
'''August'''<br />
:1. The man who neglects the truth he finds in his soul, in order to follow its dead-letter, is a time-server.<br />
:3. Man who has not hesitated to project his image in space and call it the Creator, sculpted not to endow God with his own vices.<br />
<br />
'''November'''<br />
:29. Craft has the best of men; boldness conquers cities; the first is despised, the last admired.<br />
<br />
'''December'''<br />
:2. In health and wealth man is never in want of friends. True friends, however, are those who remain when they are needed.<br />
:3. Of all the animals on earth, man alone has the faculty of causing moral trouble.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you have any helpful information or useful Internet links, please share them with the [[User:Pavel Malakhov|author of the article]]. Aphorisms with comments and original text are finally going to be published in Theosophy.Wiki, each on the separate article.<br />
<br />
[[Category: Research tools]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Buddhism&diff=51430Buddhism2023-10-30T16:04:55Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Books */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Buddhism''' is a nontheistic religion that encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices largely based on teachings attributed to [[Gautama Buddha|Siddhartha Gautama]], who is commonly known as the Buddha, meaning "the awakened one".<br />
<br />
== Twelve Nidanas ==<br />
<br />
The concatenation of twelve nidanas as described in [[Buddhism]] is as follows:<br />
<br />
1- From spiritual ignorance (avidyā) arises mental formations (saṃskāra).<br />
<br />
2- From mental formations arises consciousness (vijñāna).<br />
<br />
3- From consciousness arises name and form (nāmarūpa).<br />
<br />
4- From name and form arise the sense organs and their objects (ṣaḍāyatana).<br />
<br />
5- From sense organs and their objects arise contact (sparśa).<br />
<br />
6- From contact arises sensation (vedanā).<br />
<br />
7- From sensation arises craving (tṛṣṇā).<br />
<br />
8- From craving arises clinging (upādāna).<br />
<br />
9- From clinging arises becoming (bhava).<br />
<br />
10- From becoming arises birth (jāti).<br />
<br />
11 & 12- From birth arise aging and dying (jarāmaraṇa).<br />
<br />
== Three marks of existence ==<br />
<br />
The three marks of existence are three characteristics shared by all sentient beings, namely:<br />
<br />
1- Impermanence ([[Pali]]: anicca, [[Sanskrit]]: anitya). All conditioned things are in a constant state of flux. The appearance of a thing ceases as it changes from one form to another.<br />
<br />
2- Dissatisfaction or suffering (Pali: dukkha, Sanskrit: duhkha). As all things are impermanent, nothing in the physical world or the mind can bring lasting satisfaction.<br />
<br />
3- Non-self (Pali: ''anattā'', Sanskrit: ''anātman''). There is no self as an entity or an essence, but only as an always changing conditioned process.<br />
<br />
== Three poisons and five hindrances ==<br />
[[File:Three poisons.jpg|right|150px|thumb|The three poisons represented in the center of the wheel of life]]<br />
In the Buddhist tradition, there are three poisons or "afflictions" (''kleśa'') innate in sentient beings. These poisons are the root of craving (''taṇhā'') and keep beings trapped in [[samsara]]. They are:<br />
<br />
:1. ''rāga'': desire, attraction, (also translated as greed).<br />
<br />
:2. ''dveśa'': hatred, aversion.<br />
<br />
:3. ''moha'': delusion.<br />
<br />
The three poisons are symbolically drawn at the center of Buddhist Bhavachakra artwork, with rooster, snake and pig, representing desire, aversion, and delusion respectively.<br />
<br />
The five hindrances (Sanskrit: पञ्च नीवरण ''pañca nīvaraṇa'') are identified as mental factors that hinder development of wisdom and progress in meditation.<br />
<br />
:1. ''kāma-cchanda'': sense-desire (desire for the objects of the five senses).<br />
<br />
:2. ''vyāpāda'': animosity, ill-will.<br />
<br />
:3. ''styāna-middha'': lethargy (or specifically, mental inertia) and sloth.<br />
<br />
:4. ''auddhatya-kaukṛtya'': excitation (mental agitation caused by desirable things) and regret (mental disturbance about things badly done).<br />
<br />
:5. ''vicikitsā'': doubt.<br />
<br />
These "poisons" and "obscurities" are mentioned in [[Mahatma_Letter_No._47#Page_1_transcription.2C_image.2C_and_notes|one of the Mahatma Letters]], using a translation from the Chinese available at the time by Samuel Beal.<ref>Samuel Beal, ''A Catena of Buddhist Scriptures from the Chinese'', (London, 1871), 196-197</ref> In this letter, [[Koot Hoomi|Mahatma K.H.]] wrote:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Look around you, my friend: see the "three poisons" raging within the heart of men — anger, greed, delusion, and the five obscurities — envy, passion, vacillation, sloth, and unbelief — ever preventing them seeing truth.<ref>Vicente Hao Chin, Jr., ''The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett in chronological sequence'' No. 47 (Quezon City: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 129.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
== Four Noble Truths ==<br />
<br />
The four noble truths are:<br />
<br />
1- The truth of dukkha (suffering, anxiety, dissatisfaction)<br />
<br />
2- The truth of the origin of dukkha<br />
<br />
3- The truth of the cessation of dukkha<br />
<br />
4- The truth of the path leading to the cessation of dukkha<br />
<br />
== Noble Eightfold Path ==<br />
<br />
The Noble Eightfold Path is one of the principal teachings of the [[Gautama Buddha|Buddha]], who described it as the way leading to the cessation of [[suffering]] (dukkha) and the achievement of self-awakening:<br />
<br />
1. Right view<br />
<br />
2. Right intention<br />
<br />
3. Right speech <br />
<br />
4. Right action <br />
<br />
5. Right livelihood <br />
<br />
6. Right effort <br />
<br />
7. Right mindfulness <br />
<br />
8. Right concentration<br />
<br />
== Nirvana ==<br />
<br />
In the Madhyamaka tradition [[Nirvāṇa|Nirvana]] is understood as the absence of attachment, aversion and delusion with no possibility of their return. There is also broad agreement that language is limited to the everyday level of understanding and that the truth of nirvana is beyond the reach of language and of the conceptualization that makes language possible.<ref>http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/madhyamaka# Madhyamaka] at Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy</ref> However, some interpret it merely as the cessation of consciousness.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical view ==<br />
<br />
[[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|H. P. Blavatsky]] and her [[Masters of Wisdom|Masters]] claimed that the [[Esotericism|esoteric]] teachings of Buddhism are different from the commonly known ones. For example, in her fist book, [[Isis Unveiled (book)|''Isis Unveiled'']], she wrote:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>When we use the term Buddhists, we do not mean to imply by it either the exoteric Buddhism instituted by the followers of Gautama-Buddha, nor the modern Buddhistic religion, but the secret philosophy of Sakyamuni, which in its essence is certainly identical with the ancient wisdom-religion of the sanctuary, the pre-Vedic Brahmanism.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Isis Unveiled'' vol. II, (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1972), 142.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
=== Nidanas ===<br />
<br />
In [[Stanzas of Dzyan#Stanza I|stanza I]], sloka 4 of [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']] the nidanas are called "the great causes of misery".<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''The Secret Doctrine'' vol. I, (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 38.</ref> Mme. Blavatsky defined them as follows:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>The twelve Nidanas or causes of being. Each is the effect of its antecedent cause, and a cause, in its turn, to its successor; the sum total of the Nidanas being based on the four truths, a doctrine especially characteristic of the Hînayâna System. They belong to the theory of the stream of catenated law which produces merit and demerit, and finally brings [[Karma]] into full sway. It is based upon the great truth that [[reincarnation|re-incarnation]] is to be dreaded, as existence in this world only entails upon man [[suffering]], misery and pain; [[Death]] itself being unable to deliver man from it, since death is merely the door through which he passes to another life on earth after a little rest on its threshold—[[Devachan]].<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''The Secret Doctrine'' vol. I, (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 39.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
<blockquote>Q. Are Nidâna and Maya (the great causes of misery) aspects of the Absolute?<br><br />
A. Nidâna means the concatenation of cause and effect; the twelve Nidânas are the enumeration of the chief causes which produce the severest reaction or effects under the Karmic law. Although there is no connection between the terms Nidâna and Maya in themselves, Maya being simply illusion, yet if we consider the universe as Maya or illusion, then certainly the Nidânas, as being moral agents in the universe, are included in Maya. It is Maya, illusion or ignorance, which awakens Nidânas; and the cause or causes having been produced, the effects follow according to Karmic law. To take an instance: we all regard ourselves as Units, although essentially we are one indivisible Unit, drops in the ocean of Being, not to be distinguished from other drops. Having then produced this cause, the whole discord of life follows immediately as an effect; in reality it is the endeavour of nature to restore harmony and maintain equilibrium. It is this sense of separateness which is the root of all evil.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. X (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), 326-327.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
=== Four Noble Truths ===<br />
<br />
[[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Mme. Blavatsky]] defined them as follows:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Aryasatyâni (Sk.). The four truths or the four dogmas, which are (1) Dukha, or that misery and pain are the unavoidable concomitants of sentient (esoterically, physical) existence; (2) Samudaya, the truism that suffering is intensified by human passions; (3) Nirôdha, that the crushing out and extinction of all such feelings are possible for a man “on the path”; (4) Mârga, the narrow way, or that path which leads to such a blessed result.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''The Theosophical Glossary'' (Krotona, CA: Theosophical Publishing House, 1973), 33.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
According to her, there is an [[Esotericism|esoteric]] rendition of them, which is known to [[Initiation|Initiates]]:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Q. Are the Four Truths of the Hinayâna school the same as those mentioned by Sir Edwin Arnold in “The Light of Asia”; the first of which is the Path of Sorrow; the second of Sorrow’s cause: the third of Sorrow’s ceasing; and the fourth is the WAY?<br><br />
A. All this is theological and exoteric, and to be found in all the Buddhist scriptures; and the above seems to be taken from Singhalese or Southern Buddhism. The subject, however, is far more fully treated of in the Aryasangha School. Still even there the four truths have one meaning for the regular priest of the Yellow Robe, and quite another for the real Mystics.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''Collected Writings'' vol. X (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1988), 326.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
<blockquote>Alone the Initiate, rich with the lore acquired by numberless generations of his predecessors, directs the “Eye of Dangma” toward the essence of things in which no Maya can have any influence. It is here that the teachings of esoteric philosophy in relation to the Nidanas and the Four Truths become of the greatest importance; but they are secret.<ref>Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, ''The Secret Doctrine'' vol. I, (Wheaton, IL: Theosophical Publishing House, 1993), 45.</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
=== Other concepts ===<br />
<br />
[[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|H. P. Blavatsky]] rejected the interpretation that Nirvāṇa is simply the annihilation of consciousness. See [[Nirvāṇa#Theosophical view|Nirvāṇa]].<br />
<br />
== Online resources ==<br />
* [https://theosophy.world/encyclopedia/buddhism Buddhism] at Theosophy World<br />
===Articles & Pamphlets===<br />
*[https://cdn.website-editor.net/e4d6563c50794969b714ab70457d9761/files/uploaded/AdyarPamphlet_No192.pdf# ''The Noble Eightfold Path''] by Annie Besant & C.W. Leadbeater<br />
*[http://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/1519# "The Three Refuges"] by Radha Burnier<br />
*[http://www.theosophical.org/publications/quest-magazine/1333# "The Radiant Mind"] by John Cianciosi<br />
<br />
===Books===<br />
*[http://www.seameo.org/vl/buddhistII/content.htm# ''Buddhist Questions and Answers''] by Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO)<br />
<br />
*[https://www.buddhisttexts.org/ Buddhisttexts.org] from the Buddhist Text Translation Society offers free downloads of books, and free print books for the cost of shipping.<br />
<br />
===Audio===<br />
*[https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/ellwood/The%20World%20of%20Religious%20Beliefs%20and%20Practices:%20Buddhism.mp3# "The World of Religious Beliefs and Practices: Buddhism"] by Robert Ellwood<br />
*[https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/govinda/Development%20of%20Buddhism.mp3# "Development of Buddhism"] by Lama Govinda<br />
*[https://www.theosophical.org/files/resources/Downloads/mp3/zahara/Buddhist%20Sacred%20Literature.mp3# "Buddhist Sacred Literature"] by Helen Zahara<br />
<br />
===Video===<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0kDJfxWDNo "The Buddhist Niyamas: Five Cosmic Laws"] by Olande Ananda<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnN6FwZeUQA "Buddha's Views on Sexuality and Marriage"] by John Cianciosi<br />
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUtUcXtwgLU "Four Emotions of the Buddha"] by John Cianciosi<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Religions]]<br />
[[es:Budismo]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Pekka_Ervast&diff=51429Pekka Ervast2023-10-30T16:01:08Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Additional resources */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Pekka Ervast 1.jpg|right|160px|thumb|Pekka Ervast]]<br />
[[File:Ervast Kalevalan.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Book cover]]<br />
'''Pekka Ervast''' (1875-1934) was the founder of Finnish Section of [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar]]. He was a writer, lecturer, linguist, and clairvoyant.<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
Pekka Ervast was born on [[December 26]], 1875, in Helsinki, Finland. His mother tongue was Swedish, and he belonged to the Lutheran Church as the vast majority of Finns did at the time. His father was a public officer; Ervast’s mother died when he was eight years old. Beginning in childhood he had experiences of extrasensory perception. Even as a child, he was very versatile in languages: for instance, he learned to read French at the age of five or six, and at the age of twelve he began writing a comparative grammatical study of nine different languages.<ref>Information in this article, if otherwise unattributed, was provided by Dr. Antti Savinainen, a Finnish Theosophist and educator, to whom the wiki editors are most grateful.</ref><br />
<br />
He passed his matriculation exams in 1893 and started studying romance languages and Sanskrit at the University of Helsinki, which was known by a different name then.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical Society involvement ==<br />
[[File:Pekka Ervast 2.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Pekka Ervast]]<br />
In January 1894, Ervast got acquainted with [[Theosophy]] through a Swedish translation of [[Esoteric Buddhism (book)|''Esoteric Buddhism]] by [[A. P. Sinnett]]:<br />
<blockquote><br />
I read a few sentences from the first chapter. There was talk about a brotherhood of adepts, how there has always been and still are human beings who have deeper knowledge about the secrets of nature and life than any scientist. I could read no more. I was overwhelmed by so great a shudder of joy that I was compelled to throw myself on the couch. My whole being sounded as in one voice: this is true, this is true...<br />
<br />
The aftermath was so immense I could not read anything on that day. I couldn't think anything else. As if from a revelation I had gained a certainty that adepts do exist and a human being can participate in divine knowledge.<ref>Jouni Marjanen, Antti Savinainen, and Jouko Sorvali, "Pekka Ervast's Path to Spiritual Knowledge" ''From Death to Rebirth: Teachings of the Finnish Sage Pekka Ervast'' (Literary Society of the Finnish Rosy Cross, 2017), 18.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The next year he joined the Scandinavian Section of the [[Theosophical Society]]. When the so-called '''Judge crisis''' broke in the United States, Ervast initially took the position of [[William Quan Judge]] in the dispute. The crisis in the Theosophical Society was painful to Ervast, who had believed in [[Universal Brotherhood]], especially among theosophists.<br />
<br />
=== Spiritual awakening ===<br />
<br />
Earnestly seeking for the meaning of life took Ervast eventually to point where he said: now comes clarity or death. And then in the year 1896 he went through an experience of rebirth, in which he was transformed by a pure light. This experience formed the basis for his theosophical work.<br />
<blockquote><br />
On October 13, 1896, in the middle of the day, the agony of my soul had reached an utmost point...<br />
<br />
There seemed to be a dark cloud before my eyes, and I felt as if my pain would transfer itself into the cloud. I then thought, such is life. At the same time the cloud tore apart as if struck by lightning, and the rays of the sun shone warmly on my face, bright but not dazzlingly. Gradually this lovely light surrounded me on every side, so I was as if in a sea of light, and eventually it filtered inside me, filled me, and lit me up totally, so I and my whole being became like a pure light...<br />
<br />
My old life was wiped away...<ref>Marjanen, Savinainen, and Sorvali, 21.</ref> <br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
=== Universal Brotherhood and Theosophical Society ===<br />
<br />
During the years 1896-1898, Ervast belonged to the Theosophical Society Point Loma, then named Universal Brotherhood or [[Universal Brotherhood and Theosophical Society]]. He was its representative in Finland. Later this branch of the Theosophical Movement was known for its colony in [[Point Loma|Point Loma, California]]. <br />
<br />
He joined the esoteric school led by [[Katherine Tingley|Mrs. Katherine Tingley]]. Ervast intensively followed [[meditation]] instructions of the esoteric school.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
I got into a secret spiritual contact with people who regularly practiced meditation, and many of them could have had many spiritual and also psychic experience. As an esoterist I probably practiced more self-conscious and concentrated meditation than before, though I had always lived a contemplative life.<ref>Marjanen, Savinainen, and Sorvali, 24.</ref> <br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
After a while he was able to do conscious [[Occultism|occult]] investigation and work in the invisible world. For instance, he was able to observe various states in the afterlife (a compilation of his teachings on this topic is available in English as the e-book ''From Death to Rebirth'').<br />
<br />
=== Theosophical Society, Adyar ===<br />
<br />
In 1898, Ervast joined the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar, Chennai, India]]. He corresponded with many of the main theosophical workers in his time. For instance, he met Society President [[Henry Steel Olcott|Colonel Henry S. Olcott]] for the first time in 1900, and they got along very well. He also met the [[Constance Wachtmeister|Countess Wachtmeister]], who accompanied T.S. founder [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|H. P. Blavatsky]] in her last years. The Countess warned Ervast not to enter politics in Finland.<br />
<br />
[[File:Ervast vastaa kysymyksiin.jpg|right|180px|thumb|Question-and-answer book]]<br />
=== Theosophical Society in Finland ===<br />
<br />
Ervast started regular lecturing and writing on Theosophy early on in his theosophical career; theosophical work was his full-time occupation. It is worth noting that Theosophy in Finland attracted mainly persons belonging to the so-called working class, whereas in other parts of the Western world Theosophy was more popular among the higher classes. Ervast’s first book '''''Towards Light''''' (Valoa kohti) appeared in Finnish in 1901. It was an outline of a theosophical world view. The book is still in print, as are almost all his works which consist of '''more than 100 books''' (most of them are based on his lecture series). In addition, he translated theosophical books: [[Charles Webster Leadbeater|C. W. Leadbeater’s]] ''The Other Side of Death'' appeared in Swedish in 1904 and [[Henry Steel Olcott|Olcott’s]] [[Buddhist Catechism]] in Finnish in 1906. Ervast was also one of the translators of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|H. P. B’s]] [[The Key to Theosophy (book)|''The Key to the Theosophy'']] and parts of [[The Secret Doctrine (book)|''The Secret Doctrine'']].<br />
<br />
When the '''Theosophical Society in Finland''' was founded in 1907, Ervast was the first to serve as General Secretary, a position he held for ten years. The TS in Finland grew quickly into a vibrant organization. In 1911:<br />
<blockquote><br />
The Finnish Theosophical Society has officially existed only four years &ndash; it was founded [[October 21|October 21st]], 1907 &ndash; but theosophical work has been done in our country unceasingly already for more than 16 years. The number of our lodges is to-day 19 and they have enrolled 407 members. Unattached members are to-day 170, altogether 577 members...<br />
<br />
The propaganda work in Finland rests almost entirely upon the shoulders of our general secretary, Mr. Pekka Ervast, who for more than 10 years has indefatigably proclaimed the message of the ancient wisdom.... Everywhere his eloquence awakened much interest in Theosophy and newspapers recorded his lectures.<ref>T. V., "Theosophy in Finland" ''The Theosophic Messenger'' 13.1 (Oct 1911), 26.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
At the Section's 1915 annual congress, 120 members attended. An oratorio was composed and presented by Axel von Kothen, and two plays written for the congress were presented to the public with an audience of 300.<ref>V. H. Valvanne,"The Annual Congress of the Finnish Section" ''The Messenger '' 3.5 (Oct 1915), 148.</ref> <br />
<br />
Ervast and other theosophists founded a commune '''Tuonenkylä''' in 1910. The commune offered a home for Ervast for thirteen years. Almost thirty people lived in the commune over the years it was owned by the Finnish T.S. The ideal of theosophists living together as an extended family is well and alive today in the '''Väinölä commune''', in which Ervast’s teachings have the central role.<br />
<br />
As with most organizations in the Theosophical Movement, '''publication of books and periodicals''' was an important activity of the T.S. in Finland. A magazine called '''Tietäjä''' was issued monthly. Evidently Mr. Ervast founded a joint-stock publishing company, which was taken over by the Finnish Section in 1922.<ref>John Sonck, "T. S. in Finland" ''General Report of the Theosophical Society 1922'' (Adyar, Madras, India: Theosophical Publishing Company, 1922), 96-97.</ref><br />
<br />
=== Theosophy in wartime ===<br />
<br />
The outbreak of the First World War in 1914 was a great disappointment for Ervast. He had believed that theosophists on both sides of the war would follow the ideal of the universal brotherhood and declined to go to war. Ervast was an unconditional pacifist: according to his interpretation, the non-resistance of evil is the cornerstone of Esoteric Christianity (this is well in line with [[ahimsa]] in Hinduism and Buddha’s teachings on non-violence). <br />
<br />
Ervast published two of his main works during the war time: '''''The Esoteric School of Jesus''''' (the contemporary translation is called '''''The Divine Seed''''') and '''''The Key to the Kalevala''''', which is available in English as a free ebook. The former is a detailed investigation of the ethical teachings of Jesus from the perspective of Esoteric Christianity, and the latter is an exploration of the spiritual meaning of the Finnish National Epic, the Kalevala.<br />
<br />
There were two different lines of thought among the Finnish theosophists: one side believed that the T. S. should directly participate in society to advance [[brotherhood]] in practice, whereas Ervast and some others felt that the T. S. should remain spiritual in nature. Naturally, members as citizens could be as active in society as they wished. These and other differences eventually caused Ervast to resign from the General Secretary post in 1917. In the same year Finland gained independency from Russia; Ervast had predicted this several years earlier. Unfortunately, next year the civil war broke in Finland which was a great sorrow for Ervast. He had believed that Finland could be the first country in the world which could live peacefully without weapons and army.<br />
<br />
=== The Mission of the Theosophical Society ===<br />
<br />
Ervast wrote a letter '''The Mission of the Theosophical Society''' &ndash; an open letter to Theosophists the world over, in 1921. The letter was aimed at all theosophical societies and called for a common platform which would serve as a fraternal meeting point for all who share the same theosophical ideals. However, it didn’t receive much attention from the theosophical world.<br />
<br />
=== Order of the Star in the East ===<br />
<br />
The [[Order of the Star in the East]] was under intense interest among the theosophists in Finland and elsewhere. However, [[Rudolf Steiner]], who was the Head of the German Section of the T. S. at the time, was very critical towards teachings of [[Jiddu Krishnamurti|Krishnamurti]] as a new [[ World Teacher]]. Ervast was also critical, but he would have preferred that different opinions could have co-existed in the T. S. Ervast met Steiner when he visited Helsinki in a lecture tour in 1912 just before Steiner left the T. S.<br />
<br />
[[File:Divine Seed cover.jpg|150px|right|thumb|2nd edition of ''The Divine Seed'']]<br />
<br />
== Co-Freemasonry ==<br />
<br />
The year 1920 brought changes in Ervast’s life. He joined the Universal Co-Freemasonry [[Le Droit Humain]]) and received the 33rd Degree Initiation in Paris five years later. Co-Freemasonry was very popular among the theosophists at the time, especially as T.S. President [[Annie Besant]] and several other prominent theosophical leaders had joined it.<br />
<br />
== Esoteric Christianity and Rosicrucianism ==<br />
<br />
On [[November 14]], 1920, Ervast founded a new society, '''The Finnish Rosy Cross (Ruusu-Risti)''' in the tradition of [[Rosicrucianism]]. The society has its roots both in [[Theosophy]] and '''Esoteric Christianity''', in which the teachings of the '''Sermon on the Mount''' are crucial in the spiritual path. Ervast lectured on the special status of [[Jesus Christ]] in the [[Evolution|spiritual evolution]] of humanity.<ref>One e-book addressing this topic to some extent is available.</ref> In some respects, his teaching on the Christ concur with Rudolf Steiner’s teachings. Naturally, all the great religions are highly valued as well.<br />
Ervast valued highly [[Leo Tolstoy|Leo Tolstoy’s]] interpretation on the Sermon on The Mount, and he never gave up the ethics of the Sermon on the Mount. Ervast did not, however, accept Tolstoy’s very critical view on art, nor Tolstoy’s appreciation of physical labor as only true form of work. <br />
<br />
[[Gottfried de Purucker]] from the Theosophical Society in [[Point Loma]] visited Helsinki in 1931. He proposed that the Finnish Rosy Cross could join the Point Loma society. His proposal was not accepted, although the meeting in Helsinki was cordial.<br />
<br />
[[File:Ervast stone.jpeg|right|100px|thumb|Grave marker]]<br />
== Later years ==<br />
<br />
Ervast remained prolific to the end of his life. For instance, he published the book '''''The Sermon on the Mount''''' (the Finnish version appeared in 1925) and the play '''H. P. B''' (''The Sphinx of the Nineteenth Century'') in 1933 in English. The book attracted several reviews in such periodicals as ''News and Notes'' (Sidney, by K. B.), ''The Occult Review'' (London, by Frank Lind) and ''The Aryan Path'' (Bombay, by Swami Jagadiswarananda). The play was reviewed in ''The Occult Review'' (by J. F. Lawrence). <br />
<br />
Ervast spent the winter 1933-1934 in Ojai, California, home of the [[Krotona Institute of Theosophy]] and [[Jiddu Krishnamurti]]. He wrote his final book, '''''The Great Adventure''''', in California. Ervast called the book his swan song. He came back to Finland in May 1934 and died on [[May 22]], 1934 in Helsinki. The stone marking his grave was carved with the [[Theosophical Seal|emblem]] of the Theosophical Society to which he had devoted his life.<br />
<br />
Ervast had a significant impact on the Finnish cultural life: for instance, many artists received inspiration from his teachings. His '''legacy''' lives on in Finland within several groups dedicated to his teachings. <br />
<br />
[[File:Ervast Inner God cover.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Book cover]]<br />
<br />
== Writings in English ==<br />
<br />
Pekka Ervast wrote over 100 books in several languages, and many have been translated into yet more languages. His works have been used for study groups in several countries.<br />
<br />
His 1933 play '''[http://media.pekkaervast.net/books_files/HPB_The_Sphinx_of_the_XIXth_Century.pdf ''The Sphinx of the Nineteenth Century'']''' drew attention in the Theosophical world. It was performed for a 1942 [[White Lotus Day]] performance at the Cleveland-Besant Lodge, depicting scenes from the life of [[H. P. Blavatsky|Madame Blavatsky]] with [[Constance Wachtmeister|Countess Wachtmeister]], and [[G. R. S. Mead]].<ref>Anonymous, "Theosophy in the Field" ''The American Theosophist'' 30.7 (July, 1942), 164.</ref> Similar performances were held in 1944 at the Olcott Lodge at Theosophical Society in America headquarters,<ref>Anonymous, "Theosophy in the Field" ''The American Theosophist'' 32.6 (June, 1944), 139.</ref> and in 1948 at the Pacific Lodge in San Francisco.<ref>Anonymous, "Theosophy in the Field" ''The American Theosophist'' 36.6 (June, 1948), 138.</ref><br />
<br />
* '''''[https://www.teosofia.net/e-kirjat/From_Death_to_Rebirth_Pekka_Ervast.pdf From Death to Rebirth''''']. Literary Society of the Finnish Rosy Cross, 2017. Compiled and edited by Jouni Marjanen, Antti Savinainen, and Jouko Sorvali. Foreword by Richard Smoley. This is also available as an '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yE4QrLY9v4 audio book]'''. <br />
* '''''The Divine Seed: The Esoteric Teachings of Jesus'''''. Second edition published by Quest Books, 2010. Reviewed in ''TheoSophia'' (NZ) 72.4 (Summer, 2011), 29.<br />
* [https://www.teosofia.net/e-kirjat/Pekka_Ervast_-_The_Key_to_the_Kalevala.pdf '''''The Key to the Kalevala''''']. 1916. The English version was first published in 1999 by Blue Dolphin Publishing and the e-book version in 2018 by Literary Society of the Finnish Rosy Cross. <br />
* [http://media.pekkaervast.net/books_files/the_mission_of_the_theosophical_society.pdf '''''The Mission of the Theosophical Society''''']. 1921. <br />
* [http://media.pekkaervast.net/books_files/astral_schools.pdf '''''Astral Schools''''']. 1929. The English e-book version was published in 2008 by the PekkaErvast.net [http://www.pekkaervast.net/tervetuloa/ website].<br />
* [http://media.pekkaervast.net/books_files/The_Sermon_on_the_Mount_or_The_Key_to_Christianity.pdf '''''The Sermon on the Mount''''']. 1933. <br />
* [http://media.pekkaervast.net/books_files/HPB_The_Sphinx_of_the_XIXth_Century.pdf '''''H. P. B.: The Sphinx of the XIXth Century''''']. 1933. <br />
* [https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Knowledge-Pekka-Ervast-Book-ebook/dp/B07GJPD398/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=spiritual+knowledge+ervast&qid=1554280911&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spell '''''Spiritual Knowledge''''']. Pekka Ervast Series Book 1. Helsinki: Aatma, 2018. Print and Kindle editions are available.<br />
* [https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Happiness-Pekka-Ervast-Book-ebook/dp/B07GJS4D6D/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=The+inner+God+and+happiness&qid=1554280704&s=digital-text&sr=1-1 '''''The Inner God and Happiness''''']. Pekka Ervast Series Book 2. Helsinki: Aatma, 2018. Print and Kindle editions are available.<br />
* [https://www.amazon.com/dp/9518995311/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_DPE99RCEPDQQH647Z48M_1 '''''The Unseen Ecclesia''''']. Pekka Ervast Series Book 3. Helsinki: Aatma, 2021.<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
* Ervast, Pekka. "Reports of the TS in Finland" ''The Theosophist'' v39 (July, 1918), 392. <br />
* [[General Reports of the Theosophical Society|General Reports of the Theosophical Society]] provide reports written by Pekka Ervast during the years that he was leader of the Finnish Section of the TS Adyar.<br />
* [http://www.pekkaervast.net/tervetuloa/ PekkaErvast.net]. Website in Finnish.<br />
* Marjanen, Jouni, Savinainen, Antti, and Sorvali, Jouko, compilers and editors. '''''From Death to Rebirth: Teachings of the Finnish Sage Pekka Ervast'''''. Literary Society of the Finnish Rosy Cross, 2017. Foreword by Richard Smoley.<br />
* Savinainen, Antti. [https://www.theosophical.org/program/lectures/5485-exploring-the-rich-esoteric-heritage-of-finland Exploring the Rich Esoteric heritage of Finland]. Interview by Richard Smoley. Presented March 30, 2023 at the Theosophical Society in America. This will be available on YouTube.<br />
* Koskinen, Matti, and Rinkinen,Rauno. [https://hermesrisen.wordpress.com/2023/10/21/pekka-ervasts-spiritual-heritage-matti-koskinen-and-rauno-rinkinen-translated-by-anttisavinainen-edited-by-richard-smoley/ '''"Pekka Ervast’s Spiritual Heritage"'''] in ''Hermes Risen'' online magazine. Translated by Antti Savinainen, edited by Richard Smoley. 2023<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Writers|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:Clairvoyants|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:Rosicrucians|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:TS Adyar|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:UBTS|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:General Secretaries in TS Adyar|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Finnish|Ervast, Pekka]]<br />
[[Category:People|Ervast, Pekka]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=James_Morgan_Pryse&diff=51428James Morgan Pryse2023-10-30T14:19:19Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Later years */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:HPB with Mead and Pryse.jpg|300px|right|thumb|James Morgan Pryse, H. P. Blavatksy, and G. R. S. Mead]]<br />
'''James Morgan Pryse''' ([[November 14]], 1859 - [[April 22]], 1942) was an American Theosophist born in Cincinnati, Ohio. He assisted [[William Quan Judge]] and [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky]] in setting up publishing operations.<br />
<br />
== Theosophical Society involvement ==<br />
[[File:James Morgan Pryse.jpg|left|150px|thumb|James Morgan Pryse]]<br />
He and his brother [[John Morgan Pryse]] purchased and operated newspapers and printing plants in Nebraska, Montana, and Wisconsin, finally moving to Los Angeles in 1886. He joined the Los Angeles Lodge of the [[Theosophical Society]] on August 7, 1887.<ref>Theosophical Society General Membership Register, 1875-1942 at [http://tsmembers.org/ http://tsmembers.org/]. See book 1, entry 4042 (website file: 1B/31).</ref><br />
<br />
The brothers were soon invited by [[William Quan Judge|W. Q. Judge]] to New York to assist him with the printing work. They formed the [[Aryan Theosophical Press]] which printed the Esoteric Instructions of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|H. P. Blavatsky]] and other Theosophical works.<br />
<br />
At the request of Mme. Blavatsky James Pryse went to London in 1889 and became one of HPB’s staff in Avenue Road. While there, he set up the [[HPB Press]].<br />
<br />
== An encounter with the Master ==<br />
<br />
In August 1889, while still in Los Angeles, California, Mr. Pryse had the following experience:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>One evening [in 1889] while I was thus meditating the face of H.P.B. flashed before me. I recognized it from her portrait in Isis, though it appeared much older. Thinking that the astral picture, as I took it to be, was due to some vagary of fancy, I tried to exclude it; but at that the face showed a look of impatience, and instantly I was drawn out of my body and immediately was standing "in the astral" beside H.P.B. in London. It was along toward morning there, but she was still seated at her writing desk. While she was speaking to me, very kindly, I could not help thinking how odd it was that an apparently fleshy old lady should be an Adept. I tried to put that impolite thought out of my mind, but she read it, and as if in answer to it her physical body became translucent, revealing a marvellous inner body that looked as if it were formed of molten gold. Then suddenly the [[Morya|Master M.]] appeared before us in his [[Māyāvi-Rūpa|mayavi-rupa]]. To him I made profound obeisance, for he seemed to me more like a God than a man. Somehow I knew who he was, though this was the first time I had seen him. He spoke to me graciously and said, "I shall have work for you in six months." He walked to the further side of the room, waved his hand in farewell and departed. Then H. P. B. dismissed me with the parting words, “God bless you,” and directly I saw the waves of the Atlantic beneath me; I floated down and dipped my feet in their crests. Then with a rush I crossed the continent till I saw the lights of Los Angles and returned to my body, seated in the chair where I had left it.<ref>[http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/mastersencounterswith.htm# A Casebook of Encounters with the Theosophical Mahatmas] Case 61, compiled and edited by Daniel H. Caldwell</ref></blockquote><br />
<br />
== Later years ==<br />
<br />
In 1895, Mr. Pryse followed [[William Quan Judge|W. Q. Judge]] when most of the American Section seceded from the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society based in Adyar]]. Pryse wrote,<br />
<blockquote><br />
In 1895 by advice of [[William Quan Judge|Mr. Judge]] and [[Archibald Keightley|Dr. Keightley]], I shipped the original H.P.B. Press, which belonged to Dr. Keightley, to Dublin, joined the lodge there, and for over a year helped [[George William Russell|Russell]] and the others to get out [[The Irish Theosophist|the Irish Theosophist]].<ref>James Morgan Pryse, "George William Russell, Poet of the Inner Life," ''The Canadian Theosophist'' 16.6 (August 15, 1935). Available at [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/ae.html KatinkaHesselink.net.]</ref><br />
</blockquote> <br />
<br />
Pryse continued his theosophical work in the [[Point Loma]] community, but eventually lost faith in the leadership of [[Katherine Tingley]].<ref>Emmett A. Greenwalt, ''California Utopia: Point Loma: 1897-1942'' 2nd revised edition (San Diego, CA: Point Loma Publications, 1978), 207</ref> He died on [[April 22]], 1942, in New York.<br />
<br />
[[File:Pryse book flyer.jpg|240px|right|thumb|Advertisement for Pryse book]]<br />
<br />
== Writings ==<br />
The [[Union Index of Theosophical Periodicals]] lists 35 articles [http://www.austheos.org.au/cgi-bin/ui-csvsearch.pl?search=pryse+James&method=all by or about James M. Pryse], and he also wrote several important books and pamplets:<br />
* '''"Brotherhood"'''. ''Universal Brotherhood''. (March, 1898). Available at [http://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/ub/v12n12p289_brotherhood.htm# Theosophical University Press.] <br />
* '''"The Evangel according to Iôannês'''. ''Universal Brotherhood''. (September, 1898). Available at [http://www.theosociety.org/pasadena/ub/v13n06p321_the-evangel-according-to-ioannes.htm# Theosophical University Press.] <br />
* '''"Memorabilia of H.P.B."'''. ''The Canadian Theosophist''. (March 15, 1935), 1-5. Available at [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/pryse.htm# Blavatsky Archive.] This is a reminiscence of H.P.B.'s final illness and death.<br />
* '''''The Restored New Testament'''''. Los Angeles: John M. Pryse and London: John M. Watkins, 1914. Subtitled "The Hellenic fragments, freed from the pseudo-Jewish interpolations, harmonized, and done into English verse and prose, with introductory analyses, and commentaries, giving an interpretation according to ancient philosophy and psychology and a new literal translation of the synoptic gospels, with introduction and commentaries." 848 pages. Available in several versions at [https://archive.org/search.php?query=creator%3A%22Pryse%2C+James+M.+%28James+Morgan%29%2C+b.+1859%22 Internet Archive].<br />
* '''''The Apocalypse Unsealed'''''. New York: John M. Pryse, 1910. 244 pages. Subtitled: "being an esoteric interpretation of the initiation of Iôannês (Apokalypsis Iōannou) commonly called the Revelation of (St.) John : with a new translation". Available at [https://archive.org/details/cu31924029295289 Internet Archive]. A gnostic work.<br />
* '''''Reincarnation in the New Testament'''''. New York: Theosophical Society, 1904. 109 pages. Three versions available from [https://archive.org/search.php?query=creator%3A%22Pryse%2C+James+M.+%28James+Morgan%29%2C+b.+1859%22 Internet Archive].<br />
* '''''The Magical Message According to Iônannês (To kata Iōannon Euangelion)'''''. Subtitled "commonly called the Gospel according to [St.] John". New York: Theosophical Publishing Company of New York, 1909. 248 pages. Two versions available at [https://archive.org/search.php?query=creator%3A%22Pryse%2C+James+M.+%28James+Morgan%29%2C+b.+1859%22 Internet Archive].<br />
* '''''The Sermon on the Mount and Other Extracts from the New Testament'''''. New York: Elliott B. Page & Co., 1899. Subtitled "a verbatim translation from the Greek". Available at [https://archive.org/details/sermononmountoth00prys Internet Archive].<br />
* '''''Prometheus Bound'''''.<br />
* '''''Adorers of Dionysos'''''. Los Angeles: John M. Pryse, 1925. This is a study of symbolism in Euripides' ''The Bachhanals'' and a sequel to ''Prometheus Bound'', per review by M. L. T. in ''The Messenger'' 13.6 (November, 1925), 118. Illustrations by [[J. Augustus Knapp]]. Available online at [https://books.google.com/books?id=Af4FAQAAIAAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ViewAPI#v=onepage&q&f=false Google Books] and [https://archive.org/details/adorersofdionyso0000euri Internet Archive].<br />
<br />
== Online resources ==<br />
===Articles===<br />
*[http://theosophy.ph/encyclo/index.php?title=Pryse,_James_Morgan# James Morgan Pryse] at Theosopedia<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Nationality American|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Editors|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Journalists|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Attorneys|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Business careers|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Lecturers|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Associates of HPB|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:People who encountered Mahatmas|Pryse, James Morgan]]<br />
[[Category:Writers|Pryse, James M.]]<br />
[[Category:Gnostics|Pryse, James M.]]<br />
[[Category:Point Loma|Pryse, James M.]]<br />
[[Category:People|Pryse, James M.]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=HPB_Press&diff=51427HPB Press2023-10-30T14:15:32Z<p>Janet Kerschner: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:HPB Press emblem.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Emblem of HPB Press]]<br />
<br />
'''HPB Press''' was established in London by the American brothers [[James Morgan Pryse]] and [[John Morgan Pryse]] at the request of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Madame Blavatsky]] in 1889. Major products of the press included the periodicals [[Lucifer (periodical)|''Lucifer'']] and [[The Vahan (periodical)|''The Vahan'']]. <br />
<br />
The Press closed in January, 1895:<br />
<blockquote><br />
In January a telegram from Mrs. Besant and Mr. B. Keightley from India ordered that the Press be closed. This was at once done, and of course all the employees were discharged. [[James Morgan Pryse|James M. Pryse]], who went from the [[Aryan Theosophical Press|Aryan Press]] in New York, which he started with his brother [[John Morgan Pryse|John]], to London where he organized the H.P.B. Press with an American outfit purchased in New York and on which Lucifer has been so beautifully printed, has passed from that station because of the<br />
closure of the plant. He may go to Dublin to help in similar work there, if started. But if there is no need for him at that spot, he may again add his talents and devotion to the staff of printers in New York.<ref>"Closing of H.P.B. Press" ''The Path'' 9.11 (February, 1895), 408.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
Pryse wrote,<br />
<blockquote><br />
In 1895 by advice of [[William Quan Judge|Mr. Judge]] and [[Archibald Keightley|Dr. Keightley]], I shipped the original H.P.B. Press, which belonged to Dr. Keightley, to Dublin, joined the lodge there, and for over a year helped [[George William Russell|Russell]] and the others to get out [[The Irish Theosophist|the Irish Theosophist]].<ref>James Morgan Pryse, "George William Russell, Poet of the Inner Life," ''The Canadian Theosophist'' 16.6 (August 15, 1935). Available at [http://www.katinkahesselink.net/his/ae.html KatinkaHesselink.net.]</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
[[Category:Publishing companies]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Rabindranath_Tagore&diff=49700Rabindranath Tagore2023-10-16T16:58:28Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Literary endeavors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:R Tagore.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Autographed photo of Rabindranath Tagore]]<br />
'''Rabindranath Tagore''' was a Bengali poet, painter, philosopher, and composer who was awarded the Nobel prize for literature. He was heavily involved with members of the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] in England and India.<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore was born on [[May 7]], 1861 in Kolkata, India. His father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, was a Hindu philosopher and reformer, active in the [[Brahmo Samaj]]. He established the guest-house called Santiniketan ("the abode of peace") in West Bengal, north of Kolkata.<br />
<br />
Tagore died at the age of eighty on [[August 7]], 1941 at Jorasanko Thakurbari in Kolkata.<br />
<br />
== Tagore and Theosophical Society ==<br />
[[File:Tagore at Besant Theosophical School.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Tagore at Besant Theosophical School]]<br />
G. Sundari was born in 1929. She has had a lifelong association with both the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] and [[Kalakshetra]] dance academy. She worked at Kalakshetra for 33 years, first as the Superintendent of Studies, and later as the Assistant Secretary of Performances for over two decades.<br />
<br />
She remembers Rabindranath Tagore in following words:<br />
<blockquote><br />
My father came to Madras at the request of [[Annie Besant]] to work in the [[Theosophical Publishing House (Adyar)|Theosophical Publishing House]], and the rest of us followed when the Besant Theosophical School opened in 1934. I joined the school in Class I, and studied there till I completed my SSLC [Secondary School Leaving Certificate].<br />
<br />
One of my earliest memories is of seeing Rabindranath Tagore during his visit to Madras in 1934. He was very impressive, with his ochre robes and his long beard. He had come with his students as part of his South India tour to raise funds for Shantiniketan. The president of the Society, [[George S. Arundale|George Arundale]] told him, ‘Gurudev, we don't want you to have to go around collecting funds at your age,' and assured him that they'd collect the money for him. So Tagore stayed on at the Society for about 10 days, and was well taken care of at the Blavatsky Bungalow near the big banyan tree.<br />
<br />
All of us children would run in and out of the bungalow — there were no restrictions on our movements. Tagore would be reclining in an easy chair in the hall and when a child went up to him, his arm would go gently around him or her. But what fascinated us most was the sight of his students combing out his long beard! The Theosophical Society was in general a very child-friendly place. Dr. Arundale wouldn't pass by a child without a smile and a wave.<ref>Sundari reference.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
A plaque commemorates his stay in the historic Blavatsky Bungalow from October 21 to November 2, 1934:<br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
| [[File:Tagore Plaque 1962.jpg|450px]] [[File:Tagore stayed here.jpg|200px]]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Involvement with education ==<br />
<br />
=== Visva-Bharati ===<br />
Tagore founded Visva-Bharati in his father's community of Santiniketan, which expanded into a university town. In 1951 Visva-Bharati was established as a national central university.<br />
<br />
=== Besant Theosophical College ===<br />
Besant Theosophical College is one of the oldest colleges in the Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh. The college started on 19 July 1915. (It was established decades before Sri Venkateswara University.) Initially it was affiliated with Madras University. In 1917 it was forced to dissociate itself from Madras University and became part of National University. Dr. Rabindranath Tagore was the chancellor of the university.<br />
<br />
In 1919, Tagore visited the college and during this time translated the lyrics of the Indian national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana", which he had previously written, from Bengali to English. [[Margaret Cousins]] (an expert in European music and wife of Irish poet [[James Cousins]], then vice-principal of the college) set down the notation to the national anthem in the college, which is followed only when the song is sung in the original slow rendition style.<br />
<br />
During Tagore's visit, the [[Boy Scout Movement and Theosophical Movement|Scout Movement]] and [[Women's Indian Association|All India Women Association]] were inaugurated at Madanapalle.<br />
<br />
In 1923, the college was re-affiliated with Madras University and continued for almost 30 years. After the separation of Andhra State and Madras State, the college was affiliated with Andhra University (1954–1956) and then with Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati.<br />
<br />
== Literary endeavors ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore wrote '''poetry''' from the age of eight. His first major poetry collection, '''Bhanusimha Thakurer Padabali''', was published when he was just sixteen years old.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
His best known work in poetry, '''Gitanjali''', was published in 1910. Tagore himself translated its works to English and '''The English Gitanjali or Song Offerings''' was published in 1912. The best known poems by Tagore include "Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata," "Chitto Jetha Bhayshunyo," "Birpurush," "Sonar Tori," and "Jete Nahi Dibo." The major theme in the poetry of Tagore is the essential unity of all creation, which is also the main theme of the Upanishads, ancient Sanskrit texts that contain some of the central philosophical concepts and ideas of Hinduism.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1877, Tagore wrote a '''short story''' titled "Bhikharini" (The Beggar Woman) in ''Bharati'' magazine. This introduced the genre to Bengali literature. His best known short story was "Kabuliwala" (The Fruitseller from Kabul), which served as the basis for 1957 Bengali film and a 1961 Hindi film.<br />
<br />
Altogether Tagore wrote '''eight novels, four novellas and a wide collection of poetry'''. "His best known novels include ''Chokher Bali'', ''Noukadubi'', ''Gora'', ''Chaturanga'', ''Ghare Baire'', ''Shesher Kobita'', ''Jogajog'', and ''Char Odhyay''. Several of these novels and novellas have been adapted as films, most prominently '''Chokher Bali''' and '''Ghare Baire'''.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref> His works were translated into English, Dutch, German, Spanish, Japanese, and other languages, and he was lionized in Europe.<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore visited Germany thrice &ndash; in 1921, 1926 and 1930. Two dozen of his books were already available in German translation. "Wherever he spoke, the halls were packed. The newspapers reported scuffles and regular fights by people who were refused entry, " say Martin Kampchen, a German author who has translated Tagore's works. The local media hailed the india poet as the 'Wise man from the East'; and a 'prophet, a mystic and a messiah'. <br />
<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
'''Drama''' was another literary field to which Tagore contributed:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore wrote his first original dramatic piece at the age of twenty. An opera titled ''Valmiki-Pratibha'' (The Genius of Valmiki) it is based on the legend of Ratnakara the Thug who later became Sage Valmiki. In 1890, in his late twenties, Tagore wrote a drama titled ''Bisarjan'' (Immersion), which explores a story in which humans loose their paradise in order to satisfy a god who wanted animal sacrifice. Bisarjan is regarded by many as Tagore’s finest drama. Another renowned play by Tagore is ''Dak Ghar'' (The Post Office), which was written in 1912. Apart from India, this play also had a successful run in Germany with 105 performances. Other renowned works by Tagore in drama include the ''Rabindra Nritya Natya'', a group of three dance-dramas titled Chitrangada, Chandalika and Shyama.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore painting.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Tagore painting]]<br />
<br />
== Paintings ==<br />
<br />
While Tagore is best-known for his writing, he was also heavily engaged in painting. He was the father of the Indian art movement of '''contextual modernism''', a school of art that was cross-cultural, experimental, and humanist. Art Nouveau and ancient Indian crafts inspired some of his art. "The art of Tagore is highly individualistic and is characterized by bold forms, vitality, rhythmic quality and a sense of fantasy. It may be noted that Tagore was likely red-green color blind and this resulted in his works exhibiting strange color schemes and off-beat aesthetics."<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore began painting in his mid-sixties and ended up producing more than 2,300 artworks over a decade before he died in 1941.<br />
<br />
"He always wanted to paint. He was doodling in his manuscripts. Around 1928, he was producing his first paintings," says Professor Siva Kumar.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
His was the first Indian art to be exhibited across Europe, Russia and the United States.<br />
<blockquote><br />
In 1930, a solo show carrying some 300 of Tagore's artworks travelled to Europe. More than 100 of his paintings were shown in Paris, and at least half of them at the National Gallery of Art in Berlin before the exhibition proceeded to London.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The artist donated five of his works to the German museum. Adolph Hitler, however, found the works to be degenerate, along with most other modern art.<br />
<blockquote><br />
They were five artworks in all, depicting birds and humans, and one of a girl in a red robe.<br />
<br />
Painted in coloured inks and gouache by Rabindranath Tagore, India's most famous poet, they found a place in a leading museum in Berlin. Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel literature prize, had gifted the paintings to Germany in 1930.<br />
<br />
Seven years later, the paintings were purged by the Nazi regime which had begun to classify some "inappropriate" art works as degenerate.<br />
<br />
Hitler, a failed artist himself, believed post-impressionist modern art to be "evidence of a deranged mind" and ordered more than 16,000 artworks, including ones by Van Gogh and Man Ray, to be removed from German museums.<br />
<br />
The Nazis considered such art "degenerate" and even staged an exhibition to ridicule them...<br />
<br />
Until 1937, Tagore's paintings were housed in Berlin's baroque Crown Prince Palace, which also housed the National Gallery. When Hitler's purge began, a "deportation list from 15 October 1937 shows the five paintings listed amongst those of many famous expressionist painters which were removed from the palace and brought to a depot with restricted access in the city", according to art historian Konstantin Wenzlaff.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The location of the five paintings remains uncertain.<br />
<br />
== Music and national anthems ==<br />
<br />
Another of Tagore's fields of endeavor was in songwriting. He wrote approximately 2,230 songs. "Tagore is considered a major force in transforming the style of Bengali music by incorporating influences from different musical traditions."<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
<br />
He wrote the national anthem of India. The first time it was performed was on the the second day of the annual session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta on [[December 27]], 1911.<br />
<blockquote><br />
After independence, the first stanza of the poem was adopted as the National anthem. And, it became known as "Jana Gana Mana."<br />
<br />
Apart from India's national anthem, Rabindranath also penned the national anthem of Bangladesh. In 1905, he wrote the song "Amar Shonar Bangla" during the British partitioning of Bengal, a time of national unrest. In 1971, when Bangladesh won its liberation war, the first ten lines of "Amar Shonar Bangla" were adopted as the National anthem in Bangladesh. Additionally, the national anthem of Sri Lanka was inspired by one of his works.<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Jorasanko Thakurbari.jpg|320px|right|thumb|Jorasanko Thakurbari Kinjal bos]]<br />
=== Museums ===<br />
<br />
* '''Jorasanko Thakurbari, Rabindranath Tagore's Home and Museum''', in Kolkata. This was the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore. Many of his personal effects on display, along with paintings him, his brother Abanindranath Tagore, and other painters.<br />
* '''[https://cityseeker.com/kolkata/583540-tagore-museum Tagore Museum, Shantiniketan] or "Rabindra Bhavan" also houses a research institute and a library. It is in the city where Tagore lived, and the museum displays his belongings, art, musical instruments; his Nobel medal and diploma; and souvenirs and gifts from all over the world. <br />
<br />
Many of the world's great museums have collected his art:<br />
* [https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG14681 British Museum].<br />
* [https://www.indiablooms.com/life-details/AC/567/academy-of-fine-arts-to-re-open-museum-with-tagore-paintings.html Academy of Fine Arts in Kolkata].<br />
* [https://philamuseum.org/collection/object/61528 Philadelphia Museum of Art].<br />
<br />
=== Exhibitions ===<br />
<br />
'''''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Harvest:_Paintings_of_Rabindranath_Tagore#:~:text=The%20first%20selection%20was%20shown,Malaysia)%2C%20Kuala%20Lumpur%2C%20McMichael The Last Harvest]''''' was an event celebrating the 150th anniversary of the artist's birth. Three similar selections totaling 208 paintings were shown simultaneously in three circuits. Museums hosting the exhibitions were in Germany, England, the United States, Korea, India, Malaysia, Canada, France, and Italy, opening in 2011.<br />
<br />
'''''[https://dailynewsegypt.com/2018/05/02/indian-embassy-launches-tagores-exhibition-ahmed-shawki-museum/ Rabindranath Tagore: Rhythm in Colours]''''' was held May 3-7, 2018 at the Maulana Azad Centre for Culture of the Embassy of India in Cairo.<br />
<br />
Mutual Art maintains [https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/Rabindranath-Tagore/28603D708C66645D/Exhibitions a list of Tagore exhibitions].<br />
<br />
=== Gallery ===<br />
Here are some example of Tagore's art:<br />
<gallery widths="130px" heights="150px" perrow="5"><br />
File:Tagore Painting 10.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 39.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 26.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 32.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 8.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 4.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 3.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 21.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 25.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 27.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 30.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 9.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 20.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
<br />
The most noteworthy recognition of Tagore's work came in 1913, when he was awarded the '''Nobel Prize for Literature'''. He was the first Indian and first Asian recipient of this prize. These are some of his many awards, honors, and prizes:<br />
<br />
* 1915 - '''Knighthood''' was awarded for Services to Literature by King George V of England. The poet renounced his title in 1919 after the Jallianwala Bagh incident, also known as the massacre of Amritsar.<br />
* 1940 - Awarded with a '''Doctorate of Literature''' by Oxford University, in a special ceremony arranged at Shantiniketan.<br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore on trees.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Articles ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.open.ac.uk/researchprojects/makingbritain/content/rabindranath-tagore Rabindranath Tagore] at The Open University's website on "Making Britain: Discover how South Asians shaped the nation, 1870-1950." Accessed November 3, 2016.<br />
<br />
=== Books ===<br />
* Robinson, Andrew. ''The Art of Rabindranath Tagore''. 1989.<br />
* ''Rabindranth Tagore: A Celebration of His Life and Works''. Rabindranath Tagore Festival, 1986.<br />
* 'Six Indian Painters', Tate Gallery, London, 1982.<br />
* Dutta, Krishna, and Andrew Robinson. ''Rabindranath Tagore: The Myriad-Minded Man''. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Ltd., 1995.<br />
<br />
=== Videos ===<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Nk0coka4Zg "Tagore as an Artist and His Influence on Modern Indian Art"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 26, 2011.<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYriVkYlFHg&list=RDCMUCLhCSlrBlAlkDOE17biUmqw&index=2 "Paintings of Rabindranath Tagore: A Perspective"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 27, 2011.<br />
<br />
=== Websites ===<br />
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabindranath_Tagore Rabindranath Tagore] in Wikipedia. A very thorough and interesting article.<br />
* [https://www.theheritagelab.in/rabindranath-tagore-portraits-art/ In Pictures: 14 portraits of Rabindranath Tagore].<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Poets|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Artists|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Playwrights|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Philosophers|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Indian|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Famous people|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:People|Tagore, Rabindranath]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Rabindranath_Tagore&diff=49699Rabindranath Tagore2023-10-16T16:55:09Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Websites */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:R Tagore.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Autographed photo of Rabindranath Tagore]]<br />
'''Rabindranath Tagore''' was a Bengali poet, painter, philosopher, and composer who was awarded the Nobel prize for literature. He was heavily involved with members of the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] in England and India.<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore was born on [[May 7]], 1861 in Kolkata, India. His father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, was a Hindu philosopher and reformer, active in the [[Brahmo Samaj]]. He established the guest-house called Santiniketan ("the abode of peace") in West Bengal, north of Kolkata.<br />
<br />
Tagore died at the age of eighty on [[August 7]], 1941 at Jorasanko Thakurbari in Kolkata.<br />
<br />
== Tagore and Theosophical Society ==<br />
[[File:Tagore at Besant Theosophical School.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Tagore at Besant Theosophical School]]<br />
G. Sundari was born in 1929. She has had a lifelong association with both the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] and [[Kalakshetra]] dance academy. She worked at Kalakshetra for 33 years, first as the Superintendent of Studies, and later as the Assistant Secretary of Performances for over two decades.<br />
<br />
She remembers Rabindranath Tagore in following words:<br />
<blockquote><br />
My father came to Madras at the request of [[Annie Besant]] to work in the [[Theosophical Publishing House (Adyar)|Theosophical Publishing House]], and the rest of us followed when the Besant Theosophical School opened in 1934. I joined the school in Class I, and studied there till I completed my SSLC [Secondary School Leaving Certificate].<br />
<br />
One of my earliest memories is of seeing Rabindranath Tagore during his visit to Madras in 1934. He was very impressive, with his ochre robes and his long beard. He had come with his students as part of his South India tour to raise funds for Shantiniketan. The president of the Society, [[George S. Arundale|George Arundale]] told him, ‘Gurudev, we don't want you to have to go around collecting funds at your age,' and assured him that they'd collect the money for him. So Tagore stayed on at the Society for about 10 days, and was well taken care of at the Blavatsky Bungalow near the big banyan tree.<br />
<br />
All of us children would run in and out of the bungalow — there were no restrictions on our movements. Tagore would be reclining in an easy chair in the hall and when a child went up to him, his arm would go gently around him or her. But what fascinated us most was the sight of his students combing out his long beard! The Theosophical Society was in general a very child-friendly place. Dr. Arundale wouldn't pass by a child without a smile and a wave.<ref>Sundari reference.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
A plaque commemorates his stay in the historic Blavatsky Bungalow from October 21 to November 2, 1934:<br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
| [[File:Tagore Plaque 1962.jpg|450px]] [[File:Tagore stayed here.jpg|200px]]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Involvement with education ==<br />
<br />
=== Visva-Bharati ===<br />
Tagore founded Visva-Bharati in his father's community of Santiniketan, which expanded into a university town. In 1951 Visva-Bharati was established as a national central university.<br />
<br />
=== Besant Theosophical College ===<br />
Besant Theosophical College is one of the oldest colleges in the Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh. The college started on 19 July 1915. (It was established decades before Sri Venkateswara University.) Initially it was affiliated with Madras University. In 1917 it was forced to dissociate itself from Madras University and became part of National University. Dr. Rabindranath Tagore was the chancellor of the university.<br />
<br />
In 1919, Tagore visited the college and during this time translated the lyrics of the Indian national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana", which he had previously written, from Bengali to English. [[Margaret Cousins]] (an expert in European music and wife of Irish poet [[James Cousins]], then vice-principal of the college) set down the notation to the national anthem in the college, which is followed only when the song is sung in the original slow rendition style.<br />
<br />
During Tagore's visit, the [[Boy Scout Movement and Theosophical Movement|Scout Movement]] and [[Women's Indian Association|All India Women Association]] were inaugurated at Madanapalle.<br />
<br />
In 1923, the college was re-affiliated with Madras University and continued for almost 30 years. After the separation of Andhra State and Madras State, the college was affiliated with Andhra University (1954–1956) and then with Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati.<br />
<br />
== Literary endeavors ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore wrote '''poetry''' from the age of eight. His first major poetry collection, '''Bhanusimha Thakurer Padabali''', was published when he was just sixteen years old.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
His best known work in poetry, '''Gitanjali''', was published in 1910. Tagore himself translated its works to English and '''The English Gitanjali or Song Offerings''' was published in 1912. The best known poems by Tagore include "Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata," "Chitto Jetha Bhayshunyo," "Birpurush," "Sonar Tori," and "Jete Nahi Dibo." The major theme in the poetry of Tagore is the essential unity of all creation, which is also the main theme of the Upanishads, ancient Sanskrit texts that contain some of the central philosophical concepts and ideas of Hinduism.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1877, Tagore wrote a '''short story''' titled "Bhikharini" (The Beggar Woman) in ''Bharati'' magazine. This introduced the genre to Bengali literature. His best known short story was "Kabuliwala" (The Fruitseller from Kabul), which served as the basis for 1957 Bengali film and a 1961 Hindi film.<br />
<br />
Altogether Tagore wrote '''eight novels, four novellas and a wide collection of poetry'''. "His best known novels include ''Chokher Bali'', ''Noukadubi'', ''Gora'', ''Chaturanga'', ''Ghare Baire'', ''Shesher Kobita'', ''Jogajog'', and ''Char Odhyay''. Several of these novels and novellas have been adapted as films, most prominently '''Chokher Bali''' and '''Ghare Baire'''.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref> He was lionized in Europe.<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore visited Germany thrice &ndash; in 1921, 1926 and 1930. Two dozen of his books were already available in German translation. "Wherever he spoke, the halls were packed. The newspapers reported scuffles and regular fights by people who were refused entry, " say Martin Kampchen, a German author who has translated Tagore's works. The local media hailed the india poet as the 'Wise man from the East'; and a 'prophet, a mystic and a messiah'. <br />
<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
'''Drama''' was another literary field to which Tagore contributed:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore wrote his first original dramatic piece at the age of twenty. An opera titled ''Valmiki-Pratibha'' (The Genius of Valmiki) it is based on the legend of Ratnakara the Thug who later became Sage Valmiki. In 1890, in his late twenties, Tagore wrote a drama titled ''Bisarjan'' (Immersion), which explores a story in which humans loose their paradise in order to satisfy a god who wanted animal sacrifice. Bisarjan is regarded by many as Tagore’s finest drama. Another renowned play by Tagore is ''Dak Ghar'' (The Post Office), which was written in 1912. Apart from India, this play also had a successful run in Germany with 105 performances. Other renowned works by Tagore in drama include the ''Rabindra Nritya Natya'', a group of three dance-dramas titled Chitrangada, Chandalika and Shyama.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore painting.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Tagore painting]]<br />
<br />
== Paintings ==<br />
<br />
While Tagore is best-known for his writing, he was also heavily engaged in painting. He was the father of the Indian art movement of '''contextual modernism''', a school of art that was cross-cultural, experimental, and humanist. Art Nouveau and ancient Indian crafts inspired some of his art. "The art of Tagore is highly individualistic and is characterized by bold forms, vitality, rhythmic quality and a sense of fantasy. It may be noted that Tagore was likely red-green color blind and this resulted in his works exhibiting strange color schemes and off-beat aesthetics."<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore began painting in his mid-sixties and ended up producing more than 2,300 artworks over a decade before he died in 1941.<br />
<br />
"He always wanted to paint. He was doodling in his manuscripts. Around 1928, he was producing his first paintings," says Professor Siva Kumar.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
His was the first Indian art to be exhibited across Europe, Russia and the United States.<br />
<blockquote><br />
In 1930, a solo show carrying some 300 of Tagore's artworks travelled to Europe. More than 100 of his paintings were shown in Paris, and at least half of them at the National Gallery of Art in Berlin before the exhibition proceeded to London.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The artist donated five of his works to the German museum. Adolph Hitler, however, found the works to be degenerate, along with most other modern art.<br />
<blockquote><br />
They were five artworks in all, depicting birds and humans, and one of a girl in a red robe.<br />
<br />
Painted in coloured inks and gouache by Rabindranath Tagore, India's most famous poet, they found a place in a leading museum in Berlin. Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel literature prize, had gifted the paintings to Germany in 1930.<br />
<br />
Seven years later, the paintings were purged by the Nazi regime which had begun to classify some "inappropriate" art works as degenerate.<br />
<br />
Hitler, a failed artist himself, believed post-impressionist modern art to be "evidence of a deranged mind" and ordered more than 16,000 artworks, including ones by Van Gogh and Man Ray, to be removed from German museums.<br />
<br />
The Nazis considered such art "degenerate" and even staged an exhibition to ridicule them...<br />
<br />
Until 1937, Tagore's paintings were housed in Berlin's baroque Crown Prince Palace, which also housed the National Gallery. When Hitler's purge began, a "deportation list from 15 October 1937 shows the five paintings listed amongst those of many famous expressionist painters which were removed from the palace and brought to a depot with restricted access in the city", according to art historian Konstantin Wenzlaff.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The location of the five paintings remains uncertain.<br />
<br />
== Music and national anthems ==<br />
<br />
Another of Tagore's fields of endeavor was in songwriting. He wrote approximately 2,230 songs. "Tagore is considered a major force in transforming the style of Bengali music by incorporating influences from different musical traditions."<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
<br />
He wrote the national anthem of India. The first time it was performed was on the the second day of the annual session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta on [[December 27]], 1911.<br />
<blockquote><br />
After independence, the first stanza of the poem was adopted as the National anthem. And, it became known as "Jana Gana Mana."<br />
<br />
Apart from India's national anthem, Rabindranath also penned the national anthem of Bangladesh. In 1905, he wrote the song "Amar Shonar Bangla" during the British partitioning of Bengal, a time of national unrest. In 1971, when Bangladesh won its liberation war, the first ten lines of "Amar Shonar Bangla" were adopted as the National anthem in Bangladesh. Additionally, the national anthem of Sri Lanka was inspired by one of his works.<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Jorasanko Thakurbari.jpg|320px|right|thumb|Jorasanko Thakurbari Kinjal bos]]<br />
=== Museums ===<br />
<br />
* '''Jorasanko Thakurbari, Rabindranath Tagore's Home and Museum''', in Kolkata. This was the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore. Many of his personal effects on display, along with paintings him, his brother Abanindranath Tagore, and other painters.<br />
* '''[https://cityseeker.com/kolkata/583540-tagore-museum Tagore Museum, Shantiniketan] or "Rabindra Bhavan" also houses a research institute and a library. It is in the city where Tagore lived, and the museum displays his belongings, art, musical instruments; his Nobel medal and diploma; and souvenirs and gifts from all over the world. <br />
<br />
Many of the world's great museums have collected his art:<br />
* [https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG14681 British Museum].<br />
* [https://www.indiablooms.com/life-details/AC/567/academy-of-fine-arts-to-re-open-museum-with-tagore-paintings.html Academy of Fine Arts in Kolkata].<br />
* [https://philamuseum.org/collection/object/61528 Philadelphia Museum of Art].<br />
<br />
=== Exhibitions ===<br />
<br />
'''''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Harvest:_Paintings_of_Rabindranath_Tagore#:~:text=The%20first%20selection%20was%20shown,Malaysia)%2C%20Kuala%20Lumpur%2C%20McMichael The Last Harvest]''''' was an event celebrating the 150th anniversary of the artist's birth. Three similar selections totaling 208 paintings were shown simultaneously in three circuits. Museums hosting the exhibitions were in Germany, England, the United States, Korea, India, Malaysia, Canada, France, and Italy, opening in 2011.<br />
<br />
'''''[https://dailynewsegypt.com/2018/05/02/indian-embassy-launches-tagores-exhibition-ahmed-shawki-museum/ Rabindranath Tagore: Rhythm in Colours]''''' was held May 3-7, 2018 at the Maulana Azad Centre for Culture of the Embassy of India in Cairo.<br />
<br />
Mutual Art maintains [https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/Rabindranath-Tagore/28603D708C66645D/Exhibitions a list of Tagore exhibitions].<br />
<br />
=== Gallery ===<br />
Here are some example of Tagore's art:<br />
<gallery widths="130px" heights="150px" perrow="5"><br />
File:Tagore Painting 10.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 39.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 26.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 32.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 8.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 4.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 3.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 21.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 25.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 27.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 30.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 9.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 20.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
<br />
The most noteworthy recognition of Tagore's work came in 1913, when he was awarded the '''Nobel Prize for Literature'''. He was the first Indian and first Asian recipient of this prize. These are some of his many awards, honors, and prizes:<br />
<br />
* 1915 - '''Knighthood''' was awarded for Services to Literature by King George V of England. The poet renounced his title in 1919 after the Jallianwala Bagh incident, also known as the massacre of Amritsar.<br />
* 1940 - Awarded with a '''Doctorate of Literature''' by Oxford University, in a special ceremony arranged at Shantiniketan.<br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore on trees.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Articles ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.open.ac.uk/researchprojects/makingbritain/content/rabindranath-tagore Rabindranath Tagore] at The Open University's website on "Making Britain: Discover how South Asians shaped the nation, 1870-1950." Accessed November 3, 2016.<br />
<br />
=== Books ===<br />
* Robinson, Andrew. ''The Art of Rabindranath Tagore''. 1989.<br />
* ''Rabindranth Tagore: A Celebration of His Life and Works''. Rabindranath Tagore Festival, 1986.<br />
* 'Six Indian Painters', Tate Gallery, London, 1982.<br />
* Dutta, Krishna, and Andrew Robinson. ''Rabindranath Tagore: The Myriad-Minded Man''. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Ltd., 1995.<br />
<br />
=== Videos ===<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Nk0coka4Zg "Tagore as an Artist and His Influence on Modern Indian Art"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 26, 2011.<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYriVkYlFHg&list=RDCMUCLhCSlrBlAlkDOE17biUmqw&index=2 "Paintings of Rabindranath Tagore: A Perspective"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 27, 2011.<br />
<br />
=== Websites ===<br />
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabindranath_Tagore Rabindranath Tagore] in Wikipedia. A very thorough and interesting article.<br />
* [https://www.theheritagelab.in/rabindranath-tagore-portraits-art/ In Pictures: 14 portraits of Rabindranath Tagore].<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Poets|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Artists|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Playwrights|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Philosophers|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Indian|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Famous people|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:People|Tagore, Rabindranath]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Rabindranath_Tagore&diff=49698Rabindranath Tagore2023-10-16T16:53:59Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Literary endeavors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:R Tagore.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Autographed photo of Rabindranath Tagore]]<br />
'''Rabindranath Tagore''' was a Bengali poet, painter, philosopher, and composer who was awarded the Nobel prize for literature. He was heavily involved with members of the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] in England and India.<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore was born on [[May 7]], 1861 in Kolkata, India. His father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, was a Hindu philosopher and reformer, active in the [[Brahmo Samaj]]. He established the guest-house called Santiniketan ("the abode of peace") in West Bengal, north of Kolkata.<br />
<br />
Tagore died at the age of eighty on [[August 7]], 1941 at Jorasanko Thakurbari in Kolkata.<br />
<br />
== Tagore and Theosophical Society ==<br />
[[File:Tagore at Besant Theosophical School.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Tagore at Besant Theosophical School]]<br />
G. Sundari was born in 1929. She has had a lifelong association with both the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] and [[Kalakshetra]] dance academy. She worked at Kalakshetra for 33 years, first as the Superintendent of Studies, and later as the Assistant Secretary of Performances for over two decades.<br />
<br />
She remembers Rabindranath Tagore in following words:<br />
<blockquote><br />
My father came to Madras at the request of [[Annie Besant]] to work in the [[Theosophical Publishing House (Adyar)|Theosophical Publishing House]], and the rest of us followed when the Besant Theosophical School opened in 1934. I joined the school in Class I, and studied there till I completed my SSLC [Secondary School Leaving Certificate].<br />
<br />
One of my earliest memories is of seeing Rabindranath Tagore during his visit to Madras in 1934. He was very impressive, with his ochre robes and his long beard. He had come with his students as part of his South India tour to raise funds for Shantiniketan. The president of the Society, [[George S. Arundale|George Arundale]] told him, ‘Gurudev, we don't want you to have to go around collecting funds at your age,' and assured him that they'd collect the money for him. So Tagore stayed on at the Society for about 10 days, and was well taken care of at the Blavatsky Bungalow near the big banyan tree.<br />
<br />
All of us children would run in and out of the bungalow — there were no restrictions on our movements. Tagore would be reclining in an easy chair in the hall and when a child went up to him, his arm would go gently around him or her. But what fascinated us most was the sight of his students combing out his long beard! The Theosophical Society was in general a very child-friendly place. Dr. Arundale wouldn't pass by a child without a smile and a wave.<ref>Sundari reference.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
A plaque commemorates his stay in the historic Blavatsky Bungalow from October 21 to November 2, 1934:<br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
| [[File:Tagore Plaque 1962.jpg|450px]] [[File:Tagore stayed here.jpg|200px]]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Involvement with education ==<br />
<br />
=== Visva-Bharati ===<br />
Tagore founded Visva-Bharati in his father's community of Santiniketan, which expanded into a university town. In 1951 Visva-Bharati was established as a national central university.<br />
<br />
=== Besant Theosophical College ===<br />
Besant Theosophical College is one of the oldest colleges in the Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh. The college started on 19 July 1915. (It was established decades before Sri Venkateswara University.) Initially it was affiliated with Madras University. In 1917 it was forced to dissociate itself from Madras University and became part of National University. Dr. Rabindranath Tagore was the chancellor of the university.<br />
<br />
In 1919, Tagore visited the college and during this time translated the lyrics of the Indian national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana", which he had previously written, from Bengali to English. [[Margaret Cousins]] (an expert in European music and wife of Irish poet [[James Cousins]], then vice-principal of the college) set down the notation to the national anthem in the college, which is followed only when the song is sung in the original slow rendition style.<br />
<br />
During Tagore's visit, the [[Boy Scout Movement and Theosophical Movement|Scout Movement]] and [[Women's Indian Association|All India Women Association]] were inaugurated at Madanapalle.<br />
<br />
In 1923, the college was re-affiliated with Madras University and continued for almost 30 years. After the separation of Andhra State and Madras State, the college was affiliated with Andhra University (1954–1956) and then with Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati.<br />
<br />
== Literary endeavors ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore wrote '''poetry''' from the age of eight. His first major poetry collection, '''Bhanusimha Thakurer Padabali''', was published when he was just sixteen years old.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
His best known work in poetry, '''Gitanjali''', was published in 1910. Tagore himself translated its works to English and '''The English Gitanjali or Song Offerings''' was published in 1912. The best known poems by Tagore include "Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata," "Chitto Jetha Bhayshunyo," "Birpurush," "Sonar Tori," and "Jete Nahi Dibo." The major theme in the poetry of Tagore is the essential unity of all creation, which is also the main theme of the Upanishads, ancient Sanskrit texts that contain some of the central philosophical concepts and ideas of Hinduism.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1877, Tagore wrote a '''short story''' titled "Bhikharini" (The Beggar Woman) in ''Bharati'' magazine. This introduced the genre to Bengali literature. His best known short story was "Kabuliwala" (The Fruitseller from Kabul), which served as the basis for 1957 Bengali film and a 1961 Hindi film.<br />
<br />
Altogether Tagore wrote '''eight novels, four novellas and a wide collection of poetry'''. "His best known novels include ''Chokher Bali'', ''Noukadubi'', ''Gora'', ''Chaturanga'', ''Ghare Baire'', ''Shesher Kobita'', ''Jogajog'', and ''Char Odhyay''. Several of these novels and novellas have been adapted as films, most prominently '''Chokher Bali''' and '''Ghare Baire'''.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref> He was lionized in Europe.<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore visited Germany thrice &ndash; in 1921, 1926 and 1930. Two dozen of his books were already available in German translation. "Wherever he spoke, the halls were packed. The newspapers reported scuffles and regular fights by people who were refused entry, " say Martin Kampchen, a German author who has translated Tagore's works. The local media hailed the india poet as the 'Wise man from the East'; and a 'prophet, a mystic and a messiah'. <br />
<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
'''Drama''' was another literary field to which Tagore contributed:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore wrote his first original dramatic piece at the age of twenty. An opera titled ''Valmiki-Pratibha'' (The Genius of Valmiki) it is based on the legend of Ratnakara the Thug who later became Sage Valmiki. In 1890, in his late twenties, Tagore wrote a drama titled ''Bisarjan'' (Immersion), which explores a story in which humans loose their paradise in order to satisfy a god who wanted animal sacrifice. Bisarjan is regarded by many as Tagore’s finest drama. Another renowned play by Tagore is ''Dak Ghar'' (The Post Office), which was written in 1912. Apart from India, this play also had a successful run in Germany with 105 performances. Other renowned works by Tagore in drama include the ''Rabindra Nritya Natya'', a group of three dance-dramas titled Chitrangada, Chandalika and Shyama.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore painting.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Tagore painting]]<br />
<br />
== Paintings ==<br />
<br />
While Tagore is best-known for his writing, he was also heavily engaged in painting. He was the father of the Indian art movement of '''contextual modernism''', a school of art that was cross-cultural, experimental, and humanist. Art Nouveau and ancient Indian crafts inspired some of his art. "The art of Tagore is highly individualistic and is characterized by bold forms, vitality, rhythmic quality and a sense of fantasy. It may be noted that Tagore was likely red-green color blind and this resulted in his works exhibiting strange color schemes and off-beat aesthetics."<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore began painting in his mid-sixties and ended up producing more than 2,300 artworks over a decade before he died in 1941.<br />
<br />
"He always wanted to paint. He was doodling in his manuscripts. Around 1928, he was producing his first paintings," says Professor Siva Kumar.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
His was the first Indian art to be exhibited across Europe, Russia and the United States.<br />
<blockquote><br />
In 1930, a solo show carrying some 300 of Tagore's artworks travelled to Europe. More than 100 of his paintings were shown in Paris, and at least half of them at the National Gallery of Art in Berlin before the exhibition proceeded to London.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The artist donated five of his works to the German museum. Adolph Hitler, however, found the works to be degenerate, along with most other modern art.<br />
<blockquote><br />
They were five artworks in all, depicting birds and humans, and one of a girl in a red robe.<br />
<br />
Painted in coloured inks and gouache by Rabindranath Tagore, India's most famous poet, they found a place in a leading museum in Berlin. Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel literature prize, had gifted the paintings to Germany in 1930.<br />
<br />
Seven years later, the paintings were purged by the Nazi regime which had begun to classify some "inappropriate" art works as degenerate.<br />
<br />
Hitler, a failed artist himself, believed post-impressionist modern art to be "evidence of a deranged mind" and ordered more than 16,000 artworks, including ones by Van Gogh and Man Ray, to be removed from German museums.<br />
<br />
The Nazis considered such art "degenerate" and even staged an exhibition to ridicule them...<br />
<br />
Until 1937, Tagore's paintings were housed in Berlin's baroque Crown Prince Palace, which also housed the National Gallery. When Hitler's purge began, a "deportation list from 15 October 1937 shows the five paintings listed amongst those of many famous expressionist painters which were removed from the palace and brought to a depot with restricted access in the city", according to art historian Konstantin Wenzlaff.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The location of the five paintings remains uncertain.<br />
<br />
== Music and national anthems ==<br />
<br />
Another of Tagore's fields of endeavor was in songwriting. He wrote approximately 2,230 songs. "Tagore is considered a major force in transforming the style of Bengali music by incorporating influences from different musical traditions."<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
<br />
He wrote the national anthem of India. The first time it was performed was on the the second day of the annual session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta on [[December 27]], 1911.<br />
<blockquote><br />
After independence, the first stanza of the poem was adopted as the National anthem. And, it became known as "Jana Gana Mana."<br />
<br />
Apart from India's national anthem, Rabindranath also penned the national anthem of Bangladesh. In 1905, he wrote the song "Amar Shonar Bangla" during the British partitioning of Bengal, a time of national unrest. In 1971, when Bangladesh won its liberation war, the first ten lines of "Amar Shonar Bangla" were adopted as the National anthem in Bangladesh. Additionally, the national anthem of Sri Lanka was inspired by one of his works.<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Jorasanko Thakurbari.jpg|320px|right|thumb|Jorasanko Thakurbari Kinjal bos]]<br />
=== Museums ===<br />
<br />
* '''Jorasanko Thakurbari, Rabindranath Tagore's Home and Museum''', in Kolkata. This was the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore. Many of his personal effects on display, along with paintings him, his brother Abanindranath Tagore, and other painters.<br />
* '''[https://cityseeker.com/kolkata/583540-tagore-museum Tagore Museum, Shantiniketan] or "Rabindra Bhavan" also houses a research institute and a library. It is in the city where Tagore lived, and the museum displays his belongings, art, musical instruments; his Nobel medal and diploma; and souvenirs and gifts from all over the world. <br />
<br />
Many of the world's great museums have collected his art:<br />
* [https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG14681 British Museum].<br />
* [https://www.indiablooms.com/life-details/AC/567/academy-of-fine-arts-to-re-open-museum-with-tagore-paintings.html Academy of Fine Arts in Kolkata].<br />
* [https://philamuseum.org/collection/object/61528 Philadelphia Museum of Art].<br />
<br />
=== Exhibitions ===<br />
<br />
'''''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Harvest:_Paintings_of_Rabindranath_Tagore#:~:text=The%20first%20selection%20was%20shown,Malaysia)%2C%20Kuala%20Lumpur%2C%20McMichael The Last Harvest]''''' was an event celebrating the 150th anniversary of the artist's birth. Three similar selections totaling 208 paintings were shown simultaneously in three circuits. Museums hosting the exhibitions were in Germany, England, the United States, Korea, India, Malaysia, Canada, France, and Italy, opening in 2011.<br />
<br />
'''''[https://dailynewsegypt.com/2018/05/02/indian-embassy-launches-tagores-exhibition-ahmed-shawki-museum/ Rabindranath Tagore: Rhythm in Colours]''''' was held May 3-7, 2018 at the Maulana Azad Centre for Culture of the Embassy of India in Cairo.<br />
<br />
Mutual Art maintains [https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/Rabindranath-Tagore/28603D708C66645D/Exhibitions a list of Tagore exhibitions].<br />
<br />
=== Gallery ===<br />
Here are some example of Tagore's art:<br />
<gallery widths="130px" heights="150px" perrow="5"><br />
File:Tagore Painting 10.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 39.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 26.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 32.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 8.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 4.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 3.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 21.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 25.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 27.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 30.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 9.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 20.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
<br />
The most noteworthy recognition of Tagore's work came in 1913, when he was awarded the '''Nobel Prize for Literature'''. He was the first Indian and first Asian recipient of this prize. These are some of his many awards, honors, and prizes:<br />
<br />
* 1915 - '''Knighthood''' was awarded for Services to Literature by King George V of England. The poet renounced his title in 1919 after the Jallianwala Bagh incident, also known as the massacre of Amritsar.<br />
* 1940 - Awarded with a '''Doctorate of Literature''' by Oxford University, in a special ceremony arranged at Shantiniketan.<br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore on trees.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Articles ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.open.ac.uk/researchprojects/makingbritain/content/rabindranath-tagore Rabindranath Tagore] at The Open University's website on "Making Britain: Discover how South Asians shaped the nation, 1870-1950." Accessed November 3, 2016.<br />
<br />
=== Books ===<br />
* Robinson, Andrew. ''The Art of Rabindranath Tagore''. 1989.<br />
* ''Rabindranth Tagore: A Celebration of His Life and Works''. Rabindranath Tagore Festival, 1986.<br />
* 'Six Indian Painters', Tate Gallery, London, 1982.<br />
* Dutta, Krishna, and Andrew Robinson. ''Rabindranath Tagore: The Myriad-Minded Man''. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Ltd., 1995.<br />
<br />
=== Videos ===<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Nk0coka4Zg "Tagore as an Artist and His Influence on Modern Indian Art"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 26, 2011.<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYriVkYlFHg&list=RDCMUCLhCSlrBlAlkDOE17biUmqw&index=2 "Paintings of Rabindranath Tagore: A Perspective"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 27, 2011.<br />
<br />
=== Websites ===<br />
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabindranath_Tagore Rabindranath Tagore] in Wikipedia.<br />
* [https://www.theheritagelab.in/rabindranath-tagore-portraits-art/ In Pictures: 14 portraits of Rabindranath Tagore].<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Poets|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Artists|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Playwrights|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Philosophers|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Indian|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Famous people|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:People|Tagore, Rabindranath]]</div>Janet Kerschnerhttps://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Rabindranath_Tagore&diff=49697Rabindranath Tagore2023-10-16T16:52:14Z<p>Janet Kerschner: /* Websites */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:R Tagore.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Autographed photo of Rabindranath Tagore]]<br />
'''Rabindranath Tagore''' was a Bengali poet, painter, philosopher, and composer who was awarded the Nobel prize for literature. He was heavily involved with members of the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] in England and India.<br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore was born on [[May 7]], 1861 in Kolkata, India. His father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, was a Hindu philosopher and reformer, active in the [[Brahmo Samaj]]. He established the guest-house called Santiniketan ("the abode of peace") in West Bengal, north of Kolkata.<br />
<br />
Tagore died at the age of eighty on [[August 7]], 1941 at Jorasanko Thakurbari in Kolkata.<br />
<br />
== Tagore and Theosophical Society ==<br />
[[File:Tagore at Besant Theosophical School.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Tagore at Besant Theosophical School]]<br />
G. Sundari was born in 1929. She has had a lifelong association with both the [[Theosophical Society (Adyar)|Theosophical Society]] and [[Kalakshetra]] dance academy. She worked at Kalakshetra for 33 years, first as the Superintendent of Studies, and later as the Assistant Secretary of Performances for over two decades.<br />
<br />
She remembers Rabindranath Tagore in following words:<br />
<blockquote><br />
My father came to Madras at the request of [[Annie Besant]] to work in the [[Theosophical Publishing House (Adyar)|Theosophical Publishing House]], and the rest of us followed when the Besant Theosophical School opened in 1934. I joined the school in Class I, and studied there till I completed my SSLC [Secondary School Leaving Certificate].<br />
<br />
One of my earliest memories is of seeing Rabindranath Tagore during his visit to Madras in 1934. He was very impressive, with his ochre robes and his long beard. He had come with his students as part of his South India tour to raise funds for Shantiniketan. The president of the Society, [[George S. Arundale|George Arundale]] told him, ‘Gurudev, we don't want you to have to go around collecting funds at your age,' and assured him that they'd collect the money for him. So Tagore stayed on at the Society for about 10 days, and was well taken care of at the Blavatsky Bungalow near the big banyan tree.<br />
<br />
All of us children would run in and out of the bungalow — there were no restrictions on our movements. Tagore would be reclining in an easy chair in the hall and when a child went up to him, his arm would go gently around him or her. But what fascinated us most was the sight of his students combing out his long beard! The Theosophical Society was in general a very child-friendly place. Dr. Arundale wouldn't pass by a child without a smile and a wave.<ref>Sundari reference.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
A plaque commemorates his stay in the historic Blavatsky Bungalow from October 21 to November 2, 1934:<br />
<br />
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"<br />
| [[File:Tagore Plaque 1962.jpg|450px]] [[File:Tagore stayed here.jpg|200px]]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Involvement with education ==<br />
<br />
=== Visva-Bharati ===<br />
Tagore founded Visva-Bharati in his father's community of Santiniketan, which expanded into a university town. In 1951 Visva-Bharati was established as a national central university.<br />
<br />
=== Besant Theosophical College ===<br />
Besant Theosophical College is one of the oldest colleges in the Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh. The college started on 19 July 1915. (It was established decades before Sri Venkateswara University.) Initially it was affiliated with Madras University. In 1917 it was forced to dissociate itself from Madras University and became part of National University. Dr. Rabindranath Tagore was the chancellor of the university.<br />
<br />
In 1919, Tagore visited the college and during this time translated the lyrics of the Indian national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana", which he had previously written, from Bengali to English. [[Margaret Cousins]] (an expert in European music and wife of Irish poet [[James Cousins]], then vice-principal of the college) set down the notation to the national anthem in the college, which is followed only when the song is sung in the original slow rendition style.<br />
<br />
During Tagore's visit, the [[Boy Scout Movement and Theosophical Movement|Scout Movement]] and [[Women's Indian Association|All India Women Association]] were inaugurated at Madanapalle.<br />
<br />
In 1923, the college was re-affiliated with Madras University and continued for almost 30 years. After the separation of Andhra State and Madras State, the college was affiliated with Andhra University (1954–1956) and then with Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati.<br />
<br />
== Literary endeavors ==<br />
<br />
Rabindranath Tagore wrote '''poetry''' from the age of eight. His first major poetry collection, '''Bhanusimha Thakurer Padabali''', was published when he was just sixteen years old.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
His best known work in poetry, '''Gitanjali''', was published in 1910. Tagore himself translated its works to English and '''The English Gitanjali or Song Offerings''' was published in 1912. The best known poems by Tagore include "Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata," "Chitto Jetha Bhayshunyo," "Birpurush," "Sonar Tori," and "Jete Nahi Dibo." The major theme in the poetry of Tagore is the essential unity of all creation, which is also the main theme of the Upanishads, ancient Sanskrit texts that contain some of the central philosophical concepts and ideas of Hinduism.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
In 1877, Tagore wrote a '''short story''' titled "Bhikharini," in ''Bharati'' magazine. This introduced the genre to Bengali literature. His best known short story was "Kabuliwala" (The Fruitseller from Kabul), which served as the basis for 1957 Bengali film and a 1961 Hindi film.<br />
<br />
Altogether Tagore wrote '''eight novels, four novellas and a wide collection of poetry'''. "His best known novels include ''Chokher Bali'', ''Noukadubi'', ''Gora'', ''Chaturanga'', ''Ghare Baire'', ''Shesher Kobita'', ''Jogajog'', and ''Char Odhyay''. Several of these novels and novellas have been adapted as films, most prominently '''Chokher Bali''' and '''Ghare Baire'''.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref> He was lionized in Europe.<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore visited Germany thrice &ndash; in 1921, 1926 and 1930. Two dozen of his books were already available in German translation. "Wherever he spoke, the halls were packed. The newspapers reported scuffles and regular fights by people who were refused entry, " say Martin Kampchen, a German author who has translated Tagore's works. The local media hailed the india poet as the 'Wise man from the East'; and a 'prophet, a mystic and a messiah'. <br />
<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
'''Drama''' was another literary field to which Tagore contributed:<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore wrote his first original dramatic piece at the age of twenty. An opera titled ''Valmiki-Pratibha'' (The Genius of Valmiki) it is based on the legend of Ratnakara the Thug who later became Sage Valmiki. In 1890, in his late twenties, Tagore wrote a drama titled ''Bisarjan'' (Immersion), which explores a story in which humans loose their paradise in order to satisfy a god who wanted animal sacrifice. Bisarjan is regarded by many as Tagore’s finest drama. Another renowned play by Tagore is ''Dak Ghar'' (The Post Office), which was written in 1912. Apart from India, this play also had a successful run in Germany with 105 performances. Other renowned works by Tagore in drama include the ''Rabindra Nritya Natya'', a group of three dance-dramas titled Chitrangada, Chandalika and Shyama.<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore painting.jpg|right|220px|thumb|Tagore painting]]<br />
<br />
== Paintings ==<br />
<br />
While Tagore is best-known for his writing, he was also heavily engaged in painting. He was the father of the Indian art movement of '''contextual modernism''', a school of art that was cross-cultural, experimental, and humanist. Art Nouveau and ancient Indian crafts inspired some of his art. "The art of Tagore is highly individualistic and is characterized by bold forms, vitality, rhythmic quality and a sense of fantasy. It may be noted that Tagore was likely red-green color blind and this resulted in his works exhibiting strange color schemes and off-beat aesthetics."<ref>Anirudh, [https://learnodo-newtonic.com/rabindranath-tagore-achievements "Ten Major Achievements of Rabindranath Tagore"]. Posted May 22, 2019.</ref><br />
<br />
<blockquote><br />
Tagore began painting in his mid-sixties and ended up producing more than 2,300 artworks over a decade before he died in 1941.<br />
<br />
"He always wanted to paint. He was doodling in his manuscripts. Around 1928, he was producing his first paintings," says Professor Siva Kumar.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
His was the first Indian art to be exhibited across Europe, Russia and the United States.<br />
<blockquote><br />
In 1930, a solo show carrying some 300 of Tagore's artworks travelled to Europe. More than 100 of his paintings were shown in Paris, and at least half of them at the National Gallery of Art in Berlin before the exhibition proceeded to London.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The artist donated five of his works to the German museum. Adolph Hitler, however, found the works to be degenerate, along with most other modern art.<br />
<blockquote><br />
They were five artworks in all, depicting birds and humans, and one of a girl in a red robe.<br />
<br />
Painted in coloured inks and gouache by Rabindranath Tagore, India's most famous poet, they found a place in a leading museum in Berlin. Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel literature prize, had gifted the paintings to Germany in 1930.<br />
<br />
Seven years later, the paintings were purged by the Nazi regime which had begun to classify some "inappropriate" art works as degenerate.<br />
<br />
Hitler, a failed artist himself, believed post-impressionist modern art to be "evidence of a deranged mind" and ordered more than 16,000 artworks, including ones by Van Gogh and Man Ray, to be removed from German museums.<br />
<br />
The Nazis considered such art "degenerate" and even staged an exhibition to ridicule them...<br />
<br />
Until 1937, Tagore's paintings were housed in Berlin's baroque Crown Prince Palace, which also housed the National Gallery. When Hitler's purge began, a "deportation list from 15 October 1937 shows the five paintings listed amongst those of many famous expressionist painters which were removed from the palace and brought to a depot with restricted access in the city", according to art historian Konstantin Wenzlaff.<ref>Soutik Biswas, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-63651606 "Rabindranath Tagore: When Hitler purged India Nobel laureate's painting"] in BBC News.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
The location of the five paintings remains uncertain.<br />
<br />
== Music and national anthems ==<br />
<br />
Another of Tagore's fields of endeavor was in songwriting. He wrote approximately 2,230 songs. "Tagore is considered a major force in transforming the style of Bengali music by incorporating influences from different musical traditions."<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
<br />
He wrote the national anthem of India. The first time it was performed was on the the second day of the annual session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta on [[December 27]], 1911.<br />
<blockquote><br />
After independence, the first stanza of the poem was adopted as the National anthem. And, it became known as "Jana Gana Mana."<br />
<br />
Apart from India's national anthem, Rabindranath also penned the national anthem of Bangladesh. In 1905, he wrote the song "Amar Shonar Bangla" during the British partitioning of Bengal, a time of national unrest. In 1971, when Bangladesh won its liberation war, the first ten lines of "Amar Shonar Bangla" were adopted as the National anthem in Bangladesh. Additionally, the national anthem of Sri Lanka was inspired by one of his works.<ref>[https://www.theceo.in/important-days-in-indian-history/remarkable-achievements-of-the-renowned-writer-rabindranath-tagore "Remarkable Achievements of the Renowned Writer, Rabindranath Tagore"] in CEO Magazine website. Accessed October 16, 2023.</ref><br />
</blockquote><br />
<br />
[[File:Jorasanko Thakurbari.jpg|320px|right|thumb|Jorasanko Thakurbari Kinjal bos]]<br />
=== Museums ===<br />
<br />
* '''Jorasanko Thakurbari, Rabindranath Tagore's Home and Museum''', in Kolkata. This was the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore. Many of his personal effects on display, along with paintings him, his brother Abanindranath Tagore, and other painters.<br />
* '''[https://cityseeker.com/kolkata/583540-tagore-museum Tagore Museum, Shantiniketan] or "Rabindra Bhavan" also houses a research institute and a library. It is in the city where Tagore lived, and the museum displays his belongings, art, musical instruments; his Nobel medal and diploma; and souvenirs and gifts from all over the world. <br />
<br />
Many of the world's great museums have collected his art:<br />
* [https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG14681 British Museum].<br />
* [https://www.indiablooms.com/life-details/AC/567/academy-of-fine-arts-to-re-open-museum-with-tagore-paintings.html Academy of Fine Arts in Kolkata].<br />
* [https://philamuseum.org/collection/object/61528 Philadelphia Museum of Art].<br />
<br />
=== Exhibitions ===<br />
<br />
'''''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Harvest:_Paintings_of_Rabindranath_Tagore#:~:text=The%20first%20selection%20was%20shown,Malaysia)%2C%20Kuala%20Lumpur%2C%20McMichael The Last Harvest]''''' was an event celebrating the 150th anniversary of the artist's birth. Three similar selections totaling 208 paintings were shown simultaneously in three circuits. Museums hosting the exhibitions were in Germany, England, the United States, Korea, India, Malaysia, Canada, France, and Italy, opening in 2011.<br />
<br />
'''''[https://dailynewsegypt.com/2018/05/02/indian-embassy-launches-tagores-exhibition-ahmed-shawki-museum/ Rabindranath Tagore: Rhythm in Colours]''''' was held May 3-7, 2018 at the Maulana Azad Centre for Culture of the Embassy of India in Cairo.<br />
<br />
Mutual Art maintains [https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/Rabindranath-Tagore/28603D708C66645D/Exhibitions a list of Tagore exhibitions].<br />
<br />
=== Gallery ===<br />
Here are some example of Tagore's art:<br />
<gallery widths="130px" heights="150px" perrow="5"><br />
File:Tagore Painting 10.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 39.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 26.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 32.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 8.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 4.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 3.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 21.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 25.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 27.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 30.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 9.jpg<br />
File:Tagore Painting 20.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
== Honors and awards ==<br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
'''THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br><br />
<br />
The most noteworthy recognition of Tagore's work came in 1913, when he was awarded the '''Nobel Prize for Literature'''. He was the first Indian and first Asian recipient of this prize. These are some of his many awards, honors, and prizes:<br />
<br />
* 1915 - '''Knighthood''' was awarded for Services to Literature by King George V of England. The poet renounced his title in 1919 after the Jallianwala Bagh incident, also known as the massacre of Amritsar.<br />
* 1940 - Awarded with a '''Doctorate of Literature''' by Oxford University, in a special ceremony arranged at Shantiniketan.<br />
<br />
[[File:Tagore on trees.jpg|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
== Additional resources ==<br />
<br />
=== Articles ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.open.ac.uk/researchprojects/makingbritain/content/rabindranath-tagore Rabindranath Tagore] at The Open University's website on "Making Britain: Discover how South Asians shaped the nation, 1870-1950." Accessed November 3, 2016.<br />
<br />
=== Books ===<br />
* Robinson, Andrew. ''The Art of Rabindranath Tagore''. 1989.<br />
* ''Rabindranth Tagore: A Celebration of His Life and Works''. Rabindranath Tagore Festival, 1986.<br />
* 'Six Indian Painters', Tate Gallery, London, 1982.<br />
* Dutta, Krishna, and Andrew Robinson. ''Rabindranath Tagore: The Myriad-Minded Man''. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Ltd., 1995.<br />
<br />
=== Videos ===<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Nk0coka4Zg "Tagore as an Artist and His Influence on Modern Indian Art"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 26, 2011.<br />
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYriVkYlFHg&list=RDCMUCLhCSlrBlAlkDOE17biUmqw&index=2 "Paintings of Rabindranath Tagore: A Perspective"] by Professor Raman Siva Kumar at Smithsonian Institution. July 27, 2011.<br />
<br />
=== Websites ===<br />
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabindranath_Tagore Rabindranath Tagore] in Wikipedia.<br />
* [https://www.theheritagelab.in/rabindranath-tagore-portraits-art/ In Pictures: 14 portraits of Rabindranath Tagore].<br />
<br />
== Notes ==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
[[Category:Poets|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Artists|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Playwrights|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Philosophers|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Educators|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Nationality Indian|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:Famous people|Tagore, Rabindranath]]<br />
[[Category:People|Tagore, Rabindranath]]</div>Janet Kerschner