These two paperback volumes are a fac simile of the 1888 edition. I admit it, they lay in storage since i bought them, so it is time for them to go. Yet now that i look at them, thereś a lot to interest in them. Sometimes, too, things are known that have not been embraced by the dogmas and conventions of science, and are called false, or pseudoscience. Some say that willow bark did not work as a painkiller until salicylic acid was isolated in a laboratory by scientists, but this is an obvious nonsense. Those who have eyes to see, let them see.

The pages are slightly curled but i think will be flat soon. There are some slight marks on the top of one of the books, visible in one of the photos. Smoke-free home.

International shipping yes. If you buy other things from me, put them all in your cart and use Request Price to get combined shipping.

Here is what Google AI says (complete with odd formatting):

Helena Blavatsky's The Secret Doctrine, published in 1888, had a significant influence on the revival of occultism and alternative spiritual culture in the late 19th and 20th centuries. The book, a synthesis of science, religion, and philosophy, presented an esoteric worldview that resonated with many seeking alternatives to traditional religious and scientific paradigms. Its ideas about a perennial philosophy underlying all religions, a hidden spiritual hierarchy, and the evolution of humanity through root races, continue to be influential in various esoteric and New Age movements. 
Key Influences and Concepts:
  • Perennial Philosophy:
    Blavatsky popularized the idea of a universal wisdom tradition found at the heart of all major religions, a concept known as prisca theologia. This idea resonated with those seeking a unifying spiritual truth beyond dogma. 
  • Esoteric Christianity:
    The Secret Doctrine reinterpreted Christian myths, portraying Satan as a bringer of knowledge and the "Fall" as a positive step towards enlightenment. This challenged conventional Christian interpretations and influenced esoteric Christian movements. 
  • Hidden Masters and Spiritual Hierarchy:
    Blavatsky introduced the concept of "Masters," enlightened beings who guide human evolution, and a hierarchical structure of spiritual development. This idea, though controversial, became a cornerstone of Theosophical and related esoteric traditions. 
  • Evolutionary Theory:
    The Secret Doctrine presented a unique theory of human evolution, involving "root races" and a cyclical process of development and decline. This idea, while not scientifically based, influenced later esoteric theories of human development. 
  • Reconciliation of Science and Religion:
    Blavatsky's work attempted to reconcile ancient wisdom with modern science, particularly in its cosmological and evolutionary theories. This attempt to bridge the gap between science and spirituality appealed to those disillusioned with traditional religious and scientific views. 
    Impact and Legacy:
    • Theosophical Society:
      The Secret Doctrine became a foundational text for the Theosophical Society, which Blavatsky co-founded. The society promoted her ideas and influenced various spiritual and intellectual movements. 
  • New Age Movement:
    Blavatsky is considered a key figure in the development of the New Age movement, which embraces a wide range of spiritual and philosophical ideas. The Secret Doctrine's ideas about perennial wisdom, spiritual evolution, and the interconnectedness of all things are central to many New Age beliefs. 
  • Art and Literature:
    Blavatsky's work influenced avant-garde artists and writers, particularly those interested in symbolism, mythology, and esoteric themes. 
  • Criticism and Controversy:
    The Secret Doctrine has been criticized for its pseudoscientific claims, its reliance on questionable sources, and its sometimes problematic interpretations of religious and cultural traditions. Some of her ideas, particularly those related to race, have been linked to the development of racist ideologies like Ariosophy. Despite the criticisms, The Secret Doctrine's influence on spiritual and intellectual thought remains significant. 


    • *


    International shipping yes. If you buy other things from me, put them all in your cart and use Request Price to get combined shipping.

    I am shipping from CANADA. There is no overnight shipping to the US (or to anywhere, even the next town along).