Enter a player name to begin or load your saved progress.
Helena Blavatsky, William Quan Judge, and Henry Steel Olcott are listed as the founders of the Theosophical Society.
Answer: True
Explanation: Helena Blavatsky, William Quan Judge, and Henry Steel Olcott are listed as the founders of the Theosophical Society.
Which of these is listed as a significant text associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy?
Answer: *The Secret Doctrine*
Explanation: *The Secret Doctrine* is listed as a significant text associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy, alongside other foundational works like *Isis Unveiled*.
The major division within the Theosophical Society after Blavatsky's death involved a dispute between William Quan Judge and Henry Steel Olcott over financial matters.
Answer: False
Explanation: The major division within the Theosophical Society after Blavatsky's death involved disputes over allegations of forged letters from the Mahatmas, primarily between William Quan Judge and the Olcott-Besant faction, not financial matters.
Following the 1895 split, William Quan Judge continued to lead the Theosophical Society based in India.
Answer: False
Explanation: Following the 1895 split, William Quan Judge led the American Section of the Theosophical Society, while the branch based in India continued under Olcott and Besant.
The Theosophical Society - Adyar is the branch that originated from William Quan Judge's faction.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Adyar is the branch that continued under Olcott and Besant, originating from the main body of the Society after the split with William Quan Judge's faction.
The allegation that William Quan Judge forged letters from the Mahatmas was the primary reason for the Theosophical Society's split in 1895.
Answer: True
Explanation: The allegation that William Quan Judge forged letters from the Mahatmas was the primary reason cited for the Theosophical Society's split in 1895.
The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is the current name for the branch led by Henry Steel Olcott and Annie Besant.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is the current name for the branch that originated from William Quan Judge's faction, not the branch led by Henry Steel Olcott and Annie Besant (which is Adyar).
The Theosophical Society Adyar is based in Pasadena, California.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Theosophical Society Adyar is based in India, not Pasadena, California. The Pasadena branch originated from William Quan Judge's faction.
What event directly led to the schism between William Quan Judge and the Olcott-Besant faction after Helena Blavatsky's death?
Answer: Allegations that William Quan Judge had forged letters from the Mahatmas.
Explanation: The primary event leading to the schism between William Quan Judge and the Olcott-Besant faction was the allegation that Judge had forged letters purportedly from the Mahatmas.
Which Theosophical Society branch is based in India and continued under Olcott and Besant?
Answer: The Theosophical Society - Adyar
Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Adyar, based in India, is the branch that continued under the leadership of Henry Steel Olcott and Annie Besant after the split.
The dispute following Helena Blavatsky's death primarily involved allegations concerning:
Answer: William Quan Judge forging letters from the Mahatmas.
Explanation: The primary dispute following Helena Blavatsky's death involved allegations that William Quan Judge had forged letters from the Mahatmas, leading to the Society's schism.
The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is associated with which historical figure's faction after the 1895 split?
Answer: William Quan Judge
Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is the contemporary name for the branch that originated from the faction led by William Quan Judge after the 1895 split.
Neo-Theosophy refers to the original teachings of Helena Blavatsky as presented before her death in 1891.
Answer: False
Explanation: Neo-Theosophy refers to the system of Theosophical ideas expounded by Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater after Helena Blavatsky's death in 1891, not her original teachings before that date.
The term "Neo-Theosophy" was initially coined by Helena Blavatsky herself to distinguish her later works.
Answer: False
Explanation: The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was not coined by Helena Blavatsky but by Ferdinand T. Brooks in a critical context.
Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater were the principal figures associated with developing Neo-Theosophy after Helena Blavatsky's death.
Answer: True
Explanation: Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater are the principal figures credited with expounding the system of ideas known as Neo-Theosophy following Helena Blavatsky's death in 1891.
A key innovation of Neo-Theosophy was its reduced emphasis on exploring the astral plane compared to Blavatsky's original teachings.
Answer: False
Explanation: Neo-Theosophy, as presented by Besant and Leadbeater, placed a significant emphasis on exploring the astral plane, often through clairvoyance, which was not a reduced emphasis compared to Blavatsky's original teachings.
Jiddu Krishnamurti was promoted within Neo-Theosophy as the expected World Teacher.
Answer: True
Explanation: Jiddu Krishnamurti was prominently promoted within Neo-Theosophy as the expected World Teacher, a central aspect of the movement's development.
The Liberal Catholic Church was established as part of Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophical Society.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Liberal Catholic Church, with its incorporation of Catholic rituals, was an innovation introduced by Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater as part of their Neo-Theosophical teachings, not part of Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophical Society.
Followers of William Q. Judge referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society, led by Besant and Olcott, as 'Neo-Theosophy'.
Answer: True
Explanation: Followers of William Q. Judge, who considered themselves adherents to Blavatsky's original teachings, often referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society, led by Besant and Olcott, as 'Neo-Theosophy'.
The Liberal Catholic Church was introduced as a distinct spiritual path separate from Neo-Theosophy's core tenets.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Liberal Catholic Church, with its introduction of Catholic rituals, was an innovation associated with Neo-Theosophy, developed by Besant and Leadbeater, and not a path separate from its core tenets.
The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was initially used by Annie Besant to differentiate her teachings from Blavatsky's later writings.
Answer: False
Explanation: The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was initially used critically by Ferdinand T. Brooks and later by followers of Blavatsky to distinguish her original teachings from those of Besant and Leadbeater, not by Besant herself.
Clairvoyance was de-emphasized in Neo-Theosophy, focusing instead on intellectual study of Blavatsky's texts.
Answer: False
Explanation: Clairvoyance was emphasized in Neo-Theosophy for exploring the astral plane and past lives, not de-emphasized in favor of intellectual study alone.
The concept of the 'World Teacher' was peripheral to Neo-Theosophy, with no specific individual promoted for this role.
Answer: False
Explanation: The concept of the 'World Teacher' was central to Neo-Theosophy, with Jiddu Krishnamurti being specifically promoted for this role.
The Theosophical Society - Adyar is often labeled 'Neo-Theosophy' by those who follow William Q. Judge's interpretation of Blavatsky's teachings.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Adyar is often labeled 'Neo-Theosophy' by those who follow William Q. Judge's interpretation of Blavatsky's teachings, viewing it as a departure from the original.
The astral plane, in Neo-Theosophy, was primarily explored through academic study rather than experiential practices.
Answer: False
Explanation: The astral plane was explored through experiential practices like clairvoyance in Neo-Theosophy, not solely through academic study.
What is the primary definition of "Neo-Theosophy" according to the source?
Answer: The system of Theosophical ideas expounded by Besant and Leadbeater after Blavatsky's death.
Explanation: The primary definition of 'Neo-Theosophy' refers to the system of Theosophical ideas expounded by Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater following Helena Blavatsky's death in 1891.
Who originally coined the term "Neo-Theosophy," and in what context?
Answer: Ferdinand T. Brooks, in a derogatory manner in his book *Neo Theosophy Exposed*.
Explanation: The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was coined by Ferdinand T. Brooks around 1912 in his book *Neo Theosophy Exposed*, using it in a derogatory manner to critique the teachings of Besant and Leadbeater.
Which of the following was NOT a primary innovation associated with Neo-Theosophy as presented by Besant and Leadbeater?
Answer: The compilation of *The Mahatma Letters* purportedly from the Masters.
Explanation: While Neo-Theosophy emphasized clairvoyance, Krishnamurti's promotion, and the Liberal Catholic Church, the compilation of *The Mahatma Letters* is associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy, not a Neo-Theosophical innovation.
According to the source, which group referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society as 'Neo-Theosophy'?
Answer: Followers of William Q. Judge
Explanation: Followers of William Q. Judge, who maintained adherence to what they considered Blavatsky's original teachings, referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society as 'Neo-Theosophy'.
How did the introduction of Catholic rituals relate to Neo-Theosophy?
Answer: It was an innovation introduced by Besant and Leadbeater via the Liberal Catholic Church.
Explanation: The introduction of Catholic rituals through the Liberal Catholic Church was an innovation associated with Neo-Theosophy, developed by Besant and Leadbeater, and not part of Blavatsky's original teachings.
Which practice was emphasized in Neo-Theosophy for exploring the astral plane and past lives?
Answer: Clairvoyance
Explanation: Clairvoyance was a practice emphasized in Neo-Theosophy, particularly by Besant and Leadbeater, for exploring the astral plane and past lives.
The promotion of Jiddu Krishnamurti as the 'World Teacher' was a key aspect of:
Answer: Neo-Theosophy.
Explanation: The promotion of Jiddu Krishnamurti as the 'World Teacher' was a central and defining aspect of Neo-Theosophy.
Victor Skumin proposed *Homo spiritalis* as the fifth root race in 1990.
Answer: False
Explanation: Victor Skumin proposed *Homo spiritalis* as the sixth root race in 1990, not the fifth.
The motto displayed with the Theosophical Society emblem is "Seek Ye the Light Within".
Answer: False
Explanation: The motto displayed with the Theosophical Society emblem is 'There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth', not 'Seek Ye the Light Within'.
"Seven rays" is a concept exclusively associated with Neo-Theosophy and not mentioned in relation to original Theosophy.
Answer: False
Explanation: The concept of 'Seven rays' is associated with Theosophy, including its original formulations and later developments, not exclusively with Neo-Theosophy.
*The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett* is considered a significant text associated with Neo-Theosophy, not original Theosophy.
Answer: False
Explanation: *The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett* is considered a significant text associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy, not Neo-Theosophy.
Kuthumi and Morya are examples of the 'Masters' referenced in Theosophical contexts.
Answer: True
Explanation: Kuthumi and Morya are prominent examples of the 'Masters' referenced in Theosophical contexts, believed to be highly evolved beings guiding humanity.
The sidebar illustrates Theosophy's comparative aspects primarily with Eastern religions like Jainism and Sikhism.
Answer: False
Explanation: The sidebar illustrates Theosophy's comparative aspects primarily with Eastern religions like Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism, not Jainism and Sikhism.
*Homo spiritalis* is a Latin term meaning 'physical man', proposed by Victor Skumin.
Answer: False
Explanation: *Homo spiritalis* is a Latin term meaning 'spiritual man', proposed by Victor Skumin as the sixth root race, not 'physical man'.
The motto "There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth" reflects Theosophy's emphasis on dogma over empirical truth.
Answer: False
Explanation: The motto 'There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth' reflects Theosophy's emphasis on seeking truth above dogma, not the other way around.
'Root races' are a concept within Theosophy describing successive stages of human evolution, with *Homo spiritalis* being an example proposed by Victor Skumin.
Answer: True
Explanation: 'Root races' describe stages of human evolution in Theosophy, and Victor Skumin proposed *Homo spiritalis* ('spiritual man') as the sixth root race.
The *Book of Dzyan* is mentioned as a foundational text for the teachings of Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater.
Answer: False
Explanation: The *Book of Dzyan* is referenced as a source text for Helena Blavatsky's *The Secret Doctrine*, not as a foundational text specifically for the teachings of Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater.
'Masters' in Theosophy are considered ordinary humans who achieved enlightenment through personal effort.
Answer: False
Explanation: 'Masters' in Theosophy are considered highly evolved spiritual beings who guide humanity, not ordinary humans who achieved enlightenment through personal effort.
The *Theosophical Glossary* was created to simplify Theosophical concepts for beginners by avoiding specialized terminology.
Answer: False
Explanation: The *Theosophical Glossary* was created to define and clarify specialized Theosophical terminology, not to simplify concepts by avoiding specialized terms.
The *Theosophist* magazine served as a platform for disseminating Theosophical news and ideas.
Answer: True
Explanation: The *Theosophist* magazine, founded by Helena Blavatsky and Henry Steel Olcott, served as a primary platform for disseminating Theosophical news and ideas.
The symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, like the ankh and swastika, are unique to its specific doctrines.
Answer: False
Explanation: The symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, such as the ankh and swastika, are drawn from various traditions and represent Theosophy's syncretic approach, not symbols unique to its specific doctrines.
What concept did Victor Skumin elaborate on in 1990, classifying it as the sixth root race?
Answer: Homo spiritualis
Explanation: In 1990, Victor Skumin elaborated on the concept of *Homo spiritalis*, meaning 'spiritual man,' proposing it as the sixth root race within theosophical frameworks of human evolution.
What is the motto of the Theosophical Society?
Answer: There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth
Explanation: The motto of the Theosophical Society, displayed with its emblem, is 'There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth'.
The sidebar lists comparative studies of Theosophy with which of the following religions?
Answer: Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism
Explanation: The sidebar illustrates comparative studies of Theosophy with Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism, indicating its engagement with major world religions.
What is the meaning of the Latin term *Homo spiritalis* as proposed by Victor Skumin?
Answer: Spiritual Man
Explanation: *Homo spiritalis* is a Latin term meaning 'spiritual man,' proposed by Victor Skumin as a classification for the sixth root race.
What do the symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, such as the ankh and swastika, represent?
Answer: Theosophy's syncretic approach, drawing from various traditions.
Explanation: The symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, such as the ankh and swastika, represent Theosophy's syncretic nature, drawing from diverse spiritual and cultural traditions.
Which of the following is listed as a significant text associated with Theosophy in the sidebar?
Answer: *The Key to Theosophy*
Explanation: *The Key to Theosophy* is listed as a significant text associated with Theosophy in the sidebar, providing an exposition of its core principles.
According to the source, what is the primary role of the 'Masters' in Theosophical beliefs?
Answer: To guide human spiritual development and transmit wisdom.
Explanation: In Theosophical beliefs, the 'Masters' are considered highly evolved spiritual beings who guide human spiritual development and transmit wisdom.
Margaret Thomas's 1924 book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* supported the teachings of Besant and Leadbeater.
Answer: False
Explanation: Margaret Thomas's 1924 book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* provided a critical comparison and supported the original Theosophy of Blavatsky, rather than the teachings of Besant and Leadbeater.
G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' to praise the clairvoyant research conducted by Annie Besant.
Answer: False
Explanation: G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' critically to distinguish his understanding of Theosophy from the movement led by Annie Besant, particularly her emphasis on clairvoyant research, rather than to praise it.
Academically, the term 'Neo-Theosophical' has been applied only to direct successors of Besant and Leadbeater.
Answer: False
Explanation: Academically, the term 'Neo-Theosophical' has been applied more broadly to describe groups formed by former Theosophists or those heavily borrowing from Blavatsky's Theosophy, not exclusively to direct successors of Besant and Leadbeater.
Robert S. Ellwood classified Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy as a 'devolution of Theosophy'.
Answer: True
Explanation: Robert S. Ellwood, in his academic classifications, categorized Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy as a 'devolution of Theosophy,' indicating its origins and development from Theosophical ideas.
Daryl S. Paulson was the first to use the term 'Neo-Theosophy' in relation to Alice Bailey's work.
Answer: False
Explanation: Daryl S. Paulson is noted for associating the term 'Neo-Theosophy' with Alice Bailey's work, not necessarily as the first to use the term in general.
Robert Ellwood's classification of 'devolutions of Theosophy' was synonymous with the original derogatory use of 'Neo-Theosophy'.
Answer: False
Explanation: Robert Ellwood's classification of 'devolutions of Theosophy' was an academic categorization, distinct from the initial, often derogatory, use of 'Neo-Theosophy' by Blavatsky's followers.
What was the main purpose of Margaret Thomas's book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* published around 1924?
Answer: To provide a critical comparison between original Theosophy and Neo-Theosophy.
Explanation: Margaret Thomas's 1924 book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* aimed to critically compare and contrast the original Theosophy of Blavatsky with the later developments termed Neo-Theosophy.
G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' primarily to:
Answer: Distinguish his own understanding of 'Theosophy' from Besant's movement.
Explanation: G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' primarily to differentiate his own interpretation of Theosophy, which he considered more aligned with ancient wisdom traditions, from the movement led by Annie Besant.
How has the term 'Neo-Theosophical' been applied in broader academic contexts?
Answer: To describe groups formed by former Theosophists or heavily borrowing from Blavatsky's Theosophy.
Explanation: In broader academic contexts, 'Neo-Theosophical' has been applied to describe various groups that emerged from or were significantly influenced by Blavatsky's Theosophy, encompassing more than just direct successors of Besant and Leadbeater.
Robert S. Ellwood classified movements like Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy and Alice Bailey's groups under which category?
Answer: Devolutions of Theosophy
Explanation: Robert S. Ellwood classified movements like Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy and Alice Bailey's groups under the academic category of 'devolutions of Theosophy' in his studies of modern religious movements.
Which author is noted for associating the term 'Neo-Theosophy' specifically with the work of Alice Bailey?
Answer: Daryl S. Paulson
Explanation: Daryl S. Paulson is the author noted for specifically associating the term 'Neo-Theosophy' with the work of Alice Bailey.