Human development through theosophy

In general, the term refers to mystical knowledge of God and the study of divinity based on subjective mystic experience. The phenomenal universe is seen as derived from the play of forces within the divine nature. Inner yearning concerned with the imperfection of this world and with religious needs lead to the search for experience of actualization on a higher plane of being. Although more in line with Hindu movements, the theosophical approach is also typified by Meister Eckhart and Jakob Böhme. In the 20th century, theosophy has come to be associated with specific teachings of H P Blavatsky and of the Theosophical Society founded by Blavatsky and H S Olcott. These teachings involve the uniting of many creeds through an understanding of their religious symbols; and the creation of a new religion based on the teaching of avatars or inspired teachers through the ages. Through occult knowledge and supernatural powers, universal brotherhood would be achieved, together with an understanding of previously unexplained natural laws and of mankind's hidden forces.