Buddhism and Theosophy - Part 1

Part 1: The International Theosophical Movement
By Johan Nilsson (Post-Doctoral Researcher, History of Religions, Centre for Theology and Religious Studies, Lund University)
Theosophy was one of many esoteric movements that emerged around the world during the end of the late 19th Century and today it is generally accepted that the theosophical movements, and, to a lesser extent, the broader environment in which theosophy operated contributed to the global interest in-and in some cases the global spread of-religions with historical roots in India. Theosophy stimulated the interest of Buddhism and Hinduism outside of and to some extent inside Asia.
As a movement, the Theosophical Society grew out of New York city in 1875 before moving to India since the organization felt that the spiritual wisdom existent within India would provide a safe have for its spread and consolidation. Since the original esoteric wisdom of the ancient times played a central part in the rituals and beliefs of theosophy, the ancient established religions of Hinduism and Buddhism became important for its leadership. It was this collaboration, according to Mr. Nilsson, that led to the spread of theosophy in the west in the latter part of the 19th century.
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