Society president Kirsty Morton said the term is derived from the Greek words theos meaning divine and sophia meaning wisdom.
"Theosophy teaches that the purpose of human life is spiritual emancipation and that the human soul undergoes reincarnation upon bodily death," said Morton.
"It endeavours to answer the deeper questions that we humans have through constant discussions and sharing of ideas."
There is no dogma involved and Morton said theosophy incorporates spiritual, scientific and philosophical ideas without limiting itself to any of their particular assumptions.
Rather it encourages the exploration of the important questions in life, such as; who are we, why are we here, and what is our purpose?
"The society doesn't claim to have the answers - it is about encouraging individuals to develop their own understanding through exploration."
The first theosophy society was founded in America by Russian migrant Helena Petrovna Blavatsky in 1875 although the term was first used in English in 1650 for the teachings of some ancient sages, and was later applied to the thought of Ammonius Saccas and Plotinus, who founded the Alexandrian school of Neoplatonism in Egypt in the early third century after Christ.
Blavatsky taught that theosophy was not a religion but a system synonymous with eternal truth which underlies not only all religions, but also philosophy and science.
Theosophy has also inspired many artists including Burton Harry Callicott whose pastel work, Antahkarana, "shows two triangles, the higher and the lower aspects of our nature. A shaft of light rays down, connecting the two. This ray is the antahkarana, the bridge between the divine self and the personal soul."
Morton said the work, also known as "The Rainbow Bridge", has become a symbol for the society and was donated to the Memphis Lodge of the Theosophical Society in America in 2000 when the artist was 93. He died in 2003.
"It is quite beautiful and epitomises the society's vision to inspire and serve the spiritual evolution of humanity and all life."
Antahkarana by Burton Harry Callicott depicts the connection between the self and the divine.
Photo / Supplied
Morton said theosophy stands for complete freedom of individual search and belief while promoting a willingness to examine any concept and belief with an open mind and respect for other people's understanding.
"We don't have a lot of rules but we do discourage the denigration of other people's ideas during discussions.
"Our values are altruism, respect, diversity and recognising the oneness of all life, co-operation and integrity."
Theosophy Whanganui held its annual meeting and reformed a committee on December 13 after a year which Morton describes as a "possum in the headlights" experience for many.
She cites a 140-year-old quote from Helena Blavatsky as one that may bring comfort to people who have struggled in 2020.
"Do not be afraid of your difficulties. Do not wish you could be in other circumstances than you are. For when you have made the best of an adversity, it becomes the stepping stone to a splendid opportunity."
Theosophy Whanganui is a non-profit group and monthly public meetings are usually held on the second Sunday of each month in the Awa Room at the Whanganui Community Arts Centre, 19 Taupo Quay. Entry is free (gold coin donation appreciated) and all are welcome. There are also informal group discussion meetings and visiting speakers throughout the year.
