Theosophical Publishing Society

Alice Bailey (1880–1949) was a British-American author who wrote extensively on a neo-Theosophical system of esoteric thought, contributing significantly to early New Age ideas. Born in England, she moved to the United States and became a writer and teacher, producing around 25 books between 1919 and 1949. Her writings covered topics such as spirituality, meditation, healing, and societal prescriptions, often described as telepathically dictated by a spiritual entity known as 'the Tibetan' or 'D.K.'

Bailey's work, while sharing common ground with Helena Blavatsky's Theosophy, introduced distinct concepts like the seven rays and esoteric astrology. She co-founded the Lucis Trust and its associated organizations, including the Arcane School, to disseminate her teachings. Her influential 'Great Invocation' mantra gained traction within spiritual communities and was even recited publicly by figures like Eleanor Roosevelt.

Alice Bailey developed a comprehensive system of esoteric philosophy, often referred to as 'Ageless Wisdom,' which she stated was communicated to her telepathically by a spiritual guide identified as 'the Tibetan' or 'D.K.' (Djwal Khul). Her extensive writings, spanning from 1919 to 1949, explored a broad spectrum of spiritual and metaphysical subjects. These included the relationship between humanity and the solar system, advanced meditation techniques, principles of spiritual healing, the evolution of consciousness, and a vision for global societal transformation. Bailey's teachings presented a structured view of the universe and humanity's place within it, aiming to guide individuals toward spiritual development and planetary service.

A central concept in Bailey's teachings is the doctrine of the 'seven rays,' described as fundamental energies that underpin all existence and drive the evolution of the cosmos and its inhabitants. These rays are seen as divine forces influencing human psychology, the destiny of nations, and celestial bodies. Bailey significantly elaborated on this concept, which had roots in earlier Theosophical literature. She also developed a system of esoteric astrology, focusing on the evolution of soul consciousness and the obstacles encountered on this path. Her esoteric astrology, detailed in works like 'A Treatise on Seven Rays,' offers a framework for understanding spiritual unfoldment through astrological principles.

Bailey's approach to spiritual psychology emphasized the intricate relationship between the soul (higher self) and the personality (the physical and mental/emotional vehicles). She posited that the root of illness often lies in disruptions to the soul's expression through the personality. Consequently, esoteric healing, in her view, involves restoring the correct alignment between the soul and its instruments, thereby clearing obstructions and facilitating the natural flow of vital energy. This process is directed by focused thought and intention, aiming to establish harmony within the individual's energetic constitution, including the etheric body and subtle energy centers.

In 1922, Alice and Foster Bailey established the Lucis Trust, initially named Lucifer Publishing Company, as a vehicle for disseminating her extensive body of work. The Trust's activities expanded to include the Arcane School, which offers correspondence courses on meditation and esoteric subjects, and World Goodwill, an initiative promoting global cooperation and right human relations. A significant contribution from Bailey is 'The Great Invocation,' a mantra intended to invoke light, love, and the divine plan. This prayer gained considerable recognition and has been adopted by various spiritual groups, including within the New Age movement, and has been publicly recited by notable figures.

“From the point of Light within the Mind of God, let light stream forth into the minds of men ...”