The Secret Gateway: Modern Theosophy and the Ancient Wisdom Tradition

Contrary to most Theosophical works, this book is written in modern English and in a style that is accessible to the general public. It provides a broad overview of Theosophical principles. One of the things I loved about it is that on several occasions the author used modern scientific discoveries as evidence of the validity of particular Theosophical teachings.Among the suggested readings printed at the end of the book are Helena Blavatsky's works. I have not read them yet as I believe they are difficult to understand for those new to Theosophy. However, I have read several of the short manuals written by Theosophists Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater designed to provide a simplified exposition of Theosophical teachings, subject by subject. They are available in Kindle format, very inexpensive and, although written in nineteenth century English, easy enough to understand. In addition to "The Secret Gateway: Modern Theosophy and the Ancient Wisdom Tradition" by Edward Abdill, I recommend that those who wish to acquaint themselves with Theosophical principles first read the very impressive little manuals just mentioned, in preparation for the eventual study of Madame Blavatsky's writings, which more than likely would otherwise appear abstruse to the novice.

This is a book explaining Theosophy in a modern way. It is not preachy in any way . It also is an easy reading and at times humorous I highly recommend it.

Members and friends of the Theosophical Society have long benefitted from Ed Abdill's lectures and classes. With this book, his perspective on the inner tradition as presented in Theosophy is finally available to a wider audience. In his accessible style, Abdill ranges across topics from the metaphysics of Blavatsky's Secret Doctrine to the founding and history of the Theosophical Society to instructions for meditation. For anyone interested in Theosophy as a spiritual path, Abdill's book is an ideal place to start.

Excellent intro to the ancient wisdom teachings that every true religion is founded on.

The book is an easy read upon the concepts of Theosophy, which is a complex subject, indeed. The author's personal way of writing conveys the material in an easy to read, but correct and direct way.Excellent book!

Interesting.

ok

Theosophy and ancient wisdom are fascinating subjects. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of good introductory reading material in the field aimed at the armchair philosopher/theologian. The few introductory books I have explored through the decades seem to presume both previous knowledge and the readers desire to decode a lot of arcane thinking. Or the subject is downgraded into New Age self-help."Secret Gateway" is a book I suspect many have been waiting for. It is by far the most clear and practical introduction to theosophical theory I have seen. Using illustrative examples that are easily grasped, the author gives a no-nonsense introduction to esoteric principles reflected in worldwide wisdom traditions, and demonstrates many possible connections to modern scientific theory as well. Chopra is probably more marketable, but for clarity and accuracy "Gateway" is as good as it gets.

A good read and an interesting presentation. Great explanations and some good digs.

Wonderful book

This book explains the outline of theosophy and how it relates to us, in a very readable format. Helpful for the new follower of Theosophy and student alike.

This book is easy to read and give a good insight into the teaching of Theosophy. I am studying this book with friends and we are only half way through. I would strongly recommend this book to any one who is interested to know something about the teaching of Theosophy.

This is a refreshing modern introduction to Theosophy. I found it to be very enlightening without being either too complex or simplistic. I would recommend this to anyone interested in learning about Theosophy.