NATIONAL CAPITAL 2007 PROGRAM 

January 2007

Science and Mysticism: On Matter, Energy, and Force Dr. Aleksandr Smirnov will continue his series on science and its insights that help us understand metaphysics.  Observation of basic natural phenomena leads to the ability to understand complex changes in matter, mind, and spirit.

Buddha’s Life and Work A long-time student of Theosophy, will continue her discussion of the example of an enlightened being that is the life of the historical Buddha.

The Invisible Reality: Karma Julia Rogers continues her illustrated series of talks on the human condition in the light of Theosophy.  How does the transcendent Eternal Unity express itself in the diversity of our world of time and space? Through adjustment, the balance of energies, the restoration of harmony—the much misunderstood principle of Karma.

I/Ego/Self There are many aspects to a human being and many identities.  Ken Rothschild will discuss the various aspects of the individual in light of spiritual studies.

February 2007

Hinduism Hinduism is a collection of traditions and includes numerous sources for a great deal of Theosophical ideas.  Nanik Lahori will discuss Hinduism.

The Invisible Reality: Growing Up, the Aura Julia Rogers continues her series by talking about the Theosophical understanding of childhood development.  This development can be seen quite clearly in the aura.  Pictures of children in different stages of growth and their auras will illustrate this talk.

History of the Theosophical Movement The Theosophical Society was one of the most innovative and important organizations in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.  Bringing ideas of global unity and respect for all religions into the international dialogue, many of the world’s most notable citizens were involved and influenced.  The society has continued this vibrant tradition through today.  Vladka Shikova will discuss the history of the Theosophical Movement and its leaders.

March 2007

Alchemy and the Path of Integration [Video] Martin Leiderman examines alchemy as a symbol of the human quest for spiritual growth and transformation in this video.  This video is illustrated from old alchemical texts and drawings.

The Psyche Julia Rogers will show how the basic Theosophical ideas explain some of the less well understood aspects of our lives.  In this lecture she discusses the relationship between the psychic world and the individual psyche.  “A human being should live anchored between heaven and earth, and the psychic field between them should be one of poise, responding to both.”

Jainism Dr. Sushil Jain discusses Jainism, an ancient religion whose basic teachings are 1) right knowledge, 2) right perception, 3) right character—leading not only to ahimsa (nonviolence) but also to Anekantwad (theory of multiple viewpoint).

Ghost Stories A panel will discuss the occult theories behind ghosts and ghost stories.  Bring your own and we will share and discuss.

April 2007

Astrological Houses Lynn Koiner, a Theosophist and professional astrologer, will discuss the meaning of the astrological houses.  Are they a sketch plan for one’s current life-path—a kind of key to personal dharma?

Friendship One simple word sums up the ideal for the Aquarian Age.  Using astrology and mythic symbolism, Swamis Abhipadananda and Jyotir Vakyananda discuss friendship as a ritual of remembrance and revivication.

Theosophical Mathematics A long-time student of Theosophy will speak on Theosophical Mathematics, discussing the Divine numbers (the fundamental energy/vibratory rates that create and maintain the universe) and their application to the human soul.

From Science to Wisdom: Order and Chaos Continuing the discussion of nature’s forces and energies by physical chemist Dr. Aleksandr Smirnov.  Describes the interplay between order and disorder in the universe, suggesting its place in the evolution of the human being and of our planet.

May 2007

The Quest for Personal Harmony Kenneth Rothschild explores  some mental, emotional, and spiritual techniques for establishing harmony and balance between self and cosmic source.  Attendees’ participation is encouraged.

Chinese Astrology Introduction to Chinese Astrology.  Zi Wei Dou Shu is an ancient, little-known astrological method.  Each major aspect of our life is affected by several stars, each with a distinct personality: the Hungry Wolf Star, the Army General Star, and more.  Barbara Finch, astrologer and feng shui consultant, will show how this can help us see ourselves and others realistically and compassionately, and make the most of our potential.

History of the Theosophical Movement The Theosophical Society was one of the most innovative and important organizations in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.  Bringing ideas of global unity and respect for all religions into the international dialogue, many of the world’s most notable citizens were involved and influenced.  The society has continued this vibrant tradition through today.  Vladka Shikova will discuss the history of the Theosophical Movement and its leaders.

The Logic of Spirituality in Hinduism  Interfaith Conference of Washington, DC, will discuss The Logic of Spirituality in Hinduism and such belief systems as reincarnation, evil, karma, and the caste system.  Nanik is founder/president of the Chinmaya Mission Washington Regional Center.

June – September 2007

Developing Spiritual Qualities: Developing the Will The spiritual will is one of the primary spiritual qualities that must be developed for spiritual advancement.  Bring your suggestions and experiences for how to develop this quality and we will share.

Developing Spiritual Qualities: Developing Compassion Compassion is no attribute, it is the Law of Laws.  Compassion is a necessary spiritual quality that must be one of our primary motivations for our growth to be truly spiritual.  Bring your suggestions and experiences for how to develop this quality and we will share.

Developing Spiritual Qualities: Developing Discernment Discernment enables us to discriminate between the real and illusory.  Without Discernment, we run the risk of falling into a glamour, delaying our spiritual development and keeping us from fulfilling our spiritual purpose and service to the world.  Bring your suggestions and experiences for how to develop this quality and we will share.

Developing Spiritual Qualities: Developing Creativity The ability to imagine and create is one of the most divine of our human spiritual qualities.  Bring your suggestions and experiences for how to develop this quality and we will share.

October 2007

Fohat Fohat is a Tibetan term, used in Theosophical literature, to denote the densification of Divine Thought/Energy into our solid physical matter.  Tuncay Dantzler, a long-time student of Theosophy, will discuss this concept.

What is Theosophy? An overview by Julia Rogers of a few ideas most needed for understanding the Theosophical view of life.  A second-generation Theosophist who is steeped in the tradition, she will keep it short, to leave time for discussion.

Spirituality in the Early Christian Church The early Christian church had powerful spiritual traditions that are often unfamiliar to many practicing Christians.  Elaine Barber will explore these spiritual traditions in her lecture.

Astrology and the Personal Purpose One of the greatest struggles we, as human beings, undertake is to find our sense of purpose or, what the Hindus would call, our dharma.  Lynn Koiner, a professional astrologer and student of Theosophy, will discuss how astrology can help us uncover our true purpose.

November 2007

The Inner Life of a Living Cell Theosophy holds that all things live, and that all life is Divine.  Dr. Aleksandr Smirnov will lead us through a visual journey into the unseen by showing us the life of a cell.

Chinese Metaphysics Barbara Finch, a dedicated student of Chinese esoteric traditions, will provide us with an overview of Chinese metaphysical concepts and systems.

Sacred Space One of the common characteristics of all spiritual traditions is that they all have the concept of sacred space.  Gwendolyn Reece will explore the phenomena of sacred space across religious contexts and will consider its importance in the spiritual lives of individuals.

Our Brothers, the Animals The Ancient Wisdom teaches that each kingdom in nature is one great stage in the gradual awakening of consciousness — the bringing into actuality of the divine potential at the heart of every living creature.  Julia Rogers will focus on the place of the animal and human kingdoms in the grand scheme.

December 2007

The Magnetic Power of Thought Patanjali, author of the Yoga Sutras, says, “When the mind is stilled, we abide in our own true nature.  At other times, our minds take the shape of our predominating thoughts.  Swamis Abhipadananda and Jyotir Vakyananda explore the magnetic power of thought using the astrological principle; the planets within are the desire magnets of the mind.

Plant Spirit Shamanism Following Julia Roger’s discussion of the Animal Kingdom, Gwendolyn Reece will discuss the spiritual nature of the Vegetable Kingdom, including exploring some of the esoteric traditions concerning plant spirits and their relationship with the Human Kingdom.

The Christ Within The Christ Within is our inner spark of Divinity.  In light of the Holy Season of winter, Julia Rogers will discuss the spiritual traditions of the Christ Within.