Ch.3) The Attitude Assumed Toward Competing Faiths

Chapter 3, "The Attitude Assumed Toward Competing Faiths", examines how Theosophy positions itself against other religious and spiritual systems. While claiming that all major religions share an identical esoteric core, Theosophists often criticize rival beliefs—especially Christianity—while favoring Eastern philosophies like Hinduism and Buddhism. Spiritualism, despite historical ties to Theosophy, is frequently dismissed as dangerous necromancy or misguided mediumship, though some later Theosophists softened that stance. Astrology receives mixed treatment, with some leaders embracing it and others calling it superstition. The chapter also highlights Madame Blavatsky’s sharp denouncements of biblical religion, which she accused of borrowing from Eastern sources and promoting degraded or phallic symbolism. Prominent Theosophists like Annie Besant and W.Q. Judge are shown defending Hinduism and Buddhism as purer and more profound, often portraying Jesus as a student of Eastern wisdom. Overall, Sheldon depicts Theosophy’s “universalism” as heavily tilted toward glorifying Eastern traditions while marginalizing historic Christianity.