Last Podcast On The Left
Last Podcast On The Left
"She understood very early that it's about getting them in the door and then we'll deal with it after." — Ben Kissel (referring to HPB's approach to building public interest)
"The purposes of the Theosophical Society are one. To form the nucleus of a universal brotherhood of humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, cast, or color." — Henry Zabrowski (quoting the Theosophical Society's mission statement)
"The body is the rind of the fruit." — Henry Zabrowski (explaining HPB's view on the spiritual versus the physical)
The episode delves into the origins and rise of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (HPB), beginning with her arrival in New York City in 1873. Emphasizing her strategic move to capitalize on the burgeoning spiritualist movement, the narrative highlights her early hustles and the development of her persona as a psychic. The discussion contrasts different biographical accounts of her life, including her alleged dealings with money and her initial struggles. A significant portion of the episode focuses on the cultural landscape of America at the time, particularly the emergence of influential women in new ideas and the complexities of the spiritualist movement, including figures like Victoria Woodhull.
The narrative then shifts to HPB's evolving methods for gaining influence, including her reliance on word-of-mouth and her ability to glean personal information, which fueled her reputation as a genuine psychic. The episode explores her financial turns of fortune, including an inheritance that allowed her to establish a more stable presence. The introduction of Henry Steel Olcott marks a critical turning point, detailing their unlikely partnership and his dedication to her vision, despite his own complex background and personal life. Their shared interest in the occult, particularly after encountering figures like the Eddie Brothers, laid the groundwork for a more structured organization.
The latter part of the episode details the founding of the Theosophical Society, exploring its core tenets and HPB's ambition to disseminate esoteric knowledge. The episode touches upon her writing of "Isis Unveiled," its reception, and her push to reconcile ancient wisdom with modern scientific thought. It also covers her eventual citizenship in America and subsequent move to India, setting the stage for the next installment of her story, while highlighting her profound impact on occult and spiritual thought.