Djwhal Khul
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| Djwhal Khul | |
|---|---|
| Name | Djwhal Khul |
| Known for | Theosophical teachings, Bailey collaboration |
| Influenced | New Age movement, Esotericism |
Djwhal Khul. Also referred to as "The Tibetan" or "D.K.", Djwhal Khul is a figure described within the writings of Alice A. Bailey as a spiritual master or Mahatma who telepathically transmitted a series of esoteric teachings. These teachings, published by Bailey between 1919 and 1949, form a substantial body of work that expanded upon concepts from the earlier Theosophical Society founded by Helena Blavatsky and Henry Steel Olcott. The claimed communications from this source significantly influenced the development of modern Western esotericism and provided foundational concepts for the later New Age movement.
Introduction
The figure of Djwhal Khul was introduced to the public through the prolific literary output of Alice A. Bailey, a former member of the Theosophical Society under Annie Besant. Bailey asserted that from 1919 onward, she acted as the amanuensis for telepathic communications from a discarnate entity identifying as a member of the Spiritual Hierarchy, a group of enlightened beings guiding humanity's evolution. This entity, who called himself "the Tibetan," was later identified by Bailey as Djwhal Khul, a name also mentioned in earlier Theosophical literature in connection with the Masters of the Wisdom. The core of this work is presented in a sequence of texts often called the "Blue Books" due to their distinctive covers.
Biography
According to the narrative presented in the works of Alice A. Bailey and within certain strands of Theosophy, Djwhal Khul is described as a high-ranking Ascended master or Mahatma of the second ray of Love-Wisdom. He is said to reside in a physical body in the Himalayan region, specifically near Shigatse in Tibet, overseeing the work of disciples. Prior to his association with Bailey, he is purported to have been the teacher of Helena Blavatsky, co-founder of the Theosophical Society, and is sometimes equated with the figure of Koot Hoomi, another master from Blavatsky's writings. The claimed biographical details, including his role as a Bodhisattva of Compassion, are derived entirely from esoteric sources and are not verifiable through conventional historical or academic methods.
Teachings
The teachings attributed to Djwhal Khul, as recorded by Alice A. Bailey, constitute a complex synthesis of Theosophical concepts, Christian mysticism, and emerging psychological ideas. Central themes include the existence of a governing Spiritual Hierarchy of masters, the process of spiritual initiation, the science of the seven rays which classify soul types and energies, and the work of service through groups. Significant emphasis is placed on the concept of the New Group of World Servers and the externalization of the hierarchy through the reappearance of the World Teacher, identified with the Christ or Maitreya. Other key doctrines include esoteric meditation, the Great Invocation as a world prayer, and the spiritual interpretation of world events, including discussions on Shambhala (the seat of divine will) and the Luciferic principle.
Influence
The influence of the Bailey writings, attributed to Djwhal Khul, has been profound within modern spiritual movements. The texts served as a major bridge between classical Theosophy and the mid-20th century New Age movement, providing a structured cosmology and practical disciplines. Organizations directly inspired by these teachings include the Arcane School (founded by Bailey), the Lucis Trust (originally the Lucifer Publishing Company), and the World Goodwill network. Concepts like the Great Invocation and the New Group of World Servers have been widely adopted. Furthermore, the works have influenced prominent figures and groups in alternative spirituality, such as Benjamin Creme and his Share International organization which promotes the imminent public appearance of Maitreya.
Criticism
The claims surrounding Djwhal Khul and the channeled works of Alice A. Bailey have been met with significant criticism from multiple quarters. Traditional Theosophical Society factions, particularly those loyal to the legacy of Helena Blavatsky, have often rejected Bailey's later revelations as inauthentic deviations from original doctrine. Academic scholars of Western esotericism and religious studies, such as those at the University of Amsterdam, treat the material as a significant cultural and religious phenomenon but do not endorse its metaphysical claims. Skeptics and critics from the secular and Christian apologetic communities, including organizations like the Christian Research Institute, frequently classify the teachings as syncretistic Gnosticism or even warn of their potentially deceptive spiritual nature, arguing they contradict orthodox Christian theology.