Marly Winckler – Brazil
The author translated H. P. Blavatsky's Collected Writings Volume 1 into Portuguese
For the first time, Portuguese-speaking readers now have access to the translated version of the Collected Writings of H. P. Blavatsky, originally penned between 1874 and 1878. The monumental task of compiling her writings was undertaken by Boris de Zirkoff, Blavatsky's great nephew, who described her writings as "one of the most impressive products of the human creative mind. Considering their unparalleled erudition, prophetic nature, and spiritual depth, they must be classified among the inexplicable phenomena of the era, by both friends and foes alike. Even a cursory examination of these writings reveals their monumental character."
H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings span 14 volumes, each containing between 600 to 800 pages, plus an Index Volume, amounting to approximately 10,000 pages. The compiled articles, originally written in English, French, Russian, and Italian, are estimated to be around a thousand in number. This is the first time the series is being published in any language other than English.
Portuguese-speaking readers now have access to the translated version of the Collected Writings of H. P. Blavatsky
Early Publications and Contributions
According to Zirkoff, Blavatsky's initial articles were published in well-known spiritualist journals of the time, such as Banner of Light (Boston), Spiritual Scientist (Boston), Religio-Philosophical Journal (Chicago), The Spiritualist (London), and La Revue Spirite (Paris). Simultaneously, she wrote occult stories for major American newspapers, including The World, The Sun, and Daily Graphic, all based in New York.
After moving to India in 1879, Blavatsky contributed to numerous periodicals including Indian Spector, The Deccan Star, Bombay Gazette, The Pioneer, and The Amrita Bazaar Patrika. Over a span of more than seven years (1879-1886), she wrote for the Russian newspaper Moskovskiya Vedomosty and the renowned Russkiy Vestnik, as well as for smaller circulation papers like Pravda (Odessa), Tiflisskiy Vetnik (Tiflis), and Rebus (St. Petersburg).
Blavatsky also published extensively in The Theosophist, a magazine she founded in Bombay and Madras in October 1879; Lucifer, a London-based magazine she established in 1887; Revue Théosophique (Paris), and The Path (New York). Additionally, she engaged in controversial discussions with other authors and scholars in various periodicals, particularly the Bulletin Mensuel of the Société des Études Psychologiques (Paris) and Le Lotus (Paris). Starting in September 1887, she also published many articles in Lucifer, the newly founded magazine by her in London. Blavatsky's writings include numerous pamphlets and Open Letters published separately on various occasions.
The Herculean Task of Compilation
The comprehensive nature of Blavatsky's writings posed a significant challenge for Zirkoff, who began compiling them in 1924. His efforts involved extensive correspondence with individuals worldwide. The first four volumes were published between 1933 and 1936 as The Complete Works of H. P. Blavatsky, but the printing plates were destroyed during World War II. These volumes were recovered and republished between 1966 and 1969. Between 1950 and 1981, Zirkoff succeeded in publishing the first 12 volumes of H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings. After his death, the remaining volumes XIII and XIV were completed based on his manuscripts between 1982 and 1985. Finally, a Cumulative Index (Volume XV) was published in 1991, marking 100 years since Blavatsky's death.
Zirkoff's dedication to this colossal project spanned 67 years, reflecting the magnitude of the undertaking. His work was supported by numerous individuals, as detailed in the Preface common to all volumes. The publication of the Collected Writings in their entirety was only possible 75 years after the founding of the Theosophical Society, even though the idea had existed since Blavatsky's passing.
Editorial Additions and Historical Context
All material added by the Compiler—whether footnotes or explanatory comments appended to certain articles—is enclosed in brackets and signed "Compiler." Following the Preface, each volume contains a brief historical survey documenting events in the lives of H. P. Blavatsky and Col. Henry S. Olcott, as well as the history of the Theosophical Movement during the period covered by the material in each volume.
The Long Road to Publication
Boris de Zirkoff began compiling Blavatsky's writings in 1924. Between 1950 and 1981, he managed to publish the first 12 volumes (taking 31 years). From the beginning of Boris's work in 1924 until the publication of the entire series in 1991 (one hundred years after H.P.B.'s death), 67 years passed. This gives an idea of the magnitude of the work.
I started translating the Collected Writings of H. P. Blavatsky around 2000. More than twenty years later, the first printed volume of the collection was released in Lisbon, in 2023, by the Centro Lusitano de Unificação Cultural (CLUC), beginning with Volume VIII, which covers the period when Helena Blavatsky was based in London, founded the magazine Lucifer, and produced some of her most significant work. Shortly thereafter, the Theosophical Publishing House in Brasília also published Volume VIII. In 2024, both have published Volume I.
It was a certain relief to me when I did these calculations, as I was already anxious about taking so long to translate the work and not seeing it published. Now, with the publication of Volume I, the undertaking of publishing this important work is consolidated, which is a fitting tribute to the founder and main inspirer of the Theosophical Society and the Theosophical Movement to the Portuguese speaking countries.
The Volume I of the Collected Writings
The publication of the H. P. Blavatsky Collected Writings in Portuguese is being undertaken by the Theosophical Publishing House in Brazil and the CLUC - Centro Lusitano de Unificação Cultural in Portugal. For both organizations, this is the first time they are publishing a book with a hardcover and a Remissive Index. More volumes are forthcoming.
Volume I cover the period from 1874 to 1879. The material originally published in this volume has been thoroughly revised, with the text cross-checked against original publication sources. Most cited material has been compared with originals and corrected where necessary. Substantial additions were made to Volume I, including Blavatsky's marginal notes and comments in her Scrapbooks held in the Adyar Archives, her 1867 Travel Impressions noted in one of her Albums, entries from Col. Olcott's Diaries of 1878, and various articles and texts by Blavatsky discovered later. Many explanatory notes and comments were added by the Compiler to clarify aspects of Theosophical history.
Major Themes in Volume I
Volume I of the Collected Writings includes approximately 120 articles, commentaries, and other writings, covering a wide range of topics related to Blavatsky's engagement with spiritualism while residing in the United States, as well as her early references to contact with the Masters of Wisdom. The volume also contains several of her famous occult stories, some inspired by the Master known as Hilarion Smerdis.
During the period covered by these writings, the Theosophical Society was founded in New York in 1875, with many materials addressing these subject and related themes. This period also saw the release of her first major work, Isis Unveiled: A Master-Key to the Mysteries of Ancient and Modern Science and Theology, on September 29, 1877, which sold out its initial print run of 1,000 copies in ten days. The writings also document Blavatsky's move to India and the associated vicissitudes, as well as a gradual thematic shift towards more esoteric, metaphysical subjects and various religions.
Biographical Sketches of Blavatsky and Her Associates
Volume I offers detailed biographical insights into the lives of H. P. Blavatsky, Col. Henry S. Olcott, and William Q. Judge. These sketches provide a foundation for understanding the early formation and evolution of the Theosophical Society. Blavatsky's complex and multifaceted personality, her travels, and her encounters with various spiritual traditions are explored in depth. Olcott's contributions as a co-founder and Judge's role in the American Theosophical movement are also highlighted.
The Formation of the Theosophical Society
The genesis of the Theosophical Society in New York in 1875 marks a pivotal moment in the history of modern spirituality. Volume I documents the early meetings, foundational principles, and key figures involved in the establishment of the Society. The writings elucidate the philosophical and spiritual objectives of the organization, aiming to bridge Eastern and Western esoteric traditions and promote universal brotherhood.
Masters of Wisdom and Their Influence
Along the Volume I we can see Blavatsky's interactions with the Masters of Wisdom, particularly Hilarion and Serapis. These enigmatic figures, who are believed to have guided Blavatsky in her work, play a crucial role in the development of Theosophical teachings. The writings detail Blavatsky's experiences, communications, and the profound influence these Masters had on her mission and the Theosophical movement.
Occult Stories and Psychic Phenomena
Blavatsky's talent for storytelling is evident in her occult tales, which are interspersed throughout Volume I. These stories, often inspired by her own mystical experiences and interactions with the Masters, serve to illustrate the deeper truths and principles of Theosophy. Additionally, Blavatsky's exploration of mediumship, psychic powers, and spiritualism is a recurring theme. She provides critical insights into the nature of psychic phenomena, differentiating between genuine spiritual communication and misleading or harmful practices.
Communications with Elementals and Elementaries
The writings in Volume I delve into Blavatsky's theories on elementals and elementaries, non-human entities that interact with the physical and spiritual realms. Blavatsky's detailed descriptions and classifications of these beings, along with her accounts of their interactions with humans, offer a unique perspective on the unseen world. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these entities to avoid deception and cultivate true spiritual awareness.
Prominent Figures of the Period
Volume I introduce several key figures who played significant roles during Blavatsky's early Theosophical activities. Personalities such as Hiram Corson, A. N. Aksakov, Charles Sotheran, Dr. Alexander Wilder, Gen. Abner Doubleday, E. Wimbridge, John King, and Swami Dayananda Sarasvati are profiled, highlighting their contributions and interactions with Blavatsky. These individuals, from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, enriched the Theosophical discourse and supported its growth.
The HIRAF Club and Blavatsky's Questions
Blavatsky's involvement with the HIRAF Club, a group dedicated to exploring esoteric and spiritual questions, is another significant topic in Volume I. Her questions and discussions within this forum reflect her relentless quest for deeper knowledge and her critical examination of contemporary spiritual movements, including spiritualism. Blavatsky's engagement with the HIRAF Club underscores her commitment to rigorous inquiry and the pursuit of truth. She considered the discussion with the HIRAF people her first occult shot.
Spiritualism and Blavatsky's Mission to America
The writings also address Blavatsky's views on spiritualism and the reasons behind her mission to America. She provides a critical analysis of the spiritualist movement, distinguishing between its genuine aspects and its shortcomings. Blavatsky's mission in America, as outlined in these writings, aimed to correct misconceptions about spiritualism and introduce the profound teachings of Theosophy to the Western world.
Conclusion
Volume I of the Collected Writings of H. P. Blavatsky is a treasure trove of esoteric knowledge, historical insights, and spiritual guidance. The meticulous compilation and translation of these writings provide an invaluable resource for scholars, spiritual seekers, and anyone interested in the profound legacy of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. As the first volume in a series that spans several decades and thousands of pages, it lays a solid foundation for understanding the depth and breadth of Blavatsky's contributions to the world of esoteric philosophy and spirituality.
The Portuguese translation of this monumental work opens new avenues for exploration and appreciation of Blavatsky's teachings among Portuguese-speaking readers, ensuring that her timeless wisdom continues to inspire and enlighten future generations.