Loading...
The Ashes of Madame Blavatsky
fable
2 min read
0 comments
0:000:00
Story Summary
In "The Ashes of Madame Blavatsky," a unique moral story unfolds as an Inquiring Soul seeks wisdom from Theosophy's leading figures, eventually declaring himself the Ahkoond of Swat. After their execution for deceit, he ascends to leadership but meets a comical demise, only to be reincarnated as a Yellow Dog that consumes Madame Blavatsky's ashes, leading to the end of Theosophy. This captivating moral tale serves as a timeless reminder of the folly of misplaced reverence and the consequences of hubris.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The story illustrates the folly of blindly following charismatic figures without critical thinking, leading to misguided beliefs and ultimately, the demise of a movement.
Historical Context
This story draws upon the historical context of Theosophy, a spiritual movement founded in the late 19th century by figures like Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, who sought to synthesize science, religion, and philosophy. The narrative satirizes the esoteric traditions and beliefs surrounding Theosophy and its leaders, reflecting a critical and humorous perspective on the movement's more absurd elements. The tale echoes motifs found in folklore and allegorical storytelling, emphasizing themes of reincarnation and the folly of blind adherence to dogma.
Our Editors Opinion
This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind following and the pitfalls of seeking wisdom without genuine understanding. In modern life, we often encounter individuals who, despite lacking true knowledge or merit, gain influence through charisma or the allure of esoteric beliefs; for instance, a social media influencer promoting wellness trends without scientific backing may lead many to follow harmful practices.
You May Also Like
The Man of Principle
In "The Man of Principle," a Keeper at a zoological garden encounters a stubborn man seeking shelter from the rain beneath an ostrich, despite the imminent danger it poses. The man, embodying the essence of a moral story, insists on staying until the ostrich kicks him out, having already swallowed his umbrella, illustrating the folly of rigid principles over practical safety. This engaging moral tale serves as a simple short story with a profound lesson on the importance of adaptability in the face of risk.
principle
courage
Keeper of the Zoological garden
Man of Principle
The Critics
In this creative moral story, Minerva, captivated by the beauty of Antinous, inadvertently turns him to stone when he glimpses her shield adorned with Medusa's head. As she seeks Jove's assistance to restore him, a Sculptor and a Critic debate the artistic merits of the petrified figure, missing the deeper lessons from this tragic folklore. This tale exemplifies the themes found in popular moral stories, reminding us of the importance of empathy and understanding over superficial critique.
Beauty
Criticism
Antinous
Minerva
The Wolf Who Would Be a Lion
In this entertaining moral story, a foolish man, convinced of his own greatness, becomes a Commissioner for an exhibition of the mentally challenged and is mistakenly treated as one of the exhibits himself. As he is taken away to a glass case, he laments his ambition and wishes he had been content with his ordinary life, highlighting the best moral of the story: the dangers of overestimating oneself. This easy small story with a moral serves as a poignant reminder of the value of humility.
self-deception
social status
Foolish Fellow
Commissioner
Other names for this story
Theosophical Whispers, Ashes of Enlightenment, Secrets of Madame Blavatsky, The Inquiring Soul's Journey, Rebirth of Theosophy, Echoes of Blavatsky, The Ashes and the Ahkoond, Mysteries of theosophy
Did You Know?
This story satirically explores the absurdity of blind faith and the often ridiculous nature of belief systems, suggesting that the pursuit of enlightenment can lead to nonsensical outcomes when detached from critical thinking. The transformation of the Inquiring Soul into a Yellow Dog after consuming the ashes serves as a poignant commentary on the ephemeral nature of ideologies and their ultimate insignificance.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.