ALICE BAILEY

Alice Bailey (1880–1949): Alice Ann Bailey (née La Trobe-Bateman) was a pivotal British-American esoteric writer, occultist, and lecturer whose teachings blended Theosophy, Eastern mysticism, and Christian mysticism. She's widely regarded as a foundational figure in the New Age movement, popularizing the term "New Age" and concepts like the "Age of Aquarius," spiritual hierarchies, and channeled wisdom. Her work emphasized global unity, meditation, healing, and humanity's evolution toward enlightenment. Bailey claimed to channel her core writings from a Tibetan master named Djwhal Khul (D.K.), producing 24 books that form the "Ageless Wisdom" teachings. She founded the Lucis Trust in 1922, which continues to publish her works and promote esoteric education worldwide.Early Life and InfluencesBirth and Upbringing: Born June 16, 1880, in Manchester, England, into a conservative Anglican family. Educated in Christian traditions, she experienced a profound vision at age 15 of a "tall man in a turban" (later identified as D.K.), urging her toward spiritual service. Marriages and Challenges: At 22, she did missionary work in India, marrying Episcopal priest Walter Evans in 1907; they had three daughters but divorced in 1919 after a turbulent period (including her sardine factory job to support the family). In 1921, she married Foster Bailey, a fellow Theosophist. Theosophical Awakening: Discovered Helena Blavatsky's Theosophy in 1917 while in the U.S. Joined the Theosophical Society in 1918, rising quickly but clashing with leader Annie Besant's "neo-Theosophy." Expelled in 1920 for her independent views and claims of Tibetan contact. Influenced by Blavatsky, but she integrated more Christian elements and rejected what she saw as psychic sensationalism. Major Works and TeachingsBailey wrote prolifically from 1919–1949, with 19 books "co-authored" with D.K. via telepathic dictation and 5 independently. Her system is a neo-Theosophical framework for spiritual psychology, astrology, and global service.