Man is a spiritual intelligence, who has taken flesh with the object of gaining experience in worlds below the spiritual, in order that he may be able to master and to rule them, and in later ages take his place in the creative and directing hierarchies of the universe.

In this quote, Annie Besant presents the idea that man is fundamentally a spiritual intelligence, a being with a higher, divine essence that has chosen to take on flesh and exist in the material world. According to Besant, the purpose of this earthly existence is to gain experience in realms that are below the spiritual, meaning the physical and mundane aspects of life. Through these experiences, humans can learn important lessons and develop the skills necessary to master and ultimately rule over the lower realms of existence.

Besant’s words suggest a process of spiritual evolution. By living in the material world, humans are not only subject to physical and emotional challenges but are also meant to learn and grow spiritually. This growth enables individuals to gain mastery over their environment and, in the future, contribute to the creative and directing hierarchies of the universe. She views human life as part of a larger cosmic purpose, where spiritual beings evolve through successive stages of experience and ultimately play a greater role in the divine order.

The quote reflects Besant’s theosophical beliefs, which were centered around the idea of spiritual evolution and the development of the higher self. Theosophy, which Besant was deeply involved in, teaches that humanity is on a path toward spiritual enlightenment and that individuals must rise above the physical world to connect with the divine. Her emphasis on gaining mastery over the physical world aligns with this belief, where the material realm serves as a school for spiritual development.

Originating from Besant’s work as a leading figure in the Theosophical Society, this quote encapsulates her worldview that humanity's ultimate purpose is not just to exist, but to evolve spiritually, gaining wisdom and understanding to eventually take a prominent place in the universe’s creative and spiritual hierarchies. Besant’s teachings often focused on the interconnectedness of the spiritual and material, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is spiritual growth and mastery.