Geneviève Behrend

Geneviève Behrend[4†]

Geneviève Behrend (1881–1960) was a prominent French-born author and teacher of Mental Science, a New Thought discipline introduced by Thomas Troward. Her influential works, including "Your Invisible Power," have inspired countless individuals in the realms of metaphysics and personal development. Her legacy endures through her contributions to the New Thought movement, emphasizing the importance of mental discipline and the creative potential of the human mind[1†][2†].

Early Years and Education

Geneviève Behrend, born in 1881 in France and raised in Paris, remains a figure shrouded in mystery regarding her early life. While scant details exist about her childhood and parents, it is known that one of her parents hailed from Scotland[1†]. Her formative years likely shaped her curiosity and openness to spiritual exploration. Early on, she delved into the study of Christian Science and even had a personal encounter with its founder, Mary Baker Eddy. However, her spiritual journey took unexpected turns, leading her away from Christian Science[1†].

Behrend’s pivotal moment occurred when she stumbled upon a book containing the lectures of Thomas Troward, a prominent figure in Mental Science. Inspired by Troward’s teachings, she resolved to study with him, despite residing in New York and facing financial constraints. Through visualization and affirmation, she manifested the necessary funds to travel to Cornwall, England, where Troward resided. Her unwavering determination led her to become Troward’s sole personal student, a distinction she held throughout his life[1†][2†].

This transformative period laid the foundation for Behrend’s subsequent career. She founded The School of the Builders in New York City around 1915, dedicated to New Thought principles. Later, she established another New Thought school in Los Angeles. For over three decades, she crisscrossed North America, delivering lectures on mental science and New Thought, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape. Her legacy endures as a beacon of metaphysical wisdom and personal empowerment[1†].

Career Development and Achievements

Geneviève Behrend (1881–1960) embarked on a remarkable journey, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of metaphysical thought. Her career unfolded in distinct phases, each contributing to her enduring legacy.

Between 1912 and 1914, Behrend’s life became singularly focused on the wisdom and philosophy of Thomas Troward, a master of Mental Science. As his sole personal student, she imbibed his influential and compelling ideas, which laid the groundwork for the spiritual philosophy known today as New Thought[1†]. This intensive period of study shaped her understanding of consciousness, visualization, and the power of the mind.

Armed with Troward’s teachings, Behrend established The School of the Builders around 1915 in New York City. This New Thought school became a beacon for seekers eager to explore metaphysical principles. Behrend herself ran the school until 1925, imparting knowledge and fostering personal growth among her students[1†]. Her commitment to education and dissemination of New Thought principles resonated with those who attended her lectures and workshops.

Behrend’s influence extended beyond New York. She founded another New Thought school, this time in Los Angeles. Her dedication to teaching and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of the mind drew students from diverse backgrounds. Through her guidance, they explored the depths of consciousness, affirmations, and the creative process[1†].

For over three decades, Behrend crisscrossed North America, sharing her insights through lectures on mental science and New Thought. Her eloquence and depth of understanding captivated audiences, inspiring them to harness their inner potential. Additionally, she engaged with radio broadcasts, reaching even wider audiences and disseminating her message of empowerment[1†].

Geneviève Behrend’s wisdom transcended her time. In the best-selling self-help book "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne, she is quoted as an expert. Her teachings continue to resonate with those seeking personal transformation and spiritual growth[1†].

Geneviève Behrend’s legacy endures—a testament to her unwavering commitment to New Thought principles, her role as a teacher, and her profound impact on countless lives[1†].

First Publication of Her Main Works

Geneviève Behrend, a French-born author and teacher of Mental Science, made significant contributions to the field of New Thought. Her works reflect her deep understanding of metaphysical principles and their practical application. Let us explore her main publications:

• Your Invisible Power (1921): In this influential book, Behrend delves into the power of the mind and its ability to shape reality. She emphasizes the concept that our thoughts create our experiences, urging readers to harness their mental faculties to manifest their desires. Behrend’s eloquent prose guides readers toward self-empowerment and conscious creation[1†] 1[1†][3†].
• How to Live Life and Love It (1922): Behrend’s second work continues her exploration of mental science. Through practical examples and relatable anecdotes, she encourages readers to embrace life fully, love unconditionally, and cultivate a positive mindset. The book serves as a guide to living authentically and finding joy in everyday experiences[1†] 1[1†].
• Attaining Your Heart’s Desire (1929): In this volume, Behrend provides insights into achieving one’s deepest desires. She emphasizes the alignment of thoughts, feelings, and actions to manifest personal goals. Behrend’s teachings resonate with those seeking fulfillment and purpose, offering practical tools for transformation[1†] 1[1†].

These works, rooted in New Thought principles, showcase Behrend’s commitment to empowering individuals through self-awareness, intention, and mental focus. Her legacy endures as a beacon of wisdom for those seeking personal growth and spiritual understanding[1†] 1[1†].

Analysis and Evaluation

Geneviève Behrend, a luminary in the realm of metaphysical thought, left an indelible mark through her writings and teachings. Let us delve into a critical analysis of her work, considering style, influences, and impact.

Behrend’s literary style is characterized by clarity, conciseness, and practicality. Her prose resonates with readers of diverse backgrounds, making complex metaphysical concepts accessible. She adeptly combines spiritual wisdom with actionable steps, emphasizing the power of the mind and positive thinking.

Influenced by Thomas Troward, her mentor and sole personal student, Behrend absorbed his profound ideas on mental science. Troward’s emphasis on universal principles, creative visualization, and the role of consciousness deeply influenced her approach. Behrend’s encounter with Abdul Baha, who prophesied her global quest for truth, further shaped her perspective[1†] 1[1†].

Behrend’s legacy lies in her unwavering commitment to empowering individuals. Through her works, she encouraged readers to recognize their innate creative power. “Your Invisible Power,” her seminal book, remains a cornerstone of New Thought literature. Its practical guidance on harnessing thoughts to shape reality has inspired countless seekers[1†] 1[1†][3†].

Her impact extends beyond printed pages. As the founder of New Thought schools in New York City and Los Angeles, Behrend cultivated communities of like-minded individuals. Her lectures across North America and radio broadcasts disseminated metaphysical principles widely. Her teachings continue to resonate, influencing personal development, spiritual exploration, and the law of attraction[1†] 1[1†].

In the annals of New Thought history, Geneviève Behrend occupies a revered place. Her legacy endures as a beacon of wisdom, guiding generations toward self-realization and conscious living. Her contributions remain relevant, reminding us that our minds are centers of divine operations, capable of shaping our destinies[1†] 1[1†].

Personal Life

Geneviève Behrend (1881–1960) led a remarkable life, shaped by her spiritual quest and dedication to New Thought principles. Although details about her early years remain scarce, her journey unfolded in fascinating ways.

After the passing of her husband, Behrend embarked on extensive travels, seeking truth and wisdom. She explored various spiritual paths, including Christian Science, where she encountered its founder, Mary Baker Eddy. However, her spiritual journey took a significant turn when she met Abdul Baha, the son of the founder of the Baháʼí Faith. Baha prophesied that she would “travel the world over seeking the truth, and when she[[?]] had found it, would speak it out” 1.

Behrend’s pivotal moment came when she discovered a book of Thomas Troward’s lectures. Inspired by his teachings, she resolved to study with him, despite financial constraints. Every night and morning, she visualized counting out twenty $1,000 bills, buying her ticket to London, and being accepted as Troward’s pupil. Her unwavering affirmation — “My mind is a center of Divine operations” — yielded remarkable results. Within six weeks, she received the necessary funds and became Troward’s sole personal student from 1912 to 1914 1[2†].

Following her studies with Troward, Behrend founded The School of the Builders in New York City around 1915, where she imparted New Thought wisdom. Later, she established another New Thought school in Los Angeles. For 35 years, she crisscrossed North America, delivering lectures on mental science and New Thought, leaving an indelible mark on spiritual seekers. Her influence extends even to modern self-help literature, as she is quoted in Rhonda Byrne’s best-selling book, “The Secret” 3[1†].

Behrend’s life exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a commitment to sharing transformative ideas with the world 3[1†].

Conclusion and Legacy

Geneviève Behrend (1881–1960) left an indelible mark on the landscape of New Thought and metaphysical teachings. Her legacy continues to inspire seekers worldwide, and her impact remains profound.

As the sole personal student of Thomas Troward, Behrend absorbed his wisdom and philosophy from 1912 to 1914 1. Her dedication to Mental Science, a New Thought discipline, led her to establish The School of the Builders in New York City around 1915 2[1†]. She later founded another New Thought school in Los Angeles, where she continued to impart transformative ideas 2[1†].

Behrend’s teachings resonate through the ages, influencing countless individuals seeking spiritual truth. Her commitment to visualization and affirmation—such as declaring, “My mind is a center of Divine operations”—demonstrates her unwavering faith in the power of thought 3[2†]. Her impact extends beyond her lifetime, as she is quoted in Rhonda Byrne’s best-selling self-help book, “The Secret” 2[1†].

Geneviève Behrend’s legacy endures as a beacon of wisdom, resilience, and the transformative potential of the human mind 2[1†]. Her journey from Paris to New York, her encounters with spiritual luminaries, and her tireless lectures across North America all contribute to a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire seekers today 2[1†].

Key Information

• Also Known As: Geneviève Behrend
• Born: 1881 in Paris, France
• Died: 1960 in the United States
• Nationality: French
• Occupation: Author and teacher of Mental Science
• Notable Works: "Your Invisible Power" (1921), "How to Live Life and Love It" (1922), Attaining Your Heart’s Desire (1929)
• Notable Achievements: Geneviève Behrend was the only personal student of Thomas Troward, a master of Mental Science, from 1912 to 1914[1†]. She founded the New Thought school “The School of the Builders” in New York City and later another school in Los Angeles. For over 35 years, she traveled throughout North America, lecturing on mental science and New Thought, leaving an indelible mark on the field[1†]. Her wisdom continues to resonate, and she is even referenced in Rhonda Byrne’s best-selling self-help book, The Secret[1†].

References and Citations:

1. Wikipedia (English) - Geneviève Behrend [website] - link
2. ImaginationAndFaith - GENEVIEVE BEHREND BIOGRAPHY [website] - link
3. Google Books - Your Invisible Power - Genevieve Behrend [website] - link
4. EcuRed - Geneviève Behrend [website] - link