Theos-Talk Archives (April 1999 Message tt00108)

April 10th 1999

Theosophy continues to challenge thought and individual concepts.

To the despair of students of various schools of oriental
thought -- which are usually, neither oriental nor thought, but,
rather are attempts to rationalize the irrational (from our
material point of present view) the terms used in Theosophy,
borrowed from any of the old schools, exoteric or esoteric, have
only one main value and that is to direct the thought of the
reader to principles that he already has innately.  We all know
the TRUTH interiorly, but have overlaid it with preconceptions.
How to get rid of those ?

The problem, as I see it, is how are these to be developed.  As I
see it theosophy would have each of us be as broad and as
eclectic as possible.  But this seems to annoy many of those who
choose to analyze word by word the way in which ancient wisdom
was recorded.

While greatly respecting all those who do such work, I feel
strongly that they are limiting themselves, and frankly I do not
understand it.  I would rather adopt any set of terms or ideas
and see if they work.  If they do not, then is my interpretation
of meaning right or wrong?  Finally if any set of values is to be
applied to anything that I read, how am I to apply it ?

It really does not matter much how others may regard my study and
application, when we get down to finalities, of what value is any
work except to my own "progress ?"

This may sound very selfish indeed, but as we "progress" in
thought, do we not contact and influence others ? If so, then
ought not our views be liberal enough to grasp and understand
their expressions, whether limited (from our point of view) or
not ?  How do we fit so many points and rays of individual light
into a valid and living whole ?

there is somewhere a common meeting ground, and so far I have
only found the eclecticism of Theosophy to offer a platform that
is sufficiently historical and impartial to be used.

The contributions of each student are valuable to all, and none
ought to be deemed either superior or inferior to any others, but
all ought to be given equal, relevant and tolerant attention.

On the other hand it is quite disturbing to our joint effort to
note special claims being made for individual study.  Humility
dictates that the fruits of individual labor be displayed for the
consideration and criticism of others, so that the constructive
viewing of a number of minds may result in an improvement over
the work and conclusions of any one of us.

I hope this fairly expresses a view that seems to be broad
enough.

Best wishes,

Dallas


              Dallas TenBroeck
               dalval@nwc.net




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