Theos-Talk Archives (April 2002 Message tt00105)

Andra (and other new students),

The best way to understand theosophy is to study the teachings of HPB in the 
Secret Doctrine, the Key to Theosophy, etc., and in other writings by her 
theosophical student/teachers, such as William Q, Judge, Robert Crosbie and 
others of like mind... And then, ask questions of their more advanced 
students (some, lurking here:-) who may have more experience or knowledge of 
the theosophical truths. 

That's a good shortcut, but this questioning also works, even when one reads 
a passage in a theosophical book and can only direct the question of what it 
means to one's own higher nature -- who knows all the answers that further 
deep meditation on the passage read will eventually bring into greater and 
greater clarity. 

HPB recommended that the way to study the Secret Doctrine is "to read IN and 
AROUND its words and BETWEEN its lines," and to let one's intuition work on 
finding the true meanings on each level of our inner natures. She also 
advised her students how to go about studying the SD -- which can be found in 
the article by one of her personal chelas, who asked the right questions (as 
you already have). It's posted at:
http://users.aol.com/uniwldarts/uniworld.artisans.guild/HPB-ONHOWSTUD.SD.html 


Hope this is helpful, 

Lenny

In a message dated 04/06/02 10:50:00 AM, arb@kreative.net writes:

>Dear Saljim,
> I read your message and truly understand that to be the case for
>newcomers. I am quite interested in Theosophy. I am trying to synthesize the
>parts that I can and make constructive changes in my thoughts and actions.
>The parts that I do not currently comprehend I know that, one day with
>enough experience...I will. I'm aware of my limitations but want so much
>to spiritually be effective. I am a newcomer and try not to be intimidated by
>Theosophy's erudite members. I'm grateful for the opportunity of gleaning
>wisdom that, had I not discovered Theosophy, I would not be privy to.
> I would love to ask questions and hope that they would be answered.
>Truthfully, I am now struggling with the internal conflict of wondering
>whether, in the struggle of reaching for understanding, I am to synthesize
>experiences on my own or to ask questions. Perhaps it is a combination
>of both? One must be knowledgeable in order to ask intelligent questions,
>however, I also wanted to share that, seemingly, when I do have a question,
>the Baba-Talk, Theosophy and Universal Seekers list serves post quotes, 
>poetry and detailed explanations on the very topic I was wondering about. 
>God, however that might actually be, has imbued others with the ability to 
>know when enlightenment on certain subjects is beneficial.
> Your suggestion of allowing newcomers to ask questions, in and of itself,
>was very helpful. I hesitate to join in for I have nothing to add other
>than my devout desire to know more... and yet more... about God. I am
>thankful that there are so many that I can learn from. Their posts are a
>[constant source of inspiration to me and others on the Path.
> I will at some point ask questions, if I can come to terms with my worry
>that we are to quietly internally process using our intuition rather than
>depend upon others. Ah1 Yes! This will be my first question:
>What does Blavadsky's Theosophy say about asking questions and dialoging
>with others who are more experienced?
> 
>Thankyou for understanding the plights of a newcomer...
>
>Andra
>-----Original Message-----
>From: JIM2SAL@AOL.COM <JIM2SAL@AOL.COM>
>To: theos-talk@yahoogroups.com <theos-talk@yahoogroups.com>
>Date: Saturday, April 06, 2002 6:18 AM
>Subject: Re: Theos-World Questions and Answers
>
>
>>It all depends on yourself, what is your own background? What is your
>>belief? Generally, when a newcomer arrives, the tendency is to immediately
>>stuff them with Theosophy, unto spiritual indigestion. However, the better
>>approach it would seem, would be to find out more about the newcomer's
>>own background, and then ask they ask questions, attempt good answers.
>>
>>Ususally, the idea is that one prays to one's conception of God. Most
>>religions require a belief in God. The Hindus have altars to many gods, as
>>their relgion is a pantheistic one. The Buddhists have yet another idea -
>>rather difficult to grasp.
>>
>>Where is one's God located? Within one's heart? In the sky? On another
>>planet?
>>
>>No doubt prayer is effective. Many studies have shown that; in the Key
>>to Theosophy, by Blavatsky, she, also, goes into prayer's effectiveness.
>>
>>Does one pray for one's own benefit? For the benefit of others?
>>
>>Blavatsky, in the Key to Theosophy, says that prayer must be followed
>>by actions in order to make it effective.
>>
>>Just some thoughts. Let me know what you think.
>>
>>Saljim