Theos-Talk Archives (August 2002 Message tt00014)

Theosophy has logically unassailable "fundamental principles" or propositions 
underlying the truths of both Cosmogenesis and Anthropogenesis -- that are 
entirely consistent with modern science as well as ancient esoteric 
scriptural and oral teachings. Together, they constitute the fundamental 
teachings of the "Secret Doctrine" -- supposedly the basis of all "true" 
theosophical knowledge. 

What's the difference between such "fundamental teachings" and "core 
teachings"? 

Since "theosophy" as presented to the West by HPB, refers solely to the 
"Secret Doctrine of the East" as its source -- the only basis for 
understanding or discussion of the fundamental teachings, are the books and 
writings of HPB along with the Eastern scriptural references she referred to.

"Objects of the Theosophical Movement," on the other hand, are not 
"teachings" but simply organizational purposes and student guidance. 

Also, "fundamental teachings" cannot be "dogmas." 

It follows, then, that any "true theosophists" who understand the 
"fundamental principles" and the true nature of the Universe which they 
govern, should be proud to call themselves "theosophical fundamentalists" . . 
. The word "fundamentalist" having an entirely different meaning when 
referring to those who follow cooked up religious dogmas, or opinionated 
biblical interpretations on faith alone. (See below.) 

LHM

Ref: (From American Heritage Dictionary) 
dog'ma n. pl. dog'mas or dog'ma'ta 1. Theology - A doctrine or a corpus of 
doctrines relating to matters such as morality and faith, set forth in an 
authoritative manner by a church. 2. An authoritative principle, belief, or 
statement of ideas or opinion, especially one considered to be absolutely 
true. 
fun'da'men'tal'ism n. 1. a. Often Fundamentalism - An organized, militant 
Evangelical movement originating in the United States in 1920 in opposition 
to Liberalism and secularism. b. Adherence to the theology of this movement. 
2. A movement or point of view characterized by rigid adherence to 
fundamental or basic principles. 

In a message dated 08/02/02 12:24:10 AM, bartl@sprynet.com writes:

>danielhcaldwell wrote:
>> Some theosophical students have written that true Theosophy does not
>> have core teachings. These students have characterized those who
>> believe Theosophy has definite teachings as "Core Theosophists" and
>> labeled them as "dogmatists", "fundamentalists", and with other
>> negative terms.
>
> Theosophy has no core teachings. The various Theosophical Societies do,
>but no member is required to believe them (except for their own
>individual interpretations of the 3 Objects). 
>
> Bart Lidofsky