Theos-Talk Archives (September 2004 Message tt00566)

Certain issues, important to some contributors, are beginning to be 
casually dismissed and even belittled by others. Comments such 
as "round and round" and "...good and informative posts like these 
from you two keep me ever hopeful" seem to be examples of this. If 
meant in this manner, these are unfortunate responses and lack 
respect and encouragement for those deeply concerned with discovering 
the truths of life through Theosophical writings. 
For those on the jnana path of study, a sincere search requires 
careful analysis, comparison and sensitive discernment of the 
available literature. The credibility of this literature then becomes 
critical to the genuine student. Determining credibility involves a 
multi-faceted approach. Social, cultural and historical perspectives 
need to be considered as does an investigation where possible into 
the perceived nature and motivation of the minds of those claiming to 
be teachers. A study of reputation and lifestyle can help in 
determining whether the said teachers live by the ideals and ideas 
they profess. 
These areas of research, whilst not necessarily conclusive or 
ultimately determinant, nonetheless can lead students towards a 
deeper apprehension of the truths they seek. Where any or all of 
these perspectives are determined to be seriously compromised, 
including the discovery of blatant and persistent falsehoods over a 
number of decades, deliberate and devious manipulation of students 
and demonstrably unconscionable behaviour towards children, this must 
call into question the veracity of those writers' works. 
Those students claiming to be on the jnana path of study who do not 
concern themselves with these matters may perhaps be considered 
unconcerned with the truthfulness, honesty and respectability of the 
writer and more interested in simplicity and blind belief. 
In saying all this however, these considerations do not invalidate 
the value of a person's life of service. Some highly controversial 
figures have made generous and significant contributions towards the 
relief of suffering. Whilst this is undisputed, some of their 
writings must be.
Nigel