Theos-Talk Archives (June 2005 Message tt00452)

>If a translator makes SUCH errors the work shouldn't be regarded as a
translation at all.

Konstantin, if you were able to see theosophical books "translated" into 
German you were in danger to get a heart attack.

To give but a minor example: In Daniel Caldwell's German version of "The 
Esoteric World of Madame Blavatsky" there appears the known term "lay 
chela". They translate it as "mundane chela", whatever that may be! HPBs 
important esoteric post as "Corresponding Secretary" - which BTW was vacant 
after departure until KT resumed that post in 1898 - is translated as 
"Executive Secretary"...

The big plus among the theosophicals sects is that mention of translation 
errors are censored by the infallible and advanced officials, so there is no 
worry that the poppycock they produce will evercome to light: The members 
from the subclass are illeterate and are satisfied with the books - if they 
are buying and reading them at all, which most do not - and the public is 
also desinterested in it.
Only the few theosophists trying to be loyal to HPB:. in spirit get sick 
from it.

But it seems it is their problem. I have heard from high enlightened sources 
that the Masters make only those theosophists sick which are transgressors.
That may be the reason why you meet always sane, healthy, agile, diligent 
members!
Frank