Theos-Talk Archives (December 2010 Message tt00234)

WHO SPEAKS FOR THEOSOPHY? 


One of the skills highly recommended of Theosophists is the development of a broad and flexible tolerance for the differences of others. There is not nor has there ever been any "official" definition of "Theosophy." However when we talk about "Theosophical Studies" this does not mean that we can study any sundry New Age or occult topic and call it "Theosophy." Theosophical Studies involve a definite curriculum of information. 

Among Theosophical students it is generally accepted that the focus of our study and promotion be centered around the teachings and writings of H.P. Blavatsky and the various interpretations of her many disciples and students. 


No two students are exactly alike and we find many differing views and interpretations as we are all at different levels of mental ability and comprehension, and this is all OK. This is the way it should be. A diversity of viewpoints makes for healthy discussion. 


Modern psychological studies and brain research are confirming what the Ancient Wisdom has always taught that there are two distinct hemispheres of the brain which interpret data differently. The left brain gives a logical 
explanation, the right brain gives an aesthetic interpretation. When the two are working in sync, a wholistic picture developes. Few people are born with both hemispheres operating naturally in sync, and we call them the geniuses. However anyone can be trained to synchronize both hemispheres and awaken their latent genius ability. 


Much of the current discussion and antagonism directed toward previous prominent leaders of the Theosophical Movement can be addressed by understanding that some were predominantly "Right Brain" thinkers and some where "Left Brain" thinkers and this is evidenced by the way they presented Theosophy to the public. Were they wrong in their presentations? NO, just different. 


There is a great value in amicable discussion, more than most realize, as it is through amicable discussion that new insights and vistas of understanding open up before our mental vision. There is an emergent value which cannot be pre-planned or predicted but is always of a salugenic and wholesome quality. 


Theosophy is a serious inquiry, and Madame Blavatsky gives us helpful guidelines and hints to enable our inquiry to produce fruitful effects. No where does she ever claim to be "the final word" as with this Grand Inquiry, there can never be a "final word." 


Paradoxically as it may seem, longtime serious students of Theosophy will attest to the fact that when one reaches a certain level of inquiry there seems to occur a convergence and agreement of understanding, a congruence at which point differences, dis-agreements and previous mis-understandings all become moot and fade into the background. 


So, Who Speaks For Theosophy?
We All Do, and No One Does. 


Theosophy (TRUTH) Speaks for itself, it is Self-evident, and requires no apologia. 
Hopefully those who do speak on Theosophy will be learned and or sincere students. We can judge for ourselves the merits of their statements We can decide for ourselves whether they are credible and worth our consideration. 


Colonial Olcott structured the Society in order to preserve this freedom of inquiry by giving the Branches, autonomy to operate without being subject to "official versions" or dictates of "higher bodies." 


When a National Society or any other "Special Interest Group" or political faction resorts to "favorite versions," deceit or trickery, to further their own agenda, then our basic freedom of inquiry and discussion is greatly endangered. And more importantly TRUTH is subverted. 


The motivation for promoting these private agendas can only be based on spiritual ambition and unrecognized egotism. We are cautioned many times by Madame Blavatsky against the deadly effects of spiritual ambition, it is ironic that this is not readily seen. 


TRUTH operates as the Spirit does, it does as it will, and will not be controlled by anyone or group. 


Let constant vigilance be our watchword. 


--William Delahunt 

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Mr.Delahunt has been a member of the Society since 1969, A Past President of Orlando Lodge and is currently the Secretary of Orlando Lodge, and Director of The School of Theosophy, Orlando. 

http://www.tso-orlando.org

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