Theos-Talk Archives (January 2012 Message tt00132)

Govert, you write:

"The scholars I mentioned are important, because, in the absence of extraordinary
scholars and whether we like to hear what they say or not, we'll  have to make
do with these guys if we want a better understanding of Theosophy from a
historical perspective."

I believe you were writing this in response to something Sufilight said.

I would reply to Theos-Talk readers:  the seeker of "truth" should want to listen and 
consider and ponder on what theosophical authors write, what skeptics and scholars also write.

I always ask. myself:  can i learn something from this author.  i should first read the author and see if i first of all understand what they are conveying to me.  of course i want to also test and verify what they tell me.  have they done their homework, etc. etc.  i really wonder how many blavatsky students have actually taken the time to read and study the hodgson report and the coulomb pamphlet.  compare and contrast the statements with other relevant sources.  etc. etc.  

one can learn so much if one listens to these authors...not naively believing them or disbelieving.

the wiliams and mead books on hpb are goldmines for study.  but only by careful research and study will one be in a position to know when they are giving facts and correct information and when they are misreporting and distorting the historical record.

of course probably most readers and even theosophical students aren't willing to devote the time and effort to do any of this.  it is easier to just accept what some author says.

daniel