Theos-Talk Archives (October 1995 Message tl00419)

>From Jerry S. writing to Jerry H-E:

" So far, we can't even
agree on what are the "source teachings" let alone what
are the "source doctrines." And, maybe it really
doesn't matter (?)."

I would gently suggest that it does matter: without a focus, Theosophical
energies in the world will scatter and be absorbed and diluted.

There should be a way to lay out a core philosophy and a core set of ideas
without making them dictatorial, enforceable, etc.

To look to Buddhism for parallels, there are a number of schools, each with
very specific texts, teachers, and meditation techniques. However,
participation in those traditions is VOLUNTARY, and nothing is enforced.
 However, if you want to belong to a school of Buddhism, you are expected to
believe what that school believes, practice what it practices, etc.
 Otherwise, switch school, right?

Likewise, I hope that Theosophy will be reconized as a distinct, clear
tradition with specific doctrines and approaches. No one is forced to accept
such doctrines and approaches, but they also can't say that they don't exist.
 Being a Theosophist seems to me a VOLUNTARY thing, but the student who calls
him/herself a Theosophist can not go about saying "I am a Theosophist and
whatever I do and believe is Theosophy."