Theos-Talk Archives (October 1996 Message tl00249)

On Fri, 11 Oct 1996, Ann E. Bermingham wrote:

> > > "Esoteric Psychology II" p.484
> "Again, schools of esotericists, theosophists and rosicrucians
> (particularly in their inner schools) have also their own forms of this
> illusion of guidance. It is of a different nature to the two dealt above,
> but the results are nevertheless of much the same quality and reduce the
> student to a condition of being guided, often of being directed by
> illlusionary voices.  Frequently the heads of the organization claim to be
> in direct communicatins with a Master or the entire Hierarchy of Masters,
> from Whom orders comes.  These orders are passed on to the rank and file of
> membership of the organisation and prompt unquestioning obedience is
> expected from them...."
>
> And Whoever is writing this book goes on to say that the real work is to
> put an indivdual in touch with his soul, under which he would be
> self-guided.  Some of the above seems to describe the beginning of many a
> cult or group with cult leanings.  However, I do not see CWL's name
> actually mentioned, although I'm sure many who know his history would
> suspect that the above description could apply to him.  The name of the
> game turned from "truth" to "control".


I would quote the above passage in more length to show that it clearly
alludes to the Theosophical leaders of the past. It also gives a good
perspective on the Masters (emphasis added):

"...Under the system of training, imparted under the name of esoteric
development, the goal of a similar relationship to the Master or the
Hierarchy is held out as an inducement to work or to meditation practice,
and some day the aspirant is led to believe that he will hear his Master's
voice, giving him guidance, telling him what to do and outlining to him
his participation in various roles. Much of the psychological
difficulties found in esoteric groups can be traced to this attitude and
to the holding out to the neophyte of THIS GLAMOROUS HOPE. In view of
this, I cannot too strongly re-iterate the following facts:

1. That the goal of all teaching given in the REAL esoteric schools is TO
   PUT MAN CONSCIOUSLY IN TOUCH WITH HIS OWN SOUL AND NOT WITH THE MASTER."

Max