THE THEOSOPHIST

VOL. 134 NO. 10 JULY 2013

CONTENTS

Bondage is in the Mind 3 Radha Burnier Jñana Yoga and The Secret Doctrine 6 Pablo Sender Do Indian Myths have a Scientific Basis? 14 P. Krishna The Foundation of the Future Religions 19 Kiran Shah A Matter of Attitude 25 Virginia Hanson Fragments of the Ageless Wisdom 30 Our Gift to the Future 31 Dianne K. Kynaston Books of Interest 36 Theosophical Work around the World 37 International Directory 38

Editor: Mrs Radha Burnier

NOTE: Articles for publication in The Theosophist should be sent to the Editorial Office. Cover: Bismarckia (Nobilis) — C. A. Shinde

Official organ of the President, founded by H. P. Blavatsky, 1879. The Theosophical Society is responsible only for official notices appearing in this magazine.

1 THE THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY Founded 17 November 1875 President: Mrs Radha Burnier Vice-President: Mr M. P. Singhal Secretary: Mrs Kusum Satapathy Treasurer: Mr T. S. Jambunathan Headquarters: ADYAR, CHENNAI (MADRAS) 600 020, INDIA Secretary: [email protected] Treasury: [email protected] Adyar Library and Research Centre: [email protected] Theosophical Publishing House: [email protected] & [email protected] Fax: (+91-44) 2490-1399 Editorial Office: [email protected] Website: http://www.ts-adyar.org The Theosophical Society is composed of students, belonging to any religion in the world or to none, who are united by their approval of the Society’s Objects, by their wish to remove religious antagonisms and to draw together men of goodwill, whatsoever their religious opinions, and by their desire to study religious truths and to share the results of their studies with others. Their bond of union is not the profession of a common belief, but a common search and aspiration for Truth. They hold that Truth should be sought by study, by reflection, by purity of life, by devotion to high ideals, and they regard Truth as a prize to be striven for, not as a dogma to be imposed by authority. They consider that belief should be the result of individual study or intuition, and not its antecedent, and should rest on knowledge, not on assertion. They extend tolerance to all, even to the intolerant, not as a privilege they bestow but as a duty they perform, and they seek to remove ignorance, not punish it. They see every religion as an expression of the Divine Wisdom and prefer its study to its condemnation, and its practice to proselytism. Peace is their watchword, as Truth is their aim. Theosophy is the body of truths which forms the basis of all religions, and which cannot be claimed as the exclusive possession of any. It offers a philosophy which renders life intelligible, and which demonstrates the justice and the love which guide its evolution. It puts death in its rightful place, as a recurring incident in an endless life, opening the gateway to a fuller and more radiant existence. It restores to the world the Science of the Spirit, teaching man to know the Spirit as himself and the mind and body as his servants. It illuminates the scriptures and doctrines of religions by unveiling their hidden meanings, and thus justifying them at the bar of intelligence, as they are ever justified in the eyes of intuition. Members of the Theosophical Society study these truths, and theosophists endeavour to live them. Everyone willing to study, to be tolerant, to aim high, and to work perseveringly, is welcomed as a member, and it rests with the member to become a true theosophist.

2 Bondage is in the Mind Bondage is in the Mind

RADHA BURNIER

A well-known sentence in the Upanishads This is the position of man now in states that mind alone is the cause of man’s relation to that part of the phenomenal bondage and liberation. Most people world which he understands. believe that they are bound by circum- Flights to the moon and communi- stance and act as if they are its victims, cation through satellites with distant parts because they do not understand the forces of the earth are ways of conquering the and conditions which exist around them. environment. But, man’s knowledge even The primitive man, who observed lightning now pertains to a very limited field. The and thunder, the disappearance of the brilliant men who can manipulate nature setting sun and the descent of darkness and counteract the forces of gravity, etc. upon the earth, and various other pheno- are also victims of circumstances in the mena felt these were threats and that he psychological field. Ignorance makes had to placate gods, resort to witch doctors, them fearful and insecure and as enslaved learn incantations, erect totem poles, and by psychological forces as primitive man do all kinds of things to avert the harm was with regard to physical ones. which he believed might fall upon him. In the psychological field also, forces The same phenomena, viewed by modern create the conditions, and he who would man, do not generate fear in him, for know- be free and fearless must understand ledge has made him understand the laws the laws at work. One of the three great and forces at work behind the phenomena. truths proclaimed by The Idyll of the White There is a web of forces in nature which Lotus declares: create the conditions in which people live. Each man is his own absolute law They include such forces as gravity, giver, the dispenser of glory or gloom to electricity and magnetism. The man who himself, the decreer of his life, his reward, knows how these forces work is able to his punishment. predict the conditions which will be created. He can control the circumstances In other words, each man creates around him by altering and regulating the the conditions around him, his karma. forces. Knowledge enables him to change Bondage is nothing but the prison-house conditions and not consider himself as a constructed by karmic forces which victim of those conditions. each one releases. Bondage is said to be

July 2013 3 The Theosophist in the cycle of births and deaths, the is an immediate effect when there is any compulsion to suffer. These are different act. When there is an act of deception, ways of stating the same thing. it gives rise to a certain momentum in Most people believe that they can the psyche of the person. Deceitfulness escape the consequences of their acts, becomes a form of energy which is mental and physical. There are some who released within. That is the immediate but acknowledge theoretically that it is not invisible consequence. possible to escape the consequences of the There are many things in the psyche forces which we release. But they do not which are unnoticed. There are conscious really believe in this; if they did believe memories and also many unconscious in karma, they would be extremely careful ones. If you meet someone whom you do about everything they do, what they think not see or think about again for a few years and feel, their relationship to people and in your conscious mind, there may be no so on. The weakness of the belief is made conscious memory of that person; whether evident by negligence in conduct. he is tall or short, dark or fair, all has faded It is possible to escape the conse- away. Later, you meet and you ‘recognize’ quences of one’s acts in the physical world him. That recognition means that although during a particular lifetime. In case a the conscious mind carried no memory, person commits theft, he may be caught the unconscious mind did, and that un- immediately or his lapse may remain un- conscious memory came to the surface. discovered for a few years. He may even Recognition implies comparing what he get away with it during his entire lifetime. looks like now, his behaviour, gestures or But the consequences cannot be escaped whatever it is, with the past impression and indefinitely, for though the mills of God knowing it is the same. All that is involved grind slowly, they grind exceeding small. in recognition or re-cognition. However, what is more serious is not the But there are memories which are discovery of the theft or being put into deeper down. People have memories of jail, but the fact that there is an immediate childhood which are beyond recall, except consequence in the psychological field. under hypnosis or in moments of crisis. He who deceives another and thinks Behind the threshold of conscious memory he can get away with it, deludes himself there is a whole area, like a hidden iceberg. grievously. Many people cover up facts If energy is released in the psyche, the or misrepresent them in relating them to momentum may also sink below the others, pretend to be other than what they conscious level. When there is a suitable are, etc. It is not uncommon to show a opportunity, it will come into play. For different face under different circum- example, when action is deceitful, as stances. All this happens because in the said earlier, a momentum is created, which background of the mind, there is a feeling may be hidden and dormant, below the that one can escape. But, actually there conscious level. At some time, it turns into

4 Vol. 134.10 Bondage is in the Mind an impulse to do the same kind of thing. does not take the trouble of finding out This becomes a vicious circle, a circle of what is happening to itself. bondage: the action which creates the The conditionings of the mind create, tendency, the tendency which impels enormous problems — the problems of action whether it is one of deceit, fear or colour, nationalism, racial differences, etc. envy or a mixture of some kind. Because of the conditioning which one In the average human being, there are has undergone, one identifies oneself with innumerable tendencies pushing the person family, community, religion, etc. But the indirectly, willy-nilly, whether he knows mind can free itself if it sees that it is it or not. When a person suffers from creating circles in which it gets imprisoned. timidity or fear, every shadow makes him It is not necessary for anyone to be the feel that there is a hidden enemy. When victim of any circumstance. Instead of there is pride, a man imagines there is creating momentums of deceitfulness or fear intention to offend even when a statement through unawareness one can generate is innocent. Further, the unconscious mind other energies, such as patience, affection connects the feeling with outer char- and calmness. These arise through aware- acteristics appertaining to another person ness and have a quality of stability. They from whom the danger or insult is thought are not reactions. to ensue. So, people have compulsive Through watchfulness and care exer- reactions against dark people or white cised in daily life, one can begin to realize people, Jews, Catholics or Protestants what is the state of freedom. Within the and against all kinds of things. Hidden mind, there is the possibility of both momentums, tendencies and compulsions bondage and freedom. One has to pray to surface into the field of action not only no god, find no priest, to free oneself but from the recent past, but from the depths only discover what is deep within. The of our animal inheritance. Most people act Bhagavadgitâ speaks about the stable man according to that deep conditioning. who is non-dependent because circum- When there is compulsion from within, stances do not have power over him. That a momentum over which there is no is what all human beings have to learn. control, there is no freedom at all. It is the By active watchfulness, one can cease to bondage which the mind creates because be the victim of conditions and a source it is in a state of unawareness, because it of spiritual energy. ²

When desires and their cause (which is ignorance) are overcome, then the bond between cause and effect and the vitality which supports the object of desire will be dispelled.

Patañjali

July 2013 5 The Theosophist Jñana Yoga and The Secret Doctrine

PABLO SENDER

IT has been 125 years since The Secret Theosophical Society. However, in spite Doctrine (SD) was first published and, of all these accomplishments, it is possible looking back, we can see that this book that we have not yet taken full advantage has had an important influence on the of what this book has to offer. world of thought. In its pages, Mme A short time before her passing, Mme Blavatsky (HPB) promotes some views Blavatsky pointed out to a dimension of that were revolutionary in the late nine- the SD that is not so commonly acknow- teenth century, but today are accepted by ledged, namely, that its study may become many. For example, the SD offered a a form of yoga — more specifically, of synthesis of science, religion, and philo- what is known as jñâna yoga.1 On this sophy, at a time when the chasm existing path, the aspirant studies spiritual teach- between these disciplines seemed unsur- ings in a special way, seeking to raise his passable. This idea, however, gradually consciousness so that he can realize these took root during the following century, truths, instead of merely becoming ac- eventually leading to the development quainted with the conceptual side of the of the growing field of ‘science and teachings. When we try to approach the spirituality’. The SD also pointed out to SD in this way, the first thing we need to the existence of an ancient Wisdom- keep in mind is that the teachings of Religion to a world that, excited about the Esoteric Philosophy found there, are the advance in science and technology, said to be ‘secret’. Why? Because, for the regarded the past as a primitive age of most part, they do not belong to the ignorance and barbarism. However, this dimension of life we experience in our idea spread and was eventually accepted personal nature, but to realities perceived even by a number of scholars in the field by our inner self. As Mme Blavatsky said of the philosophy of religions. And, cer- to a student: tainly, the SD has been a lasting reference source when it comes to the study of the Your axioms of logic can be applied to Esoteric Philosophy from which many the lower Manas [mind] only and it is have drawn, both within and without the from the perceptions of Kâma-Manas

Dr Pablo Sender has a doctorate in Biological Sciences, and is a member of the TS in America. The year 2013 marks the 125th year of The Secret Doctrine.

6 Vol. 134.10 Jñana Yoga and The Secret Doctrine

[material mind] alone that you argue. But to describe. One may ask why, then, there Occultism teaches only that which it are books written about these subjects. derives from the cognition of the Higher Although concepts about the spiritual will Ego or the Buddhi-Manas [spiritual mind].2 not convey true knowledge of it, they can be useful as a map to assist us in our search When having to convey some inform- for what is real. However, as HPB pointed ation about the spiritual realities, most out, this map has to be read with the sages have stated that words and concepts spiritual ‘eyes’: are not enough to produce a real under- standing of them. For example, Mahatma First let the student clearly realize that he KH wrote: cannot see things spiritual with the eyes of the flesh, and that in studying . . . he The recognition of the higher phases of must use the eyes of the Spiritual man’s being on this planet is not to be Intelligence, else will he fail and his study attained by mere acquirement of know- will be fruitless.4 ledge. Volumes of the most perfectly constructed information cannot reveal to The mundane life stimulates almost man life in the higher regions. One has to exclusively the ‘eyes of the flesh’. It forces get a knowledge of spiritual facts by the mind to remain focussed on concrete personal experience and from actual things, so that the person can ensure the observation . . .3 survival of his body and psyche, and of While words and concepts are created those who may depend on him or her. But to describe the material world we perceive transcendental realities such as the un- through our senses, the spiritual realm derlying unity of all things or the purpose cannot be appropriately explained in terms of life are beyond the plane of perception of this experience. How would we teach of the lower mind. And although within a blind person what colours are? We can us there exist spiritual eyes, in most people read him the definition from the dictionary; they remain closed because they are not explain the nature of light and colour from used to paying attention to the spiritual a scientific point of view; teach him the and metaphysical. According to its author, colour theory in visual arts; etc., and yet, the SD was written to assist us in awaken- all this will fail to make him really know ing this spiritual perception: what colours are. He will have a true Come to the S.D. . . . without any hope of knowledge of this only when he sees getting the final Truth of existence from them. Something similar happens with it, or with any idea other than seeing how spiritual teachings. Even though a person far it may lead TOWARDS the Truth. See can read and memorize them, the mere in study a means of exercising and de- accumulation of concepts will not bring a veloping the mind never touched by other real understanding of what they are trying studies.5

July 2013 7 The Theosophist

It must be remembered that all these Immutable PRINCIPLE . . . devoid of all Stanzas appeal to the inner faculties rather attributes and essentially without any than to the ordinary comprehension of the relation to manifested, finite Being’.9 It is physical brain.6 easy enough to read and remember this The brain is the instrument of waking concept, so that whenever we talk about consciousness and every conscious men- the Absolute we can repeat it. But this is tal picture formed means change and the work of the lower mind, and even if destruction of the atoms of the brain. many concepts are accumulated in this Ordinary intellectual activity moves on way, we still do not possess spiritual well beaten paths in the brain, and does knowledge. not compel sudden adjustments and de- How, then, should we approach study structions in its substance. But this new so that it becomes something more than kind of mental effort calls for something the mere gathering of information? The very different — the carving out of ‘new answer given by Dr Besant was ‘by means brain paths’, the ranking in different order of strenuous thinking’. It is only through a of the little brain lives.7 sincere effort to perceive what lies beyond the concepts that access to the higher mind When a person’s attention is always can be gained. Thus, when studying spirit- turned towards the mundane, the lower ual truths, we should strive to penetrate mind remains oblivious to the higher, and the meaning behind the words, to see the even the brain itself is fit only to receive implications of what is being said. For material perceptions and produce concrete example, it is not enough to stay satisfied thoughts. The earnest study of the SD is a with the statement that the Absolute is way to stimulate the abstract mind and omnipresent. Think deeply about the reshape the brain, so that it can become a meaning of it. You may ask yourself, if vehicle of the spiritual wisdom. this Reality is said to be present every- For this to happen, the study cannot where, how can it be beyond the finite, or be reduced to a mere acquisition of con- without any relation to the manifested? Or cepts. Dr Besant wrote: how can we say that the cosmos is nothing but this Reality and, at the same time, say The seat of Self-consciousness is moved that everything we perceive is an illusion? from the lower mind to the higher by Or if the Absolute, being immutable, is the strenuous thinking, by the intellectual only Reality during the period of universal travail of the student, the philosopher, the rest, what is it that changes when a new man of science — if the latter turn his cosmos is manifested? Some questions like thoughts from objects to principles, from these may have an (approximate) answer, phenomena to laws.8 while others may be utterly beyond res- We read in the SD that the Absolute is ponse. But it matters not, because the ‘An Omnipresent, Eternal, Boundless, and conceptual answer is only of secondary

8 Vol. 134.10 Jñana Yoga and The Secret Doctrine importance. What matters is the ‘strenu- do not get a clear presentment of a doctrine ous thinking’ about questions that are as a whole. It is scattered over the books. not concrete, that are essentially ‘beyond A careful student can gather the whole the range and reach of thought’, for it teachings. But he has not now the patience is through this that we stimulate the and industry required for the task. In the awakening of a higher perception. old days men had to work out results; so It is easy to see how this special effort they grew into great thinkers, because they can be passed over when we read a very exercised their minds.10 systematic exposition of concepts, even If a person remains through the years if they are highly metaphysical. If every- at the conceptual level of study he may thing is clear to the lower mind, there is amass enormous amounts of information, the feeling that one understands, and that but this will not make him ‘a great thinker’, no further effort is required. The puzzling that is, somebody who can come to his style of the SD, its ‘confusing’ and frag- own insights. In fact, mere conceptual mentary nature, has the specific purpose study tends to narrow a person’s views of inducing the necessary exertion. Dr and he frequently becomes somewhat of Besant explained this was the old ‘eastern’ a fundamentalist, unable to see the truth way of teaching: in presentations that do not agree with the When we begin to teach a subject, we try style he is familiar with. to get a grasp of the whole subject, and This is why the SD was not written as we try to present it to those we are teach- a well-structured philosophical produc- ing in a clear form. That is the modern tion for the intellect, but as an occult work way of teaching. It makes people rather that intends to stimulate the spiritual in- lazy, because too much is done for them, tuition. Mme Blavatsky stated this on and the result is that the memory is very several occasions: much more, and the reasoning much less You cannot expect me to give everything; exercised than they ought severally to be. something must be left to the intuition and The teachers take all the trouble, and to human intelligence.11 present an already cooked and digested The foregoing are all mysteries which teaching to save the pupils from the trouble must be left to the personal intuition of of exercising their mental faculties so that the student for solution, rather than they have quite a large amount of second- described.12 hand knowledge and very little first-hand knowledge. It may be a parable and an allegory within an allegory. Its solution is left to the The old ways were different. The teacher intuition of the student, if he only reads came along, threw one great truth to his that which follows with his spiritual eye.13 pupils and said: ‘Go and think about it.’ The result is that in the Eastern books you An intellectual study of the SD will

July 2013 9 The Theosophist provide concepts which, for all we know, will rarely get the main point in your first may or may not be true. And even if reading. Frequently, you will have to read they are true, being just concepts, they a section, or part of a section, several times. fail to bring the living truth into our con- Read it once, to get the general idea, and sciousness. It is for this reason that HPB then again, until you understand the main discouraged too much reliance on other point being made. Then, retain that idea people’s interpretation of the SD. Robert (maybe by writing it down in the margin) Bowen, reporting a conversation with and think about how it relates to what HPB, wrote: was being said previously. Many times you will find that what seems to be a It is worse than useless going to those digression is really making an important whom we imagine to be advanced students point, while at other times it is just a (she [HPB] said) and asking them to give digression that you can disregard, at least us an ‘interpretation’ of the S.D. They for the time being. cannot do it. If they try, all they give are If while studying you are trying to cut and dried exoteric renderings which understand a certain point and, after due do not remotely resemble the Truth. To effort, you are still unable to grasp it, you accept such interpretation means anchoring can put that aside for the time being and ourselves to fixed ideas, whereas Truth lies go on with your study. The effort made beyond any ideas we can formulate or will have its effect, even if you do not express. Exoteric interpretations are all come to a conclusion. As you continue very well, and she does not condemn them studying, the ability to grasp these truths so long as they are taken as pointers for will increase, your general understanding beginners, and are not accepted by them will deepen, and eventually, when the as anything more.14 subject presents itself to you again, you So, do not go to the SD as if you were will be able to understand it better. going to read a story, or expecting to have By working in this way, the student a neat description of a landscape — cosmic will little by little create his own system or otherwise. Go rather with the spirit you of interpretation of the SD. It may or may have when you sit to solve a puzzle. Sit not be different from that of other students, with a notepad, ready to draw diagrams, but if he does his work, it will bear his write down keywords, and consult other way of perceiving these metaphysical texts dealing with the SD or with philo- realities. Now here, he has to be on guard. sophies and religions there mentioned.15 The insight he may gain, even if it comes Be ready to differentiate what is part from his higher nature, will still necessarily of the essential teaching from what is just take a conceptual form as it ‘descends’ to HPB supporting that teaching by referring the lower mind. And once made into a to concepts and imagery of one religion concept, it is just a concept. Any definite or the other. As it is to be expected, you image or thought is but a limitation of the

10 Vol. 134.10 Jñana Yoga and The Secret Doctrine more holistic perception of truth on the Sinnett learnt about this method first-hand spiritual planes. This is why HPB said: during his correspondence with two of the Mahatmas. He wrote: Spiritual Occultism forbid[s] the use of figures or even symbols further than as . . . especially is this the case with occult temporary aids. Once define an idea in study, in connection with which the words, and it loses its reality; once figure traditional methods of teaching, generally a metaphysical idea, and you materialize followed, aim at impressing every fresh its spirit. Figures must be used only as idea on the memory, by provoking the ladders to scale the battlements, ladders perplexity it at last relieves.17 to be disregarded once the foot is set upon The information presented in the SD the rampart. Let the Esotericists, therefore, will always provide sources of ‘contra- be very careful to spiritualize the Instruc- diction’ to the system we are trying to tions and avoid materializing them; let build. If study is to be a form of yoga, we them always try to find the highest meaning have to avoid the common tendency of possible, confident that in proportion as selecting only those ideas that fit in our they approach the material and visible in preconceived structure. By paying atten- their speculations on the Instructions, so far are they from the right understanding tion to whatever contradictions that arise of them.16 we may discover that we had formed a mistaken conception, or perhaps that our Diagrams, ideas, examples, analogies, idea, although relatively ‘correct’, was too are all useful in helping us grasp a truth at narrow or rigid (something very possible, a conceptual level. That is the first step. since we will frequently be studying But we should always aim at perceiving facts that belong to formless realities). the most abstract aspect of them, that is, Sometimes, after due consideration, we the supra-conceptual truth they are may realize that the statement in question symbolizing. If we forget that ‘truth lies was made in a general sense, or applied beyond any ideas’ and get attached to the in a different way, or perhaps even in a picture we form through study we may misleading form, thus not being really a get stuck there. Clinging to our ideas, we contradiction with our previous con- will tend to reject whatever may upset the ception. Whatever the case may be, the superstructure built, closing the doors for earnest consideration of the contradictions future insights. Thus, ideas previously will afford the necessary ‘upsetting’ so that acquired may inadvertently become a we do not get stuck in fixed views and prison for the intellect. may always perceive something new. Some spiritual traditions, aware of this This upsetting is frequently frustrating problem, have set up ways to upset the because it challenges, and even destroys, intellectual understanding by the use of the picture we formed with much effort, paradoxes and contradictions, as is the throwing us again into a state of uncertain- case of the famous Zen koans. Mr A. P. ty and confusion. But the earnest student

July 2013 11 The Theosophist must be ready to face this, since it is an and its pictures are transcended and the essential part of the process of raising our learner enters and dwells in the World of consciousness, which was described by NO FORM, but of which all forms are HPB as follows: narrowed reflections.18 This mode of thinking . . . is what the We can see now the importance of Indians call Jñâna Yoga. As one progress- realizing that concepts are only provisory es in Jñâna Yoga one finds conceptions garments of the formless truth; steps arising which, though one is conscious of which, although necessary at the present them, one cannot express nor yet formulate moment, have to be left behind if we are into any sort of mental picture. As time goes to keep moving forward. The difficulty on these conceptions will form into mental with this is frequently not so much the pictures. This is a time to be on guard and overestimation of the value of concepts, refuse to be deluded with the idea that the but rather our inability to suspend judge- newfound and wonderful picture must ment and feel comfortable with uncertainty represent reality. It does not. As one works until the time when a new and higher view on, one finds the once admired picture is formed. Here we are struggling against growing dull and unsatisfying, and finally the very essence of the lower mind, whose fading out or being thrown away. This is main feature is to define things and arrive another danger point, because for the at conclusions. This is why, for example, moment one is left in a void without any there is such a strong tendency in us to conception to support one, and one may make judgements about all kinds of things be tempted to revive the cast-off picture and situations, even when we obviously for want of a better to cling to. The true have no elements to arrive at an intelligent student will, however, work on uncon- conclusion. But if we are in earnest, we cerned, and presently further formless should strive to rise above the concrete gleams come, which again in time give mind to more ‘abstract’ states of con- rise to a larger and more beautiful picture sciousness, that is, states of non definition than the last. But the learner will now or non-judgement, whenever necessary. know that no picture will ever represent Then, little by little, we begin to build a the TRUTH. This last splendid picture will dwelling place in the worlds of no-form. grow dull and fade like the others. And so And it is here, in the silent, formless the process goes on, until at last the mind dimension, that the higher reality lies. ²

References and Notes 1. The Sanskrit word jñâna means ‘knowledge’, ‘wisdom’. 2. Blavatsky, H. P., Collected Writings (CW), vol. X, Theosophical Publishing House, Wheaton, IL, 1988, pp. 384–5. 3. Hao Chin, Jr, Vicente, The Mahatma Letters to A. P. Sinnett in Chronological Sequence (ML), no. 65, Theosophical Publishing House, Quezon City, 1993, p. 168.

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4. CW XII, 1980, p. 691. 5. Bowen, Robert, Madame Blavatsky on How to Study Theosophy (HST), The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, Chennai, 1992, p. 9. 6. Blavatsky, H. P., The Secret Doctrine (SD), vol. I, The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, Chennai, 1978–9, p. 21. 7. HST, p. 12. 8. Besant, Annie, The Reality of the Invisible and the Actuality of the Unseen Worlds, The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, Chennai, 1921, pp. 14–15. 9. SD, vol. I, p. 14. 10. Besant, Annie, The Inner Government of the World, The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, Chennai, 1976, p. 44. 11.Gomes, Michael (ed.), The Secret Doctrine Commentaries, I.S.I.S. Foundation, The Hague, The Netherlands, 2010, p. 495. 12. SD, vol. II, p. 106. 13 SD, vol. II, p. 94. 14. HST, pp. 8–9. 15. A Theosophical Wiki (tswiki.net) is being developed to aid in the study of the SD, The Mahatma Letters, and many Theosophical topics. 16. CW XII, p. 600. 17. Sinnett, Alfred, Esoteric Buddhism, The Theosophical Publishing House Ltd., London, 1972, pp. 109–110; TPH Adyar edn., 2008, p. 129. 18. HST, pp. 13-14.

For a perfect understanding both mind and intuition are needed; the mind to survey the form, its parts and particulars, how energies and processes are coordinated and work; the superior intelligence of intuition to sense, enter into, and know from within the life for which the form exists, its nature and quality. N. Sri Ram

July 2013 13 The Theosophist Do Indian Myths Have a Scientific Basis?

P. KRISHNA

Introduction eternal and the same everywhere in the According to the dictionary the word universe. It is the purpose of science to ‘myth’ includes several things: discover these laws and thereby explain i) Completely fictional stories conjured the entire development of the universe. up by a writer’s imagination. These can We have succeeded to a considerable obviously have no scientific basis. extent in explaining several observed phe- ii) Stories about supernatural beings nomena on the basis of these assumptions; usually based on religious beliefs, often therefore we believe these assumptions to referred to as ‘mythology’. These are sub- be true. There has evolved a Standard jective and vary from culture to culture; Model1 of the evolution of the whole therefore they are not universal truths and universe starting from the assumption of cannot have a scientific basis. a Big Bang which occurred some thirteen iii) Extra-sensory perceptions: These billion years ago. Most scientists (though are not anti-science and may or may not not all) accept this model to be more or be subjective. These could be unusual less true. records of observations and may therefore There are however, two major gaps in be found subsequently to have a scientific our understanding as it stands today: basis and be confirmed as universal truths. i) We do not know how life originated in the dead universe of the Physicist 2. The Limitations of Science starting from the Big Bang. Scientists have Science is our quest for discovering the not been able to synthesize in the laboratory order that manifests in Nature. We find a living cell or amoeba starting from only that Nature is orderly and follows certain dead chemicals or atoms. Many scientists laws which relate causes and effects. think that life is an emergent property of These laws are believed to be independent matter but we do not really know. After of space and time. This means they are assuming the creation of the first life form

Prof. P. Krishna is an Educationist and International Lecturer.

14 Vol. 134.10 Do Indian Myths Have a Scientific Basis? they do have a reasonable theory of and perceptions which are freed from the evolution to explain the origin of the subjective elements of our personality. myriads of living species that exist today. We all have within our consciousness ii) We do not know what consciousness both the personal and the universal. The is. The scientist uses his consciousness personal are our thoughts and opinions to do his science but his science cannot since these are based on our memory and explain what he is using! To pose this knowledge which in turn are dependant question in a more spectacular way, im- on where we are born and grow up; but agine that a scientist is able to synthesize pure awareness is not so conditioned my body in a chemical laboratory and put and is universal. The spiritual quest is a every atom in exactly the place it is at quest for discovering reality through present, will he get this living person or awareness and direct perception freed of only his dead body? Our intuition tells us the subjective inputs from our personality that most probably he will get only the (thought and memory). dead body. What is the difference? Unfortunately, in the west, religion has What is the difference between a come to be regarded as synonymous with computer and a human being? Computers belief and inquiry was suppressed as have memory; they can think and calculate heresy. In the eastern religions there was faster than we can in some ways. Scientists belief, worship and ritual but there has also are even programming computers to been a long tradition of inquiry into what respond with feelings; but a computer is true and what is false, what is real and is not AWARE. I am aware of my body, what is illusory. The Buddha pointed out my thoughts and my state of con- that all sorrow (psychological suffering) sciousness. Science does not know how is born of illusion and can therefore be awareness arises. ended. This liberation from all illusion is What science knows is nearly certain the essence of the spiritual quest. and has been repeatedly tested; so it is unlikely that anything that is anti-science 4. Science and Religion is true. But there is a lot that is still beyond If we consider religion to be belief, science. Consciousness phenomena like then it has no scientific basis since it is telepathy and extra-sensory perception are personal and not a universal truth. But if as yet beyond science; but we cannot say we regard the essence of religion to be that they are unscientific or untrue. the ending of illusion then it is a quest for discovering what is true and what is false. 3. The Spiritual Quest One could also call it unlearning the false The spiritual quest of humanity is a through direct perception or insight. A quest for understanding the way our con- mind that is freed of all illusion perceives sciousness functions through observations ‘what is’ without any distortion and there-

July 2013 15 The Theosophist fore its perceptions are as objective and unusual discoveries which now seem to universal as those in science. Science and be corroborated by scientific investigations. spirituality then become two compliment- Some examples of these are cited below: ary quests for discovering reality and there i) The Age of the Universe/earth4 is no contradiction between them. Science In the ancient Hindu scriptures the age is the quest for discovering the order that of the universe/earth is divided into yugas, manifests in the world of space, time, which occur cyclically, according to the matter and energy and religion becomes following scheme: the quest for discovering order in con- Kritayuga (Stone-age) 1.728 x 106 years sciousness (through the ending of illusion). Tretayuga (Bronze-age) 1.296 x 106 years All great discoveries, even in science, Dwaparyuga (Golden-age) 0.864 x 106 have been the result of such creative years insights beyond the known. How does Kaliyuga ( Iron age) 0.432 x 106 years the human mind discover something Total = 1 Mahayuga = 4.320 x 106 years totally new which was never known before? The unknown is beyond thought It further says that 1000 such Maha- and knowledge (memory). The human yugas make 1 Kalpa which is one day in consciousness has this capacity for the life of Brahma, the creator. This means perceiving something beyond the known 1 Kalpa = 4.32 x 109 years by making a foray into the unknown and such insights have led to great paradigm This value is very close to the present shifts2 even in science. This is what scientific value for the age of the earth distinguishes us from computers which which is 4.6 x 109 years and not too far have no awareness and therefore no from the present scientific value for the capacity for insight. age of the universe which is about 13 x Ramanujam3 often ‘saw’ answers 109 years. to questions in mathematics without How did those ancient sages come to a knowing the proof. Einstein perceived the figure which is at least of the same order of truths of relativity before he proved them magnitude? Was it a myth or a perception? mathematically and Beethoven said, ‘I do ii) Occult Chemistry: Mrs Annie Besant not think out my music’ How such and Mr C. W. Leadbeater5 who were perceptions come into consciousness is a Theosophists working in Adyar, Madras, great mystery. published a book in 1908 called ‘Occult Chemistry’ in which they wrote that they 5. Extra-sensory perceptions placed various minerals in front of them, Since the human consciousness is made themselves smaller than the smallest capable of objective extra-sensory per- particles in them and are writing what they ceptions, these have sometimes led to actually ‘see’ as the structure within each

16 Vol. 134.10 Do Indian Myths Have a Scientific Basis? element. They mentioned that those were selfishness in it. He predicted that this ‘records of observations’ and not a product boy will become a World Teacher. The of their imagination. boy was adopted by Mrs Besant and The findings reported in this book have brought up in the Theosophical Society. been compared with modern scientific Though the boy was dull and could not knowledge about the structure of the pass any examinations, they never nuclei in various elements and though changed their mind. The boy later left the they do not agree in entirety, there Theosophical Society, but he did become are uncanny parallels between them a World Teacher. The Buddhists choose which have been documented by modern a new Dalai Lama in the same way, by scientists: Arnikar6, Phillips7. locating a boy with a highly developed Apparently, there are other means of spiritual consciousness. arriving at truths through extra-sensory Is this based on myth or on perception? perceptions which are not known to us in iv) Ayurvedic Herbs & Acupuncture science. Indeed one of the great modern How did the ancient sages in India scientists named Schrödinger who founded discover the effect of various ayurvedic Wave mechanics, which was the precursor herbs and how did those in China discover of modern Quantum Mechanics, studied Acupuncture? The efficacy of both these the Vedas and commented that all thinking is now tested scientifically but the sages ended on the banks of the ganges and did not use scientific double-blind expe- modern science is merely re-dis-covering riments or trial and error to make these what those sages already knew ! This may discoveries. Were these based on myth be an exaggeration but it is per-haps not or perception? without some grain of truth in it. iii) The discovery of J. Krishnamurti8 6. Conclusion In our own times, in the 20th Century, Insights such as these do need to be Mr C. W. Leabeater ‘saw’ an unusual tested by scientific methods since they can aura (a combination of colours around get mixed up with subjective elements in the brain) of a poor, young, emaciated the consciousness, such as desires, ambi- 13 year old boy named Krishnamurti tions or dreams. But pure insights are while he was playing on the sea beach perceptions of facts beyond the known in Madras. From this observation he and do occur in science, in art, in spiritual- predicted that this boy has an extremely ity and they can be as pure and objective rare aura with almost no trace of as scientific observations. ²

References 1. S. Weinberg. The first three minutes, Bantam Books,1977. 2. Thomas Kuhn. The structure of scientific revolutions, University of Chicago Press, 1962.

July 2013 17 The Theosophist

3. Robert Kanigel. The man who knew infinity, Scribners, London 1991. 4. H. P. Blavatsky. The Secret doctrine... Theosophical Publishing House, Chennai 1988. 5. A. Besant and C. W. Leadbeater Occult Chemistry Theosophical Publishing House, Chennai 1908. 6. H. J. Arnikar. Essentials of Occult Chemistry and modern science. Theosophical Publishing House, Chennai, 2000. 7. S. M. Phillips. Extra-sensory perception of quarks. Theosophical Publishing House, Wheaton, illinois 1980. 8. Mary Lutyens. Krishnamurti: the years of awakening, Avon, New York 1975.

How insensitive we are, how lacking in swift and adequate response, how little free to observe! Without sensitivity, how can there be pliability and a quickening perception; how can there be receptivity, an understanding free of striving? The very striving prevents understanding. Understanding comes with high sensitivity, but sensitivity is not a thing to be cultivated. That which is cultivated is a pose, an artificial veneer; and this coating is not sensitivity, it is a mannerism, shallow or deep according to influence. Sensitivity is not a cultural effect, the result of influence; it is a state of being vulnerable, open. Sayings of J. Krishnamurti

18 Vol. 134.10 The Foundation of the Future Religions The Foundation of the Future Religions

KIRAN SHAH

WHEN we look at the subject, a question theirs was the only path. Mahtma Gandhi arises in our mind — in spite of so many used to say that different religions are religions in the world, do we need another like different paths leading to the top of a religion? mountain. The fundamental doctrines of Most of the present religions were all religions are identical in meaning. started by the followers of enlightened It appears that in spite of many reli- persons who according to the needs of the gions, humanity has not changed much. time, condition and place, guided the History is full of conflicts, wars, terrorism, people to the path of virtuous, altruistic violence, cruelty, misery, poverty, hunger, and spiritual living that leads to internal and so on. One wonders why human peace and happiness, which people have beings want to kill each other with their been seeking since time immemorial. most sophisticated weapons and why they Unfortunately, with the passage of have invented weapons of mass killing. time, their followers, with the weaknesses They enjoy seeing men fighting each of the human mind, such as egotism, other in the boxing ring in the name of selfishness and greed for power, divided sport. In the name of sports, pleasure and themselves into groups, sects and creeds. medicine, animals are being hunted and Some of them, taking advantage of killed. Many species of wild animals like people’s fear and ignorance, turned them- the tiger, cheetah, leopard, and rhino are selves into institutions, amassing huge on the endangered and extinction list. It wealth in the name of doing charitable is said that fifty million whales have been work. They introduced beliefs, dogmas, killed and are still being killed. rituals, blind faith and superstitions, and J. Krishnamurti in his public talks, preached that theirs is the only religion often remarked that for millennia the which would take people to salvation. En- human mind has not changed. It is the lightened persons after whom the religions same human mind and the problems faced were founded never wanted to claim that in different parts of the world are the same.

Mr Kiran Shah is a member of the East African Section of the TS. Talk given at the international Convention, Adyar, 2012.

July 2013 19 The Theosophist With the prevailing situation in the talk about Brotherhood. There was class world, it appears that religions have not distinction, a feeling of superiority and been able to reduce many problems facing inferiority. Now the word Brotherhood humanity. The teachings and message of has become common; and many organ- Theosophy — oneness of life — gives izations and people refer to ‘Brotherhood’. hope and is the foundation of the future Theosophy refers to Brotherhood with a religions. More effort has to be made to deeper meaning. make people realize the Brotherhood of In 1875, when the Theosophical humanity. The oneness of all creation — Society was founded the population of the in nature, that is, humans, animals, world was about 1.4 billion and now it is vegetables, plants and minerals — is a fact over seven billion, five times an increase and this realization can bring peace and in 137 years. The increase in the world happiness to the world. population has made a tremendously Theosophy, the Divine Wisdom, has adverse impact on the environment and been in existence since time immemorial, natural resources. We are destroying the and its foundation is the cornerstone of earth, forests, air and sea on an unprece- all religions. More effort is needed to put dented scale. We have no right to destroy into the hearts and mind of men that we the future of our children, the future gene- all are one, sparks of the same divinity, ration, by exploiting nature on such a large and are all linked together with the golden scale. The future religions should also pay thread of Divinity. We all come from the special attention to the preservation of the same source and our happiness, peace and environment and natural resources for the salvation lies together. future of humanity and nature. We are like different parts of an Our lifestyle has completely changed. orchestra. If the sound coming out of one We do not get clean and pure nutritious instrument is not in tune with other musical food. Our food contains a lot of chemicals instruments, it distorts the soothing and which are harmful to the body. These are melodious music coming from the whole passed on to the body through artificially orchestra. A man cannot be safe and manufactured fertilizers; even though happy if all the other people around him some of them have been banned, they are are unhappy, suffering from fear, con- still used in the developing countries. It is flicts, terrorism, poverty, hunger and difficult to get even clean air and water. disease. Only by removing inequalities in The future religions should embrace the the world can a lasting peace, happiness total well-being of people — physically, and harmony can be found. Since the emotionally and spiritually by emphasizing founding of the Theosophical Society137 a pure balanced diet, exercise, yoga, art, years ago, it has played a very important music and meditation. role in influencing people’s thinking. Clara Codd refers in Theosophy as Many years ago very few people used to the Masters See It to The Mahatma Letters

20 Vol. 134.10 The Foundation of the Future Religions to A. P. Sinnett. Though this book was ‘progressive’ nations, yet in the midst of written many years ago, the views all our increase of knowledge and inven- expressed are very valid today. tion, luxury and wealth, exist the most hideous human misery, poverty, and Is the Original Inspiration Still Flowing? disease, and crowning it all, the appalling The question sometimes arises in the horror of universal wars, more squalid, minds of some members as to whether the more hopeless, more devilish than the Masters are still continuing to work imagination of man could have com- through the TS, now that their original passed, involving millions of helpless agents have passed into life on the other innocent lives. We stand convicted at the side. The obvious answer to that question bar of eternal justice, and the best brains is the steady increase in vitality and growth and heart amongst us are searching of the Society all over the world. If the anxiously for light in the darkness, for Masters had withdrawn their gracious some clue to guide them in the tangled protection of the Society established human affairs. to do their will on earth, the lifeless body That Brotherhood is the Masters’ would have finally disintegrated long leading principle of action and ideal is clear ago. Always the Masters have their from the following words of the Master: chief link or channel between the Society The term ‘Universal Brotherhood’ is no and themselves. idle phrase. Humanity in the mass has a In one of the letters a Mahatma has paramount claim upon us. Universal stated: Brotherhood is the only secure foundation Though separated from your world of for universal morality. . . . It is the action, we are not yet entirely severed from aspiration of the true adept. it so long as the Theosophical Society exists. It was gradually to instil this great ideal In another letter it is stated: into human minds, to provide the world with this great principle for sound and The Society will never perish as an efficient action, that our two great Masters institution, although branches and in- founded the Theosophical Society. Again dividuals in it may. and again they emphasize the fact that it Why the Masters Founded the Theo- is to spread their great philosophy, to stir sophical Society to action for human betterment on these We boast of our civilization; we claim principles that the Society exists; not for that no prior age has ever reached the level helping individuals to acquire occult of knowledge, discovery, technology and powers, nor for the production of extra- material comfort that ours has reached, and ordinary phenomena permitted as these from which it is still advancing. We look were for a time to draw attention to the down on the ancients, we despise less movement in the beginning.

July 2013 21 The Theosophist

And again the Master says: will not allow its resurrection, for it ex- cludes and will not recognize the whole Men, who join the society with the one fellowship of all those who were born selfish object of reaching power, making under the same immutable natural law. occult science their only, or even chief aim, may as well not join it — they are doomed This attitude of mind, conscious, or to disappointment. . . . How many times unconscious, to attain material benefits, had we to repeat, that he who joins the honour or money, colours the thought Society with the sole object of coming in atmosphere of the whole civilized world, contact with us, and if not of acquiring, at and those who would ‘disentangle’ their least assuring himself of the reality of such minds from it and live in a freer, nobler powers and of our objective existence — air, acting from deeper and more universal was pursuing a mirage? I say again then. principles, have to put the whole of their It is he alone who has the love of humanity individual strength against this united at heart, who is capable of grasping thought-current of materialism of the thoroughly the idea of a regenerating, world. This might seem an almost impos- practical Brotherhood who is entitled to sible task, were we not to remember that the possession of our secrets. He alone, spiritual power is irresistible and inex- such a man — will never misuse his haustible, and that the spiritual centre in powers, as there will be no fear that he each one of us is part of the mighty, should turn them to selfish ends. A man ultimately victorious Whole, and destined who places not the good of mankind above to become ever more and more a channel his own good is not worthy of becoming for the Light. our chela — he is not worthy of becoming The Master says: higher in knowledge than his neighbour Thrice fortunate are they who can break . . . We are in the midst of conflicting through the vicious circle of modern people, of an obstinate, ignorant people influence and come up above the vapours. seeking to know the truth, yet not able to find it, for each seeks it only for his own The Masters founded the Theosophical private benefit and gratification without Society as a direct agency in their work giving one thought to others. Will you, or for the regeneration and reclamation of rather they, never see the true meaning and the world. They, the embodiments of the explanation of the great wreck and deso- Force of Evolution, work for that unceas- lation which has come to our land and ingly, and at certain intervals decreed by threatens all lands — yours first of all? It the Hierarchy and in accordance with is selfishness and exclusiveness that killed Karmic law. They send their human ours and it is selfishness and exclusiveness agents among us and invite those of us that will kill yours. The world has clouded whose inner intuition is sufficiently the light of true knowledge and selfishness awake, to cooperate in the humble spheres

22 Vol. 134.10 The Foundation of the Future Religions of our own earth-lives, with Them in their ‘One to whose insight the future lies like mighty endeavours. an open page’, says: The inculcation of these broader, truer For our doctrines to practically react on principles, and the knowledge of the the so-called moral code or the ideas of deeper facts of life upon which they are truthfulness, purity, self-denial, charity, founded, is the first and paramount duty etc., we have to popularize the knowledge of the Theosophical Society. For, as a of Theosophy. Mahatma has stated: There are four points to be particularly ‘Ideas rule the world’, and, as men’s minds noticed in this one sentence alone: receive new ideas, laying aside the old and 1. The Master calls the teachings of effete, the world will advance, mighty Theosophy ‘Our doctrines’. revolutions will spring from them; in- 2. He wishes them to have a practical stitutions, aye, and even creeds and powers effect. . . . will crumble before their onward march 3. Our moral code He stigmatizes as crushed by their own inherent force. . . . ‘so-called’. It will be just as impossible to resist their 4. He wishes Theosophy to be made influence when the time comes as to stay popular. the progress of the tide. As far and as widely as possible the These principles and the deeper truths Master wishes TS work to spread. He of life upon which they are founded, con- knows humanity’s need, its hunger for stitute some part of the Ancient Wisdom truth and light, and teaching. which used to be taught in the Lesser Yet with the flawless impartiality of the Mysteries of every Faith and era of the Adept, the Master can see the faults upon world. And just because they are con- the other side too. cerned with such universal and eternal As for human nature in general, it is the facts of being, they are the deepest same now as it was a million of years ago: practical import to the world at large. It is Prejudice based upon selfishness; a general this view of them which looms paramount unwillingness to give up an established in the minds of the Adept Community. order of things for new modes of life and So high an official in the occult thought — and occult study requires all Hierarchy which governs this planet as that and much more — ; pride and stubborn the Maha Chohan very clearly voices the resistance to Truth if it but upsets their desire of the Adepts that Theosophy shall previous notions of things, — such are the prove of practical benefit to the masses of characteristics of your age, and especially mankind. In a letter written by him in 1881, of the middle and lower classes. which we might well call the Magna Carta of the Theosophical Society, this great The Maha Chohan says that the Adept, of whom the Master KH speaks as intellectual portions of mankind seem to

July 2013 23 The Theosophist have been fast drifting into two classes: objects remain ever the same, for behind the one by deliberate surrender of their it is the force and purpose of the Adept intellect imprisoning themselves in the world that bless and use it. In another letter narrow grooves of bigotry and super- it has been stated: stition, the other unrestrainedly indulging So long as there are three men worthy of its animal propensities. He says: our Lord’s blessing in the TS, it can never These intellectual classes, reaching upon be destroyed. the ignorant masses which they attract, If the three are loyal to the teachings and which look up to them as noble revealed to them by the Adept Brothers, and fit examples to follow, degrade and then the destiny of the Theosophical morally ruin those they ought to protect Society, so decrees the Maha Chohan, is and guide. to be: Between degrading superstition and still the cornerstone, the foundation of the future more degrading brutal materialism, the religions of humanity. white dove of truth has hardly room where to rest her weary unwelcome foot. One of the foremost of the pioneering Thus by the teaching of the multitude, bands working for the New Age is the by the gradual infiltration of true and pure Theosophical Society. The Master KH ideals, the Masters hope to inaugurate a once called us a ‘Forlorn Hope’. He says: new social religious era. What I mean by the ‘Forlorn Hope’ is that All this seems at first sight a gigantic when one regards the magnitude of the task and well-nigh impossible task for the little to be undertaken by our Theosophical Theosophical Society to undertake. But volunteers, and especially the multitu- we must remember that the crisis of its dinous agencies arrayed, and to be arrayed early probation having passed, the Society in opposition we may well compare it to will now endure and flourish, going down one of those desperate efforts against over- the centuries which lie ahead of us with whelming odds that the true soldier glories ever-increasing stability and power. Its to attempt. You have done well to see the immediate objectives will alter, adapt ‘large purpose’ in the small beginnings of themselves, and increase, while its main the TS.

As practical Theosophists, our way is not so much to try to convert a person as to remind him of the truth and awaken the wisdom which is within himself. -- C. Jinarajadasa

24 Vol. 134.10 A Matter of Attitude A Matter of Attitude

VIRGINIA HANSON

THERE are few human attitudes not occultism are being given to you, but touched upon in The Mahatma Letters for their practical bearing on the interests to A. P. Sinnett. If one persists through of mankind.’ the initial difficulties created by the fact Wanting to know is a necessary attitude that the letters are grouped in the volume on our part. One emphasis in the letters under subject headings rather than in which seems particularly important in sequence, one becomes aware of the these times is a clear directive to study and power and wisdom, the rocklike truth, explore, and to act on the new insights which they contain; as well as of that we have gained. This does not mean just beautiful human quality which adds so reading the books, although that is much to our conviction of their authen- essential, for we need to know what the ticity. One cannot escape the conclusion theosophical world view is if we are to do that this inexhaustible fountain of spiritual our part in making it available to others. wisdom is the fulfilment of humanness, But most importantly it means to study the as (to use a time-worn metaphor) the philosophy as it applies to life itself. And butterfly becomes a butterfly by success- here we find hints in many statements in fully completing the caterpillar stage. The Mahatma Letters. If we test these To become truly human, and thus to hints we find that they meet the test of raise — even if imperceptibly — the living in an almost uncanny way. quality of human consciousness is a task We know that we have not yet been that faces every individual. The Mahatma given the whole of the occult knowledge. Letters are a rich source of instruction Again and again the Mahatmas say that and guidance in carrying out that task. some truths cannot yet be revealed. Per- Far from consisting of platitudes and haps, in part, this is because there is no lan- pontifications, they concern the intimate guage with which to communicate some business of living. ‘It is not as a mere of the truths of the spirit and of nature in addition to the tangled mass of speculation terms that would be comprehensible to us, in the world of science’, says the Mahatma as we could not find language to explain KH, ‘that the truths and mysteries of to a child in kindergarten, for instance,

Reprinted from The Theosophist, November 1987.

July 2013 25 The Theosophist some of the knowledge we possess as other and deeper realizations. We do not adults. Some of it is without language in know the depths of ourselves or what any case. It is no new statement that truth future light might be yielded from those has to be discovered by each of us indi- depths. The moment of comprehension vidually through study and experience. may not coincide with the deep pondering As the Mahatma KH says at one point, of some truth; it may come later in a ‘It was never the intention of the occultists sudden flash of knowing. But perhaps we really to conceal what they have been had to be in some way made ready to writing from the earnest determined receive that knowing. students, but rather to lock up their Thinking and knowing seem to be two information for safety-sake, in a secure different aspects of the intuitional safe-box, the key to which is — intuition.’ experience, different but intimately This kind of knowledge, then, comes only related. Thinking is a process, even when through direct insight, which can be tested we are thinking so deeply that we are not by experience, not through passive aware that we are thinking, which is acceptance of anything and everything we meditation. Knowing is not a process; it are told, even by a Mahatma. It has to be is a miniature absolute. It is the clear real to us. They insist upon this. awakening to the reality of some truth of ‘Some of the highest secrets’, says the which we have not previously been aware. Mahatma KH, ‘. . . might sound to you It has a quality of wholeness, of all-at- insane gibberish. . . . This is the real cause onceness. Whether the thinking leads to of our reticence. In the same letter, he the knowing, or the knowing draws the comments: ‘The truth is that till the thinking is one of those subtle questions neophyte attains to the condition necessary to which we perhaps cannot yet know the for that degree of illumination to which, answer. It is totally an inner experience. and for which he is entitled and fitted, most ‘The world — meaning that of in- if not all of the Secrets are incommu- dividual existences — ’, says the Mahatma nicable. . . . The illumination must come KH ‘is full of those latent meanings and from within.’ The American sage, Ralph deep purposes which underlie all the Waldo Emerson, echoes this concept in phenomena of the Universe, and Occult his essay on ‘Spiritual Laws’: ‘We are Sciences — i.e., reason elevated to shielded evermore from premature ideas. supersensuous Wisdom — can alone Our eyes are holden so that we cannot see furnish the key wherewith to unlock them what lies all about us until mind is ripened, in the intellect. Believe me, there comes a then we see, and the time when we did moment in the life of an Adept, when the not see is like a dream.’ hardships he has passed through are a This is not to say that every new and thousandfold rewarded . . . [he] is deeper insight is necessarily, or even accorded an instantaneous implicit insight possibly, final, or that there will not be into every first truth. . . . Absorbed in the

26 Vol. 134.10 A Matter of Attitude absolute self-consciousness of the was serving as its President and the question physical Self . . . above care, above sorrow, of her attitudes arose. The Mahatma KH above sin and worldliness . . . such is the commented on her ‘latent sense of culmination of the Spiritual Wisdom.’ Messiahship’ and warned that if this was Obviously we cannot reach this encouraged, ‘you will have obstructed the state without individual effort — the ‘self- cause of free and general independent induced and self-devised effort’ mentioned inquiry’ which we wish to see promoted. in the Third Fundamental Proposition of This says clearly enough that the The Secret Doctrine by H. P. Blavatsky. Mahatmas do not ask for blind acceptance Again, attitude is all-important. We do not of any teaching, but rather that we think sit slackly expecting spiritual truths to fall for ourselves; that we weigh even their like plums into our laps. Spiritual, like comments, taking them before the bar of physical, muscles atrophy if they are our inmost sense of truth; that we study not exercised. without fear and hesitation; that we know Again, the Mahatma comments: ‘. . . what is going on in the thought world, and nor are we especially anxious to have that we evaluate according to our own best anyone work for us except with entire judgement. Someone has said, ‘Live as spontaneity. We want true and unselfish though you were going to die tomorrow; hearts, fearless and confiding souls.’ study as though you were going to live The use of the word ‘confiding’ in forever’ — a valuable attitude. This is not this context is somewhat puzzling. We simply to encourage amassing a multitude know that both of the Mahatmas who of facts. The information explosion in the engaged in correspondence with the world today is already overwhelming. two Englishmen, A. P. Sinnett and A.O. Facts are meaningless, sterile, until we Hume, occasionally used words in a way have done something with them in that slightly different from our own usage. inner chamber of our being where truth Also, as pointed out several times, the and untruth stand revealed. Nor should letters were frequently dictated to Chelas we fear to challenge a fact. It will be not entirely familiar with the English remembered that Albert Einstein said language. My own feeling here is that the that he challenged every axiom until he intended word is ‘confident’: fearless and knew whether or not it spoke truth to him. confident souls, a necessary attitude if we And his insights have tremendously are to go forward. This may be incorrect, enriched and illumined the consciousness but it seems more meaningful and more of humankind. in consonance with the general tenor of Whether or not we realize it, we are comments by the Mahatmas. agents of evolution. That may come about At one time the London Lodge of the by natural processes, so far as the physical Theosophical Society found itself in great evolution of the planet is concerned. But difficulties when Mrs Anna Kingsford intellectual and spiritual evolution come

July 2013 27 The Theosophist only through the mind and spirit of the understanding which would have resolved beings who inhabit the planet. This is the it more quickly. realm of activity, of purposefulness, which Mrs Kingsford and Mr Sinnett are both must find expression through us as useful, wrote the Mahatma KH, ‘both members of the human family. Our at- needed and appreciated by our revered titudes, our intentions, our discrimination, Chohan and Master — just because they play basic roles in such development. are the two poles calculated to keep the Every individual, not just members of the whole body in magnetic harmony, as the Theosophical Society, carries the same judicious disposal of both will make an seed. Through the past century — a excellent middle ground to be attained by watershed century in evolution — this no other means; one correcting and seed has been especially productive. In equilibrizing the other . . .’ spite of the appalling evil in the world, in Difficulties arise when one energy spite of the influences which seem to be denies the right of another to exist. But moving humanity in the opposite direction, even the disturbance was better, said the evidence keeps cropping up that a spiritual Mahatma, ‘than the old paralytic calm’. awakening of considerable magnitude is The views of the two (minus the details) well under way. So hungry for this were identical. ‘Let the members . . .’, said awakening is humankind that sometimes the Mahatma, ‘resolutely try to live down it lacks discrimination concerning what the unpopularity which all esoteric steps to take. It is not easy to separate the teaching and all reform are sure to attract wheat from the chaff. But it seems, too, at the outset and they will succeed.’ that where there is true and genuine A little further along in the same letter, aspiration the truth reveals itself sooner or the Mahatma says: ‘It is only in the later. We have to do something about our absence of this generous consideration awakened souls. that even the faintest shadow of difference Another example comes to us from the arms seekers after the same truth, situation in the London Lodge which was otherwise earnest and sincere, with the of such concern to the Mahatmas. This scorpion-whip of hatred against their was at a time when a kind of underlying brothers, equally sincere and earnest.’ It antagonism seemed to exist between is always useful to examine one’s own A. P. Sinnett and Mrs Kingsford in the attitude in such a situation. matter of the presidency of the Lodge. Then comes a rather surprising ‘Antagonism’ is not precisely the right statement: word; it was more a confrontation between two strong individuals with different Deluded victims of distorted truth, they attitudes and with opposing ideas of forget, or never knew, that discord is the methods — a confrontation which perhaps harmony of the Universe . . . each part, as was not met with the wisdom and in the glorious fugue . . . ceaselessly

28 Vol. 134.10 A Matter of Attitude

chases the other in harmonious discord on sion to . . . analyze and weigh one by one, the paths of Eternal progress to meet and and over and over again every detail’ . finally blend at the threshold of the pursued How often do we find ourselves goal into one harmonious whole, the bogged down in all this weighing and keynote in nature . . . Every . . . analysing, however inevitable this may be Theosophist should learn and remember, — and however useful at times — at our especially those . . . who would be our stage in evolution. We can never know followers — that in our Brotherhood, all the whole of any situation and often could personalities sink into one idea-abstract not explain it even if we knew it! What, right and absolute practical justice for all. then, should be our attitude? ‘You must know and remember one No one can read the Mahatma Letters thing’, the Mahatma KH maintains early without becoming aware that even the in the correspondence, ‘we but follow and Mahatmas do not always agree among servilely copy nature in her work.’ It themselves with respect to methods, seems that, in some of the statements although they are one with respect to quoted, the Mahatma is saying simply: principles. ‘This is the way it is. Live it — if you ‘Know then, my friend’, says the can.’ There is no denying that it is rugged; Mahatma KH, ‘that though we may differ it is undoubtedly the most difficult task in methods we can never be opposed in we have ever attempted. Fortunately, we principles of action, and the broadest do not have to meet it all at once. Time and most practical application of the itself is a mystery and a paradox, but nature idea of the Brotherhood of Humanity is is generous in allowing it to us, along with not incompatible with your dream of repeated opportunities to meet and deal establishing a nucleus of honest scientific with situations as they arise. enquirers of good repute . . . who would Probably we cannot do better, in serve as a shield against the ferocious considering some of the statements made and idiotic attack of the skeptics and by the Mahatmas in their letters, than to materialists. A united, purposeful attitude remember the last message received by is certainly essential here. A. P. Sinnett. It sums up what should be In another letter, the Mahatma com- the triumphant attitude of every true ments: ‘We never . . . quarrel.’ They leave aspirant, and it is surely said in all truth that behaviour ‘to those who, unable to to each: take in a situation at a glance, are thereby ‘Courage, patience, and hope, my forced before making up their final deci- Brother.’ ²

There is one Mind. It is absolutely ommnipresent, giving mentality to all things. Giordano Bruno

July 2013 29 Fragments of the Ageless Wisdom

IT is by means of tranquillity of mind that you are able to transmute this false mind of death and rebirth into the clear Intuitive Mind and, by so doing, to realize the primal and enlightening Essence of Mind. You should make this your starting point for spiritual practices. Having harmonized your starting point with your goal, you will be able by right practice to attain your true end of perfect Enlightenment.

If you wish to tranquillize your mind and restore its original purity, you must proceed as you would do if you were purifying a jar of muddy water. You first let it stand, until the sediment settles at the bottom, when the water will become clear, which corresponds with the state of the mind before it was troubled by defiling passions. Then you carefully strain off the pure water . . . When the mind becomes tranquillized and concentrated into perfect unity, then all things will be seen, not in their separateness, but in their unity, wherein there is no place for the passions to enter, and which is in full conformity with the mysterious and indescribable purity of Nirvana.– Surangama Sutra

30 Vol. 134.10 Our Gift to the Future Our Gift to the Future

DIANNE K. KYNASTON

IN Eastern Philosophy and Theosophical qualities and skills or to bring to a fuller Teachings we have the twin concepts of expression capacities we have been work- Karma and Dharma, the Law of Cause ing on for a number of lives. and Effect, and Duty or the Law. Ianthe Hoskins once replied when Most of the time we tend to look at asked ‘Who am I?’, ‘You are an unre- Karma from a personal perspective: When peatable experiment in the evolution of events happen around us we tend to say it consciousness.’ Each one of us is unique is either ‘good or bad karma’, but of course in who and what we are, and it is this gift karma itself does not have such qualities; of our uniqueness that we have to give to it is our own perspective that colours it. the whole. We also tend to see it as ‘instant karma’ In living our individual lives we are or else as ‘karma from actions in another fulfilling our dharma and creating and life’ and of course this may be so, but there working through our karma. The effects is a much broader view of karma. of each life resonate not only in our cur- We, as individuals, are part of human- rent world but well into the future. ity, and part of the Being which is Earth We can research through historic — Nature constructs us and flows through documents and look at the lives of the us constantly. Therefore, everything we famous and powerful, and recognize the do affects the Whole, all of the time, and long-term effects of their lives. However, this creates both the present and the future. it is not just in the big acts but also in the Dharma can be seen as the duty we smallest of actions that long-term effects have, to fulfil our particular lot in life — resonate throughout time and space. the Law that moulds and constrains us Warrior leaders such as Alexander the within certain parameters of our place and Great or Julius Caesar, may have been time of birth. However, it can also be brilliant military tacticians, but they were expressed as the pattern of our life; the still reliant on the skills and stamina of qualities we are to acquire through the their men to win their battles. Philosophers efforts of living. It seems to me that a large such as Plato and Pythagoras certainly set part of our dharma is to develop new new keynotes in the way we think and

Miss Dianne K. Kynaston is a member of the Australian Section of the TS. Talk delivered at the international Convention, Adyar, 2012.

July 2013 31 The Theosophist view life, but the continuance of their body the Middle Ages by Persians from the west of knowledge is still dependent on the and Mongolians from the north. It was students and scholars who kept their teach- not until the eighteenth century when a ings alive and vital throughout the ages. British officer started exploring a strange During the past twelve months I have mound outside Varanasi and discovered been exploring the life of a Chinese that it was a sacred Buddhist site, that he Buddhist monk named Xuan Zang who was then to explore further the Buddhist lived in the seventh century. He was a very world of India. scholarly monk who realized that the This he did, using the travel notes of Buddhist Teachings he had access to in Xuan Zang, who had described in detail China were both incomplete and often the various sacred centres he had visited. badly translated, so he set off on an in- Today a temple dedicated to Xuan Zang credible journey to India to find the source stands near the site of the ruins of the of the Mahâyâna Teachings. This journey Nalanda University. took over sixteen years to complete, and There are many other areas where the he covered something like 10,000 miles, kârmic consequences of the life of Xuan travelling through many kingdoms and Zang can be measured, but one in particular interfacing with many people. When he is in the area of culture. His life inspired returned to China he spent the rest of his not only the practitioners of Buddhism, life translating and teaching, so one could but he became part of the cultural life of say that this was his dharma — to enrich China, with many poems, plays, songs and the Buddhist Teachings of China. artwork written about him. In the sixteenth However the kârmic consequences of century a poet named Wu Cheng’en wrote his life are still resonating in the world a book called Hsi Yu Chi, ‘The Journey today. The Emperor commanded him to West’, which is a mythical story of a monk, write the story of his epic journey, which Tripitaka, who goes to India to obtain the was published as ‘Great Tang Records on Buddhist Teachings under the guidance the Western Regions’, and this book is still and protection of the goddess Kwan Yin. in print today. Through it the Chinese She provides him with four companions learnt of the world outside their strongly — beings who had already entered guarded kingdom, and historians, even heaven, but had behaved so badly that they to this day, still use the knowledge he were thrown back to earth in semi-animal gathered on the kingdoms of Central Asia, forms. These were the dragons that became and the subcontinent of India. his horse, Pigsy, Sandy and Monkey. This A good example of this is the Buddhist book is one of the four major classic books world of India which flourished for many of China, and is still widely read, not just centuries, with many monasteries, temples in China but throughout the world. How- and sacred sites. However, most of this ever, in the West it became particularly was lost due to the various invasions of well known through a Japanese television

32 Vol. 134.10 Our Gift to the Future series called Sayuki but known in the West segregation, the NAACP organizers be- as ‘Monkey’. lieved Parks was the best candidate for The Dharma of Xuan Zang is still having seeing through a court challenge, and as kârmic consequences resonating through- a result the insidious nature of segregation out the world, thirteen centuries after he was highlighted. It still took a number of lived. Chinese author, Sun Shuyun, was years for segregation to be removed from so fascinated by the life of Xuan Zang that the southern community (under the regime she set off on her own epic journey to of the Kennedys). However, when Rosa India, following as best she could the route died in 2005, her funeral was attended by he took. Her book, Ten Thousand Miles many people in high places, including Without a Cloud, provides both a record Oprah Winfrey and Condoleezza Rice, of the two journeys as well as many who at the time was the Secretary of State, insights into Buddhist Teachings. one of the highest positions in the land. In more recent history we can see that She stated that she would not be where the actions of various people have changed she is today if it were not for that one the world we live in. Their actions started simple action of defiance by Rosa Parks. off as small events, but were soon magni- The US Congress has called Rosa ‘The fied into actions that reverberated through First Lady of Civil Rights’. the lives of many people. Between 1983 and 1985 Ethiopia and In the 1950s, in the USA, the Civil other areas of northern Africa suffered a Rights Movement for Black Americans terrible drought which resulted in wide- was smouldering, but it was not until one spread famine and death. A BBC reporter woman, Rosa Parks, took one simple ac- photographed the tragedy and aired his tion in her life that the flame of the Civil documentary on BBC television. Rock Rights Movement began to burn intensely. singer, Bob Geldolf, was so moved by the In the southern states, Black Americans plight of the starving people that he said: were segregated from the Whites in public ‘I’ve got to do something about this’, and places, schools, and even on buses. he did. The work he did, to not only gather White people sat in the front and Blacks funds to feed the starving but to arouse com- at the back, and if more white people passion on a global scale and make us all boarded the bus the driver would ask the feel responsible for those in need, has been Black people to vacate their seats for the well documented. But it was not a ‘one off’ Whites. Rosa Parks, who was simply on event. Bob continues to work for this cause, her way home from work, decided to and has inspired many other people to take refuse to move, a simple act of defiance global action for many different issues. in the face of racism. She was eventually On the political front we have removed from the bus and arrested for Mahatma Gandhi, who was inspired by ‘civil disobedience’, and even though she Theosophical Teachings to demand was not the first person to resist bus National Independence for India, not

July 2013 33 The Theosophist through violent confrontation, but by several languages). Avaaz calls for people passive resistance. His actions have been to sign petitions via e-mail on a great range of great inspiration to many peacemakers of issues, from social to environmental, in the world. Such an example is Aung and now has over seventeen million Sun Suu Kyi of Myanmar, who took a people from 194 nations linked into its passive stance against the military regime petition network. of Myanmar, encouraging her followers A recent successful petition was to not to ‘fight’ the soldiers who attacked them. support Malala Yousafzai of Pakistan in It has taken twenty years of resistance, but her struggle for the rights of the education Aung Sun has now succeeded — she is of girls. The petition of 886,000 was now free and elected into the government. presented to President Zardari, who him- Another great peacemaker is Nelson self signed the petition, and he has now Mandela of South Africa, who started his approved the funding to get three million life as a warrior, fighting violently against more children into school in Pakistan. apartheid for which he spent many years This event shows how the actions of in gaol. However, on his release he re- one teenage girl can bring about change entered the fight for the freedom of his and how providing people not only with people, not through violent action, but information but with an avenue through through peaceful negotiation. which they can voice their concerns can The gift that each of these three people actually change the world. Often, when have given the world is the example of one signs the petition a box is displayed how to deal with confrontational issues on the screen showing who else is signing, without anger or resentment, but with love and their country, within seconds of your and harmony. They are not perfected own signature, making you aware that beings, and so may have frailties of the many people are having the same res- personality. However, the kârmic reson- ponse as you. Our thought-forms are being ances they have initiated will reverberate interlinked in an activity which will con- not just in current times, but well into the tribute to solving world problems. future, and will provide shining examples Our Theosophical Teachings tell us for all freedom fighters. that being Human is about developing In the current world today, we are the Mind. We have to move away from inundated with the many facets of the world a process of thinking that is based on on the internet, which has many good as- instinct and reaction and move into a state pects and a certain amount of bad aspects. of thinking that encompasses the broad One of the great features, though, is the spectrum of All the Life that is around amazing way it links people together, all us. This quality of thinking is the Gift around the world. One organization I am Humanity has to provide to the Evolution connected with through the internet is of Life. Avaaz, (a word that means ‘voice’ in However, for the individual the gift is

34 Vol. 134.10 Our Gift to the Future the essence of his/her own essential nature So remember, every thought we have, — the skills and qualities we develop and every emotion we feel, every action we share with all around us. This is our take, is moulding the world of tomorrow. Dharma or Duty — to develop to the best Let us all give, both heartily and of our ability our own individual unique- happily, of our own inherent uniqueness, ness which we give to the whole. Our as we explore all the possibilities of being Karma is the resonance of fulfilling our human in this incredible world. For as Dharma, a resonance which echoes not Ianthe Hoskins said, each life is unrepeat- only around our own individual world, but able, and each life is an experiment, but throughout both the time and space of Life we are all part of that amazing process on Planet Earth. called ‘The Evolution of Consciousness’.

What we need to experience, and can experience, is a saner and gentler state of mind. This experience is not something found outside of us. We must work with ourselves and on ourselves. Every step forward is an extension of consciousness and a transformation of consciousness. For every birth, a death is required and the great arc of life, even in a single incarnation, contains many rebirth moments if we are willing to face and to endure the countless deaths the little self must experience if it would become transformed into the vehicle of the One Self.

Give up thy life if thou wouldst live…

Is a message found in every tradition that speaks of the journey of transformation. Joy Mills

July 2013 35 The Theosophist Books of Interest

THE DALAI LAMA’S CAT, by David Your life is the most important thing in Michie, Hay House India, 2013, pp. 218. the world to you . . . Same for this kitten.’ ‘The true cause of happiness is the Through the struggles of the little cat, sincere wish to give happiness to others torn between its natural worldly tendencies and help free them of all forms of dissat- towards envy, greed, vanity and so on, and isfaction.’ This, the definition of love and the inner urge to rise to sublime spiritual compassion, is the underlying thread of this heights; and through its observations of book, together with the importance of ap- human nature during its exploratory pere- plying it in every thought, word and deed. grinations into the surrounding areas and The Dalai Lama’s Cat, a fictitious town, and revealed also by the many novel, is a delightful story told from a visitors seeking His Holiness’ audience — cat’s viewpoint — a privileged cat blessed film stars, academicians, businessmen with opportunities to learn deep spiritual et al; we are made aware of our own lessons from its position in the Dalai contradictions and weaknesses, our own Lama’s household. Through its beautiful successes and tumbles from the spiritual blue eyes, we are permitted a glimpse ladder. ‘Sometimes our instinct, our nega- of the Dalai Lama’s residence and office tive condition, can be overpowering,’ says rooms, of the bantering cooperation of the the Dalai Lama. ‘Later we regret very much people who work there and of the compas- what we have done. But that is no reason sion and wisdom of His Holiness himself. to give up on yourself — the buddhas, Page by page we are led to appreciate the they have not given up on you. . . . learn special relationship that develops between from your mistake and move on.’ an undernourished kitten rescued from Of particular interest is the description death in the slums of New Delhi and the of a meeting between His Holiness and Dalai Lama, who is one of the world’s best another great Buddhist teacher, Thich known spiritual leaders. Nhat Hanh, wherein we are given an ‘How do I describe the first moment of entertaining lesson on the undesirability being in the presence of His Holiness?’ of reacting to changes in our circum- asks the kitten, and answers it thus: ‘. . . stances. Reaction is termed by them as you become aware that your own true nature ‘egocentric melodrama’! is one of boundless love and compassion.’ The Dalai Lama’s Cat is a tender story, In a gentle lesson on loving kindness, told with humour and lightness, and His Holiness remarks to one of his visitors: abounding with lessons of significance to ‘Professor, this stray kitten and you have help all of us on the spiritual path on our one very important thing in common . . . way. SUBHA NILAKANTA

36 Vol. 134.5 Theosophical Work around the World Theosophical Work around the World

Africa East and Central Committee of the Indian Section 11-12 The 46th Theosophical Convention May. Rajayoga Retreat was held from 14- of East and Central African Section 16 May, directed by Prof. C. A. Shinde was organized from 17 to 19 May 2013 and attended by twenty-seven members. at Blavatsky Hall, Nairobi. About 55 Two Study Camps were conducted delegates including members from in Bhowali. Dr N. C. Ramanujachary, Tanzania, Zambia and Uganda, attended Jt. General Secretary directed the first the convention. The Convention theme: study camp from 20 to 26 May 2013 on ‘Integrity and Moral Values in Today’s the theme ‘New Radiance in Divine World’. Prof. Yashpal Ghai delivered the Reflection’. Nineteen members attended. keynote address. Lady Chief Justice The second study camp was directed Kalpana Raval gave a impressive talk. by Bro. P. K. Jayaswal, National Lecturer The General Secretary, and the Asst. GS on ‘Atmavidya’. of Kenya Nairobi lodge organized this Federation Centenary successful convention. The Centenary celebration of Kerala Theosophical Federation was held at Italy Trichur, the cultural capital of Kerala The 99th Congress of the Italian Theo- from 25 to 26 May, 2013. The General sophical Society took place in Aosta, from Secretary of the Indian Section gave the 24-26th May 2013. The theme was Inaugural Address on the theme of the ‘Karma and Theosophical Commitment’. Conference ‘Theosophy — The Dawn of The outgoing General Secretary of the Renaissance’ and delivered a public Italian Theosophical Society was re- lecture on ‘The Essence of Revolution’. elected with 96% of the votes for the year The programme also included short 2013 to 2016. lectures on the impact of the Theosophical movement in Kerala in hundred years in India — Bhowali Study Camp various fields like Education, Literature, The premises at Bhowali is now ready Religion and Culture. In the afternoon for organizing study camps in the reno- delegates’ session, Questions and Answers vated building complex with all facilities. was held. A special session was also Bharat Samaj Pooja was performed in the devoted to celebrate the 125th anniversary new Building Hall by Dr T. K. Nair and of The Secret Doctrine, the magnam opus Bro. S. M. Umakanth Rao on 11 May 2013, of H. P. Blavatsky. A special centenary followed by the meeting of the Executive Souvenir was released on the occasion. ²

July 2013 37 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Email address [email protected] Theosofi The Indian Theosophist Gangleri Teozófia Ilisos Adyar The Light Bearer Chilena Revista Teosófica Selección Teosófica Sophia Le Lotus Bleu Teosofi Le Lotus Bleu The West African Theosophist The West Theosofie Adyar Teozofija The Theosophical Light The South African Theosophist Theosophy in Australia Magazine Teosofía en Argentina en Teosofía Rosario … ška ulica 24, 10000 Zagreb … oukourestiou St., 106 71-Athensoukourestiou St., … Jakarta 11410, Timur UK BT52 ITA Co. Londonderry, CEP 70200-630 Brasilia (DF) Boisbriand QC J1H 1K7 Estacion Central, Santiago Barrio Palermo, Bogotá Helsinki Aptdo. 23, San Juan, PR 00926, USA Managua, Nicaragua Adyar, Chennai 600 020, India Ronean, 38 Princesses Ave., Windsor E. 2194Windsor Ave., Ronean, 38 Princesses … eosofinen Seura, Vironkatu 7 C 2, Fin 00170,Vironkatu eosofinen Seura, … The Theosophical Society, Varanasi 221 010Varanasi Theosophical Society, The … Oberbaumgarten 25, 4204 Haibach im Mühlkreis … The Theosophical Society Address … Santiago 257 — 2000, … I N T E R A O L D C Y

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40 BOOKS ON MEDITATION

THE ART OF MEDITATION Marie Poutz The author examines meditation, not as an intellectual exercise or a mere daily routine, but as a step towards greater realization, a bridge between the personal self and the world of intuition, where brotherhood, joy and beauty are facts. DAILY MEDITATION — Extracts from Letters of the Masters of the Wisdom Katherine A. Beechey Selected passages suitable for meditation — one for every day of the year, arranged as twelve virtues, with one quality assigned for each month, such as Compassion, Courage, Tolerance, Self-reliance, Equilibrium and Perseverance. MEDITATION: Its Practice and Results Clara M. Codd This little book sheds valuable light on how to realize one’s inner possibilities through meditation, and to solve life’s riddles by the expansion and sublimation of the normal powers of the heart and mind. MEDITATIONS ON THE PATH AND ITS QUALIFICATIONS — from the Works of Annie Besant (Compiled by E. G. Cooper) Annie Besant A compilation of quotations selected from the works of Annie Besant for daily meditation for the aspirants to develop the qualities needed for treading the path of human perfection. MEDITATIONS ON THE OCCULT LIFE Gfoffrey Hodson We can get to be occultists wherever we are, whatever we do, however immersed in mundane life. A little book on the how of it. BUDDHIST MEDITATION Samdhong Rinpoche In talks given at the School of the Wisdom, Adyar, Ven. Professor Rinpoche shares his deep experiences of meditation in an atmosphere of simplicity and contemplation. CONCENTRATION — A Practical Course with a Supplement on Meditation Ernest Wood Annie Besant writes about this practical course with a supplement on meditation: ‘It is admirably planned and effectively carried out. I can therefore heartily recommend it to all who desire to obtain control of the mind.’

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