CONCLUSION.

THE FUTURE OF THE THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY.

Enq. Tell me, what do you expect for Theosophy in the future?

Theo. If you speak of Theosophy, I answer that, as it has existed eternally throughout the endless cycles upon cycles of the Past, so it will ever exist throughout the infinitudes of the Future, because Theosophy is synonymous with EVERLASTING TRUTH.

Enq. Pardon me; I meant to ask you rather about the prospects of the Theosophical Society.

Theo. Its future will depend almost entirely upon the degree of selflessness, earnestness, devotion, and last, but not least, on the amount of knowledge and wisdom possessed by those members on whom it will fall to carry on the work, and to direct the Society after the death of the Founders.

Enq. I quite see the importance of their being selfless and devoted, but I do not quite grasp how their knowledge can be as vital a factor in the question as these other qualities. Surely the literature which already exists, and to which constant additions are still being made, ought to be sufficient?

Theo. I do not refer to technical knowledge of the esoteric doctrine, though that is most important; I spoke rather of the great need which our successors in the guidance of the Society will have of unbiased and clear judgment. Every such attempt as the Theosophical Society has hitherto ended in failure, because, sooner or later, it has degenerated into a sect, set up hard-and-fast dogmas of its own, and so lost by imperceptible degrees that vitality which living truth alone can impart. You must remember that all our members have been bred and born in some creed or religion, that all are more or less of their generation both physically and mentally, and consequently that their judgment is but too likely to be warped and unconsciously biased by some or all of these influences. If, then, they cannot be freed from such inherent bias, or at least taught to recognise it instantly and so avoid being led away by it, the result can only be that the Society will drift off on to some sandbank of thought or another, and there remain a stranded carcass to moulder and die.

Enq. But if this danger be averted?

Theo. Then the Society will live on into and through the twentieth century. It will gradually leaven and permeate the great mass of thinking and intelligent people with its large-minded and noble ideas of Religion, Duty, and Philanthropy. Slowly but surely it will burst asunder the iron fetters of creeds and dogmas, of social and caste prejudices; it will break down racial and national antipathies and barriers, and will open the way to the practical realisation of the Brotherhood of all men. Through its teaching, through the philosophy which it has rendered accessible and intelligible to the modern mind, the West will learn to understand and appreciate the East at its true value. Further, the development of the psychic powers and faculties, the premonitory symptoms of which are already visible in America, will proceed healthily and normally. Mankind will be saved from the terrible dangers, both mental and bodily, which are inevitable when that unfolding takes place, as it threatens to do, in a hot-bed of selfishness and all evil passions. Man’s mental and psychic growth will proceed in harmony with his moral improvement, while his material surroundings will reflect the peace and fraternal goodwill which will reign in his mind, instead of the discord and strife which is everywhere apparent around us to-day.

Enq. A truly delightful picture! But tell me, do you really expect all this to be accomplished in one short century?

Theo. Scarcely. But I must tell you that during the last quarter of every hundred years an attempt is made by those “Masters,” of whom I have spoken, to help on the spiritual progress of Humanity in a marked and definite way. Towards the close of each century you will invariably find that an outpouring or upheaval of spirituality—or call it mysticism if you prefer—has taken place. Some one or more persons have appeared in the world as their agents, and a greater or less amount of occult knowledge and teaching has been given out. If you care to do so, you can trace these movements back, century by century, as far as our detailed historical records extend.

Enq. But how does this bear on the future of the Theosophical Society?

Theo. If the present attempt, in the form of our Society, succeeds better than its predecessors have done, then it will be in existence as an organized, living and healthy body when the time comes for the effort of the XXth century. The general condition of men’s minds and hearts will have been improved and purified by the spread of its teachings, and, as I have said, their prejudices and dogmatic illusions will have been, to some extent at least, removed. Not only so, but besides a large and accessible literature ready to men’s hands, the next impulse will find a numerous and united body of people ready to welcome the new torch-bearer of Truth. He will find the minds of men prepared for his message, a language ready for him in which to clothe the new truths he brings, an organization awaiting his arrival, which will remove the merely mechanical, material obstacles and difficulties from his path. Think how much one, to whom such an opportunity is given, could accomplish. Measure it by comparison with what the Theosophical Society actually has achieved in the last fourteen years, without any of these advantages and surrounded by hosts of hindrances which would not hamper the new leader. Consider all this, and then tell me whether I am too sanguine when I say that if the Theosophical Society survives and lives true to its mission, to its original impulses through the next hundred years—tell me, I say, if I go too far in asserting that earth will be a heaven in the twenty-first century in comparison with what it is now!

FINIS.

The United Lodge of Theosophists

DECLARATION

The policy of this Lodge is independent devotion to the cause of Theosophy, without professing attachment to any Theosophical organization. It is loyal to the great Founders of the Theosophical Movement, but does not concern itself with dissensions or differences of individual opinion.

The work it has on hand and the end it keeps in view are too absorbing and too lofty to leave it the time or inclination to take part in side issues. That work and that end is the dissemination of the Fundamental Principles of the philosophy of Theosophy, and the exemplification in practice of those principles, through a truer realization of the Self; a profounder conviction of Universal Brotherhood.

It holds that the unassailable Basis for Union among Theosophists, wherever and however situated, is “similarity of aim, purpose and teaching,” and therefore has neither Constitution, By-laws nor Officers, the sole bond between its Associates being that basis. And it aims to disseminate this idea among Theosophists in the furtherance of Unity.

It regards as Theosophists all who are engaged in the true service of Humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, condition or organization, and

It welcomes to its association all those who are in accord with its declared purposes and who desire to fit themselves, by study and otherwise, to be the better able to help and teach others.

“The true Theosophist belongs to no cult or sect, yet belongs to each and all.”

Being in sympathy with the purposes of this Lodge, as set forth in its “Declaration,” I hereby record my desire to be enrolled as an Associate; it being understood that such association calls for no obligation on my part other than that which I, myself, determine.

The foregoing is the Form signed by Associates of the United Lodge of Theosophists.

Inquiries are invited from all persons to whom this Movement may appeal. Cards for signature will be sent upon request, and every possible assistance furnished Associates in their studies and in efforts to form local Lodges. There are no dues of any kind, and no formalities to be complied with.

Correspondence should be addressed to

General Registrar, United Lodge of Theosophists

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

504 Metropolitan Building, Broadway at Fifth Street

“To Spread Broadcast the Teachings of Theosophy, as Recorded in the Writings of H. P. Blavatsky and Wm. Q. Judge.”

THEOSOPHY

A Magazine Devoted to the Theosophical Movement, the Brotherhood of Humanity, the Study of Occult Science and Philosophy, and Aryan Literature.

THEOSOPHY is a Monthly Magazine devoted to the promulgation of Theosophy as it was given by those who brought it. Established in 1912 by the United Lodge of Theosophists, the magazine is now in the front rank of Theosophical publications and its circulation extends to every civilized country. The first eight volumes of the magazine contain reprints of the numerous original articles written by H. P. Blavatsky and William Q. Judge in explanation, exemplification and application of the philosophy recorded in their published books. These precious articles, replete with Occult instruction, were first published in The Theosophist, Lucifer, and The Path, now for many years out of print, so that their surpassing value was lost and inaccessible to Students of the present generation. Theosophy has made them once more available. In addition to these reprints the magazine contains many original articles written by Robert Crosbie and other devoted Pupils and Students of the Messengers of the Theosophical Movement of the nineteenth century. Not the least of the contents of the magazine are the Studies of the Teachings, the historical articles relating to the Theosophical Movement, the Parent Theosophical Society, and the many allied and related organizations and societies of the present day. The entire contents of the magazine are universal in scope and application, unbiased in treatment, and free from sectarian or partisan influence. In order to preserve at all times the impersonality of its tone, and that readers may form their judgment from the inherent value perceived in the articles and not from the names signed to them, the Editors and Contributors remain anonymous, no living person’s name being mentioned in connection with the authorship of any article published.

Back Volumes and Back Numbers can be supplied at $5.00 per Volume and 50 cents per Number.

Subscriptions can begin with any desired Number of the current Volume. Subscription price, $2.00 per annum; single copies 25 cents each.

Address all communications and remittances to

Theosophy, Metropolitan Bldg., Los Angeles,Cal.

Students interested in obtaining a clear and correct understanding of the actual Teachings of Theosophy, as recorded in the writings of the Messengers of the Theosophical Movement of the nineteenth century or in writings recommended by Them, should have the following books.

KEY TO THEOSOPHY, By H. P. Blavatsky, $2.50

An Exposition in the form of question and answer.

The best Manual for daily study and reference.

A verbatim reprint of the Original Edition. Large

type, durably and artistically bound in Buckram.

THE OCEAN OF THEOSOPHY, By William Q. Judge, $1.25

A succinct presentation of the philosophy free from

technical expressions; a perfect condensation of the

Secret Doctrines of Man and Nature. Cloth.

THE OCCULT WORLD ESOTERIC BUDDHISM By A. P. Sinnett, Each, $2.00

The two earliest popular presentations of Theosophical

Teachings, containing extracts from Letters written by

the Mahatma K. H. From the Plates of the Original

American Editions. Cloth.

ISIS UNVEILED, Two Volumes, By H. P. Blavatsky, $10.00

Volume i, Science; Volume ii, Theology.

A reprint of the Original Edition of 1877.

This, the first great work of H. P. B.,

contains a vast wealth of information and

instruction not to be had elsewhere. Cloth.

THE SECRET DOCTRINE, Two Volumes, By H. P. Blavatsky, $15.00

Volume I, Cosmogenesis; Volume II, Anthropogenesis.

The Original Edition, published in 1888, is now out of

print. This Edition, published in London, contains some

unwarrantable changes, but is in the main accurate and is

the only one available. Written “for the instruction of

students of Occultism,” it is sui generis and absolutely

invaluable to the true student of the mysteries of Life

and Being. Cloth.

ABRIDGMENT OF THE SECRET DOCTRINE, By Katherine Hillard, $3.00

A very good condensation of the major teachings of Madame

Blavatsky’s “Secret Doctrine” in the language of the Author. Cloth.

THEOSOPHICAL GLOSSARY, By H. P. Blavatsky, $5.00

A reprint of the Original Edition, containing an exhaustive

and scholarly treatment of the Sanskrit and other technical

terms employed in Theosophical literature. Cloth.

THOSE who find the Teachings of Theosophy to be comprehensive, self-explanatory, and a complete solution of all the problems of Life from a philosophical, logical and scientific standpoint, and who may desire to follow the Path shown in order to realize in and for themselves the noble Ideal of Brotherhood exemplified by the Masters of Wisdom, are urged to read, ponder and assimilate to the utmost extent possible to them, the following Treatises on the Heart Doctrine:

THE VOICE OF THE SILENCE. Chosen Fragments

from The Book of the Golden Precepts. Translated

and annotated by H. P. Blavatsky. Leather, $1.50

Cloth, 1.25

THE BHAGAVAD-GITA, The Book of Devotion.

Containing the Dialogue between Krishna, the

Supreme Master of Devotion, and Arjuna, his

Disciple. Rendered into exquisite parallel terms

in the English tongue by William Q. Judge. Leather, 1.50

Cloth, 1.25

NOTES ON THE BHAGAVAD-GITA. Commentaries

of the greatest service to sincere students of to-day.

The first Seven Chapters by W. Q. Judge; the

remainder by his friend and Colleague Robert Crosbie. Leather, 1.50

YOGA APHORISMS OF PATANJALI. The Thought

of this Ancient Master, whose Aphorisms have

been the guide of Disciples in the East for untold

thousands of years. Done into English terms with

Notes, by William Q. Judge. Leather, 1.50

Cloth, 1.25

LIGHT ON THE PATH. A treatise for the personal

use of those who are ignorant of the Eastern Wisdom,

and who desire to enter within its Influence. An exact

reprint of the Original Edition of 1885, together with

the Comments originally published in Lucifer.

Written down by M. C. Leather, 1.50

Cloth, 1.25

LETTERS THAT HAVE HELPED ME. Actual Letters, by

William Q. Judge, embodying Lessons and Guidance

of direct personal value to every Student and Disciple.

Volume I, Cloth, 1.00

Volume II, Cloth, 1.00

The Two Volumes bound in One, Cloth, 1.50

THE VOICE OF THE SILENCE, THE BHAGAVAD-GITA,

And PATANJALI’S YOGA APHORISMS,

Bound in One Volume, Leather, 3.00

PARENTS and others interested in the Spiritual and Moral welfare of Children and averse to the sectarian dogmas and false ideas prevalent under the name of religious teachings, have long felt the necessity for literature which should impart true fundamental conceptions of Nature, of Life and of Duty to the growing generation. As a portion of its Fraternal activities the United Lodge of Theosophists has long maintained a Children’s School of Theosophy. To this School come children of all ages, Theosophists and Non-Theosophists as to Parentage. They are taught the primary truths common to all religions and philosophies, dealing with Birth, Life, Death, Law, Action, and Duty. The Eternal Verities thus inculcated make for clean, sturdy, wholesome physical, mental, as well as moral and spiritual happiness and well-being. The experience thus gained in actual practice has been embodied in two books, wherein the lessons and instructions found helpful and formative to the highest character are plainly and clearly outlined, with all necessary suggestions and directions to enable Parents, Teachers and others to fit themselves to be the better able to help and guide the plastic minds of the Children to true perceptions of Life and Action.

BECAUSE—For The Children Who Ask Why.

Interesting, comprehensible and assimilable, in clear

and reverent fashion this Book presents to Children

the answers to those questions of Self that Parents

find it most difficult to meet, and affords a common

basis of understanding to Parent and Child. Cloth, $1.25

THE ETERNAL VERITIES. A Series of Lessons in basic

truths and ideas, with complete chart and programme

so that its full value may be availed of in the

instruction of Children of all ages, whether in the

School or the Home. Original Songs, Chants, Music,

Allegories and Tales of Symbolism, in a manner not

only to interest but to carry the Lessons into the

Hearts and Minds of the Learners. Cloth, $1.50

IN ORDER, further, to afford the maximum possible assistance to Parents and others interested in the proper education of Children, The United Lodge of Theosophists maintains a Bureau of Correspondence to which particular problems connected with the bringing-up of Children may be addressed. Replies to enquiries are in all cases by Women Associates of the Lodge who are themselves Mothers and Teachers and who voluntarily and gladly give their time and experience to benefit their perplexed Sisters. There are no fees or charges of any description in connection with this labor of love, and all Mothers and Teachers are invited to benefit by it.

Address,

CHILDREN’S SCHOOL OF THEOSOPHY LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 504 Metropolitan Building, Broadway at Fifth Street

NO MORE important work exists for the Theosophical Student than to be in a position to direct inquirers to channels where they may inform themselves of the leading Principles of the teachings of Theosophy in their philosophical, ethical and scientific bearings. The following are recommended for their exact accuracy, their simplicity and clarity in the presentation of the Wisdom-Religion.

ECHOES FROM THE ORIENT, By William Q. Judge.

A Series of Chapters written in the most admirable

style, giving an outline of Theosophy and the

Theosophical Movement, and treating of the great

Subjects of Masters, Karma, Re-incarnation and Evolution.

Cloth, $0.60

Paper, .35

CONVERSATIONS ON THEOSOPHY. A Pamphlet giving the

fundamental teachings of the Secret Doctrine. From

the writings of H. P. Blavatsky and William Q. Judge.

Paper, envelope size, .10

In quantities for propaganda purposes, 50 copies for 2.50

KARMA AND RE-INCARNATION. A large and attractively

bound pamphlet, envelope size, containing the famous

Aphorisms on Karma, and a notably clear and

comprehensive treatment of the subjects of Karma

and Re-incarnation. .15

In quantities for propaganda purposes, 50 copies for 4.00

CULTURE OF CONCENTRATION,

And OF OCCULT POWERS.

Two related Essays by William Q. Judge on subjects

of supreme importance. .10

EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER THAT HAS HELPED ME.

Being a statement of the Gospel of Hope and

Responsibility. This Letter has brought consolation

and the comfort of understanding to many

regarding the Great Mystery. .10

THOUGHTS FOR THINKERS. A Pamphlet designed for

the “man in the street,” who is often an open-minded

practical philosopher and thinker of the first rank.

These Thoughts are undogmatic, non-argumentative

and very suggestive. .10

The foregoing and other Books advertised in the preceding pages may all be obtained on order through your local Bookseller, or orders may be sent direct to the undersigned.

Inquiries are invited regarding any Theosophical Books and Publications not specifically mentioned herein. Correspondence and questions are also invited on Theosophical problems and subjects from all interested.

Address all orders and inquiries and make all remittances payable to

UNITED LODGE OF THEOSOPHISTS LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 504 Metropolitan Building, Broadway at Fifth Street

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