Morality and Humility: From Theosophy’s Sacred Teachings in “The Key to Theosophy,” Part 1 of 2

“Your mind is so full of intellectual subtleties and preconceptions that your natural intuition and perception of the truth cannot act. It does not require metaphysics or education to make a man understand the broad truths of karma and re-incarnation. Look at the millions of […] Buddhists and Hindus, to whom karma and re-incarnation are solid realities, simply because their minds have never been cramped and distorted by being forced into an unnatural groove. […]”

“It is only by means of the philosophy that an intelligent and educated man can avoid the intellectual suicide of believing on blind faith; and it is only by assimilating the strict continuity and logical coherence of the Eastern, if not esoteric, doctrines, that he can realize their truth. Conviction breeds enthusiasm, and ‘Enthusiasm,’ says Bulwer Lytton, ‘is the genius of sincerity, and truth accomplishes no victories without it’; while Emerson most truly remarks that ‘every great and commanding movement in the annals of the world is the triumph of enthusiasm.’”

“The chief point is, to uproot that most fertile source of all crime and immorality – the belief that it is possible for them to escape the consequences of their own actions. Once teach them that greatest of all laws, Karma and Re-incarnation, and besides feeling in themselves the true dignity of human nature, they will turn from evil and eschew it as they would a physical danger.”

The Enquirer questioned: “How do you expect the Fellows of your Society to help in the work?” The Theosophist responded: “First by studying and comprehending the theosophical doctrines, so that they may teach others, especially the young people. Secondly, by taking every opportunity of talking to others and explaining to them what Theosophy is, and what it is not; by removing misconceptions and spreading an interest in the subject. Thirdly, by assisting in circulating our literature, by buying books when they have the means, by lending and giving them and by inducing their friends to do so. Fourthly, by defending the Society from the unjust aspersions cast upon it, by every legitimate device in their power. Fifth, and most important of all, by the example of their own lives.”