Exposures.—In reply to several inquiries made here, and also sent to London from the U. S., we beg to say that it is true that the Society for Psychical Research sent a prejudiced expert to India, who exposed nothing except his own bias. Among other things, he thought he had proved that the writing of alleged adepts was only Mme. Blavatsky’s disguised hand. But since then, a well-known German member has submitted specimens of adept writing, together with Mme. Blavatsky’s, to one of the best calligraphic experts in Germany, who certifies that the messages which have been impugned were not written by her.
Mme. Blavatsky is now in Europe, for her health, but she may be expected to return very soon to India, spy-theory and missionaries, to the contrary notwithstanding.
The American Board of Control.—The general and routine work of the Society in America, is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Control, of which the Secretary is Elliott B. Page, 301 South Main Street, St. Louis, Mo.
A resolution has been passed by this Board, which is binding on all members, that no publication shall be issued as a Theosophical one, without previous consent obtained from the officers of the Board. This is wise, as it will tend to prevent unauthorized declarations of so-called Theosophical doctrine from being laid at the door of the Society. All members, therefore, intending to make publication, should address the Secretary of the Board.
Yoga Vidya or the Knowledge of Yoga, is the name by which in India psychic practices, or astralism, or seeking after astral-body formation, or inducing clairvoyance and the like, is most commonly known. At the same time, True Yoga, called Raja Yoga, is a different thing. In the March Theosophist a member writes giving the name of one who will instruct in these practices, and the Editor replied:
“We cannot endorse the writer’s opinion as to the benefits of Yoga Vidya. For one or two who succeed in it, hundreds fail and wreck both body and mind, through its dangerous practices, and even if physical results are obtained they are not invariably followed by spiritual illumination.”
It certainly thus appears that our Society is not in favor of such practices, no matter if some of its members indulge in them.
Admission to the Society is open to any person of full age, who is in sympathy with its objects, willing to abide by its rules; and is obtained by signing an application which sets forth the above in a form which is provided. This must be countersigned by any two active members in good standing. The entrance fee is $5 and one belonging to a Branch should also pay the annual dues thereof. Applications can be made to Presidents of Branches or other officers. Persons may become members of Branches or unattached members of the General Society.
All that we are is the result of what we have thought; it is founded on our thoughts; it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with an evil thought pain follows him as the wheel follows the foot of him who draws the carriage.
All that we are is the result of what we have thought; it is founded on our thoughts; it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows him like a shadow that never leaves him.—Dhammapada.
Receive this law, young men; keep, read, fathom, teach, promulgate and preach it to all beings. I am not avaricious nor narrow minded; I am confident and willing to impart Buddha knowledge, or knowledge of the self-born. I am a bountiful giver, young men, and ye should follow my example; imitate me in liberality, showing this knowledge, and preaching this code of laws and conduct to those who shall successively gather round you, and rouse unbelieving persons to accept this law. By so doing ye will acquit your debt to the Tathagatas.—Saddharma Pundarika.
OM