Although Theosophy contains by derivation the name “God” (“Theos”) and thus may seem at first sight to embrace religion alone, it does not neglect science. It is the Science of sciences, for no science is complete which leaves out any department of nature, whether visible or invisible. Conversely, that religion which, depending solely on an assumed revelation, turns away from things and the laws which govern them, is nothing but a delusion, a foe to progress, and an obstacle in the way of man’s advancement toward happiness. Embracing both the scientific and the religious, Theosophy is a scientific religion and a religious science.
No new ethics are presented by Theosophy, as it is held that right ethics are forever the same. But in the doctrines of Theosophy are to be found the philosophical and reasonable basis for ethics and the natural enforcement of them in practice. The ideas we entertain of Deity and of the Self, of Nature’s Laws, and of Evolution, govern the actions we perform. We are now acting, either consciously or unconsciously, according to the philosophical ideas we hold. Are they the best and highest possible?
Theosophy is to be explained by reference to the three great principles which underlie all life, as well as every religion and every philosophy that ever has been, or ever can be. They may be briefly named:
(1) The SELF, as reality in man;
(2) Law, as the processes by which man evolves both in form and soul;
(3) Evolution, as the design of life in terms of meaning and purpose.
Study the Three Fundamentals with us in an upcoming study class. See our schedule for classes and current discussion topics.
