I have a little story to tell. A book store near me was going out of business. I decided to go to see if I could find an interesting read. I went to the occult section and was browsing when I walked by a table filled with books. I walked over and as I stood there looking at the books a book that was on a shelf underneath fell on my foot. I picked it up and was surprised at what it was. It was a little hardcover book Practical Occultism by Madame Blavatsky. I immediately bought the book for one dollar I might add. I am going to start it today. It goes to show you when you least expect it Theosophy comes out and grabs you, even by the foot. Thought you'd all would get a kick out of this.
Wow, Sara, that is a great story. Please tell us of any good passages you read in the book.
Here are a few of the passages I have read so far from Practical Occultism.
Occultism is not magic. It is comparitvely easy to learn the trick of spells and the methods of using the subtler, but still material forces of physical nature;
the powers of the animal soul in man are soon awakened; the forces which his love, his hate, his passion, can call into operation, are readily developed. But this is Black Magic, Sorcery. For it is the motive alone, which makes any exercise of power become black, malignant, or white, beneficient Magic. It is impossible to employ the spiritual forces if there is the slightest tinge of selfishness remaining in the operator.
"Before the disciple shall be permitted to study "face to face", he has to acquire preliminary understanding in a select company of other lay upasaka {diciples}, the number of whom must be odd."
This little book packs a powerful punch. It was published in Adyar, Madras, India. I am going to go back and read it very carefully as all her writings sneak up on you and then hits you full in the face.
Sara,
Here is an online copy of the book. Other people might be interested in reading along:
http://www.tphta.ws/TPH_PROC.HTMI am pretty sure it is the same as what you are reading.
The "face to face" quote brings up something we have discussed in another thread -- what it takes to become a student, disciple, and chela of the Mahatmas. The "face to face" idea adds an interesting twist to the discussion.
I have just received my books I have ordered. I gave my Secret Doctrine away and had to order another. I am reading Grimoire for the Apprentiice Wizard. Life's Riddles by Nils A. Amneus and am reading again Light on the Path, plus although this is not related to Theosophy or it could be A Murder is Announced by Agatha Christie.