Theos-Talk Archives (December 2006 Message tt00206)

Dear Friends, 
 
In Sylvia Cranston’s book on HPB, there is a facsimile of the pledge that famous scientist  Thomas Edison signed,  as he entered the Theosophical Society. 
 
It says: 
 
“In accepting fellowship with the named society, I hereby promise to ever maintain ABSOLUTE SECRECY respecting its proceedings, including its investigations and experiments, except in so far as publication may be authorized by the society and council, and I hereby PLEDGE MY WORD OF HONOR for the strict observance of t his convenant.  Dated at Menlo Park, Fourth April 1878,  Thomas A. Edison.” (1) 
 
Some years later, secrecy was transferred by HPB, with Olcott’s approval, to esoteric circles within the movement;  namely,  the esoteric school. 
 
This is but a well-known practical example of a simple fact : the theosophical movement was created, it exists and  it  works within the esoteric and mysteries tradition; therefore it has some levels of action and of study which are not public.  
 
This, I guess,  can be perfectly understood and respected by people of goodwill. 
 
Regards,   Carlos. 
 
 
NOTE: 
 
(1) “HPB - The Extraordinary  Life & Influence of Helena Blavatsky, the founder of the modern theosophical movement”, by Sylvia Cranston,  a Jeremy P.Tarcher/Putnam Book, Putnam’s Sons, New York, 1994, 648 pp., see p. 184. 
 
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