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358
ROSICRUCIAN PHILOSOPHY
QUESTION No. 178.
Kindly state the essentials wherein the Rosicrucian Phi'
lowphy differs from Theosophy.
Answer: We are not as much concerned in seeking out
differences as in finding agreements. It may
be said, how-
ever, that the Rosicrucian Philosophy is the Western teach-
ing given to the Western people at this time for their advancement.
If we take Theosophy as meaning Thco Sophia
(Divine Wisdom), then, of course, the Rosicrucian Phi-
losophy is only a part of that Divine Wisdom, like all
other religious systems. But if we take theosophy to mean
the philosophy promulgated by the Theosophical Society,
or Societies, for there are several brands, then we may say
that the Rosicrucian teaching is much more compre-
hensive and complete. Besides, in teaching their philosophy
the Rosicrucians are diametrically opposed to the
method of the Theosophical Society, which has for its
objects :
First, The formation of a nucleus of the Universal
Brotherhood,
Second, The study of comparative religion, and
Third, The investigation of the unexplained laws in
nature and the powers latent in man.
The Brothers of the Rosy Cross contend that the ma-
jority of advanced p?ople are in sympathy with the idea
of Universal Brotherhood, and that we need not be theoso-
phists to Iiave that idea at heart. Countless other societies
have altruistic ideas along the lines of brotherhood. Many
scientists are studying comparative religion and doing it
exceedingly well. It is not necessary to be a theosophist