So far online I have very consciously tried to be as impartial as I could regarding the different theosophical organizations. I’ve given impartial information about the differences between the various groups, I link to the major players. In fact, they each have their own link page on my main site.
However, it’s no secret that I’m a member of the Theosophical Society Adyar. Opinionated as I am, there are reasons for that.
The main issue is with the answer to the question: how should theosophy be organized?
To me the TS needs to be a place where people interested in religion and spirituality can gather as equals to learn about them, study them, and find their common ground. Searchers, seekers for truth, philosophers, scientists – they should all be welcome. The search for truth has no fixed limits and the search for Ultimate truth doesn’t either.
This implies a democratic organization, and that is what the Theosophical Society Adyar tries to be. Sure there are controversies every once in a while, but that’s a sign of life.
Another fact that’s easy to miss online: the Theosophical Society Adyar is actually the largest theosophical organization worldwide. Like the ULT (United Lodge of Theosophists) its life blood is the local groups, we call them ‘lodges’. They can be a lot of fun. Enthusiastic members can really make them a place for enquirers (and I do include the members in that word) to come together and learn, share and teach each other.
Other theosophical groups generally don’t have a democracy at all (Theosophical Society Pasadena for instance) or no clear organization that gathers members together (ULT). The TS Adyar is a middle ground between those extremes.
Don’t get me wrong: I’m very happy the theosophical movement includes independents like David and Nancy Reigle. But ultimately I think working together is the only way for the eternal wisdom to stay alive. By which I don’t mean to imply that the Theosophical Movement is the only expression of that wisdom. Just that it seems to me the Theosophical Society (Adyar) still has a part to play in keeping that wisdom alive and accessible.