Some twenty-two years ago, the first edition of “The Ocean of Theosophy” was published by its author, Wm. Q. Judge. Since that time thousands of books dealing with Theosophy have been published by more or less prominent students of Theosophy, but unfortunately for the public, none of these show the knowledge, grasp and range which is so evident in the present volume,—and still more unfortunately, the methods pursued by these latter-day writers have served to obscure the fact of the existence of an exposition of Theosophy written by a Teacher of that Science of Life. As the Author’s Preface shows, the book was written in such a manner as to be understood by the ordinary reader; the simplicity of the terms used, however, should not mislead the reader into thinking that the work is an elementary one, for behind and within every statement there is a depth of meaning that the careless and superficial fail to perceive. It is really a simplified text-book of the fundamental teachings of Theosophy, and is found by students of the “Secret Doctrine” to be a true abridgment of that great work and a wonderful aid in its comprehension; it was written with that end in view by the only one competent to do so and is therefore earnestly recommended to every student of Theosophy. The passage of years has served to show, not only the value of this little book, but the status of Mr. Judge as a Teacher. Everything he has written bears impress of his deep knowledge to every real student of Theosophy. Even the ordinary reader cannot fail to perceive that only “One Who Knows” could have so applied Theosophy to the circumstances and conditions of every-day human existence. There are but few books whose issuance is due to Mr. Judge; these few however, are most valuable aids to the student in living the Theosophic life. “Letters That Have Helped Me,” are two small volumes containing letters written to students, with comments by the compiler; “Echoes From the Orient,” is a broad outline of Theosophical doctrines, 64 pages; “The Bhagavad-Gita” is a rendition, much better and clearer than any literal translation extant; “Patanjali’s Yoga Aphorisms,” is an ancient treatise on the Soul and its powers, from which modern psychology has much to learn. In addition Mr. Judge wrote a great number of articles dealing with the philosophy in its practical application to daily life; these can be found in the magazine “Theosophy.” The earnest student will do well to study conjointly the writings of H. P. Blavatsky and Wm. Q. Judge; from them he will learn Theosophy pure and simple; will recognize the community of knowledge and complete accord that existed between them and will more fully appreciate the mission and nature of those two Personages. |