Theos-Talk Archives (February 1998 Message tl00121)

Dr. A.M.Bain wrote:

> In message <34E88272.88EFAE98@sprynet.com>, Bart Lidofsky
> <bartl@sprynet.com> writes
> >M K Ramadoss wrote:
> >
> >> I believe at least one lodge in the US also claimed it is a "religious"
> >> organization for the same reason of local taxes, which could be substantial
> >> since the lodge owns valuable real estate in the city.
> >
> >    There is a difference between a religious organization and a religion,
> >however.
> >
> Maybe their is, but followers of a religion are usually member of a
> religious organization.  In the case I mentioned, the term is explicit :
>
> "Religious denomination of theosophists."
>
> What point are you trying to make? ??

    Nothing major. The New York Lodge lists itself as a religious organization
(more precisely, a religious educational organization) without having to declare
Theosophy as a religion. Since Theosophy very frequently enables people to
understand their OWN religion better, I think it's a fair designation.

    Bart Lidofsky