Some have argued that Theosophy is nothing new. Thus does the exotericist betray himself as one who looks but does not learn. A secret, sacred language was Plato's vehicle for truth. Jesus spoke parables to the multitude. To his disciples alone he taught the esoteric doctrine.
Theosophy is a portion of the esoteric science so zealously guarded from the world in past ages.
Sacred knowledge is kept from man until he is prepared to deserve it, and strong enough to learn it. However, even when he has the secret teaching before him, and the keys to the mysteries in his hand, he may yet be kept from knowing the Heart Doctrine. Here is delineated the exoteric attitude, and by reversing the image, we can bring out the esoteric position. For the man who desires spiritual knowledge, or esoteric wisdom, Theosophy points the path. H.P.B. has given many directions for apprehending hidden meanings, and illustrations of and opportunities for esoteric reading occur throughout her works.