“The object of this book is to suggest certain lines of thought as to the deep truths underlying Christianity, truths generally overlooked, and only too often denied. The generous wish to share with all what is precious, to spread broadcast priceless truths, to shut out none from the illumination of true knowledge, has resulted in a zeal without discretion that has vulgarised Christianity, and has presented its teachings in a form that often repels the heart and alienates the intellect. The command to “preach the gospel to very creature” – though admittedly by doubtful authenticity – has been interpreted as forbidding the teaching of Gnosis to a few, and has apparently erased the less popular saying of the same Great Teacher “Give not that is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine.””

— Annie Besant

In Esoteric Christianity: Or, The Lesser Mysteries http://books.google.co.in/books?id=XLUipprqQkAC&pg=PT2, p. 2

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Annie Besant 85

British socialist, theosophist, women's rights activist, wr… 1847–1933

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